Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 18, 2017 10:50 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting May 18, 2017
We're going to get started. I see we have a lot of wonderful young people in here today. To give our invocation today, the Chair recognizes the Reverend William J. Scott, III, Pastor of Harold O. Davis Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Bass. I would ask all guests, visitors, and members to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests, and visitors rise.)
Let us pray. Our Father and our God, we come before you to say thank you. We thank you, God, for a day that we've never seen before. We pray, God, that you will bless your City officials, leaders, Father, as they deliberate and discuss Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 this city. We need you, Lord. We need you more at this time than we ever needed you before. We pray, God, that you would strengthen our leaders when they're weak, build them up when they are torn down. Philadelphia needs you right now, Father. We pray this prayer in Jesus' name. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor, for those inspiring words. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 11, 2017, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 the meeting of Thursday, May 11, 2017 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 11, 2017 stand approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests of leave of absence today.
The Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you very much. At this time, I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to come down to witness their government in action. We appreciate the fact that you want to see what we do. I hope your experience here today is a knowledgeable one, but much more so a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. So, again, thank you so much for being here. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker, who will present a resolution recognizing the members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Would Patricia Alford and those Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilwoman Parker and Sorority members singing.) (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Thank you, Councilwoman. Also joining the Councilwoman, we have Councilman Johnson and Councilman Green, Councilman Domb, Councilman Greenlee, and Councilwoman Blackwell. And I would ask that if anyone has an electronic device that makes any noise such as the noise that we just heard, could you please turn it off. Thank you so much.
Thank you, Mr. President. And good morning to everyone. First, I want to start by saying a hearty thank you to all of our colleagues in the City Council of Philadelphia along with the staff who are dawning their red Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 today, the men with ties, the ladies with some shade of red. So we want to say thank you all. On today we have the great honor and privilege of continuing a tradition in this body that was started by our former colleague and Delta sister Councilwoman Marian Tasco and, that is, honoring Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Quaker City Alumnae Chapter's Social Action Committee and, very specifically, the work they do with young people in schools in the City of Philadelphia and surrounding counties about educating them relative to local government, and City Council is one of the primary focuses of their agenda. And with that in mind, Mr. President, I just want to state for the record that Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was founded on January 13th, 1913 on the campus of Howard University by 22 dynamic collegiate women. And because we're Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 -- I think we have three more years, 2020 is on its way -- I want to note for the record because sometimes people see these women and I don't care if you're talking about us or another organization and folks think they just like to get dressed up in a certain color and come together and sip tea, but I want you to know the first public act of this organization was our participation in the Women's Suffrage March in Washington, DC, and what makes that to me such a meaningful act is that as African American women, there were some people who wanted to put them in the box and say that the only issues they should be advocating for were those that were associated with race. But these 22 women said, we're women too and we have a place in this struggle. So when you think of Delta, I want you to think of that work. The resolution reads as follows: Recognizing and honoring the Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Theta Sorority, Incorporated Quaker City Alumnae Chapter's Social Action Committee on the occasion of the fourteenth year of Delta Days at City Council. And before we get started with that, our sorer, Blondell Reynolds Brown, Councilwoman, will make comments before we start.
Good morning, colleagues and members of City Council, along with our guests. The underpinning of Delta Sigma Theta is service. The underpinning of Delta Sigma Theta is service. Women become actively engaged in this organization because they believe in service. Gandhi said it best: The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in service to others. We need you to remember that while we enjoy each other's professional endeavors. The glue for us is that we believe in service, and I'm thrilled to Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 I stood here as a member of Delta Sigma Theta, and a year later I stand here as a mother of a daughter who joined Delta Sigma Theta. (Applause.)
Thank you. Thank you for keeping this wonderful tradition. Whereas, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, founded in 1913 by twenty-two, as Councilwoman Parker said, diligent collegiate women on the campus of Howard University, has blossomed into the largest African American women's organization in the United States; and
Whereas, Delta Sigma Theta boasts twenty statewide chapters in Pennsylvania from Philadelphia to York and Allegheny Counties; Whereas, the Quaker City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Incorporated, was chartered in Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on October 17th, 1976, by twenty-seven African American women to proudly execute the organization's Five-Point Programmatic Thrusts, which includes the following: Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement. Over the past forty years, this Chapter has strategically expanded its membership to more than 150 local women working to build a more connected and informed community built on the word and work of service;
And whereas, members of the Quaker City Alumnae Social Action Committee have dynamically continued in their foremothers' footsteps to promote social and political activism by addressing voting rights, supporting voter education, and hosting numerous voter registration drives and voter phone Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 banks, as well as advocating for adequate educational funding, quality after-school programs, and access to early childhood education for all children; and Whereas, the students joining us today represent the Sorority's dedication to ensuring that our future leaders have firsthand knowledge of how local government works as they are developing into the next generation that will carry the torch of social and political leadership; and
Whereas, these didactic women have assumed the charge of ensuring that communities receive well-rounded support through various events and programs including their much anticipated annual Health Fair, renowned Delta Academy and Delta Gems programs, annual College Expo, and the infamous Dessert Hour; and
Whereas, the women of Delta, artists in their own right, also founded the Arts and Letters Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Committee, which provides an arena for local poets and musicians to showcase their talents at the annual Artists' Cafe while also serving as a fundraiser to benefit the ongoing activities at the historic Freedom Theatre; and
Whereas, the Quaker City Alumnae Chapter continues to explore new avenues to collaborate with local organizations to tackle the issues that impact Philadelphia residents in an effort to effectively resolve today's challenges by implementing much-needed programming and advancing the central policy initiative; and
Whereas, as the husband, son, brother and, more recently, uncle of members of this phenomenal sisterhood of service, the women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, continue to be a magnificent example of servant-leaders with an uncompromising commitment to their community, which serves as the Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 on the mission of Delta Days at City Council; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes and honors the members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated's Quaker City Alumnae Chapter's Social Action Committee on the occasion of the fourteenth year of Delta Days at City Council. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Social Action Committee of Quaker City Alumnae Chapter as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. And, Mr. President, I just want to note for the record because some people said who are some Deltas we may know, I wanted to quickly run through this list: Sadie T.M. Alexander, Shirley Chisholm, Ruby Dee, Dorothy Height, Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Jordan, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Angela Bassett, Nikki Giovanni, Betty Shabazz, Lena Horne, Cicely Tyson, Gwen Ifill, and our very first Connie Clayton in the City of Philadelphia. Thank you, Mr. President.
And at this time, the Chair recognizes Ms. Alford for remarks.
On behalf of our Chapter President, Dr. Claudette Stone of Quaker City Alumnae Chapter, and the 1,044 chapters of Delta Sigma Theta, Incorporated nationally and internationally, I bring you greetings. My name is Patricia Alford and I'm the Chair of Quaker City Social Action Committee, and my Co-Chair, Annie Williams Gadson, is over here. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 again, we celebrate the youth in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas by inviting them to observe and experience the political process of government and especially that of our great city, Philadelphia. We want the youth of Philadelphia, who are our future leaders, to understand that changes can be made, but it needs to be developed, discussed, and brought forth to benefit all of its citizens. Forty years ago, QCA was chartered to assist this great city in community activities that benefits and enhances the lives of its citizens. Some of the people before me have named some of the things, the toy lending library at Delta Academy, Delta Gems, scholarship programs, and we have given out over $100,000 in scholarships to young people in the Philadelphia area. We've had college prep. We had social action forums on aging gracefully 1 and 2, Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 about our senior citizens. Domestic violence. We're not going to step back because some people feel it's hurting them. We want to make sure that we take care of our citizens who have been abused. We have presented candidates for elected offices. Now, I want to let you know the commitment of coming down here today. We have three of our past presidents here, and would they step forward. We have Florence Oliver, Patricia Evans, and Leslie Cousins-Mond. (Applause.)
These three ladies have felt that social action is the core of the volunteerism we do. We do a lot of things, but social action is one of them. Our Chapter's commitment to social action in Philadelphia will never stop. On your desks is an ink pen. Please hold it up. I left it on the desk, the Councilpeople. Turn it on. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 didn't get one? Somebody got your pen. Where the police? We want you to know that Quaker City Chapter members are working hard to make our city outstanding and a city of sisterly love. Thank you very, very much. (Applause.)
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon, who will present resolutions honoring Saint Hubert's Bowling Team and Saint Hubert's Cheerleading Team. Would Liz Anne Pando and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Henon, we have Councilman Greenlee, Councilman Taubenberger, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, and Councilman Domb and Councilman Green and Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilman O'Neill.
Are there any Bambies in the house? I mean, I can't hear you. Are there any Bambies in the house? Can we hear it? (Applause.)
I know that Bambies have some incredible spirit. I've seen it over the years, and you truly represent Northeast Philadelphia. We have a lot of champions up here, a lot of Bambi champions, who excel in many, many areas. We have two resolutions to honor state champions and champions in the Catholic League with not just cheerleading but bowling. But not only are they excelling in their love and passion in sports, but they have all excelled, not just as a team but as a Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 academics, receiving over $19 million, $19.6 million, in college scholarships. So congratulations. (Applause.)
Congratulations to the awesome young women and future of our city, but congratulations to Liz Anne, who is our leader of Saint Hubert's, and all the administration, who does a fantastic job. Right now we're going to start with bowling. Now, bowling and other sports would say -- well, I mean, I guess in bowling too. It's a repeat. So they repeated for their championship, 64 wins. So they were 64 and 0, and today we honor Saint Hubert's Bowling Team in winning the 2017, repeat, Philadelphia Catholic League Championship. Whereas
The Saint Hubert High School Bowling Team was in first place all year, going a record-setting 56 and 0 during the Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 season, the likes of which have never been accomplished before in Catholic League play; and
Whereas, the Bambies crushed bitter rival Little Flower High School in the Catholic League semi-finals to move onto the championship. Little Flower was also soundly beaten by Saint Hubert's in last year's championship game; and Whereas, Saint Hubert's was pitted against Bonner-Prendie in the championship game, the top two seeds in the Catholic League battling it out for bragging rights; and
Whereas, the Bambies refused to be denied their perfect season, sweeping Bonner 4-0 at the AMF Bristol Pike Lanes to cap off a storybook ending, earning the Catholic League Title; and Whereas, in addition to their Catholic League Championship, five student-athletes earned First Team Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 season; sophomore Gabrielle Smith, juniors Michelle Morrissey, Shannon Lee and Regan McGuinness and senior Tori Cross; and
My wife is a Bambi, so I'm going to read this very carefully. Whereas, Hubert's bowlers finished the year taking the top 3 spots overall in the Catholic League. Rounding out the awards was the honor for Catholic League Most Valuable Bowler which went to Michelle Morrissey; and Whereas, the Bambies finished their perfect season with a record of 64 wins and 0 losses; now, therefore
Therefore, resolved by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and recognize the Saint Hubert's School Bowling Team on their Philadelphia Catholic League Championship. Resolved further, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 coach Pat Hamill and the members of the 2017 Philadelphia Catholic League Champions as further evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body. Congratulations, champs. (Applause.)
We got two. We're going to flow right into the next one, under my guidance that I failed to execute. So now we have national champs in cheerleading. (Applause.)
And I got to tell you, over the past four years, Saint Hubert's, whether it's varsity or JV, has been national champs. So they are absolutely an elite team when it comes to cheerleading, not only in the City of Philadelphia, not only in Northeast City of Philadelphia but nationally they are recognized as an elite team. And I have to tell you, representing half of Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Philadelphia, and I know Councilman O'Neill will attest to, people want to go to Saint Hubert's because it's a place of community for many, many different areas that they feel competitive, comfortable with each other and a sense of community, along with its academic successes that they have. So we have and we're honoring again the varsity team for being national champs. They won one in 2012 and they won one this year in 2017. So with that being said, I want to again thank our President of Saint Hubert's, Liz Anne Pando, for her outstanding job and the administration, the teachers, the coaches, the volunteers, and yet we forget the parents and the guardians of all of these kids. (Applause.)
Who take them to meets and take them out of town, who raise money, they fundraise. It's tough to scrape up all the resource that Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 need, but they did it and they were a success, and that's what brings a community closer together. That's what brings these young women closer together and why they're such an elite team. So honoring the Saint Hubert's High School Cheerleading Team on winning the National High School Cheerleading Championship.
Let me be very blunt about this, national is very, very important. We do a lot of honors, but you know what, this is a big, big nation and to be national champions is very, very important. (Applause.)
Whereas, the National High School Cheerleading Championship is held at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida and is televised nationally on ESPN and ESPN 2 to more than 100 million homes and 32 countries annually; and
Whereas, Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 to Nationals, Hubert's had to overcome many obstacles, including fundraising a large amount of money to attend the event and replacing injured cheerleaders; and Whereas, to prepare for their routine, the team spends countless hours training and practicing year round. In addition to practicing, the team performs at all Father Judge football and basketball games; and
Whereas, during the competition, the squad performs a two and a half minute routine packed with stunts, pyramids, elite tumbling skills, cheers and dance. These routines take a tremendous amount of endurance, strength and stamina; and Whereas, Saint Hubert's competed against 25 teams in the "Large Varsity" division, which means competing with 20 girls on their squad; and
I think I need to go on a diet to move around this Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Whereas, this is the twelfth year that Saint Hubert Cheerleading has been to the NHSCC and their second National Championship for Varsity; and Whereas, the head coach of the team is Lisa McNesby and she's assisted by Paul Ballentine, Mary Kate McKnight, and Kristin Mahon; and
Whereas, the Saint Hubert Cheerleading Program includes three teams with a total of twenty-seven cheerleaders; and Whereas, in addition to practice and schoolwork and practice and schoolwork and practice and schoolwork, the girls still find time to volunteer with various charitable organizations, including the Athletes Helping Athletes; now, therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and commend the Saint Hubert High School Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 the National High School Cheerleading Championship. Resolved further, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Saint Hubert Cheerleaders and their coaches, further evidencing the sincere appreciation and admiration of this legislative body. Sponsored by Councilman Bobby Henon and co-sponsored by all Councilmembers. (Applause.)
Thank you. And the Chair recognizes Ms. Pando for remarks.
Thank you, Councilman Henon and Council President Clarke and the rest of City Council for this wonderful honor to be here today. My name is Liz Anne Pando and I'm the proud President of these wonderful girls and their accomplishments. We thank you for honoring Saint Hubert Catholic High School for Girls and Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 this very special way. Saint Hubert's has been educating women of integrity and faith for 75 years and doing it through spirituality, scholarship, service, and sisterhood. And we can boast 30,000 alum. Obviously we have a couple here in the audience and a couple gentlemen married to our alum. They have become -they've gone on to become doctors, lawyers, business women, medical professionals, mothers and grandmothers. It comes no surprise to myself or to the faculty administration that these girls, when coached with their talents, can reach heights of this level. It is with special thanks I'd like to recognize today our Cheerleading National Championship coaches, Lisa McNesby, Mary Kate McKnight, Kristen Mahon, and Paul Ballentine, and also our bowling coaches, Catholic League Champions for two years in a row now, Pat Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 son, Pat Hamill, Jr. It goes with special mention to the bowling team for the perfect season winning all 12 matches and having 64 and 0 for every single game they won. It's like a shutout. So we are so grateful for those who have coached and all of those parents who have given such sacrifice to help our girls reach these wonderful accomplishments and use their talents in such a way. We're very blessed, and we thank you again for this resolution and recognition today and reflection of our girls and our students' achievements. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. The next order of business is Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 communications, and the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bill: Bill No. 170335. And I am pleased to advise you that on May 17, 2017, I signed the remaining bills which were passed by Council at its session on May 4, 2017, and that on May 17, 2017, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on May 11, 2017: Bill Nos. 160680, 170015, 170016, 170205, 170308, 170329, 170330, and 170332. And I am submitting herewith Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 your honorable body a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District that will be transferred by the City to the Authority, by conveyance of such properties to the Philadelphia Land Bank; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. , for use by the City of all or a portion of the premises located at 8747 Frankford Avenue; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 for use by the City of certain portion of the Premises located at 6601 New State Road; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with The Philadelphia Municipal Authority for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 1500 John F. Kennedy Boulevard; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with The Philadelphia Municipal Authority for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 1425 Arch Street; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the southerly eighteen feet wide portion of Vine Street from Eighteenth Street to a point approximately one-hundred fifty feet eastwardly therefrom; and Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, all or part of a parcel of land located in the area bounded by Market Street, North Salford Street, Filbert Street, and North 59th Street, for further conveyance; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 311 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Westview Street from Springbank Street to Hortter Street; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos.
240 and 296 by placing on the City Plan Nixon Street from the existing northwesterly terminus of Nixon Street, northwest of Shawmont Avenue, to Port Royal Avenue (not on City Plan), placing on the City Plan River Road from Port Royal Avenue (not on City Plan) to a point approximately ten feet southeast of Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Line, and placing on the City Plan a right-of-way for sewer and drainage purposes; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a lease agreement with Grays Ferry Partners by its agent Korman Commercial Properties for use by the City of all or a portion of the premises located at 3009 Grays Ferry Avenue; and An ordinance authorizing the Procurement Department and the Department of Commerce, on behalf of the City, to enter into a contract for the provision of shuttle bus services at Philadelphia International Airport; and An ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone, Economic Development District, and Strategic Development Area," to provide for extension of certain benefits; and An ordinance authorizing the Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 58 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Pearl Street from Thirteenth Street to Broad Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional communications?
Thank you very much. Our next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill and three resolutions, and I wish to say thank you to Councilmembers Green, Bass, Taubenberger, Parker, Jones, Gym, Henon, Domb, Greenlee, and Oh, who co-sponsored one or all three resolutions. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Thank you, Mr. President.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," to revise certain provisions of Chapter 14-600, entitled "Use Regulations," by amending the green roof calculations.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the Month of May as National Bike Month in the City of Philadelphia.
And a privileged resolution Recognizing and Celebrating the 2017 Small Business Week Celebration in the City of Philadelphia.
And a privileged Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 resolution Recognizing and Congratulating Philadelphia's Students, Educators and Administrators for the School District of Philadelphia Selection by the United States Department of Education as a 2017 District Sustainability Awardee.
Also this week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce two bills.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Girard Avenue, 41st Street, Parkside Avenue, Girard Avenue, and Railroad Right of Way.
Referred to committee. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017
And an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on Cobbs Creek Parkway between Hazel and Cedar Avenues, both sides.
Referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer three bills.
An ordinance amending Section 14-202 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Rules of Measurements," by providing for further measurement exclusions; amending Section 14-502, entitled "/CTR, Center City Overlay District," by modifying the subsection entitled "Rittenhouse Square."
And an ordinance Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the southerly eighteen feet wide portion of Vine Street from Eighteenth Street to a point approximately one-hundred fifty feet eastwardly therefrom.
And an ordinance to amend the Master Plan for Temple University, and to approve the proposed addition to 1810 Liacouras Walk.
Also referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer eight bills, one privileged resolution, and one non-privileged resolution, and I wish to be recognized on the title of the resolution re-calling Bill No. 170265 is Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 read for a motion on the resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Cottman Avenue, Crispin Street, Frankford Avenue, Cheltenham Avenue, Bustleton Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard; 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 Sheffield Avenue, Leon Street, Solly Avenue, Frankford Avenue, Stanwood Street, and Erdrick Street; 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 Bridge Street, Harbison Avenue, Tulip Street, Hegerman Street, Devereaux Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Avenue, Torresdale Avenue, Robbins Street, Vandike Street, Unruh Avenue, Keystone Street, Devereaux Street (extended), and Delaware Expressway; and An ordinance to amend Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising certain provisions of Chapter 14-200, entitled "Definitions," and 14-900 "Signs"; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement for use by the City of certain portion of Premises located at 6601 New State Road; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a lease agreement with Washington Service Corp., for use by the City of all or a portion of the premises located at 8747 Frankford Avenue; and An ordinance authorizing the Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with The Philadelphia Municipal Authority for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 1425 Arch Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with The Philadelphia Municipal Authority for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 1500 John F. Kennedy Boulevard.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Those eight bills just read by the Chief Clerk will be referred to the appropriate committees.
And a privileged resolution recognizing May 14, 2017 to May 21, 2017 as National Police Week in Philadelphia.
And a Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 non-privileged resolution requesting the Mayor to return to Council Bill No. 170265, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Devereaux Avenue (extended), Keystone Street, Princeton Avenue, Keystone Street, Cottman Avenue (extended), Milnor Street, Bleigh Avenue (extended), and the Delaware River," for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of the resolution on today's Final Passage Calendar. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two resolutions, one privileged, and co-sponsored by Councilman Taubenberger, Greenlee, Green, Johnson, Oh, and Bass, three bills.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 240 and 296 by placing on the City Plan Nixon Street from an existing northwesterly terminus of Nixon Street, northwest of Shawmont Avenue, to Port Royal Avenue (not on City Plan), placing on the City Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Plan River Road from Port Royal Avenue (not on City Plan) to a point approximately ten feet southeast of the Philadelphia-Montgomery County Line.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 311 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Westview Street from Springbank Street to Hortter Street.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, all or part of a parcel of land located in the area bounded by Market Street, North Salford Street, Filbert Street, and North 59th Street, for further conveyance.
Also Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 referred to committee.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Reverend Kirk T. Berlenbach who will be leaving St. Timothy's Episcopal Church after 14 years of dedicated service to the Roxborough community.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Johnson.
Council President, I have one non-privileged resolution and three bills, one on your behalf.
An ordinance to amend the Sports Stadium (Special Purpose) District Master Plan in the area bounded by Darien Street, Packer Avenue, Seventh Street, and Pattison Avenue.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a lease agreement with Grays Ferry Partners by its agent Korman Commercial Properties for use by the City of all or a portion of the premises located at 3009 Grays Ferry Avenue.
Referred to committee. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017
And an ordinance authorizing the Procurement Department and the Department of Commerce, on behalf of the City, to enter into a contract for the provision of shuttle bus services at Philadelphia International Airport.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone, Economic Development District, and Strategic Development Area," to provide for extension of certain benefits.
And a non-privileged resolution naming Paschall Avenue, between South 64th Street and South 65th Street, "Albert Willis Way."
Next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 3rd Street, Berks Street, 6th Street, and Lehigh Avenue.
Referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring The Urban League of Philadelphia on the occasion of its 100th Anniversary. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017
This week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Good morning, Council President. I have one privileged resolution today.
A privileged resolution recognizing, honoring and congratulating the 2017 Philadelphia Business Journal's 40 under 40 Class for their hard work and dedication to excellence in their representation of their respective industries and the City of Philadelphia. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017
This week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Thank you very much, Council President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
I have one bill and one privileged resolution that is introduced by myself and Councilman Curtis Jones, and at the appropriate time, I would like to speak on that resolution.
Yeah. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 I'd like to introduce it.
An ordinance amending Section 9-605 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Towing," by increasing the amount of the fine that a towing company must pay for improper clean-up of an accident scene.
Councilman, you want to speak on the legislation, on the bill?
On the resolution? Okay. That will be referred to committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing New Holland Agriculture and the Pennsylvania Future Farmers of America for their volunteer work on May 5th, 2017 at W.B. Saul High School in Roxborough.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017
Thank you, Council President. I do want to also thank very much Councilman Curtis Jones for co-sponsoring or introducing this with me and all members of Council, and I want to really stress the fact this is a big deal. The New Holland Machinery Company, although not known well in Philadelphia, is a major player in agribusiness across the world, and for them to pick a school in Philadelphia, an agricultural school, to help and come down and volunteer their services is something very, very special indeed. I was there their day of service where they cleaned out and completely redid and painted the dairy barn, which agriculture teaches children and students science. It teaches math. It teaches all the skills for good citizenship, and also is a major business in the world. And all you have to do is take a look at this week's Wall Street Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Journal to know how big agriculture is in the United States. So I look forward to its passage, and I thank all members for co-sponsoring it with me. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. That will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 grades on a portion of City Plan No. 58 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Pearl Street from Thirteenth Street to Broad Street and reserving and placing on the City Plan a right-of-way for sewer and drainage purposes.
And that will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill and one privileged resolution, and I'd like to be heard after the resolution.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Taxes," by creating a tax foreclosure diversion program that requires housing counseling assistance, updating tax installment payment agreements to help taxpayers with financial hardships, and other related items.
And a privileged resolution commending and thanking the police, first responders and witnesses for their immediate rescue efforts of Charles W. Henry School students, teachers and chaperones involved in a bus crash while on their way to Washington, DC.
Thank you, Mr. President. I really just had to say some thank-you's for the introduction of that resolution. And while we have all heard the phrase "it takes a village to raise a child," this week that phrase is Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 particularly relevant in the aftermath of the bus accident that occurred this past Monday when a group of 8th graders and their teachers and chaperones from the C.W. Henry School in West Mt. Airy were on their way to Washington, DC for their end-of-year class trip. The rescue efforts right after the accident by our police, who just happened to be right behind the bus, as well as the help by family members of fallen police officers and just good samaritans on I-95, was truly a godsend. On the day of the accident, I was grateful for the support of State Representative Chris Rabb, who also joined me at C.W. Henry, and the principal, staff, and parents. We just really want to give a particular shout-out and special thanks to Principal Fatima Rogers for jumping into action, the Philadelphia School District, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, all educators, parents, principals, and Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 volunteers who were on site on the scene at the school with us to see what could they do to be of assistance. Of course the Philadelphia Police Department, all of the Police Department jumped into action and especially Inspector Anthony Washington out of the Northwest Division and his group, who were just really, again, a godsend, and the folks especially who were on I-95 as the crash occurred. It just happened that this bus was behind the school's bus and they were en route to Washington, DC for a different event, but they were recruits and police officers and family members of fallen officers, and everyone just jumped into action, the Office of Emergency Management. And for those who just really offered prayers and positive thoughts, I just really had to say a particular thank you to everyone for the outpouring of love and support. And also we did have a staffer Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 who had a child who was on the bus, who, thank God, is fine, shaken up, but absolutely fine. And so we want to thank everyone for reaching out and being in contact with our office. And we've heard and gotten so much support from all of our colleagues, I just really wanted to say that. Thank you, Mr. President.
Awesome. Thank you, Councilwoman. That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer three non-privileged resolutions co-sponsored by Councilmembers Squilla, Taubenberger, Domb, Green, Parker, Reynolds Brown, Bass, Jones, and Henon. Thank you.
A non-privileged Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 resolution urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to Adopt House Bill No. 393, Which Would "Uncap" the Pennsylvania Film Production Tax Credit Program.
That will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution creating the Philadelphia Film Advisory Task Force.
And that will also be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution Calling Upon The Philadelphia Streets Department To Post The Fine For Violation Of The Electric Vehicle Parking Space Restrictions On-Site, And Calling Upon The Philadelphia Parking Authority To Establish A Dedicated Call-Line To Report Violations Of Electric Vehicle Parking Space Restrictions And To Vigorously Enforce Such Electric Vehicle Parking Stated Meeting May 18, 2017
And next week's Final Passage Calendar. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions. We have no reports from committee today. We will now move to special business. We will proceed under a special order of business, a motion to withdraw Bill No. 170009. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Bill No. 170009 was introduced on January 26, 2017 and was referred to the Committee on Rules. I would now like to withdraw the bill from further consideration by the Council.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes the Clerk to read the title of the bill.
Bill No. 170009, Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Silverwood Street, Gay Street, Baker Street, and Carson Street; and to adopt a Master Plan for the former St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church and adjacent parcels; all under certain terms and conditions."
Thank you very much. And the Chair again recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Bill No. 170009 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that Bill No. 170009 be withdrawn. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.) Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 2ND READING
The ayes have it. The motion passes, and Bill No. 170009 is withdrawn. Thank you very much. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. There being no bills on the First Reading Calendar today, the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Bill Nos. 170482, 170484, 170486, 170489, 170490, 170335-A, 170282. All other bills and resolutions are being held.
Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Thank you very much. Before considering our public comment session, let me tell you what the rules are associated with that. When your name is called, you will go to the podium in the middle of the Council Chambers. If you have not signed up for the bill or resolution to testify on, you may do so at the table to my left. When you go to the podium in the middle of the Council Chambers, you will see a device. That device has a light on it. When the light turns green, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When the light turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to the guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes to testify. Mr. Decker, please call the first name on the list.
Don Garecht, Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 commenting on 170335. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. Hello. I'm Don Garecht, Vice President of the Burholme Community Town Watch and Civic Association. We serve the Burholme community in Lower Northeast Philadelphia. I'm here today to show my support for Bill No. 170335 introduced by Councilwoman Cherelle Parker. The biggest obstacle for our organization in determining whether or not to support or oppose a project is lack of information. Despite our best efforts to communicate with applicants on many occasions, we do not have basic details about projects until our community meetings. This makes it difficult for our members to fully understand the scope of the matter and ask informed questions. The proposed Project Information Form will be a great Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 educational tool for our residents. The Burholme Civic Association is working hard to revitalize our business corridor. We welcome new businesses to our community and support zoning variances that will help our neighborhood thrive. If the Project Information Form was a mandated document, it would give us a greater ability to do just that by suggesting tweaks to projects to ensure they do not adversely affect existing businesses. The Project Information Form helps educate community participants and further professionalizes the zoning process. The result of this commonsense legislation is a better working relationship between businesses and residents. Thank you, Council President Clarke. I appreciate you giving me the opportunity to provide testimony today. Thank you.
Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Thank you very much for your testimony.
Ken Yang, commenting on 170335. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, Mr. President. Hello. I am Ken Yang, Executive Director of the Department of Housing Counseling at Greater Philadelphia Asian Social Service Center, GPASS. GPASS serves the Philadelphia community from our home in Olney/Logan, contributing to multifaceted neighborhood development. We provide a wide array of social services that include emergency energy assistance, housing counseling, food bank programs, community vacant lot maintenance, substance abuse outpatient counseling, and DUI programs. GPASS is also proud to be able to provide the community with opportunities to participate in the neighborhood planning and development process as both a NAC Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 program agency and an RCO. I am here today to show my support for Bill No. 170335 introduced by Councilwoman Cherelle Parker. On behalf of GPASS, I would like to express our full and unreserved support of Councilwoman Parker's proposed Project Information Form legislation. In accord with the thoughts expressed by many fellow RCOs during a meeting that Councilwoman Parker specially held to introduce us to the bill, GPASS feels that implementation of the Project Information Form will greatly strengthen the citywide RCO process by introducing a standardized source of key development information. This development information, which the applicant would be required to provide directly, would have the clear effect of increasing developer accountability and empowering RCOs of all experience levels and the communities that they serve. In that respect, we think it fitting that this bill was Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 introduced by Councilwoman Parker, as it is in keeping with both the level of accountability and the style of participatory leadership that has marked Councilwoman Parker's tenure in the Ninth District. Thank you, Council President Clarke.
Joe Danihel, commenting on 170486, 170335, and 160720. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. This is an official decree of the people in writ of mandamus quo warranto and, as such, requires immediate action and remedy. For too long, Philadelphia government has continued willfully to violate laws and constitutions. The Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 Fifth Amendment states no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, property without due process of law, nor shall private property be taken without just compensation first paid. For 23 years, I have not been allowed to use my home, but I have had to pay all the bills, legal costs, interest, replacement housing costs. This is a clear violation of the rule of law and constitutions. Upon notification of my government-created plight, Council, Mayor, and other oath-bound officials are not above the law and must provide constitutionally required immediate remedy and change the process that caused this to occur to a constitutionally compliant process. Why has no trial by jury ever been allowed? Why have numerous officials opposed my Seventh Amendment trial by jury several times? Resolution is required. If Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 government doesn't want to do its job, then the sovereign people must be allowed by grand jury or trial by jury to provide immediate remedy. The constitutions require immediate remedy of this breach of law. Your oath of office requires you to act or face prison. 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 18 USC 241, 242, 2381, 2384, PA Constitution, Article I, Section 1 through 11, 26 PA CSA 703, 705, 708, 712, 713, 716, and other laws listed in SCOTUS 15-8965, 14-1330, 14-4056 appear violated. I call upon the federal and Commonwealth governments to perform their constitutional obligations to investigate and prosecute all involved in the theft and illegal deed transfer of my home, 1038 West Wyoming. The denial of God-given 42 USC 1982 property rights for 23 years is egregious, extraordinary, oath-violating, and requires immediate remedy. Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 A just government must obey the rule of law. This color of law government must have its Charter to govern revoked until a constitutionally compliant government is installed. Public servants cannot refuse their sworn duty to act any more than a fireman can refuse to fight a fire. The sovereign people require constitutions and laws be enforced. Jail is required for all who violate the oath or law. I remind Council it takes a lot of cooperation to create and allow monumental corruption.
Thank you very much for your testimony. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to leave Chambers early on official business. We have Governor Wolf coming to tour what Councilwoman Parker doves a middle neighborhood in Wynnefield and would like Stated Meeting May 18, 2017 to be recorded as voting aye on all bills.
Because you can stop off in the Fifth District while he's here.