COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 17, 2012 10:15 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
The hour has come. We have a quorum established, and Council will come to order. I would ask that all the guests and visitors please retire behind the rail. Thank you all very much. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Clement Lupton, Senior Pastor of Beloved St. John Evangelistic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Bass. I would ask all guests and members to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Thank you, Mr. President. Councilwoman Bass and to all of our Council leaders, let's pray. Father, we do thank you and praise you for your goodness and for your mercy. Thank you for this great body and our city. We do pray for those who are most in need this morning, those who are sick, those who are shut in, those who are desolate, those who are homeless, those who are jobless, those who are helpless. We lift them before you. We lift this great body of Council, ask for your leading and guidance. Give them the wisdom of Solomon, the boldness of a lion, the meekness of a lamb. Ask you to bless us, bless our great city, the City of Brotherly Love. Shine on us today and be glorified in this meeting. In Jesus' name, amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor, for those inspiring words. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much. order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 10th, 2012. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, sir. Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 10th, 2012 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 10th, 2012 stands approved. The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilman
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Mr. President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for a leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. Thank you so much. The Chair will currently dispense with the regular order of business to thank everyone. I see we have a full house today. We truly hope you enjoy yourself today. We relish the fact that you are going to witness democracy in action today. We hope you like it so much, you come back again. So much. (Applause.)
That's the first time that line was ever applauded. At this time, the Chair would like to recognize Councilman Kenney. Councilman Kenney will present a resolution recognizing the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation. Would Meryl Levitz and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. Joining the Councilman we have Councilwoman Brown and Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is a resolution recognizing and congratulating the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation on its designation by the U.S. Travel Association as an engine of regional economic growth, and on the recent identification of its slogan, "With Love, Philadelphia XOXO," by the fifteen best in the tourism industry. Whereas, the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation is a private, non-profit organization that promotes the region's vitality as a premier leisure travel destination through strategic marketing and branding. Founded in 1996 by the City of Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Pew Charitable Trusts, GPTMC creates consumer campaigns inviting people to visit the five-county region of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties; and Whereas, GPTMC produces or coordinates the production of high-quality content for key outlets through ads placed online, in magazines and newspapers and on billboards, television, radio and trains. This includes administration of Philadelphia's official visitor website (visitphilly.com) and current events blog (uwishunu.com). Through these channels, the non-profit is able to boost Philadelphia's regional tourism, worth $8.7 billion in economic impact and accounting for more than 85,000 regional jobs annually;
A recent report by Dr. Bill Siegel of Longwoods International was released by the United States Travel Association that documents through research the financial value of successful destination marketing programs. The report cites Philadelphia as one of two case studies that provide compelling evidence that consistent, well-executed marketing programs can produce a significant positive return on investment to stakeholders. Specifically, GPTMC's efforts were found to drive greater visitation, generate new tax dollars and generate jobs for states and local communities; and Whereas, at GPTMC's founding, Longwoods International's research an image problem among travelers, who saw it as a day-trip destination. Fifteen years later, with sustained tourism marketing and an enhanced tourism product, Philadelphia's image has transformed and visitation has surged. Overnight visitation to Philadelphia has grown 66 percent since 1997, six times as fast as the national growth rate of 11 percent. Today, Greater Philadelphia welcomes 10 million more leisure travelers. We need to underscore that and put that in bold print. Today, Greater Philadelphia welcomes 10 million more leisure travelers annually than it did in 1997; and
Whereas, the non-profit also recently received accolades from Frommer's, an internationally recognized source for travel advice and information, which names GPTMC's latest slogan "With Love, XOXO" in its online article "Tourism Slogans: 15 Favorite Phrases." The list also includes such notable campaigns as "I Love New York" and "Virginia is for Lovers"; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize and congratulate the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation on its designation by the U.S. Travel Association as an engine of regional economic growth, and on the recent identification of its slogan, "With Love, Philadelphia XOXO," by Frommer's as one of the fifteen best in the tourism industry. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Thank you so much. On behalf of our Board represented here today by our Chairman Manny Stamatakis, our Vice Chair Rhonda Cohen and our staff represented today by Angela Val, our Vice President of Special Projects, and Ethan Conner-Ross, our Vice President of Research and Strategic Planning, we'd like to thank the entire Council and President of City Council for always being with us to develop Philadelphia into the wonderful, much-better-known destination that it is now today. In fact, in the last 20 years, it's become an overnight sensation. And we would like to thank the people of Philadelphia for making Philadelphia the unique and wonderful city to live, work, visit, send your kids to school and all of that that it is today. So thank you to all. Thank (Applause.)
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson, who will present a resolution recognizing the Mighty Writers. Would Tim Whitaker and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining the Councilman, we also have Councilman Oh and Councilwoman Bass and Councilman Greenlee and Councilman Squilla and Councilman Henon.
Today I'm have the opportunity to honor an organization that focuses on academic excellence. When we talk about the importance of education, when we talk about making sure that all young people receive a quality education, when we talk about making sure that we strive to make sure that all young people exceed academically in the City of Philadelphia, I am truly honored to have this privilege to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Mr. Tim Whitaker and the Mighty Writers program, which resides in the 2nd Councilmanic District. And the resolution reads: Honoring, recognizing and commending Mighty Writers for its efforts to educate people to think and write with clarity in order to boost self-esteem and create a generation of young people who are successful in school, their careers and ultimately their lives. Whereas, Mighty Writers is a 2009 to combat Philadelphia's literacy crisis and increase educational skills by offering a variety of free educational programs; and Whereas, too many of the students in Philadelphia drop out of school before graduating high school and a large portion of our working-age adults are functionally illiterate; and Whereas, Mighty Writers offers a range of educational programs including daily after-school programming, writing workshops on nights and weekends, a weekly Teen Writers Lounge and intensive SAT preparatory courses and college essay writing classes; and
Whereas, by harnessing the talents of over 300 of Philadelphia's most creative teachers, journalists, artists and professionals on a volunteer basis, Mighty Writers teaches and mentors almost 1,000 children each year and provides much needed youth; and
Whereas, in order to foster reading and writing skills, Mighty Writers uses innovative strategies like its comic book club where instructors teach students how to construct compelling plot lines and characters; its Garden Reader Program where teachers help students study garden-grown fruits and vegetables; and a poetry class where students hone their prose; and
Whereas, Mighty Writers aims to help disadvantaged youth from low-income families and provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed; and Whereas, Mighty Writers' free after-school program has been extremely successful. The 75 students in the program participate in at least ten projects a year and at least 75 percent improve their writing grades. In addition, 650 students participate in over 50 themed night, weekend and summer writing workshops; and
Whereas, in 2011, Mighty Writers was a winner in the Knights Arts Challenge for a documentary project chronicling the historical influence of Philadelphia black radio stations, and Mighty Writers was also awarded Citizens Bank's "Champions in Action" grant; and
Whereas, Mighty Writers has collaborated with various community partners including Philadelphia Futures, Fleisher Art Memorial, Art-Reach, Universal Institute Charter School, After-School Activities Partnership and English departments from Drexel, Temple and the University of Pennsylvania; now therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor, recognize and commend Mighty Writers for people to think and write with clarity in order to boost self-esteem and create a generation of young people who are successful in school, their careers and ultimately their lives. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Tim Whitaker, Executive Director of Mighty Writers, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Mr. Tim Whitaker and staff, I congratulate you for your work. (Applause.)
Hi. My name is Rachel Loper and I'm the Program Director at Mighty Writers. I'd like to say thank you, Councilman, and just to let everybody here know a little bit about Mighty Writers. Every day we are on the corner 15th and Christian with young Philadelphians who call themselves Mighty Writers. Mighty Writers is an identity and it's an identity that's catching on. Our kids strive to write and think with clarity. We know this will lead them not only to successful academic and professional lives, but will also make them better citizens of Philadelphia. Thank you for this recognition, and stay tuned to meet our mighty Philadelphians in the years to come. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. Sorry. Councilman Johnson. We are going to have -
I just want to thank all my colleagues for joining me up here on the podium. That's all. Thank you.
Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution declaring June 2012 as Local Independent Media Month in Philadelphia. Would Ms. Glenabie Norton and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Joining the Councilwoman is Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. And we're proud to recognize Jay McCalla, who has been one of us in the past years, certainly the Ward Leader of the 27th Ward. Thank you for being here. Resolution declaring June 2012 as Local Independent Media Month in Philadelphia and recognizing the (ADA) for their work in promoting economic and social justice. Whereas, Philadelphia has a rich and dedicated network of non-corporate home-grown media; and Whereas, an uncompromised press is invaluable to a free and democratic society; and Whereas, these local news outlets serve our community with a special excellence and commitment; and Whereas, media mergers, corporate ownership and budget cuts threaten the integrity of local news coverage;
Whereas, local independent media outlets build the public consensus needed to bring about change; Whereas, free and independent media should be recognized as a key dimension of efforts to eradicate poverty, advocating for basic human rights, a stronger civil society, political transparency, support to education and sustainable livelihoods; now, therefore, be it Resolved, that Philadelphia City Council hereby declares June 2012 as Local Independent Media Month and recognizes The Philadelphia Tribune, The Philadelphia Record, Northeast Times, Chestnut Hill Local, Germantown Courier, Jewish Exponent, Olney Times, Aliva, City Paper, Philly Weekly, Philadelphia Gay News, Southwest Globe Times, Spirit, Star Publications, Sunday Sun, Metro Chinese Weekly, Weekly Press, Westside Weekly, Neighborhood Leader, Metro, Mt. Airy Independent, Metro Chinese Weekly, Chinese Viet News, Rang Dong Sunrise Magazine, China Press Weekly, South Philadelphia Review, Germantown Chronicle, Germantown Leader, Milestones, Media Mobilizing Project, Green City Journal, WRTI, Al Dia, WXPN, DUTV, Independent Media Center, Dong-A Daily, Impacto, Philadelphia Public School Notebook, El Hispano, Brazilian News Week, The Bulletin, Philadelphia Business Journal, The Temple News, The Daily Pennsylvania, The Triangle, Philadelphia News, WURD 900-AM, WKDU. And further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Americans for Democratic Action on behalf of all local independent media outlets as a profound expression of this Council's appreciation. (Applause.)
Good morning. I'm Glenabie Norton. I'm Chair of Americans for Democratic Action, Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter. We're very proud and pleased to be here today to honor these extremely important members of the media in our community, our Philadelphia independent media. They perform a vital function not just in the neighborhoods they serve but across the City as a whole. Councilwoman Blackwell for sponsoring this resolution and for City Council to join us in honoring these vital organizations. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Thank you, everyone. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee, who will present a resolution honoring Joan Schlotterbeck, our buddy. (Standing ovation.)
Councilman, that tells you if any Councilmembers think that they're in charge of City Hall, that just shows you who is really in charge of City Hall. Thank you. Thank you, Councilman.
Thank you, Mr. President. The term "public servant" is thrown around a lot, but I think as the applause that just came here, the person we're honoring now is the epitome of that term. Plus she was born and raised in Fairmount, which gets a couple extra points from me. This is a resolution honoring Commissioner John M. Schlotterbeck upon her retirement and recognizing her years of service and dedication to the City of Philadelphia, especially her accomplishments as the Commissioner of the Department of Public Property. Whereas, Joan is one of the 14 children born to Tom and Mary Leonard. And Mrs. Leonard is right here, by the way. (Applause.)
And whereas, she is a lifelong resident of Philadelphia, was born and raised in Francis Xavier Elementary School, John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls High School and graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting; and Whereas, she began her career with the City in 1973 in the Public Health Department where she worked in the financial section for 12 years, preparing program budgets for drug and alcohol abuse programs; and
Whereas, in 1984, Joan moved to the Department of Public Property into a financial technical position. During her years of service, she managed the department at its highest executive levels, including the Facilities Management, Building Service Division, Communication Division, General Support and Real Estate Division; Whereas, she was appointed Commissioner of Public Property by Mayor John Street in 2004, and has continued Mayor Michael Nutter; and Whereas, she has served as a member of the following boards, the City of Philadelphia Historical Commission, the Commission of Parks and Recreation, the Art Commission, the Interstate Land Management Corporation and the Philadelphia Public Access Corporation; and
May have to hire you as a senior advisor. Whereas, she is pragmatic, straight talking with excellent people skills and has a full understanding of the internal working of city government. She has a knack for problem solving and possesses a warm personality. These combined characteristics have led her to a successful career in city government; and Whereas, Joan enjoys music, travel, dining and fine wines, and most importantly, she is an avid Flyers and fact, she has been a Flyers fan since the team was formed in the City; and Whereas, she is looking forward to having more time to spend with her husband Fran, pursuing their mutual interests; now therefore
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, recognizes and commends Joan M. Schlotterbeck upon her retirement as Commissioner of the Department of Public Property and recognizes her many years of dedicated service and love for her city. We wish her the best in her retirement. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Commissioner Schlotterbeck as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislatively body. This is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council on the 19th of April 2012. Clarke, introduced by myself, the Council President, Councilman Henon and Councilman Johnson, and I know strongly co-sponsored by all members of City Council. Joan, thank you for all your years of service, and best of luck. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Ms. Schlotterbeck for remarks. COMMISSIONER SCHLOTTERBECK: Thank you, everyone. This is truly a great honor for me. I've worked really hard, as you all know. Thirty-nine years. Jeez, when my father sent me to the City for fears that I was a little bit unstructured, I never thought I would stay. So here I am 39 years later, still taking names and holding people accountable. Anyway, I'd like to also take this opportunity in this very public way deputies - Joe Palantino, Deputy for Facilities; Gary Knappick, Deputy for Capital Projects; and John Herzins, the Deputy for Real Estate. (Applause.) COMMISSIONER SCHLOTTERBECK: For some of the Councilpersons that I've known for many years and worked with, I think you all know what my department and myself are capable of. For you new folks, I think you got a taste of it when we pretty much renovated your office in record time without a whole lot of hoopla. So for that, I would like you all to thank my staff. And can you all stand up, Public Property. (Applause.) COMMISSIONER SCHLOTTERBECK: Again, it's been a pleasure. And I owe all my work ethic and my habits to my dear mother, Mary. (Applause.) SCHLOTTERBECK: And I have some family members here, if they could stand up. I see my younger brother and sisters in the back, my nieces and nephews. Could you guys just stand up. (Applause.) COMMISSIONER SCHLOTTERBECK: Thank you. Thank you. I think that's about all I'd like to say. I'm kind of a nervous wreck right now, which is something I didn't see coming. So I thank you all very much. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Decker, will you please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Strawberry Mansion Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 17 and also sometimes identified by house number and street address as 3127 through 29 West Cumberland Street; and Also a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 1815 North Gratz Street; and redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the New Kensington - Fishtown Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 439 Belgrade Street; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Washington Square West Unit No. 2 Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 249 through 57 North Thirteenth Street; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel Nos. 703, 704 705; and A resolution approving the purchase option agreement, redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Nicetown Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel Nos. 47, 48 and 49; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Brewerytown Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution adopting the 2012 Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan as the official hazard mitigation plan of the City of Philadelphia; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial a premises by the City located at 4706 Westminster Avenue; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a parcel of land generally situated at 3129 South 70th Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey, to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, a parcel of land generally situated at 1224 North Mascher Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey, to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, a parcel of land generally situated at 1849 Frankford Avenue; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey, to the Philadelphia Authority for Development, certain parcels of land situate at 3300 North Front Street and 130 West Westmoreland Street; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No.
314, within the area bounded by Lindbergh Boulevard, Dicks Place, Eighty-Sixth Street, Shecktor Place and a certain pedestrian walkway which extends from the southwesterly terminus of Shecktor Place southeastwardly and southwestwardly to Lindbergh Boulevard, by striking from the City Plan and vacating certain streets and portions of certain pedestrian walkways; and An ordinance authorizing Dranoff Properties, 3180 Chestnut Street, to construct, own and maintain various encroachments within the City right-of-way on the east side of Broad Street between Rodman Street and South Street; and 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making certain technical changes; and An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by providing for revised sign controls and making technical changes; and An ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with Wells Fargo Bank for provision of payroll banking services to the City; and An ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone, Economic Development District, and Strategic Development Area," by providing for additional properties to be added to certain zones; and An ordinance authorizing the Concession Agreement for Operation and Stations in The Fairmount Park System; and An ordinance authorizing a concession agreement regarding the Burholme Park Golf Center between the City and Burholme Golf and Family Entertainment Center Limited Liability Corporation; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of the Department of Parks and Recreation to acquire certain easements for the purpose of constructing a public recreation trail to connect Junod Playground to Poquessing Creek Park and Benjamin Rush State Park; and An ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing, on behalf of the City, to file applications with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any other communications?
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one resolution, which I'd like to be heard today.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold public hearings investigating the possibility of an increase in the City's use of incarcerated, non-violent offenders to perform supplementary services.
Do you want to do it later, at the time of the adoption?
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce one bill.
An ordinance authorizing Old Nelson Food PA to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 2930 Chestnut Street.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. And for the record, Councilman Kenney's resolution will be heard on the Final Passage Calendar today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer six bills and one resolution.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Harper Street, south side, 30th Street to a point 200 feet west.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Mount Vernon Street, north side, 12th Street to 13th Street.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey, to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, a parcel of land generally situated at 1224 North Mascher Street.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey, to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, a parcel of land generally situated at 1849 Frankford Avenue.
And an ordinance authorizing Temple University to construct, own and maintain encroachments within the right-of-way at 1837 through 55 North Broad Street.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone, Economic Development District, and Strategic Development Area," by providing for additional properties to be added to certain zones.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 1815 North Gratz Street.
That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill today, please.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," to expand the boundaries of the I-95 Acquisition Corridor.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
A privileged resolution honoring the Philadelphia Cultural Fund on its 20th Anniversary.
That resolution will be placed today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Thank you, Council President. I have nine bills and one 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 84th Street, Lindbergh Boulevard and Mario Lanza Boulevard.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 314 within the area generally bounded by Lindbergh Boulevard, Dicks Place, Eighty-Sixth Street and Shecktor Place.
And an ordinance authorizing Cafe Italia to construct, own and maintain auxiliary seating at 1424 Snyder Avenue.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a parcel of land situate at 3129 South 70th Street.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Christian Street, south side, 19th Street to 20th Street.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Colorado Street, east side, Carpenter Street to Washington Avenue.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Beulah Street, east side, Johnson Street to Oregon Avenue.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Catharine Street, both sides, 22nd Street to 23rd Street.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on 15th Street, west side, Catharine Street to Christian Street.
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 Thirty-Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
That bill will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Good afternoon, Council President. I have one bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey, to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, certain parcels of land situate at 3300 North Front Street and 130 West Westmoreland Street.
That bill will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Good morning, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. This morning I offer one bill and one resolution.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-3400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Energy Conservation," to provide for the benchmarking and reporting of energy and water usage data for certain buildings.
And a privileged resolution honoring May as Lupus Awareness Month and celebrating and recognizing May 18, 2012 as "Put on Purple Day" in the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Good morning. Six bills, five on your behalf; three resolutions, one on behalf of the Administration and one co-sponsored by you.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by amending Section 9-305, entitled "Burglary, Theft and Robbery Alarm Systems," by exempting those residents age 65 and up from alarm fees.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by providing for revised sign controls and making technical changes.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes.
And an ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with Wells Fargo Bank for provision of payroll banking services to the City.
And an ordinance authorizing the Concession Agreement for Operation and Management of Bicycle Rental Stations in The Fairmount Park System, between the City of Philadelphia and Freetime, Inc. (doing business as "Wheel Fun Rentals").
And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing, on behalf of the City, to file applications with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant.
And a privileged resolution honoring legendary bassist Stanley Clarke, innovator of jazz music, for his unbridled passion and dedication to his art, his contribution to the advances in music, and his commitment to the Philadelphia community.
That bill will be referred -- I'm sorry. That resolution -- kind of threw me off there with that last name. That resolution will be heard at the Final Passage Calendar today.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the officers of the Philadelphia Police Force and declaring Thursday, May 17th, 2012, as "Law Enforcement Appreciation Day," in Philadelphia.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution adopting the 2012 National Hazard Mitigation Plan as the official hazard mitigation plan of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
On that last resolution, copies have been distributed to members of Council. It is imperative -- or important, not imperative, that we pass that. There's a large amount of public funds from the federal government for natural disaster recovery associated with that, so I'd urge my colleagues to take a look at that and give any information or changes or insight that may be warranted for that resolution. Thank you, Mr. President.
Councilman, that's going to be on next week's Final Passage?
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of the Department of Parks and Recreation to acquire certain easements for the purpose of constructing a public recreation trail to connect Junod Playground to Poquessing Creek Park and Benjamin Rush State Park.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I'd like to offer four bills, two non-privileged resolutions. I wish to be recognized after the title of the Washington West Urban Renewal Area resolution as read for a motion on the resolution.
An ordinance authorizing Dranoff Properties, 3180 Chestnut Street, to construct, own and maintain various encroachments within the City right-of-way on the east side of Broad Street between Rodman Street and South Street.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Sheridan Street, west side, Manton Street to Wharton Street.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Sartain Street, east side, McKean Street to Mifflin Street.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Emily Street, south side, 12th Street to 13th Street.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, 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 Thirty-First Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
That will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Washington Square West Unit No. 2 Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 249 through 257 South Thirteenth Street.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
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. Those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The rules are suspended. You want it for purposes of having that heard today?
All right. That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one non-privileged resolution on behalf of the Administration.
A non-privileged resolution approving the purchase option agreement, redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Nicetown Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel Nos. 47, 48 49.
That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. This concludes the introduction of bills and resolutions. The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports one bill out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Bill No. 120213, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Parks and Recreation Commissioner to enter into a lease agreement with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority to continue leasing to SEPTA certain land and improvements located in the area bounded by Ridge Avenue, 33rd Street and Dauphin Street, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit of Bill No. 120213. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 120213. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Bill No. 120213 will be placed on the First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
The Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 120214, 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 York Street, Front Street, Second Street and Berks Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 120214. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The rules of Council will be suspended this day to permit Bill No. 120214 that will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Squilla for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports eight bills with a favorable recommendation.
The Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 120051, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Spruce Street from Twenty-Fifth Street to the Pierhead & Bulkhead Line of the Schuylkill River"; and Bill No. 120168, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the plotting upon City Plan No. 321 of a right-of-way for sewer and drainage purposes and water main purposes within the lines of Delaware Avenue from Pennypack Street to a point"; and Bill No. 120178, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades of a portion of City Plan No. 177 by striking from the City Plan Tulpehocken Street from Ardleigh Street to Crittenden Street"; and Bill No. 120211, entitled "An of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 269 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the southwesterly footway area of East Service Drive from a point approximately eighteen feet northwest of Health Sciences Drive to a point approximately two-hundred twenty-seven feet further northwestwardly therefrom"; and Bill No. 120212, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' by adding as a permissible location the sidewalk and west curb lane of the west side of the 1400 block of Ridge Avenue, from Fairmount Avenue to North 15th Street"; and Bill No. 120249, entitled "An ordinance authorizing The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, located at 34th and Civic Center Boulevard, to construct, own and maintain various encroachments within the City right-of-way on East Center Boulevard and Health Sciences Drive"; and Bill No. 120277, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the striking from City Plan No. 42-S and abandonment of a right-of-way reserved for drainage purposes, water main purposes, and public utility purposes which extends from the southerly terminus of Galloway Street, south of Packer Avenue, southwardly to Pattison Avenue"; and Bill No. 120300, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' by removing as a permissible location the sidewalk of the east side of South Broad Street between Porter and Ritner Streets," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 120051, 120168, 120178, 120211, 120212, 120249, 120277 and 120300. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The rules of Council will be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with suspension 2ND READING of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar on the next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up resolutions and bills on the Second and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today: Nos. 120398, 120402, 120403, 120229, 120106 and 120321. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before considering these resolutions and bills, we will now consider public comment. For the record, the rules on public comment are, you have three minutes. For those of you commenting today, we're going to ask you to please sign up at the table to my left. There is a device on the podium. There will be a light. When it's green, it means it is your time to speak. When it turns yellow, you have 30 seconds remaining, and when it's red, your three minutes are up. And we'll ask for your consideration to concur with those particular guidelines associated with the public comment. So thank you. Mr. Decker, you want to read the name of the first individual here to testify.
Robert Taylor, commenting on 120106. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, Mr. President, members of Council, ladies and gentlemen. I'm Robert Taylor, citizen of South Philadelphia.
I'm commenting on Bill No. 120160, adjudication of parking violations by alternative methods. To this, I can only say thank you. I wish to thank Council President Clarke, Councilmembers Green, Henon, Greenlee, Blackwell, Oh, Squilla, Bass, Quinones-Sanchez -- sorry; I probably messed that up -- Reynolds Brown and O'Brien for introducing this bill. There are a number of times that I've expressed some displeasure in the way that parking tickets are freely given out and the volume of regulations that exist. I remain hopeful that this magnificent body can achieve fewer parking regulations in due course so that there are fewer violations in the first instance. Meantime, it is a great help to have these alternative methods in order to contest these violations so that people have a better ability to keep these infractions from piling up and causing them problems that may lead to additional fines or possible imprisonment. According to Locke, the end of law is not to abolish or restrain, but to preserve and enlarge freedom. Therefore, I strongly urge the passage of this bill. Thank you for your attention, and God bless Philadelphia.
Judith Robinson, commenting on 120321. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Judith Robinson. I am here to comment on Bill 120321. This is about Temple University Hospital and for The Hospital and Higher Education Facilities. Temple University has a 2020 plan, and it's a very grand plan. And I'm happy that Temple and the great institution is expanding into North Philadelphia. However, I want to say everything in decency and in order. Temple has a problem right now at Broad and Cecil B. Moore with a building that's going up like over 20 stories high. African American inclusion is the problem. And I want to just make sure, whatever this bill is regarding and whatever expansion that they do will include all of the folks who live in this town. African Americans specifically I'm speaking about. There is no way that a poor community such as North Philadelphia can grow without economic development and without being included in everything that's good and economically moving forward in this town. We talk about our youth not being educated. That's a problem. Temple University, a big institution, should be able to handle some of this ignorance in our community. So I'm just encouraging them as they move and expand and grow, that they carry or let all boats rise. What is that saying about carrying -- I'm sorry. I'm mixing metaphors here, but you get the point. I want to make sure everybody is included and all ships rise as Temple grows and expands. So I just want to add that respectfully today. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for your testimony. Mr. Decker, are there any other names?
Thank you, Mr. Decker. We now consider resolutions and bills on the Second Reading and Final 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Resolution No. 120398.
A 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 Thirty-Second Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Those opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120402.
A resolution initiating action to continue the Port Richmond Industrial Development Enterprise Neighborhood Improvement District beyond its termination date.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it. Resolution 120402 is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120403.
A 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 Thirty-First Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Been moved and properly seconded. 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 120403 is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 120229.
An ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, Subcode PM (The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code), by amending requirements applicable to vacant premises.
Thank you, Mr. President. I've circulated amendments at the request of the Administration. They are technical in nature. So I move for the adoption of the amendment. 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The bill is amended. That will be placed on next week's Calendar. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill 120106.
An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," by providing for the adjudication of parking violations contested by alternative methods.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Mr. President. These amendments were developed in conjunction with the Administration. They maintain an electronic option, whether it's website or e-mail, for appealing parking tickets. They also require an option of direct mail, and, finally, they eliminate the telephonic hearing which the BAA thinks is impractical at this time except for the disabled. I move for the adoption of these amendments. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
The amendments are approved. This bill shall be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120321.
An ordinance declaring it is desirable for the health, safety and welfare of the people of the area served by Temple University Hospital, Jeanes Hospital and the Institute for Cancer Research and Fox Chase Network for The Hospitals and Higher Education Facilities Authority of Philadelphia to undertake certain projects for such entities.
Thank you. This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, any additional resolutions on today's Calendar?
A resolution 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING authorizing the Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold public hearings investigating the possibility of an increase in the City's use of incarcerated, non-violent offenders to perform supplementary services, introduced by Councilman Kenney.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring the Philadelphia Cultural Fund 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING on its 20th Anniversary, introduced by Councilwoman Tasco.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring May as Lupus Awareness Month and celebrating and recognizing May 18, 2012 as "Put on Purple Day" in the City of Philadelphia, introduced by Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown. 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
Moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring legendary bassist Stanley Clarke, innovator of jazz music, for has unbridled passion and dedication to his art, his contribution to the advances in music, and his commitment to the Philadelphia community, introduced by Councilman Jones.
One of the unfortunate parts of being President of 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING this body is you cannot speak on certain things yourself, so you rely on the Majority Leader to speak on them for you. Among being a great Philadelphian, among being an attendee of Roxborough High School, which is in the 4th Councilmanic District, Stanley Clarke has the also privilege of being your cousin. So we want to recognize his talents and thank him for not bringing you into the music business with him. Thank you, Mr. President.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING
And a resolution recognizing and honoring the officers of the Philadelphia Police Force and declaring Thursday, May 17th, 2012, as "Law Enforcement Appreciation Day," in Philadelphia, introduced by Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
Moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
And a resolution 5/17/12 - STATED - 2ND READING approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Washington Square West Unit No. 2 Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 249 through 57 South Thirteenth Street, introduced by Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to recognize Mark Segal, who has been the driving force behind this development of the LGBT-friendly senior housing project, and I think a well-deserved round of applause is necessary. (Applause.)
I'd like to move for the adoption of this. (Duly seconded.)
Been moved and properly seconded. favor? (Aye.)
There are no other resolutions on the Calendar, Mr. President.
Thank you. This concludes's today Calendar. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Oh, I'm sorry. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much, Council President. Before I make my comment, I had invited students from the HMS School here in Philadelphia to come to one of our Chambers, and just outside in the hallway I ran into one of them, and I'd like to recognize a young man, Anthony Casillas and Kevin Rafferty, both from the HMS School here in Philadelphia, standing right there. (Applause.)
The HMS School is Pennsylvania's school that specializes in treating those -- or educating those with cerebral palsy, does a fantastic job, and we were very fortunate to have their artistic work on the 5th Floor. So thank you very much for coming.
Thank you. Thank you so much for being here today. Any speeches on the part of the majority? Green.
Thank you, Mr. President. For many weeks now, I have discussed the importance of knowing the relationship between commercial and industrial property and residential property as compared to the aggregate value today and the aggregate value of all property when we move to actual value. That relationship is extraordinarily important because it determines -- and the total amount is because it determines what the millage rate is going to be. Based on an analysis done by my office, the potential millage rate under the most likely scenarios regarding the relationship between residential and commercial and industrial, which I assume will be somewhere around three times for residential and somewhere between two times and one and a half times for a multiple of current value to bring us to an aggregate value, I am producing a millage with a 15,000 homestead exemption of approximately 1.42 percent to 1.59 percent, which is extraordinarily different from the numbers that we have been given and that were in the charts provided to Council and otherwise. I will be making this spreadsheet available to the public. It is based on a set of assumptions, and hopefully we can gather information about real properties rather than property in the aggregate as a result. People will be able to put in their expected actual value, whether they're a commercial property or residential, what the market value is on the BRT website, and it will take the most likely millage rates and let people know what their taxes are. It also has a page that let's you know what it would be under smoothing, et cetera. The relationship between the as far as smoothing goes and whether or not smoothing helps or hurts you regardless of the multiple is also significant and demonstrated by the spreadsheet, and what it shows is lower value homes that are severely below their market value are very much helped by smoothing and higher value homes are hurt by smoothing because of the high percentage applied to the entire formula or value of that home that results from smoothing. So what I want to say is, we have done some specific examples about this relationship, and I want to give one example. It is a building that sold in 2010 in Center City for $128 million. It is on the books for $127 million in market value in the BRT website today. Its taxes, real estate taxes, as a result of the shift to AVI will go from $3.8 million to $1.5 million. That decrease in this building's property taxes will be paid for by primarily mostly residential multiple times across commercial and industrial properties in the City. The U&O tax for this property, if it were increased by about 90 percent as proposed in my amendment on Monday, would only recapture about a million dollars. So that property would still have a tax decrease in the aggregate of a million three. I think that it is very important that we look at all the data and the impacts of this potential large shift from commercial and industrial to residential property owners and make all of our decisions based on the information that is important in that relationship, because that will drive the estimated taxes that people have to pay and that will drive whether or not they think we've done a good job in protecting them this year from unnecessary tax increases. Thank you, Mr. President.
you, Councilman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I had every intention of continuing my berating of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for their lack of commitment to public education here in the City of Philadelphia. However, in recent light of the horrific murders due to witness intimidation, we are facing almost epidemic proportions of this problem, and I feel compelled to speak to that. On this morning we've had over 126 murders in the City of Philadelphia thus far. As Chair of Public Safety, I want to recognize the cartoon that was done in the Daily News about the loss of Rodney Ramseur and Latia Jones, and the question was posed, Does anyone care? Well, I want to answer that question loud and clear this morning. Yes, we do care. And unfortunately a 21-year-old courageous young man and his pregnant girlfriend were gunned down on their own front porch because they came forward to identify perpetrators in a crime. We need to protect our residents, and we need to do it now. What can Philadelphia do to combat this problem? Well, first and foremost, we need to do a better job of keeping gun offenders off the streets. And this body questioned the bail practices in the City of Philadelphia being too low and too many times repeat offenders with guns are allowed low bails. And I can bet you this fancy desk right here, Mr. President, that this perpetrator of this witness intimidation crime, it wasn't his first time at the dance, that probably he had done another gun offense and probably had been released on bail. Philadelphia is the second highest rated municipality in the country with 30,000 outstanding bench warrants. a better job. We need to fund the departments appropriately. Secondly, the bail guidelines that we designed for the City of Philadelphia were done in 1983. The world has changed a great deal since last century. The City Council held hearings in February to discuss the rampant issue and updating these procedures. Third, the very design of the Criminal Justice Center causes witness intimidation. That building was designed for 12 elevators. Due to cutbacks in funding, there are six for the public, and in those elevators victims, witnesses, jurors all ride the same elevators. Because of that and other problems, 46 arrests were made last year within a block of CJC from witness intimidation causes. We can do better. We should do better. In a recent article, it was said -- I think it was the Inquirer -- said to a potential witness, If you see something, you better look the other way. That's unacceptable. There is no justice without witness protection. We began -- this body began advocating for this last year by restoring about a quarter of a million dollars to the budget for witness intimidation and protection programs. That was matched by my colleagues up at the state level, which put back a million dollars back in witness protection programs. These people that are witnesses don't suffer from a no snitching culture. They aren't in that mindset. But they are very clear that after the trial is done, they have to go back home and they have to see these same individuals that they testify. We have to be smarter. We have to be more creative, and we have to be dedicated to their protection, because losing credible witnesses, and we're losing them right on their own front porches. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. Both of my colleagues, Councilman Green and Councilman Jones, kind of highlight the challenges as a city we face and the many kind of complicated decisions that we make here and some of the heavy lifting that has to happen in the next couple of weeks. I wanted to take note and congratulate you, Mr. President, on the creation of the Legislative and Research Bureau. I think that it speaks to our need to pull together the best minds and the best research so that we can incorporate the best practices from we face these financial and some of these crime issues that impact our daily lives. So I want to congratulate you on that, and make a note and recognize my two interns from Temple University's Community Partnership Program, Carolyn Izzo and Matt Miller, who will be joining our team in helping us put together some of the research around lank bank and other issues. Clearly, we cannot do this alone. I think it speaks to our commitment here in Council to show we can put together the best minds and provide young people with a great opportunity to make government work better for them. So thank you.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Good note. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. This week thanks to your efforts, we talked about tax relief, and that I already knew the answers to. What is the median home value in Philadelphia? The answer, $120,000. What the maximum homestead exemption that could be offered on that median home value? The answer, $60,000. What happens if we offer a $60,000 exemption? The answer, the tax bill goes down or is eliminated for many homeowners, if not most. Lost in this discussion recently has been the fact that a full reassessment may mean a lower tax bill for a majority of homeowners. The truth is that there will be winners and losers simply based upon fairness. The question is, what's fair? The answer, a fair and accurate assessment. If fair assessment means a lower tax bill for many, if not most, we should do what's right. Trying to protect some constituencies from paying their fair share while denying others simply wrong. In fact, that's part of what we're supposed to be fixing in this. Next week I'll be voting for tax fairness for all, not just for some constituencies. This is not just about the difference between residential and commercial and industrial. It's very much about high value homeowners and low value homeowners. And at the end of the day, as I said, if assessment means a lower tax bill for many, if not most, we have to do what's right and not play to certain constituencies. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. I was going to make another comment before I was cut off, but I wanted to say that in much of the news, we deal with a lot of tough issues, and to do, and it's rare that some of the hard work and good work that we do on behalf of the City that's very proactive gets reported. And I wanted to thank you, Mr. President, for your leadership and your work in really some of the out-of-box thinking and leadership style that you've brought to this City Council, and also to thank my fellow colleagues here. This is, I think -- I've not been here before, but this has been a really very good, constructive and positive body that tries to work together as best we can to put the public interest forward. A rising tide lifts all boats, and more than anything, we need jobs, we need investments, we need to lift up this city, and that's hard work. And every city needs those things, but not every city is going out there and fighting for it. And yesterday, Philadelphia accounted for itself very well. The Mayor, Mayor Michael Nutter, and his team, his Administration, City Council President, City Councilmembers, Wharton School of Business, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, our local business leaders, we all came together to host a delegation from Incheon, South Korea here looking at trade investment and job creation opportunities. And at the end of this entire day -- and my staff drove them to the airport this morning, picking them up at 4:30 -- they expressed how grateful they were for the treatment they received from our city and how very favorably they were impressed with our city and said that they would be in future communication with us on every one of those topics. And so I just wanted to say that we really knocked the ball out of the park, and I think that's what we need to be doing as best we can for the citizens of this city. So thank you very much and you, colleagues.
Thank you, Councilman. I'm not supposed to make speeches while I'm sitting up here, but I'm going to. I just wanted to say with respect to this particular City Council -- and I've had an opportunity to serve with a lot of members -- is that this group is a group that makes you rise to the top. Everything that happens in this Council -- and I'll say on a positive note -- is essentially things that have been discussed during the course of the last year as all of you have made your way to the City Council. So anything that gets implemented here is based on those conversations over the last year. And I want to say that you guys are great. Some day you'll get recognition for the wonderful work that you are doing and the camaraderie associated with this Council. I want to say, all due respect former colleagues, it's unlike I've ever seen. And I want to congratulate all of you for doing some great work, continuing to push. I think that, frankly speaking, we've probably worked harder in the last five months than I can remember, given our schedules relating to evening meetings and all of the intricate issues before us. So I just want to commend all of you for doing a great job and continuing to be aggressive on the issues relating to taking our city to the next level. So I want to thank all of you for your support over the last several months. So with that, there being no other speeches, I would like to call on Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 24th, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
Moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. m. Thank you. ) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on May 17, 2012, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. MICHELE L. ) A 42:8 69:7 72:6 agreement 33:4 12:3 17:16 art 16:16 26:8 abandonment 83:23 33:24 36:14,25 18:16 22:14 52:17 86:18 67:6 address 31:15,24 37:5 51:15,21 23:8 24:6,22 105:6 ability 72:3 32:9,17 42:20 59:20 61:9 28:10 29:7,20 article 10:2 98:24 able 8:3 74:3 57:25 89:8 aims 15:16 29:25 30:8,16 artistic 91:19 93:17 adjourned 107:23 airport 105:12 89:18,20 91:11 artists 14:22 abolish 72:9 108:10,14 Airy 21:17 applicable 78:16 Arts 16:7 absence 4:24 5:6 ADJOURNME...