Stated Meeting, January 26, 2023

STATED MEETING 1 1/26/2023 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, January 26, 2023 10:41 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY LOZADA COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILWOMAN SHARON VAUGHN MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK STATED MEETING 2 1/26/2023

Good morning. We're going to start like in a minute, so I'd ask all guests please retire behind the rail. Thank you. Folks, can we have a little quiet, please. Thank you. We're going to get started now. We have a quorum. I note that the hour has come. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes the Reverend Jeanette Davis of the D.I.V.A.S. Ministry Group. She is here today as the guest of Councilman Johnson. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers and guests rise.)

Minister Diva, please come up.

Good morning. Thank you, President Clarke, for that introduction. Thank you, Councilmember Johnson, for the invitation to be before STATED MEETING 3 1/26/2023 morning, all Councilmembers. Today I'm here to intercede on behalf of City Council and the residents of Philadelphia. So let us pray. Eternal Father, we come before your throne of grace this morning to give you and you alone all honor, praise, and glory. Father, we just lift up this governing body this morning, Lord, and we ask that you give each individual and collectively as a collaborate governing body the wisdom, the divine wisdom, the insight, the knowledge, Lord, and the love. Give them peace in their hearts, oh God, as they go forward to make legislation that will edify and empower your people. We thank you, oh God, for how you have placed each one in their position, but we also know, Father, that to whom much is given, much is required. STATED MEETING 4 1/26/2023 collaborate collectively in unison so that they're able to accomplish their goals for your residents and constituents of Philadelphia. I ask that you bless each one individual for anything they may be going through themselves, Lord. I ask that you lift them up. I put them in front of your presence this morning, oh God, and I ask that your prayer is not only hear -- you hear our prayers, but that you answer our prayers up in the third heaven this morning. I ask that we touch and agree this morning that we're here for a purpose, Lord, to collaboratively work together so that the people of Philadelphia will be empowered, will be accountable and, Lord, will one day be able to walk in unity in their communities without the senseless gun violence. Allow us and what the STATED MEETING 5 1/26/2023 educate our communities, educate our community members, so that they're able to go forth and thrive with their lives. So I lift up this governing body to you today, oh God. I ask that you cover each and every member in the blood of Jesus. Let no weapon formed against them shall be able to prosper, Lord, or their plans that they have for this city, oh God. I ask that you give them your divine wisdom and your divine power and also your divine authority. And I ask that all things work together for the good for those who love the Lord and who are called according to their purpose. You have given each one purpose, oh God, and I ask that you allow them to excel in this next season of governing the City of Philadelphia. It is in the matchless, the name that is above every name of Jesus the Christ of Nazareth that I pray, and STATED MEETING 6 1/26/2023 redeemed say amen, amen, and amen. (Amen.)

Thank you, Reverend Davis, for your spiritual guidance this morning. We really appreciate it. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

Thank you very much. And, again, thank you, Reverend Davis. We really appreciate you being here today. And our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 19, 2023, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 19th, 2023 be approved. STATED MEETING 7 1/26/2023 (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 19, 2023 stand approved. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and our Journal is approved. And our next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

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

The Chair thanks the gentleman. STATED MEETING 8 1/26/2023 Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of the Council session that were not listed on the Calendar today prior to its circulation.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar, and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or STATED MEETING 9 1/26/2023 bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included into the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilman Squilla may be added to the agenda for today, should those matters arise during the course of the Council session. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The STATED MEETING 10 1/26/2023 motion carries. Thank you very much. And our next order of business is communications, and the Chair recognizes the Clerk to please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications that he may have in his possession today.

From the Mayor to the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill Nos. 220918, 220944, 220945, 220946, 220948, 220949, 220950, 220969, 220970, and 220973.

Thank you, Mr. Decker. And our next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and I'd ask the Chief Clerk to please read the titles of the STATED MEETING 11 1/26/2023 legislation that's being offered by our members today.

Councilman Phillips offers two resolutions, a privileged resolution to commemorate the closing of Relish, the beloved West Oak Lane institution.

Today's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Children and Youth to conduct hearings to examine the state of Philadelphia's child welfare workforce.

Today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Phillips.

Good morning. Thank you, Council President. I want to speak on the introduction of the Relish resolution. Relish has been a fixture of fine dining and cultural pride and political STATED MEETING 12 1/26/2023 empowerment for a generation. It was not just a restaurant. It was a meeting place of minds, ideas, and perspectives. So as the sun sets unfortunately on this institution, we must ensure that a rising sun of new opportunity emerges for other places to be able to utilize -- other restaurants to be able to use this space again. I salute the visionaries of the Bynum brothers, the fine chefs, the wall staff, and the owners who conspire to fill our bellies, hearts, and minds. So thank you, Relish, for all your years of service to the City of Philadelphia.

Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. It is a place that will be missed, but I'm sure that they will rise in some way, shape, or form, not to mention the fact that it actually has good food. So thank you. Mr. Decker. I'm sorry. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones. STATED MEETING 13 1/26/2023

I just want to say to Member Phillips that is a timely resolution, but before there was a Relish, there were several other iterations, and one of them was Impulse. Whoever laughed at that, you know the timeframe in which they were born. And I want to thank the Bynums and an obscure DJ and manager by the name of Nutter, Michael Nutter, who was a frequent participant in that process. But a lot of institutional memories, Member Phillips, rang back from that, and I'm just so thankful to the Bynums, their father, them for their contribution as Philadelphians. They're part of all Philadelphia, but in particular Black and brown Philadelphia. So thank you, Member Phillips, for putting that in.

Absolutely. Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Decker. STATED MEETING 14 1/26/2023

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson offers a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Philadelphia High School for Girls on its Demisemiseptcentennial Anniversary 175 years of academic excellence.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Council President. Greetings, and good morning, colleagues. I am so pleased to welcome to City Council today my alma mater, the Philadelphia High School for Girls. On February 1st, 2023, the Philadelphia High School for Girls will celebrate our 175th anniversary. Since 1848, the Philadelphia High School for Girls has helped transform young women into the next generation of leaders, making an impact not only in Philadelphia but across our STATED MEETING 15 1/26/2023 nation and around the world. Our motto is vincit qui se vincit, and that translates into she who conquers herself. And Girls' High alumnae do just that. I remember Marcia Hinton saying, you can tell a Girls' High girl, but you can't tell her much. Girls' High girls include women like Meta Warrick Fuller, who in 1907 became the first African American woman to receive a federal art commission; women like Karen Hastie Williams, who in 1974 became the first African American woman to clerk for the United States Supreme Courts; our very own Dr. Constance Clayton, who is with us this morning, who in 1982 became the first woman and the first African American woman to lead the School District of Philadelphia. I want to pause there so we can recognize her. STATED MEETING 16 1/26/2023 (Applause.)

Women like Judith Rodin, who in 1994 became the first woman President of the University of Pennsylvania; women like Shirley Clarke Franklin, who in 2001 became the first woman Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia and the first woman elected Mayor of any major southern city; and my mentor and the reason why I occupy this seat, Blondell Reynolds Brown, who from 1999 to 2015 was the only woman to serve Philadelphia City Council at-large. Twenty-four years ago this year I met Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown at an early morning assembly, and from there, she stayed in contact with me, a young 15-year-old girl. I was able to volunteer in her office, serve as an intern in her office, a graduate intern in her office, constituent services representative in her office, special projects manager in her office, STATED MEETING 17 1/26/2023 legislative aide for five years in her office, staff director, and then chief of staff. She is the reason why I am here today. Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown, please stand. (Applause.)

Women like Archbishop Mary Floyd Palmer; like Dr. Debonair Oates-Primus; like Kyra Harris, Communications Director for Councilmember Vaughn; like Stephanie Marsh; and so many women in Philadelphia City government and politics; like Marcia Hinton, our Executive Director of our Alumni Association; Azeb Kinder, who is also here with us, and all of the girls from the Philadelphia High School for Girls. We are not just classmates; we are sisters, and we've become family. So, colleagues, please join me STATED MEETING 18 1/26/2023 in welcoming all of my colleagues and friends from the Philadelphia High School for Girls and congratulate all of us on the occasion of our 175th anniversary. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

And, CP, I just want to mention for the record we appreciate our District Councilmember, Councilmember Cindy Bass, and we thank you for all of your support. (Applause.)

Thank you so much, Councilwoman. That will be on today's Calendar.

Councilman Johnson offers four resolutions. On behalf of Council President Clarke, a non-privileged resolution urging the STATED MEETING 19 1/26/2023 United States Congress to pass the "Gun Records Restoration and Preservation Act," introduced last session by U.S. Senator Bob Menendez and Congresswoman Barbara Lee, which would repeal the Tiahrt Amendments, whose provisions have hampered efforts to address gun trafficking by, among other things, identifying and holding accountable irresponsible gun dealers and owners.

Next week's Calendar.

And on his own behalf, Councilman Johnson offers a privileged resolution honoring the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated on the occasion of their 92nd North Atlantic Regional Conference, and declaring March 9, 2023 as "Alpha Kappa Alpha Day" in the City of Philadelphia.

This week's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing February 1 through STATED MEETING 20 1/26/2023 7, 2023, as National Gun Violence Survivor Week, in honor of survivors of gun violence and the lifelong burdens they carry.

This week's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of South Philadelphia Legendary Disc Jockey and Entertainer Jerry Blavat known as "The Geator with the Heater" and "The Boss with the Hot Sauce."

This week's Calendar.

Councilwoman Vaughn offers two resolutions, a privileged resolution recognizing Berisford "BJ" Jones, co-chair of the Philadelphia Police Department LGBTQ Liaison Committee, for his tireless efforts toward improving relations between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

STATED MEETING 21 1/26/2023 Thank you. That will be on next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Yeah. Thank you, Council President. I just want to ask if we could stand and take a moment of silence for South Philadelphia legend Jerry Blavat. I had a great relationship with him, one of my prime DJ's, but, most importantly, a lot of people don't know the service work that he's done to help others in the capacity of him being a DJ and entertainer. I just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge his life and legacy, also in partnership with my colleague from South Philadelphia, Councilman Mark Squilla.

All right. Councilman, when we take the vote on the resolution, we'll do a standing vote.

Yes, sir. STATED MEETING 22 1/26/2023 Thank you, Council President.

Thank you.

And Councilwoman Vaughn also offers a non-privileged resolution condemning the Union League of Philadelphia for bestowing its highest honor, the Gold Medal, upon Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis.

Next week's Calendar.

Councilman Harrity offers a non-privileged resolution urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to introduce legislation allowing Cities and Counties of the First Class to set their own minimum wage laws.

Next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Harrity.

Council President, today I introduce a resolution calling on the Pennsylvania General STATED MEETING 23 1/26/2023 Assembly to allow Philadelphia to enact its own minimum wage law. I'd like to thank Councilmember Driscoll for co-introducing this resolution and our co-sponsors for their support. Minimum wage is more than just a labor issue. It's a human right to earn a decent living to provide for themselves and their families. For too long, that right has not been modified by our state legislature to account for increases in cost of living for the past 14 years. It is up to us as representatives of what is the poorest big city in the country to stand up for Philadelphians and demand higher wages. From my time as an aide with Senator Street, I've worked on statewide issues affecting a wide swath of Pennsylvanians. I've learned that all politics are local, and sometimes the best solutions are decided at the local level. Lower income Philadelphians are STATED MEETING 24 1/26/2023 on the precipice. A current minimum wage is 7.25 an hour, but with the cost of living and inflation, that real wage is 6.69 an hour. This is all while the amount of back rent is at a record high, our economy is in an uncertain state, and the cost of living in the City continues to rise. This body has tried to do what it can to increase the minimum wage, particularly for City workers and contractors, but it is time for us to help all Philadelphians by advocating for them at a state level so that we can make these important decisions at a local level. There are already numerous exceptions for Cities and Counties of the First Class, of which Philadelphia is the only one in the Commonwealth. There is no reason why the right to decide our own minimum wage is not included in this list. As such, it is time for us to STATED MEETING 25 1/26/2023 demand the legal authority to set our own minimum wage so that we can guide the City through whatever economic times lay ahead while respecting the rights and dignity of all our workers.

Thank you, Councilman. And, again, that will be on next week's Calendar. Thank you, Councilman.

Councilwoman Gauthier offers two bills, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the vacating of Sloan Street from Ogden Street to its terminus northwardly therefrom and reserving and plotting upon City Plan No. 106 of a right-of-way for sewer and drainage purposes"; and An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Haverford Avenue, 44th Street, Belmont Avenue, Girard Avenue, and 40th Street. STATED MEETING 26 1/26/2023

Thank you. Those two bills will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Councilman O'Neill offers an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 370 by striking from the City Plan Southampton Road from Bustleton Avenue to its terminus southeastwardly therefrom.

That bill will be referred to committee.

Councilman Squilla offers a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 3001 Martha Street located in the 1st Councilmanic District.

Next week's Calendar.

Councilman Oh offers a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Rodney Little for his exemplary and outstanding service STATED MEETING 27 1/26/2023 2ND READING as a dedicated military officer and public servant.

That will be on this week's Calendar.

There are no other bills or resolutions being offered today by the members, Mr. President.

Thank you, Mr. Decker. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions for today. We have no reports from committee today, so we will move to our next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. As there are no bills on our First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on today's Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.

Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up from the STATED MEETING 28 1/26/2023 Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today: Nos. 230014, 230018, 230019, 230021, 220918-A, 220770, and 220942. All other bills and resolutions are being held.

Thank you very much, Councilman. Before considering these resolutions and bills, we will consider our public comment session. Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for possible action at today's session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already done so, you can please go to the Sergeant-at-Arms in the hallway at the table set up outside the doorway of the Council Chambers. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet, and under ideal circumstances, which we have STATED MEETING 29 1/26/2023 today, you will be given three minutes to speak. In order to be fair, though, to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the established time limit. You will see a green light on the podium when it is your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks, and when the light turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to the guideline and conclude your remarks. We also reserve the right pursuant to the rules of Council to alter repetitious comment to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to speak. So, Mr. Decker, can you please read the first name on the list for today's public comment.

The first speaker today, Mr. President, is Enrique Hervada, commenting on 220918. (Witness approached podium.)

Good STATED MEETING 30 1/26/2023 morning.

Good morning. My name is Enrique Hervada and I'm the COO of the Cobbs Creek Foundation. I want to thank you for the opportunity to address you today regarding the overlay district, 20018 [sic]. As I stated last week, we're a 501(c)(3) non-profit working in partnership with the City of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, the Philadelphia Water Department, and I'm here today to talk about that overlay. This ordinance is essential for moving our project forward, as minor steep slope disruption is required for the creek restoration plan. Restoring this failing creek is actually a requirement of our lease with the City and will not only benefit the golf course and surrounding community, it will provide no increase in downstream flooding. STATED MEETING 31 1/26/2023 As previously stated, we have followed every applicable agency's requirement, including, but not limited to, the Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Environmental Protection, Philadelphia Arts Commission, Planning Commission, and Water Commission -- and Water Department, and will continue to do so. Last week the Philadelphia Planning Commission unanimously approved moving forward with this ordinance at their meeting on January 19th, 2022, and I would appreciate the support, and I thank all of you for your time today. It's going to be a tremendous project for the City of Philadelphia, really benefit the youth in the region, and something we can all be proud of moving forward. Thank you.

Thank you for your testimony. We appreciate it.

The next speaker STATED MEETING 32 1/26/2023 is Morgan Moore, commenting on 220918. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. My name is Morgan Moore and I am the Director of Education and Community Engagement with the Cobbs Creek Foundation. As Enrique stated, we are a 501(c)(3) non-profit seeking to renovate the historic Cobbs Creek Golf Course and also build a 30,000 square foot educational center there on the grounds. I'd like to start by saying that we live in an incredible and history-filled city, and each time that I come into City Hall, I am reminded of that fact. Nonetheless, despite that, this is a city that has been plagued by violence, of which far too often our young people have been both the victims and the perpetrators. We often times state that our youth are the leaders of STATED MEETING 33 1/26/2023 tomorrow, but I recently attended a community meeting in which a fellow non-profit leader framed it a bit differently. She stated that our young people are in fact the leaders of today, and her words have remained with me, because they are so unequivocally true. Our young people are the leaders of today. And so I ask what kind of leaders are we here to foster? Will we foster leaders that respect and preserve the best parts of our history, that are educated, that seek to better their communities, or will we do nothing? This project is about fostering leaders like Charlie Sifford, a man who fearlessly fought for his right to enter the sport of golf, which it all but precluded him because of the color of his skin. It is about supporting our young people and providing them with opportunities they may have never had STATED MEETING 34 1/26/2023 otherwise, without the barriers of cost or accessibility. It's about taking a historical asset that has sat in degradation for years and making it something that benefits all in our community. And so today I am here speaking both as an educator and as a community member. I ask our City Council again to vote in support of Bill 220918, not for the Cobbs Creek Foundation but for the people of Overbrook Park and Overbrook and Wynnefield, where I grew up. Let's support our young people. Let's provide them with free educational and athletic opportunities. The time to do so is now, and I implore our City Council to support our community in making this happen. Thank you for allowing me the time to speak.

Thank you so much for your testimony. We appreciate it. STATED MEETING 35 1/26/2023

The next speaker is Ben Dewan, commenting on 220918. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. My name is Ben Dewan and I am the Ground Superintendent for the Foundation. I was here last week, so I won't take up too much of your time. I just would like to second what my colleagues have already testified to and reaffirm my support for this bill that would allow the creek restoration, golf course renovation, and construction of an education center to move forward. These projects offer somewhere to go that is safe, able to be enjoyed by all, environmentally friendly, and allows the Foundation to continue exciting and beneficial work that has already started in neighboring schools. Thank you all for your teamwork and collaboration in forming this bill. STATED MEETING 36 1/26/2023 Thank you.

Thank you for your testimony.

The next speaker is Lisa Mesi, commenting on Resolution 230038, introduced today by Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson. (No response.)

Not here? She's gone? Okay. Next name.

The next speaker is Dr. Constance Clayton, commenting today on Resolution No. 230038. (Applause.)

Greetings to our City Council. I am indeed honored that you have been gracious in inviting me to speak before you this day for the anniversary of the 175th anniversary of the Philadelphia High School for Girls, the legendary institution of national STATED MEETING 37 1/26/2023 prominence. While I am not 175 years old, although there are some who may think that, I am a proud alumna of the Philadelphia High School for Girls, which brought a sisterhood spanning almost two centuries of brilliant women who reflected from the walls where excellence was the expectation. I take pride in having had a distinguished career serving the citizens of our city, very aware of the role Girls' High played in instilling in me a "can do" attitude, so necessary in a society where gender limitations often smother the dreams and dash the hopes of countless girls and women, and while girls have gained access to some other academic prestigious schools, and policies have changed, allowing girls to attend the once all-male school building up the street from where the Girls' High is currently located. There is and always will be something about a Girls' High girl, STATED MEETING 38 1/26/2023 fortified by her participation, elevating her work, and reminding her of the benefits of motivating and inquisitiveness and a religious spirit. An inquisitive mind and countless spirit contributed to my work as an educator essentially during my decade as Superintendent. They were the catalyst for my tough questions that I always asked and am still asking in my relentless pursuit of opportunities for all students. I know that my daily encounters with academic vigor while at Girls' High were top of my mind as I pushed for a standardized curriculum to support educational equality in Philadelphia during my tenure. You see, once you have tasted on high expectations as I did at Girls' High, you want to invite others to come to the table. I hope that current and future members of City Council will continue to STATED MEETING 39 1/26/2023 support the current superintendent, Dr. Tony Watlington, and all future superintendents who have had an eye on equitable inputs and outcomes to ensure this Girls' High grad. As I take my final rest, the lessons that I learned while at Girls' High will be a significant part of my legacy to the service of Philadelphia. (Standing ovation.)

Thank you so much, Dr. Clayton. We really appreciate your service, and we appreciate you more than you know. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. I just wanted to -- and I don't know if this is a younger generation that's here, but they may not know who the presence they are in in terms of the STATED MEETING 40 1/26/2023 sweet, gentle young lady who just recently spoke. This is the Honorable Dr. Constance Clayton, former school Superintendent, the most outstanding and best superintendent in the history in the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)

I was a kid who grew up in South Philadelphia, and through her not only educational prowess but her standards, her standards for all young people, and through her grace and her advocacy around education, I'm able to be a graduate from Mansfield University with a degree in criminal justice with dual minors in philosophy and sociology, a Master's degree in government administration and public finance from Fels Institute of Government, and also went to Harvard Business School and got a certificate in non-profit leadership and board STATED MEETING 41 1/26/2023 management. But I attributed all of my educational background -- and I'm also a public school graduate of Edward Bok High School, Barry Junior High School, and Childs Elementary, and all of that came under the era of Dr. Constance Clayton. So thank you very much for your leadership. (Applause.)

Thank you, Council President.

Thank you, Councilman.

The next speaker is Lisa Mesi, commenting on 230038. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Greetings, everyone. My name is Lisa Mesi. I am the 20th principal of the Philadelphia High School for Girls, who is celebrating 175 years STATED MEETING 42 1/26/2023 on February 1st. We will continue the celebration through 2023. I am giving my time to one of our fabulous students, the president of our senior class, the Class 267, Ms. Sage Charles. (Applause.)

Good morning. Hi. I would like to share what Girls' High means to me. Girls' High is not only an academic institution but a fond memory to me. At Girls' High, opportunities await with every room entered, every hallway traveled, and every chair sat in. For me it was all these things on my first day freshman year. I was scared. I had no knowledge about like what to expect being at Girls' High. I had arrived early and sat in my advisory alone for some time. Then Anne walked in. She sat right across STATED MEETING 43 1/26/2023 from me, and we sat in silence until I gained enough courage to surpass our shared introverted fear. We talked with one another, where one conversation laid ground for the next, marrying the branches of a tree. As time passed, we became best friends, and are still best friends to this day, conversing in the same tree-like fashion we did when we first met. By lunchtime of my first day, I had a group of friends who I've grown with throughout the years, who I now call my family. With their support, I advanced past the stereotypical labels assigned to young Black women as well as my own limitations, grasping some of the many opportunities Girls' High had to offer. I became senior class president, advanced to varsity volleyball after spending one year on JV, became a Steppingstone Scholar as well as a STATED MEETING 44 1/26/2023 student ambassador, received the Jefferson Book Award from the University of Virginia, became a part of two national honor societies as well as various other organizations that aided in the expansion of my Girls' High family, including the Safe Initiative, where we work to ensure our sisters' safety in our neighborhood, hoping to expand our operation to other schools. At Girls' High I found a second home, just as many others have, creating a sisterhood within a sisterhood, where everywhere you turn, there is always someone who supports you. The Alumni Association have also supported me and my sisters in our journey at Girls' High, introducing us to more opportunities outside of Girls' High to aid us in our professional journeys. Knowing even though I will be physically parting with my sisters this coming June, though I'll be able to support my little sisters through the Alumni Association STATED MEETING 45 1/26/2023 eases the pain of leaving such a fine institution, and knowing my fond memory will always be with me and that my parting signals the beginning of a new generation of Girls' High girls' journeys as proof of ever-listing sisterhood and family. Thank you.

Thank you. (Applause.)

The next speaker is Sage Charles, commenting on 230038.

That was Sage.

The next speaker is Lynn Landes, commenting on 210913. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. I'm Lynn Landes, founder of STATED MEETING 46 1/26/2023 HealthAlertPhilly.org. I support Resolution 210913, but today I'm here to talk about corruption in public health. It is common knowledge that many of our federal agencies are held captive by the very industries they're supposed to regulate. The worst example of this corruption is the National Institute of Health under which the FDA and CDC function. Their financial connections with Big Pharma are so systemic and their advice to doctors is so tainted that the medical profession itself has become one of the leading causes of injury and death, according to a study from Johns Hopkins University last year. The promotion of deadly opioids and harmful COVID vaccines are just the latest examples of this corruption. We also have a long line of other medications and vaccines that have caused untold damage and death, yet rarely does anyone from Big Pharma or these federal STATED MEETING 47 1/26/2023 agencies ever go to jail. Instead, companies like Pfizer are fined billions of dollars, which goes to the federal government, and then they simply continue to go about their deadly business. Worse yet, in the case of childhood vaccines and the COVID vaccines, Big Pharma is shielded from any kind of product liability by Congress. The only legal strategy that might work is litigation based on claims of fraud, which, quite frankly, appears to be Big Pharma's business model. As our public health officials continue to promote toxic drugs and vaccines for pregnant women, babies, children, and adults, especially our military, soaring numbers of people are afflicted with immune dysfunction as well as autism, attention deficit, impulsivity, and other neurological disorders. Brain disorders are a main cause of crime, addiction, suicide, and STATED MEETING 48 1/26/2023 homelessness. This is why it is critical that our public representatives not trust what public health authorities recommend or mandate, such as face masks and vaccines, but instead do their own research and due diligence and then make their own informed decisions. You can learn more at HealthAlertPhilly.org. Thank you very much for your attention.

Thank you. Thank you for your testimony. We appreciate it.

The next speaker is Katrice Cheaton, commenting on 210396. (Witness approached podium.)

Hi. Can you hear me?

Good morning.

My name is Katrice Cheaton, and me and my brother have been homeless now for like nine days STATED MEETING 49 1/26/2023 due to some corruption happening at the Sheriff's Department. So when I saw this resolution about temporary stays on mortgage and tax foreclosure sales, I thought that was a great idea. There also needs to be temporary stays on any evictions before they are serviced or a server notice to the person who has to be evicted. There's been a lot of stuff going on down there that you need to look into before you keep evicting people. Now, we've been in the homeless system. It's been a hot mess for like the last nine days. We don't have a shelter to go to. Everything is overrun. If you don't do anything to stay with these evictions, these mortgage and foreclosure sales, your system is going to be more overrun. You're going to have more problems. You need to get a handle on it now, because it's not fair that -- even though I did get a chance to seek our STATED MEETING 50 1/26/2023 truth, I'm going to speak our truth on Monday. We had to wait until Monday for a trial to seek our truth. What are we supposed to do for four days? Where are we supposed to go? I can't keep sleeping in waiting rooms at the hospital, by their grace and their niceness to us. We have yet to sleep on the vent on the street, but it came really close to that last night. Yet I have a refrigerator full of food going bad at home and two beds to sleep in. Because of corruption down in your different departments, here I stand. And I know my rights. I've been doing community work in the City for years. So if you want to get a handle on what's happening in the City, you should start doing these stays immediately and stop what's going on down there so more people don't end up on the street, because you really can't even handle the people that are there. I ran into some people today STATED MEETING 51 1/26/2023 and they said I challenge every City Councilmember, anybody running for Mayor, to be homeless for a week. Let the Sheriff Department bombard you without notice and make you leave with the clothes on your back, like they did to me and my brother, and then sit on the street for seven days. Y'all need a reality check basically. Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you for your testimony. We appreciate it.

The next speaker is Dr. Mary Palmer, commenting on 230038. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

My name is Dr. Mary Floyd Palmer. I'm also known as Archbishop Mary Floyd Palmer. I am excited to be here today, and how could I possibly follow STATED MEETING 52 1/26/2023 Dr. Constance Clayton? As a proud summa cum laude graduate of the 1980 class of the Philadelphia High School for Girls, known as Class No. 224, I share all of the sentiments that have been expressed thus far in the celebration of our high school's 175th anniversary. My great-great aunt was a graduate in the 1930's, and so my mother made up in her mind that's where I was going. But it was my late father, the Reverend Dr. Melvin Floyd, who was given the opportunity to go to elementary, junior, and high schools under the leadership of Dr. Constance Clayton to help decrease gang war violence and speak to youth in trouble. Because of that open door, he said the only school you can go to is the best school in the City of Philadelphia, ahead of Central, and that was the Philadelphia High School for Girls. My late parents demanded STATED MEETING 53 1/26/2023 excellence of me, as was the standard under the leadership of the inaugural principalship of Dr. Marion Steet, and it was during that time that I had to excel academically in sports as well as in music. I didn't have a moment of nothing else but work, and I was excited, often frustrated, but I'm so grateful that when people see that name, they often already have a standard of expectation and excellence. Excellence was a mandate and something that we must do, and something that I have carried on throughout whatever career I was doing. And I am excited to join the legends of many honorable women who have graduated from my school, and I am proud to be the first female archbishop in the City of Philadelphia and the State of Pennsylvania, made so in 2019, as well as an international centennial honorary member of the greatest sorority in the STATED MEETING 54 1/26/2023 world, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, and a Peace Ambassador for the United Nations. These things would not have been done if I had not been given the opportunity of having an excellent education. So I say to those who have gone before, to Dr. Clayton and others that have led and put a path for us, to the young ones in the room, you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it. Excellence shouldn't be an exception; it must be your rule, and if so, you will live up to vincit qui se vincit, which honors our school forevermore. Thank you, and have a great rest of the day. (Applause.)

Thank you so much for your testimony. We really appreciate it. STATED MEETING 55 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

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

Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. That concludes our public comment session for today. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Resolution No. 230014.

A resolution approving the reappointment of Wendell Anthony Ewing to the Philadelphia Water, Sewer and Storm Water Rate Board.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson -Jones. I'm sorry.

We get confused often. Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. STATED MEETING 56 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, 230018.

A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2315, 2316, 2317, 2318, 2337, 2339, and 2349 Greenwich Street; 1709, 1711, 1822R through 34, and 1836 Point Breeze Avenue; 1555 South Ringgold Street; 2445 Federal Street and 2329 Ellsworth Street located in the 2nd District.

Thank you. STATED MEETING 57 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING I now recognize Councilman Johnson for a motion on the resolution.

Council President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, 230019.

A resolution appointing Albert Littlepage to the board of directors of the Philadelphia Land Bank.

The Chair again recognizes Councilman Johnson STATED MEETING 58 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING for a motion.

Thank you, Council President. I move that Resolution No. 230019 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 230019 be withdrawn. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. Resolution No. 230019 has been withdrawn. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 230021.

A resolution authorizing requests to the Law Department to represent City Council in an appeal from decisions of the Department of Licenses and Inspections to STATED MEETING 59 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING the Philadelphia Zoning Board of Adjustment or the License and Inspection Review Board and, if the Law Department declines to render such services to City Council, authorizing the retention of outside counsel to provide such services.

The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

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

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. Resolution No. 230021 has been adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the STATED MEETING 60 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING title of Bill No. 220918-A.

An ordinance amending Chapter 14-500 of the Philadelphia Zoning Code, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by creating a new subsection, entitled "Cobbs Creek Golf Course Overlay District."

Thank you, Mr. Decker. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for an amendment to Bill No. 220918-A.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer an amendment to Bill No. 220918-A. A copy of that amendment has been circulated to all members of City Council, and I'd like to speak on it.

Please do, sir.

So, first and foremost, I need to thank Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson as Chair of the Environmental Committee who STATED MEETING 61 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING insisted that dialogue happen between community groups that are impacted by this development. I want to secondly thank Member Johnson, who is downstream from the golf course, whose constituents have brought forth issues, concerns that this amendment addresses. I want to thank Councilwoman Jamie Gauthier, who has been patiently nudging negotiations between all parties. And I want to thank you, and I'mma tell you why. By entering into these dialogues, we have learned a thing or two about environmental justice and what it truly means and what it purports to Black and brown people and people in general throughout the community. So sometimes in a contentious environment over legislation, you can learn if you listen to each other, and this amendment reflects some of that listening. STATED MEETING 62 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you. I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)

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

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and Bill No. 220918-A has been amended. Bill No. 220918-A, as amended, will be placed on our Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 220770.

An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the measurements of zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Cottman Avenue, Oxford Avenue, Tyson Avenue, STATED MEETING 63 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Rising Sun Avenue, Glenview Street, Bingham Street, Kerper Street, Rising Sun Avenue, Unruh Avenue, Martins Mill Road, City Boundary, and Hasbrook Avenue.

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

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye. STATED MEETING 64 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman Oh.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas. STATED MEETING 65 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilwoman Vaughn.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. One second. I see that on my screen I have Councilmember Jones and Councilmember Thomas. Was that a mistake? Okay. Thank you. Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 220942.

An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Parkside Avenue, 49th Street, Jefferson Street, and 48th Street STATED MEETING 66 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING (extended).

This bill having been read on two different days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye.

Councilman Harrity. STATED MEETING 67 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman Oh.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Councilwoman STATED MEETING 68 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Vaughn.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional resolutions?

A resolution to commemorate the closing of Relish, the beloved West Oak Lane institution, introduced today by Councilman Phillips.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Phillips.

I move to adopt the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. STATED MEETING 69 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted.

And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Children and Youth to conduct hearings to examine the state of Philadelphia's child welfare workforce, introduced today by Councilman Phillips.

The Chair again recognizes Councilman Phillips.

I move to adopt the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) STATED MEETING 70 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.

And a resolution recognizing and honoring the Philadelphia High School for Girls on its Demisemiseptcentennial Anniversary 175 years of academic excellence, introduced today by Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Council President. On behalf of all the Girls' High girls worldwide and all the Girls' High girls represented here today, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's STATED MEETING 71 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.

And a resolution recognizing February 1 through 7, 2023, as National Gun Violence Survivor Week, in honor of survivors of gun violence and the lifelong burdens they carry, introduced today by Councilman Johnson.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

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

It's been moved and properly seconded. STATED MEETING 72 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.

And a resolution honoring the life and legacy of South Philadelphia Legendary Disc Jockey and Entertainer Jerry Blavat known as "The Geator with the Heater" and "The Boss with the Hot Sauce," introduced today by Councilman Johnson.

The Chair again recognizes Councilmember Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. I ask for a moment of silence in the adoption of the resolution.

Can STATED MEETING 73 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING we have a standing moment of silence on behalf of the Geator with the Heater, my man Pots and Pans. (Moment of silence.)

The motion carries. Thank you.

And a resolution recognizing Berisford "BJ" Jones, co-chair of the Philadelphia Police Department LGBTQ Liaison Committee, for his tireless efforts toward improving relations between law enforcement and the communities they serve, introduced today by Councilwoman Vaughn.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Vaughn.

I'd like to have the resolution accepted. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) STATED MEETING 74 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.

And a resolution recognizing and honoring Rodney Little for his exemplary and outstanding service as a dedicated military officer and public servant, introduced today by Councilman Oh.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.

Thank you, Council President. My error. I apologize. You know, Rodney Little is a retired Sergeant Major, and he'd be offended to call him an Army officer. So I will withdraw that and reintroduce it again next week. Thank you.

Thank you. Councilman, give us a motion STATED MEETING 75 1/26/2023 1/26/23 - STATED - 2ND READING to withdraw.

Thank you. I make a motion to withdraw the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is withdrawn, to be reintroduced with the appropriate name at a later date. Thank you, Councilman.

There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President.

Thank you very much. That concludes our Calendar for today, and we will move to our speeches. STATED MEETING 76 1/26/2023 the minority? I see none. On behalf of the majority, the Chair recognizes Councilman Thomas.

Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. I first want to take a moment to thank Councilmember Phillips as well as Senator Saval, along with the staff of Councilmember Gauthier, Councilmember Brooks, as well as Senator Street for attending yesterday's debrief as it relates to educators across the City of Philadelphia. Yesterday we were able to convene at an amazing facility, which is the CCP, Community College of Philadelphia, campus at West Philadelphia, and anybody who has not been there, I highly recommend you visit that facility to see the great work that we're doing. STATED MEETING 77 1/26/2023 to have an amazing conversation yesterday where we were able to listen to educators and administrators from all across the City to talk to us about some of the issues that they're facing and some of the things that we can do to support them and make their experience as well as the experience of our children a little bit better. So I look forward to continuing the good work as it relates to partnering with our educators in our schools, and I look forward to our Committee of the Whole conversation that's going to be coming January 31st where we will be able to have a collective dialogue around the state of our schools as well as what we need to do moving forward. There's no surprise to at least this legislative body and those across the City of Philadelphia that knows me that I'm a big sports fan. I love sports, from elementary school age all STATED MEETING 78 1/26/2023 athletes, and for those who don't know, there's a huge game this weekend where Imhotep, which is a Philadelphia-based school, will play against Camden, which is clearly in the City of Camden. Myself as well as Councilmember Gilmore Richardson, you, Council President, as well as Councilmember Jones went over to visit Camden to be able to talk about some of the things that we could collaborate on and some of the things that we could look at as it relates to some of the crime that we have in the City of Philadelphia. And clearly I have a bias. I consider Camden a great partner, but unfortunately this weekend we're not going to be partners. So I want to take a moment to challenge the Mayor of Camden as well as the Camden City Council to a friendly wager. Of course here in Philadelphia we're betting on Imhotep, which is the No. 16 in the entire country. Camden is STATED MEETING 79 1/26/2023 11 team in the entire country. Imhotep's best player just recently took over as the No. 1 player in the entire country, and Camden's best player is now the No. 2 player in the entire country. So we can clearly see that we have a lot of talent in the tri-state area. In Philadelphia alone, we have three teams that are ranked in the top 25 as it relates to boys basketball. And so I challenge Camden and the City of Camden to a friendly bet to a nice meal as well as a donation to their favorite non-profit organization based on the winner of Saturday's outcome. If you don't know, St. Joe's University is already sold out, and we anticipate it being a great day in high school sports. We haven't seen anything like this in over a couple dozen years, and so we anticipate it being an amazing day. Outside of that, another important thing that we have to consider STATED MEETING 80 1/26/2023 name, image, and likeness of all these student athletes. I introduced the NIL protection bill in our last Council session, and we're still working diligently with the private sector as well as other stakeholders to make sure that when we consider things like the tri-state area having four teams in the top 25, that we're understanding how sports and athletics are changing, and we're doing everything in our power to protect the most vulnerable. Thank you, Council President.

Thank you, colleagues, and hopefully the City of Camden accepts our friendly wager.

All right. Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. Looking forward to that one. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I want to acknowledge the work STATED MEETING 81 1/26/2023 members of Council, in particular Councilmember Johnson, on pulling together a mayoral forum last week that focused on gun violence, prevention of crime, and narrowly tailored the questions to the prospective 100th mayor to say what are you going to do about it. Everybody knows the problems. They're chronicled, but the solutions needed to be heard by the audience. I want to thank the stakeholders who put together really good questions, insightful questions, to create that kind of dialogue, and, finally, the audience which was standing-room only, like the fire marshal had to keep people out. So the interest in the topic was there, but what was noticeable to me was that they were so quiet. There wasn't a bunch of cheering. There wasn't a bunch of booing. What there was was a lot of listening, and people want to hear STATED MEETING 82 1/26/2023 to that end, one of the things we do is we pass laws, we pass resolutions, we have hearings about the topic of gun violence, the topic of crime. But what we also must do, and particularly during the time of budget, is go back to examine our work to see how it's working. Four topics that I'll be looking to departments to get a sense of is, number one, we passed the bill for red flag laws, common sense gun law that says that if someone states that they are going to be a threat to you, themselves, and others, that we have the right to confiscate firearms in their possession until there is a hearing to determine their aptitude, attitude about owning a gun. We know domestic violence, usually people say what they're going to do. Sometimes we need to believe them. So we want to check with Police and the STATED MEETING 83 1/26/2023 if those laws are working. Second follow-up is, we passed a bill on lost and stolen guns. That's common sense gun laws that this body took the step to procure the law, and now it's possibly hung up in state court. We need to revisit that to make sure that they understand that, you know, this isn't academic. Our lives depend on these issues. The third component of following up to public safety is some of these games of chance that are in a lot of those stores, corner stores, that are a bait for crime, that there are people that stalk these stores where these games of chance are and when Mrs. Smith hits the number, they know, they make a call, they tell what they may have on, and they have been victims of crime. We need to again get a ruling from the Pennsylvania courts to say do we have the right to license these people? STATED MEETING 84 1/26/2023 right to even know where the machines are placed? Do we have the right to tax them and to make sure that they are responsible, responsible neighbors in our community? So these are things that we need to focus on. And, finally, we did a hearing on disinvestment of our city tax dollars to any business that invests in firearms. We should not, we cannot allow for the business of violence to be conducted and in fact supported by our tax dollars. So these four things, follow-ups that we took initiative on, took action on, we want to make sure that if there is a law and no one enforces it, is there really a law? So thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. Thank you, Councilman, and thank you for your all's continued good work. The Chair recognizes STATED MEETING 85 1/26/2023

Thank you, Council President, and good afternoon, everyone. Last week, Majority Leader Jones and I introduced a bill proposing an extension of the Mixed-Income Neighborhoods Overlay and TOD Overlay across a stretch of West Market Street that he and I share. We are taking this step to be proactive about ensuring that affordable housing will continue to exist along this vital transit-oriented corridor for decades to come. I am also pleased to report that within the existing Mixed-Income Neighborhoods Overlay, there are currently permits in process that will create 325 new housing units. These permits range from projects as small as ten units, MIN's floor, and as high as 150 units. And because of MIN, these permits will generate 65 new affordable units, 42 in the Third District and 23 in STATED MEETING 86 1/26/2023 means that within the first few months of its existence, the Mixed-Income Neighborhoods Overlay will generate more genuinely affordable units than in the first three years of the optional mixed-income housing section of the Code citywide. I hope that this shows that this overlay does not halt development. Because some have challenged the legitimacy of MIN by demanding that it generate new homes within an unrealistically short timeframe, I urge these skeptics to also measure the impact of traditional market-rate real estate development on our neighborhoods. So let's pause and do that for a moment. Before MIN, rents in West Philadelphia surged by 200 to 300 percent, even as hundreds of units came online inside the overlay's boundaries every year, almost none of them affordable. At the same time, gentrification and skyrocketing costs STATED MEETING 87 1/26/2023 Black population east of 52nd Street out of the Third District. And many developers prioritize milking as much profit out of our neighborhoods as possible at the expense of working-class Black and brown residents whose families called West Philly home for generations. These are outcomes that also deserve to be scrutinized, and when they are, it becomes clear that the status quo was endangering the vitality of our neighborhoods. I created MIN as a pathway to ensure the market worked alongside rather than against our community, and today we're showing that MIN is doing just that. Because even after the reduction of the citywide tax abatement and rising construction costs and inflation, the real estate process inside the overlay continues. Ultimately we must give the Mixed-Income Neighborhoods Overlay time to work, but signs point in the right STATED MEETING 88 1/26/2023 direction, and I could not be more excited. Even though 65 affordable homes and 260 market-rate ones barely scratch the surface of the City's need, it's a welcome sign that the overlay will generate deeply affordable homes in some of West and Southwest's most high-amenity neighborhoods and debunks the claim that no development is happening inside the overlay. Engaging in unfair, biased scrutiny of a policy that has been in effect for six months will do nothing to end our housing affordability crisis. What will is bold action. What will is partnership. What will is a commitment that all Philadelphians deserve a high-quality place to live in a neighborhood of opportunity. I look forward to working with my colleagues, the community, and all willing stakeholders to do just that. Thank you. STATED MEETING 89 1/26/2023

Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Phillips.

Thank you, Council President. This week has been a wonderful week for me, because I had an opportunity to spend a lot of time in our district learning about important issues that are really vital to the preservation of the quality of life of the Ninth District. Last week I said to all of us here today that I vow to be a Councilmember that will not only be a person that will work to press forth issues in the community that we believe are important but, most importantly, I'm a Councilmember who will always listen and always vow to make sure that we do what our neighbors are asking us to do in terms of service. One of the models that I have, and I've learned this -- I'm a student of STATED MEETING 90 1/26/2023 model that I try to lead by, Council President, also colleagues, in all the work that I do. In South Kenya they ask this question every single day among -- as a greeting. It is: How are the children? It is a greeting that is vital to the state of that region, only because when they ask that particular question, they're asking that question because they want to ask everyone that they greet with that question instead of saying hello, what's up, how is your day, they want to know what did you do today for the state of our children. When I decided that I wanted to be in this role of City Council, I had no other individual, no other population, no other agenda in mind but what are we doing for our children, because we can't talk about our future unless we are working towards improving our future. When I was in youth development as an educator helping young people to go STATED MEETING 91 1/26/2023 careers after high school, as well as a teacher and also helping them become civically engaged, I worked 24/7 to make sure our young people were at an excellent state. You can ask anybody around the City of Philadelphia who knows me. They know that it's true. I now work 24/7 for our community, our entire community in the Ninth District, because at the end of the day, when our community thrives, our children thrive. So I say to you today, I would like for us as a collective body in 2023 to continue with that mindset of like what are we doing for our children. I will not only ask that question to us, I will continue to ask that question to residents in our neighborhoods. I will ask that question to our staff. What have we done each day for our children by asking the question how are the children. This week alone, I found out about -- learned even more about -- not STATED MEETING 92 1/26/2023 about, knew about these issues. I learned even more about issues that were impacting our community and our children. Number one, our social workers. This is why we introduced this resolution. Our social workers who are working every single day for our children are suffering. They have high caseloads. They have low salaries, and the Administration is having a hard time finding social workers. We're having a hard time -- yesterday I was at an amazing session with Councilmember Isaiah Thomas who led this Education Committee working session in West Philadelphia, and one of the things that we found out from the teachers there is that our children need social workers in our schools. We're also learning that our children need social workers every day, but there's a lack of social workers that are protecting their mental health. What are we doing every day to STATED MEETING 93 1/26/2023 increasing the population of social workers and making sure that they have good salaries so they can work for our children? The second thing that we're also learning is that our schools need high-quality programs and non-profits and organizations and mentorship.

We talk about a village, but one of the things I have to emphasize is that I know that there's some Councilmembers, including Councilmember Thomas and among many others, who have visited schools throughout their district or throughout the City of Philadelphia. I implore, I ask that all of us do a better job with increasing our presence in our schools, because our presence alone is enough to be a village for our children as our colleagues. And then, lastly, I think it's also really important that we think about our City workers. Many of us, we work around here every single day. I went to STATED MEETING 94 1/26/2023 local the other day and I actually found something out that I knew but it became more apparent for me. There are poor working conditions. There's poor salaries for a lot of our City workers, and they are taking care of our children. They can't even get the homes that they need to take care of our children. And then SEPTA this week, many people don't know, 26 routes are being up for consideration of being cut through the SEPTA Bus Revolution. We have to think about how that impacts our seniors, our disabled and, most importantly, our children, because their safety is really important. So I say this to you today as we think about bills and resolutions for next week and the weeks to come, let's always have our children in mind. I know sometimes we get bogged down with a lot of different issues that are coming across our desks, but I think it's STATED MEETING 95 1/26/2023 do, we do it for the sake of our children. And I want you to know that I'm thankful that people have reached out to me, people have contacted me, and I continue to go out to the residents, including recently I went to Samuel Fels High School, and I just got to say, they got this beautiful shirt right here last week in Northeast Philadelphia. And I learned a lot about their need for apprenticeship programs and support, which I also read recently that Councilwoman Kathy Gilmore Richardson and Councilman Isaiah Thomas went to Strawberry Mansion High School, along with you, Councilman Clarke, to really support apprenticeship programs for our children. So I want our city to know that there are our colleagues, there are City Councilmembers who are doing work for our children, but I know when things get tough and we get bogged down, let's keep STATED MEETING 96 1/26/2023 question, how are the children, in mind in everything that we do and make sure that we are always focusing on the issues 24/7 to really fix all these issues that are really impacting the City of Philadelphia. Thank you, Council President.

Thank you so much, Councilman. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Harrity.

Council President, I'd just like to reiterate what my colleague Councilman Phillips has said. I actually do get up every morning and ask myself what can I get for the kids of Philadelphia today. The problem is, the kids in my neighborhood in Philadelphia are not getting an honest shake. Last week I had two kids shot at the top of my street, over 60 rounds fired. Last night I got home to a kid STATED MEETING 97 1/26/2023 the corner store as he was coming out. I don't know whether it was intended or whether he was just an innocent bystander coming out of a store. While everybody in this room is affected by gun violence, I really live with it on a daily basis. It's in my mind every day. And, you know, the people being shot in my neighborhood are kids, and even worse, they're being shot by other kids. This is unacceptable. And, you know, I was glad that Councilman Phillips is putting that into everybody's head. I think we should absolutely come in here every day and say what can we do to make the children of Philadelphia's life just a little bit better. They're not asking for much. They just need to feel safe. And I feel it. I don't feel safe. I don't feel safe right now in Philadelphia, in my neighborhood, in countless other neighborhoods. We need to get a handle STATED MEETING 98 1/26/2023 this, and I'm just asking all my colleagues to think of what Councilman Phillips just said and let's think about the kids every day and see what we can do to make their lives better, because as we heard earlier, they are our future, and we need to give them a future. So I just ask that everybody think about that a little bit. And thank you, Council President, for letting me speak.

Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. It's on our minds every day all day. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Vaughn.

Thank you, Mr. President. No one has to tell me or any Philadelphian how important this city is to the fabric of our nation's history, nor question the pride we have as residents of the birthplace of democracy. This resolution that I STATED MEETING 99 1/26/2023 importance of that pride and historical significance and conveys how adherent the Union League's decision, despite our opposition from over 100 of its members, is to honor a man who has disregarded and disrespected so much about what makes us who we are as Americans. Governor Ron DeSantis received the Union League's Gold Medal, an award first given to President Abraham Lincoln, juxtapose the actions of a President whose landmark actions led to the emancipation of hundreds and thousands of enslaved African Americans across the country with those of a prospective presidential candidate of the same party who views education about the Black experience as unconstitutional. Now, consider the deeds of the so-called patriot who inhibits the ability of children to learn how to be productive members of society while their unique selves by banning books from STATED MEETING 100 1/26/2023 stroking fear of being true to yourself via such policies as "don't say gay." Consider the needs of a man who refuses to uphold the sanctity of democracy by supporting the big lie and arresting formerly incarcerated individuals who wish to reenter and contribute to society by exercising their civic duty. Holding public office is an honor and a privilege that should be reserved for those who truly have the best interest of people at heart and want to promote equitable change, those who embody the meaning of service in every way. It should not be taken for granted or abused by elitists or the wealthiest Americans simply looking for something to do with their spare time. In other words, having money does not make you fit to run for public office. The Union League's decision to STATED MEETING 101 1/26/2023 honor to this type of person flies in the face of everything we strive to protect, everything that makes us Americans. That's why I am proud to co-sponsor this resolution with my colleague Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson and all other members that signed on condemning an organization as well as all those who support it that claims to uphold our democratic ideals, yet has exalted someone who has undermined those ideals and singled out marginalized groups time and time again. I call on anyone who values our democracy, who holds a Union League membership, has held events or socialized there frequently to cut all ties with them immediately. Let's be crystal clear. This is not how we unify our people but is exactly how one sows further discord, and the Union League should be ashamed to be a part of that. STATED MEETING 102 1/26/2023 (Applause.)

Thank you, Councilwoman. So true. That concludes our speeches today on behalf of the minority and the majority, and with that, the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla for a motion to adjourn.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday -

Oh, I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

Is this button working, because nothing is registering. We have a little technology issue. We'll figure it out. The Chair recognizes Councilman Driscoll. STATED MEETING 103 1/26/2023

Thank you, Mr. President. Today Councilmember Harrity, myself, and our co-sponsors introduced a resolution calling upon the Pennsylvania General Assembly to allow Cities and Counties of the First Class to set their own minimum wages. As a former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, there are few things that are more diverse in needs than the minimum wage across our Commonwealth. While all Pennsylvanians feel the burden of inflation, those in our Commonwealth's economic engine simply must pay more to reside here than in many other communities. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, two roommates working full time trying to live in Philadelphia must each earn roughly 11.8 percent more than if they resided in Mifflin County, based on their 2019 analysis. While even Mifflin County, one STATED MEETING 104 1/26/2023 of living counties in our Commonwealth, is still not properly served by our current federal minimum wage, the issue is particularly acute in our city. Once again, Mr. President, we call upon the Pennsylvania General Assembly to do what 55 cities and counties have done across the nation and allow cities and counties to enact their own minimum wage laws. Fourteen years is far too long. And on another matter, if I may, Mr. President, I want to recognize the Lunar New Year. You may see this gold object on my desk here. It was a gift from the Asian community to me this week. It signifies the Year of the Rabbit. And on January 22nd and throughout the last week, I celebrated our entering into the Year of the Rabbit alongside many residents of my district. We served our community when we distributed food at Cottman and Frankford STATED MEETING 105 1/26/2023 area near Tacony Baptist Church. Households across my district, this city, and our nation were full of family, friends, and loved ones with optimism for the year to come. Unfortunately, over this past week, starting on the Lunar New Year, members of the AAPI community were targeted and attacked across the nation. Mr. President, I request a moment of silence for the 11 killed and nine injured in Monterey Park, California, for the seven agricultural workers of Asian and Hispanic descent murdered in Half Moon Bay, California, and for the victims of the shooting at Tokyo Foods in Evendale, Ohio.

Thank you. May we please have a standing moment of silence. (Moment of silence.)

Thank you, Councilman. STATED MEETING 106 1/26/2023 -

Can I just finish then?

I'm sorry, Councilman?

May I finish my remarks?

Okay. Are you finished? Oh, I'm sorry.

Almost. With your permission, Mr. President.

Councilman, you all are my bosses. Whatever you wish to decide.

Thank you. As I said when this body passed my resolution condemning anti-semitism, an attack on one faith is an attack on all faiths. We must do more to protect Asian Americans in our city and across the country who are ever-more increasingly being targeted. I commend and repeat President STATED MEETING 107 1/26/2023 federal assault weapons ban. I call upon the General Assembly of Pennsylvania to pass common sense safety legislation, including safe storage, no fly - no buy, lost and stolen firearms reporting, and red flag laws. (Applause.)

Guns in the hands of people who intend to use them to harm, intimidate, and kill facilitate the high violent crime in our city and across the nation. It is irresponsible to not allow this body to pass legislation to protect its citizens and, in turn, do nothing at the state level. I hope that this new season of the General Assembly is able to do better and protect the people of Pennsylvania. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. STATED MEETING 108 1/26/2023 (Applause.)

We're with you 1,000 percent. Anyone else? (No response.)

Thank you. I just want to make sure. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla for a motion to adjourn.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 2nd, 2023, 10:00 a.m. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) STATED MEETING 109 1/26/2023

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. Thank you all very much. ) STATED MEETING 110 1/26/2023 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, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. MICHELE L. S 19:4 various 44:6 walk 4:22 14 77:9, 19 Thursday 1:7 79:10 80:10 Ultimately varsity 43:23 walked 42:25 78:8, 10, 21 6:19, 24 7:6 96:24 87:23 VAUGHN wall 12:12 79:14 80:7 102:15 108:15, topic 81:20 unacceptable 1:17 17:15 walls 37:8 91:3 101:10 82:6 97:12 20:17 22:6 want 11:22 Wendell 55:15 Tiahrt 19:7 topics 82:11 unanimously 65:4, 5 68:2, 3 13:2, 10 15:23 went 40:23 ties 101:19 touch 4:16 31:12 73:15, 17, 18 18:11 21:8 78:11 93:25 time 23:18 tough 38:11 uncertain 24:7 98:17, 18 30:5 38:22 95:8, 16 24:13, 25 29:5, 95:25 unconstitutiona vent 50:10 50:18 61:5, 10, We're 2:3, 8 31:16 32:17 toxic 47:16 l 99:20 vetoed 8:19 13 76:10 4:17 30:9 34:17, 22 traditional undermined victims 32:23 78:20 80:25 76:25 78:19, 35:11 42:4, 24 86:16 101:13 83:22 105:17 81:13, 25 24 80:5, 10, 12 43:9 53:5 trafficking understand views 99:19 82:25 84:17 87:17 92:13, 82:8 86:24 19:9 83:10 vigor 38:15 90:12, 14 95:4, 21 93:2, 6 87:24 89:10 transcript understanding village 93:10, 21 100:15 108:6 92:12, 14 110:8, 22 80:10 20 104:15 108:10 West 11:7 100:22 101:15 transform unequivocally vincit 15:3, 4 wanted 21:16 68:15 76:21 103:21 14:23 33:8 54:16 39:22 90:17 85:10 86:19 timeframe transit- unfair 88:13 violence 4:24 war 52:18 87:8 88:9 13:8 86:14 oriented 85:14 unfortunately 20:2, 4 32:22 Warrick 15:11 92:17 timely 13:4 translates 15:4 12:6 78:18 52:18 71:14, Water 30:13 we've 17:24 times 25:4 transmitting 105:7 15 81:5 82:6, 31:8, 9 55:16, 49:14 32:24 10:14 unify 101:22 22 84:13 97:7 17 wide 23:20 tireless 20:21 traveled 42:18 Union 22:7 violent 107:14 Watlington Williams 15:14 73:12 tree 43:8 99:4, 11 Virginia 44:4 39:3 willing 88:24 title 55:13 tree-like 43:12 100:25 101:17, visionaries way 12:20 winner 79:16 58:20 60:2 tremendous 24 12:11 78:2 100:18 wisdom 3:15 62:19 65:19 31:17 unique 99:25 visit 76:23 wealthiest 5:14 titles 10:25 trial 50:4 unison 4:3 78:11 100:21 wish 100:9 TOD 85:9 tried 24:10 United 15:16 visited 93:14 weapon 5:9 106:15 today 2:14 tri-state 79:8 19:2 54:4 vital 85:14 weapons 107:3 wishing 29:4 3:4 5:7 6:16 STATED MEETING 15 1/26/2023 withdraw 8:23 <Y> 74:21 75:2, 4 Y'all 51:10 withdrawn Yeah 21:6 58:5, 9, 18 year 16:16 75:16 42:20 43:24 Witness 29:24 46:18 86:23 32:3 35:4 104:16, 19, 22 41:19 45:21 105:6, 8 48:18 51:18 years 12:15 woman 15:12, 14:7 16:16 16, 20, 21 16:6, 17:2 23:14 9, 10, 14 34:6 37:2 women 14:23 41:25 43:16 15:10, 14 16:4, 50:18 70:12 17:11, 16 79:21 86:7 37:7, 17 43:19 104:12 47:17 53:19 yellow 29:9 wonderful 89:8 Yesterday words 33:7 76:18 77:3 100:23 92:14 work 4:18 yesterday's 5:16 21:13 76:15 35:22 38:3, 7 young 14:23 44:9 47:11 16:20 32:23 50:17 53:9 33:5, 9, 24 76:24 77:13 34:15 40:2, 15 80:25 82:9 43:19 54:12 84:24 87:25 90:25 91:5 89:17 90:4 younger 39:23 91:9 93:5, 24 Youth 11:13 95:23 31:19 32:25 worked 23:19 52:19 69:11 87:15 91:5 90:24 workers 24:12 25:6 92:6, 8, <Z> 13, 20, 22, 23 zero 65:10 93:3, 24 94:7 68:8 105:15 Zeta 54:2 workforce Zoning 25:21, 11:15 69:13 22 59:2 60:5, working 30:10 6 62:21, 22 80:5 82:10 65:21, 22 83:3 88:22 90:23 92:9, 17 94:5 102:20 103:21 working-class 87:6 world 15:2 54:2 worldwide 70:20 Worse 47:7 97:11 worst 46:8 Wynnefield 34:14