COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, June 4, 1998 11:10 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHN F. STREET COUNCILWOMAN AUGUSTA A. CLARK COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN ANNA CIBOTTA VERNA COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILWOMAN HAPPY FERNANDEZ COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK DICICCO COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO MARIE B. HAUSER, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 STATED MEETING - OPENING, INVOCATION P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. The Chair notes that the hour has come and that a quorum is present. Council will come to order. Members will take their seats, visitors will retire to their seats outside the rail. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend John Sibel, Pastor of the St. Mary of the Assumption Roman Catholic Church, who is here today as a guest of Councilman Nutter. Members and guests will please rise.
Blessed are you lord, God of all creation. Your goodness fills our hearts with joy. Blessed are you Lord. You have brought us together this day to work in harmony and peace. Strengthen us with your grace and wisdom, for you are God forever and ever. And we ask the lord's blessing and bow our heads. May God strengthen you and bring your work to completion. May hope accompany your deliberations. May God's wisdom be seen in your STATED MEETING - JOURNAL APPROVAL, LEAVES OF ABSENCE work. And may God's abiding presence be with you all your days. Amen. AUDIENCE: Amen.
The Chair thanks Reverend Sibel for his inspiring invocation.
The next order of business is the approval the journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 28, 1998. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the journal. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The journal stands approved.
The next order of business is leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Thank you, Mr. STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair thanks Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Mr. President, on behalf of the Republicans, Thacher Longstreth has requested leave today.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. Leave will be granted.
At this time, we will dispense with our regular order of business to recognize visitors. To all of our visitors and guests with us this morning, we welcome you here and applaud your interests in the civic affairs of our city and certainly invite you to come again. At this time, I understand that there were a couple of visiting groups that may have been here or may be here, groups from Gratz and Kensington. Are those groups here? (No response.)
It doesn't appear STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS that they are here. We have two presentations today. Our first presentation congratulates the Philadelphia Wings Lacrosse Team. To make this presentation, the Chair appoints Councilman Kenney. (Applause.)
Thank you, Mr. President. I think it's appropriate today considering our honored guests in the audience that we honor the best blue-collar team in a blue-collar town like Philadelphia. (Applause.)
This is a resolution congratulating the Philadelphia Wings on winning the National Lacrosse League Championship on April 28, 1998, their fifth league championship in the past ten years. (Applause.)
Whereas on April 28, 1998, the Philadelphia Wings defeated the Baltimore Thunder, 17-12, at the Baltimore Arena, before thousands of their own fans, to sweep the best of three series final and win the National Lacrosse League Title; and STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS Whereas the Wings were led by their all-Pro goalie, Dallas Elliot, who stopped 39 shots. He was the most valuable player for the championship series. Bill Miller was named MVP for the game; and Whereas the Wings have earned the right to play for the National Lacrosse League Championship in six of the last eight years and have established themselves as the to last preeminent team in all of lacrosse; and Whereas most of the athletes on the Wings squad are homegrown men who work full-time jobs in the Philadelphia area. Many of -(Applause.)
Many of the members of the team also coach lacrosse at various schools and universities in the region; and Whereas we congratulate Head Coach Tony Resh*, Assistant Coaches Gary Martin and John Nostrandt*, Special Assistants Peter Tyson, Bill Mills, and Mark Roseman, President Russ Klein, and Executive Vice President Michael French, and Ike Richman*, Director of Press Relations; and. Whereas special accolades to the STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS remaining Wings players, including: Andy Piazza, Bill Hunter, John McElvoy*, Paul Denigan*, Ryan Trainer*, Brian Volker*, Paul O'Grady, Scott Gabrielson*, Chris Flynn, Kevin Fineran*, Gabby Rowe*, Jim Rogers*, Matt Oglesby*, Chris Bates, Adam Muller*, Peter Jacobs, Michael Buzza*, Tom Marachek*, Tom Slate*, Steve Govitt*, Jake Bergy*, David Stilly*, and Greg Trainer*. (* - denotes phonetic spelling.) (Applause.)
Therefore resolved by the Council of City of Philadelphia that we congratulate the Philadelphia Wings on winning the 1998 National Lacrosse League Championship, on April 28, 1998, their fifth League Championship in the past ten years. Resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Wings Championship Lacrosse Team, further evidencing the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Congratulates. (Applause.) UNIDENTIFIED WINGS TEAM MEMBER: Councilman, as captain, on behalf of the entire STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS team, we'd like to thank you for this recognition and the City of Philadelphia. We're a hard-working team for a hard-working city. We honor that. Here's a jersey for you. (Applause.)
Our second presentation honors Malcolm Poindexter. To make this presentation, the Chair appoints Councilwoman Krajewski. The Chair invites Mr. Poindexter and those with him to come and receive this resolution. (Applause.)
Malcolm, you've always been a gentleman. I'm sure he did not mind waiting. He has been here longer than I have, so he knows exactly what goes on in Council. Welcome, Malcolm. A resolution honoring Malcolm Poindexter. Whereas Malcolm Poindexter began his STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS career with The Philadelphia Tribune and the Associated Negro Press in 1947 as a general assignment reporter and writer. During his 15 years with The Tribune, he served as a writer, photo journalist, columnist, sports writer, and editor, city editor, business manager, assistant controller, and controller. Whereas, in 1960, Malcolm Poindexter joined The Philadelphia Evening Bulletin, where he contributed many feature articles to its Sunday magazine section, besides many front-page bylines. In 1965, he was of the first reporters hired when KYW News Radio came to Philadelphia. He won the station its first honor, an Associated Press Award and the Sigma Delta Chi Award for community service, with his five-part series on the plight of the migrant workers in South Jersey, which he researched by becoming a worker. (Applause.)
Whereas in 1967, Mr. Poindexter joined KYW TV 3's news team. He won four Philadelphia Emmy Awards as KYW's spokesperson before joining the news team in March 1990. He also hosts the Channel 3 public affairs STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS program, "news makers"; and Whereas, Mr. Poindexter is a homegrown Philadelphian who knows this city and its people like the back of his hand. He is well-received, a popular speaker with community organizations, and the recipient of more than 300 awards, including the City of Philadelphia's First Award for its role in leading a Citywide cleanup campaign, the William Penn Human Right Award, a Navy commendation for civic involvement, United Negro College Fund's Community Service Award, the Elks First National Communications Award, the Philadelphia Tribune's Achievement Award, and the Sarah Potter Smith Community Development Corporation's Human Service Awards; and
Whereas Malcolm Poindexter is the former general manager of Opera Ebony Philadelphia. He is a member of the Mann Center for Performing Arts, the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and Norris Square Neighborhood Association, Inc. and as well as a supporter of the Free Library of Philadelphia. On June 30, 1980, People Magazine STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS featured "A Philadelphia Anchor Fights to Change His Mean Streets." His story chronicled his move from an affluent section of Philadelphia to a poor ethnically-mixed neighborhood, and his efforts to help his community. Therefore. . .
Resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Philadelphia's Malcolm Poindexter, evidence of the admiration, respect, hometown pride, and high esteem of this legislative body. This is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, on the 13th day of April, 1998, signed by the President of City Council, and sponsored by all Members of City Council. Thank you . (Applause.)
Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, all Members of City Council, especially Councilwoman Joan Krajewski, who made this possible. The introduction was just excellent. I want to thank you so very much. STATED MEETING - VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS Everything you said was true, and I know because I wrote it myself. (Laughter.) (Applause.)
I kind of got the feeling, as I heard of my accomplishments in the past, that I couldn't keep a job. That wasn't the case. It was a matter of wanting to be involved in a city in which I was born in the Meadows, raised in South Philly, moved on to West Philly, moved on to Oak Lane, and now I'm still there on Norris Square, with sister Carolyn and the rest of the good people. And I am appreciative of all of the good work of the Council in this City of Philadelphia. And the Council is deserving of all the support that we in the media can possibly give, and that's what I've tried to do over the years, is to be as supportive of the positive efforts that you wanted expended in your behalf and in the behalf of the taxpayers. I wanted to be a part of that and do that. Thank you so very much for this. I'm really -STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for a motion that the rules of Council be suspended so that we can consider a special resolution to be introduced by Councilman Nutter.
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The rules are suspended. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter for the purpose of introducing a resolution.
The Clerk will STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution calling on the City Controller to make no further payment of City General Funds to SEPTA until the TWU Local 232 strike is over and a fair contract is signed. Whereas, due to the impasse in the contract negotiations between SEPTA and the City Division of the Transport Workers Union, the members of TWU Local 234 went out on strike at noon, on Monday June 1, 1998; and Whereas, the City Division includes the operation of buses, trolleys, subways, and elevator train line; And whereas the City routes and transportation modes affected by the strike transport thousands of commuters, senior citizens, and school children daily; and Whereas, for Fiscal Year 1998, the City of Philadelphia will contribute $56,770,000 out of the City General Fund to support the operation of the public transit system; and Whereas, the taxpayers of Philadelphia are seriously inconvenienced by the strike; and STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER Whereas the City's annual contribution to SEPTA is paid on a quarterly basis by the City Controller after receiving an invoice; and Whereas, the last payment made by the City Controller to SEPTA covered the third quarter of Fiscal Year 1998 and was paid on April 29, 1998; and Whereas, SEPTA should not receive any payment of City taxpayers funds if SEPTA is not providing any service to city taxpayers. . . (Applause.)
Therefore resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that the City Council hereby calls upon the City Controller to make no further payments of City General Funds to SEPTA until a TWU Local 234 strike is over and a fair contract is signed. (Applause.)
Mr. President, I STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER move the adoption of the resolution.
Mr. President, I would like to speak to the resolution.
Mr. President and Members of Council, I fear that one of the reasons that SEPTA riders and TWU members face this prospect of a long strike is that there has been absolutely no incentive for SEPTA management to bargain fairly and to make compromises. We all know the SEPTA riders are suffering and being denied service. We all know that workers suffering, going without paychecks. But what about SEPTA itself? Is the Authority suffering as a result of the strike? The answer is no. Not only is the Authority and its top management not suffering, Mr. President, there is no denying that they are actually benefitting financially by refusing to settle the strike. STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER This year SEPTA is scheduled to receive of the $350 million of taxpayers money to operate the system. When they don't operate the system, their costs go way down, but they continue to collect tax dollars. Mr. President, this is a type of taxpayer fraud. Taxpayers are paying to operate SEPTA, and SEPTA management is taking the money without providing the services for which they were given the money. (Applause.)
Mr. President, I want every member of Council, every SEPTA rider, and every taxpayer to know that SEPTA and its management benefit financially from forcing the union out on strike and withholding service from riders. (Applause.)
This is one of the reasons SEPTA's management is unwilling to compromise. The longer they keep workers out, the longer they make riders do without, the more money they can horde. Mr. President, this is unacceptable. STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER It is wrong to allow SEPTA to collect taxpayers' money without providing service. Therefore, I am in total support of this resolution and certainly ensure my colleagues will do the same. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you, Mr. President. I will be brief. Mr. President, I believe what the Members of Council who signed on to the resolution and maybe others who may vote in favor, what we primarily seek is a fair and reasonable contract as soon as possible. The President announced today that there are the restarting of these negotiations. We seek no place, and we have no right at the bargaining table, but we have, I believe, some responsibility where there are pressure points to try to push them or touch them and move the parties in the right direction. Citizens of this City are in fact suffering. Many of the members of this union are STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER also citizens of our city. We want them back to work, we want a contract. And whatever action we think that we can take in a reasonable fashion to help that process along and not interfere in this process, I think that we need to do. And, therefore, we would like to see negotiations not only start but conclude as soon as possible, with a contract, the workers back operating what can be and should be one of the best public transit systems in the country. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Councilman, I agree with most of what you are saying. And I have another idea that I would like to offer in addition to this resolution. And I've thought about this, and it is going to hurt me. I'm going to park my City car, and I'm going to not use any of my private cars for any item of business that I have because the 40 percent of the population of this City that doesn't have a car has to go to work, and I think maybe what some of the SEPTA officials need to do is join me in not using their cars. STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER (Applause.)
Now, the members of the general public -- the members of the general public do not have to go to social events, you can avoid that, but you got to go to work. So what I'm going to do is not use my City car or any of my private cars for work-related matters because then I will know firsthand what some of those riders are going through who do not have any cars and have to go to work -- and have to go to work. Because I think sometimes when we get -- I mean, when there are these strikes, and we're not inconvenienced at all because we just go out and get in our cars, and we go about doing what we always do. So now, Mr. Wimbush, you can -(Laughter.)
You can surrender the keys to the City car to Miss Little, and you and I are now henceforth and forever more, until the strike is resolved -(Applause.)
The Chair recognizes STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER Councilman Cohen.
Mr. President, thank you. Later on in this session, I will be introducing on behalf of ten Members of City Council a transfer ordinance, which we hope won't be necessary, but which will be used. I'm fully in support of this resolution, the transfer ordinance is in support of the resolution which would transfer the SEPTA money to the City Council budget. And I have the assurances of the Chair of the Appropriations Committee and of the President that this will be after advertised for a hearing in time if necessary to permit Council during its regular session to act on this ordinance. We hope it won't be necessary and that the resolution will, together with the actions spoken about by the President and the general support of the people of Philadelphia, all of whom want this problem solved -- and solved, if not immediately, they want it solved yesterday. It's in the interests of -STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER (Applause.)
And, Mr. President, I want to make very clear that if it seems that the normal processes of people meeting together is not sufficient to arrive at an agreement, there are procedures available to settle disputes. One of the most time-honored, is that of arbitration. And I'm just suggesting it because I understand there's talk in the air that the people who are negotiating ought to have a fair opportunity to settle it. But if not, I hope both parties will be able to agree, 'cause the State law permits it on an arbitration proceeding. Thank you very much, Mr. President. I'm going to be asking -(Applause.)
I'm going to be asking for a roll call on this resolution. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you, Mr. President. I'll be briefer than before. STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER First, I think the record should reflect that there was no response from Mr. Wimbush to your proposal and I understand that. (Laughter.)
Second, Mr. President, we have talked again over the past couple days about a previous action taken by this Council, I believe, back in the March time period with regard to the continued -- the proposed running of the system with personnel other than Local 234 members. The Council is on record, and it has been reaffirmed through many discussions that that is the position of the Council. That resolution was passed overwhelmingly. We want these individuals who normally back to work. We have grave concerns about any other personnel potentially operating the system. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Is there anyone else who wishes to speak on the resolution? (No response.)
The Clerk will call STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER the roll.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - SPECIAL SEPTA RES. - COUNCILMAN NUTTER Miller.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The resolution passes. (Applause.) STATED MEETING - COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE
The next order of business is communications. The Chair recognizes the Sergeant-At-Arms for the purpose of delivering the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. (Sergeant-At-Arms delivers messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk.)
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your Honorable Body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses 713 West Dauphin Street and 715 West Dauphin Street and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the redevelopment contract with Marcos Santana-Soto STATED MEETING - COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR and to take such action as may be necessary to effectuate the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement. And an ordinance amending Section 20-101 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Residents Requirements," by providing that former United States military service personnel entering in the civil service need not be bona fide residents of the City when appointed but must establish and maintain bona fide residence in the City within six months after the appointment. And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 1999 from the General Fund, the Director of Finance Contributions to School District/Tax Cuts and the City Representative and the Director of Commerce Economic Stimulus, and from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the General Fund, the First District of Pennsylvania. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to the Urban Redevelopment Law, P.L. 991 (May 24, 1945), to STATED MEETING - COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, a deed conveying fee simple title to City-owned land situated at 4501 Ridge Avenue for use by the Philadelphia Housing Authority for egress and ingress in connection with PHA's Schuylkill Falls HOPE VI Development; and authorizing the Commissioner to remove certain restrictive covenants with respect to the contiguous property, 3700 West School House Lane; all under certain terms and conditions.
These messages will be printed in the journal. The Chief Clerk will read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Augusta Clark.
Mr. President, I offer one bill. STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS
An ordinance granting permission Edward Wilson, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of 16th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard, to construct, use, and maintain conduit for fiber optic facilities in and under the west footway of John F. Kennedy Boulevard, the north footway of 16th Street, and the west footway of Cuthbert Street for the purpose of supplying telephone services to said news stand.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Mr. President, I offer the ordinance to which I referred before on behalf of 12 sponsors. STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS
An ordinance authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 1999 within the General Fund from the Department of Public Property City Subsidy for SEPTA to the Council.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
An ordinance authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 1999 from the General Fund, the Director of Finance - Contributions to School District/Tax Cuts and the City Representative and the Director of Commerce - Economic Stimulus and from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the General Fund, the First Judicial District of STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Pennsylvania. And an ordinance authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 1999 within the Grant Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance Provision for Other Grants to the first Judicial District of Pennsylvania.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development ("PAID") to file an application with the Office of the Budget Commonwealth of Pennsylvania under the Capital Redevelopment Assistance Program, in an aggregate amount not to exceed $81 million, to assist in the development of the Regional Performing Arts Center, the Philadelphia Zoo's Primate House, Gateway Visitors Center on the Mall, and STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Independence National Historic Park, the Lonnie Young Recreation Center, the Rock School of Ballet, and the Freedom Theater.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions. The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to the Urban Redevelopment Law, P.L. 991 (May 24, STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS 1945), to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, a deed conveying fee simple title to City-owned land situated at 4501 Ridge Avenue for use by the Philadelphia Housing Authority ("PHA") for egress and ingress in connection with PHA's Schuylkill Falls HOPE VI Development; and authorizing the Commissioner to remove certain restrictive covenants with respect to the contiguous property, 3700 West School House Lane, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Fernandez.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution calling on City Council's Commerce and Economic Development Committee to hold public hearings to assess the economic impact that higher education institutions have on the Philadelphia economy and STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS to identify strategies for maximizing this valuable resource.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Yes, Mr. President. I have one resolution that I'm trying to -
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution memorializing the 105th Congress to design federal tobacco legislation agreements with provisions for compensation targeted to local governments for tobacco-related expenditures. STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS
Mr. President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
The Clerk will please read the title of the Resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committees on Streets and Services and Licenses and Inspections to hold hearings STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS examining Bell Atlantic's proposal to install pay telephone kiosks with advertising as well as related concerns surrounding pay phones included, but not limited to, standards and regulations, lack of enforcement, and health and safety concerns.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
An ordinance STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 23, approved July 5, 1996, entitled "An Ordinance," authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 359 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the southwesterly curvilinear portion of Bennett Road northwestwardly from the Roosevelt Boulevard and reserving and placing on the City Plan a certain right-of-way for gas main purposes, under certain terms and conditions, by extending the period for compliance with the authorization conditions therein to December 31, 1999.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with Red Cap Limited STATED MEETING - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Partnership, a Pennsylvania limited partnership, for use by the City of premises located at 4000 North American Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of the Department of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to purchase fee simple title to a parcel of real estate, with any improvements situated thereon, located at 3827 through 37 Whittaker Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and also known as 3901 Whittaker Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES for a report of the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Council Committee on Rules reports out 11 bills with favorable recommendations, and also reports that Bill No. 970751 was being withdrawn at the request of the sponsor.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules to which was referred Bill No. 970518, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code relating to "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-100 entitled "General Provisions," by amending Chapter 14-200 entitled "Residential Districts," and by amending Chapter 14-1400 entitled "Parking and Loading Facilities," under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 980168, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps, by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Washington STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Avenue, Broad Street, Morris Street, and Seventh Street. Bill No. 980271, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved October 18, 1977, which approved the redevelopment proposal and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority for the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Meadows II Urban Renewal Area by approving the first amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the first amendment to the relocation plan. And Bill No. 980273, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved June 13, 1997, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan, and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the New Kensington-Fishtown Urban Renewal Area, by approving the first amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the first amendment to the urban renewal plan. And Bill No. 980326, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan, and the STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority for the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, by approving the 21st amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the 13th amendment to the urban renewal plan. Bill No. 980327, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 22, 1987, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan, and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area, by approving the 4th amendment of the redevelopment proposal, the 4th amendment to the urban renewal plan, and the 4th amendment to the relocation plan. Bill No. 980330, an ordinance amending an ordinance, approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan, and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of Grays Ferry Urban Renewal Area, by approving the eighth amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan. STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Bill No. 980331, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the Point Breeze East Redevelopment Area, Point Breeze East Urban Renewal Area, being the area generally bounded by the southerly side of Washington Avenue on the north, the westerly side of Broad Street on the east, the northerly side of Moore Street on the south, and the easterly side of 20th Street on the west. Bill No. 980332, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the Sarah Allen Redevelopment Area; Sarah Allen Urban Renewal Area, being the area generally bounded by the centerline of Westminster Avenue on the north, the centerline of 40th Street on the east, the centerline of Aspen Street on the south, and the centerline of Lancaster Avenue and Holly Street on the west. Bill No.
980333, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan, and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of Mantua Urban Renewal Area, by approving the eighth amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the fifth amendment of the urban renewal plan. Bill No. 980337 (sic), an ordinance amending an ordinance approved August 30, 1965, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan, and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Center City Redevelopment Area, Franklin Urban Renewal Area, by approving the third amendment of the Redevelopment proposal and the fourth amendment to the urban renewal plan.
I may have, Mr. President, I'm sorry. STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bills No. 970518, 980168, 980271, 980273, 980326, 980327, 980330, 980331, 980332, 980333, and 980335 today. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The rules are suspended, and these bills will be added to our first-reading calendar today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for the report of the Council Committee on Licenses and Inspections.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Council Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports out Bills No. 980314 and 980343 with favorable recommendations.
The Clerk will STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES please read the report.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Licenses and Inspections, to which was referred Bill No. 980314 entitled "An Ordinance" amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code relating to sidewalk sales by adding a new provision prohibiting sidewalk sales on the 200 block of West Lehigh Avenue, both sides. And Bill No. 980343, an ordinance granting Pietrantonio Cassetta, trading as Cassetta's Cheese Shop, located at 7401 Castor Avenue, to construct, use, and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the east side of Castor Avenue and directly abutting and contiguous with the aforesaid property.
Mr. President, I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bills No. 980314 and 980343 today. Also, the chair further that the rules STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES of Council be suspended so as to permit adoption of Resolution No. 980349.
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The rules are suspended. These will be added to our first-reading calendar, and Resolution No. 980349 stands approved. I thought you moved -
I moved for it to be considered immediately. And now I'll move for its -
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter for the report on the Council Committee on Commerce and Economic Development.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Commerce and Economic Development reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, to which was referred Bill No. 970485, entitled, "An Ordinance" amending Section 19-201 of The Philadelphia Code City entitled "City Depositories" by prohibiting certain electronic fund transfer fees or surcharges respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The bills reported favorably will be printed and placed on our STATED MEETING - FIRST-READING CALDENDAR BILLS first-reading calendar for our next meeting.
The next order of business consideration of the calendar. The Chief Clerk will read the bills from the first-reading calendar.
Bill No. 980210, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Dorcas Street, east side, Cottman Avenue to a point 75 north of Cottman Avenue.
Bill 980237, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 146.
Bill No. 980243, An ordinance authorizing and directing the placing City Plan No. 382 of Anna Drive Worthington Road at a point approximately 173 feet.
Bill No. 980244, an ordinance authorizing the paving of Anna Drive, under certain terms and conditions. STATED MEETING - FIRST-READING CALDENDAR BILLS
Bill No. 980310, an ordinance authorizing the paving of Depue Avenue and Lyndhurst Street, under certain terms and conditions.
Bill No. 980373, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 123, by striking from the City Plan and vacating Watts Street from Susquehannah Avenue to Diamond Street by -
Bill No. 970518, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning.
Bill No. 980168, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by change the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Washington Avenue, Broad Street, Morris Street, and Seventh Street.
The Chair agrees. STATED MEETING - FIRST-READING CALDENDAR BILLS
Bill No. 980271, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved October 18, 1977, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of Philadelphia of Meadows II Urban Renewal Area.
Bill No. 980273, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved June 13, 1997, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of New Kensington - Fishtown Urban Renewal Area.
Bill No. 980326, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
Bill No. 980327, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 22, 1987, which approved the STATED MEETING - FIRST-READING CALDENDAR BILLS redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area.
Bill No. 980330, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, and which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan, and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority City of Philadelphia for an area in Grays Ferry Urban Renewal Area.
Bill No. 980331, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of Point Breeze Urban Renewal Area.
Bill No. 980332, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of Sarah Allen Redevelopment Area. STATED MEETING - FIRST-READING CALDENDAR BILLS
Bill No. 980333, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan for Mantua Urban Renewal Area.
Bill No. 980337, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved August 30, 1965, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of an area in Center City Redevelopment Area, Frankford Urban Renewal Area.
Could the Clerk please repeat the number of the last bill? Why are you saying "337"?
Bill No. 980314, an ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code relating to sidewalk sales by adding a new provision prohibiting sidewalk sales on the 200 block of West Lehigh Avenue, both sides. STATED MEETING - FIRST-READING CALDENDAR BILLS
Bill No. 980343 to Pietrantonio Cassetta, trading as Cassetta's Cheese Shop an ordinance granting permission trading as Cheese Shop, located at 7401 Castor Avenue, to construct, use, and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe.
The Chair agrees. The bills read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second- and final-reading passage calendar.
Council will now consider bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Anna Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. All bills on the second- reading and final-passage calendar are being called for consideration, with the exception of Bill No.'s 960633, 960629, 970272, 980301, 980304, 980305, 980306, 980307, and 980337. STATED MEETING - FIRST-READING CALDENDAR BILLS
Thank you. The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. I would like to offer this very brief explanation so that there can be no misunderstanding, particularly among members of the press. The bills that we are holding, Bill No. 980301, the tax increment district bill, and 980304 and 980305 and 980306 and 980307, are being held by this Council not because there's any lack of commitment to these bills. Under the procedure that authorizes -under the State law procedure that authorizes us to engage in these transactions, there is a -- I think it's a three-week time period between the time these bills are reported out of the committee and the time they actually get voted on. If we were to approve these bills today, we would be in violation of that State law. We reported them out, we want to get them into the position to be finally approved STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 960367-A before we go into recess, but we certainly -- we don't want anybody to misunderstand and conclude that because they are being held today that somehow somebody has any serious reservation about them. With that brief explanation, the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Mr. President, at this time I'd like to be excused and recorded as voting aye on all bills.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. Your leave is granted and your vote will be noted. The first bill for consideration then will be Bill No. 960367-A. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code entitled, "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions" by adding a new chapter prohibiting cigarette vending machines and providing penalties.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 960367-A is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980227 The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Mr. President, I'd like to take this time to be excused and vote yes for all the bills and resolutions.
Could I take this time to be excused on Council business?
And I ask to be voted yes on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you very much. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 980227. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
Bill No. 980227, an ordinance renaming the Cobbs Creek Skate House in the Park to "The Laura Sims Ice Rink in Cobbs Creek Park."
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980227
Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller.
Councilman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980227 Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980232. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980227
Thank you, Mr. President. Joyce reminded me -- I did not look carefully. 980227 was the bill that we were holding because we changed it. We got to have another public hearing. Thank you, Joyce.
Can I have an agreement on the part of the Members of City Council that the votes for this bill will be withdrawn at the request of the sponsor, and substitute legislation has actually been introduced. It's probably been scheduled for a public hearing and will be coming up. We made an agreement that we would hold this bill on the calendar until the substitute legislation would come. My recollection is now refreshed.
The hearing on the 13th? Does any Councilmember have any objection STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980238 to holding this bill, 980227? (No response.)
The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980238. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
Bill No. 980238, an ordinance approving the planned estimated cost and proposed method of charges of Old City Special Services District of Philadelphia for and concerning business improvements and administrative services to Old City area of the City of Philadelphia.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
May I ask Councilman DiCicco to give us a very brief explanation of that change, just the significance? Why is it before us in City Council?
I'm sorry. What was the question again? STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980238
What was involved in that? There are changes for business improvements and administrative services.
We authorized them to start collecting money and spending it, is what we did.
Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 970092. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. Bill No. 970092, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Zoning and Planning" by amending Section 14-1805 entitled "Hearings" to establish a fee for accelerated hearings before the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 970092
Oh, I'm sorry. Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Councilman Kenney, could I ask you to very briefly explain the purpose of Bill 970092. Weren't there already a fee charged for accelerated hearings? Does this change it?
Thank you, Mr. President. Yes, in fact, that is true, Councilmember Cohen. This practice and process has been in place now for more than a year, and the Administration -- I introduced a bill at the STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 970092 request of the Administration to finally give them approval to do something they've been doing for more than a year.
Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 970395 the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'm requesting a leave to attend a Council business outside of the chambers, and I want to leave my vote of yes for all bills. Thank you.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. Leave will be granted. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 970395. The Clerk will please read the title of the Bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Elsworth Street, Broad Street, Snyder Avenue, and 16th Street.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Mr. President, I STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 970395 ask to be excused to take care of Council business, and I'd like to be recorded as voting aye on all bills.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman leave will be granted. The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Krajewski. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 970395
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 970778. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 970778
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Snyder Avenue, Broad Street, Oregon Avenue, and 18th Street.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilman Kenney. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 970778
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980405 The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980405. The Clerk will please read the title of the Bill.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved April 2, 1998, relating to the Capital Program of the six fiscal years 1999-2004, inclusive, by transferring from Fiscal 1998 to Fiscal 1999 projects and amounts in various department; and by adding, increasing, and/or decreasing projects and amounts in various departments.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980405 DiCicco.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980406. The Clerk will please read title of the bill.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved April 2, 1998, relating to the Fiscal 1999 Capital Budget by transferring from Fiscal 1998 to Fiscal 1999 projects and amounts in various departments; and by adding, increasing, and/other decreasing projects and amounts in various departments.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980406 Clark.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilman Rizzo. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980120
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980120. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Hard Shell Cafe, located at the northeast corner of Ninth and Market Streets, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19107, to construct and maintain an electrified marquee projecting from the facade of The Gallery at Market East over the footway of Ninth Street and Market Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980120 is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980120
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980146. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Boyd's of Philadelphia to construct and maintain a canvas canopy a minimum of nine feet above the footway in front of the facade of STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980146 1818 Chestnut Street.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980146 Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980162. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980162 authorizing Norman Wolgin and Marian Wolgin, h/w, owners of the property located at 1811 Delancey Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19103, to construct and maintain a garden terrace over a portion of the south footway of Cypress Street adjacent to the rear of the property, 1811 Delancey Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980162 Fernandez.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980165 The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Council will stand at ease.
The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 980165. The Clerk will please read the title of the Bill.
An ordinance authorizing Robert Ferrell, owner of the property located at 6300 Torresdale Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19135, to construct and maintain a canopy/pent roof over a portion of the north footway of Robbins Avenue adjacent to the side of the property, 6300 Torresdale Avenue, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980165 Clark.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilman Rizzo. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980165
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration is -Councilwoman Fernandez, are you leaving the chamber? Would you like to leave your vote? You can't sneak out, we need your vote.
Mr. President, I'd like to be recorded as voting yes on all the bills that are before us for the few minutes that I slip out of chambers.
Did you read the title? STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980166
An ordinance authorizing Walter Jedrzej, owner of the property located at 4200 Shelmire Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19136, to construct and maintain a one-story, wood-frame building addition onto a portion of the of the footway of Erdrick Street, adjacent to the side of the property, 4200 Shelmire Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Fernandez is voting aye. Councilman Kenney.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980169. The Clerk will please read the title of the Bill.
An ordinance authorizing Frank Borda and Lou Gentile, owners of the property located at 1547-1549 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19147, to construct and maintain a one-story masonry building addition onto a portion of the south footway of Tasker Street adjacent to the side of the property, 1547-1549 South 13th Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Blackwell. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980169
Councilwoman Fernandez is voting aye. Councilman Kenney.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980192. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 119 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Harper Street from 10th Street to 12th Street and reserving for drainage and water main purposes the stricken portion of Harper Street from 10th Street to a point approximately 250 feet westwardly and by relocating certain curb lines of Harper Street STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980192 from 10th Street to 12th Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Fernandez is voting aye. Councilman Kenney.
Aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980192 Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980229. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980229 regulating the direction of traffic on Carpenter Street, from Broad Street to 15th Street.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980229 Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980269. The Clerk will please read the title of the Bill.
An ordinance STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980269 authorize Patricia Wallace, owner of the property located at 7027 West Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain a deck
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Fernandez is voting aye. Councilman Kenney.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980269 Krajewski.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980272. The Clerk will please read the STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980272 title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Jose Rodriguez, owner of the property 7101 Rutland Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain a side deck on and over a portion of the north footway of Princeton Avenue.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Fernandez is voting aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980272 Councilman Kenney.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980276 the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980276. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Richard Miller and Laura Miller, his wife, owners of the property located at 3470 Amber Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain a one-story masonry garage addition.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Fernandez is voting aye. Councilman Kenney.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980302 The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980302. The Clerk will please read the title of the Bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Sanmore Partnership to construct and maintain an illuminated marquee a minimum of 12 feet, 4 inches above the footway in front of the facade of the Adrienne Theater.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980302 DiCicco.
Councilwoman Fernandez is voting aye. Councilman Kenney.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Council President STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980309 Street.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980309. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the changing of the name of Webster Street, from Passyunk Avenue to Seventh Street, to "Queen Street," under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilman Cohen. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980309
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980313 Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980313. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 194 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Reese Street.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall this bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Clark. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980313
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980336. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance granting permission to Level 3 Communications LLC, a Delaware limited-liability company registered to do business in Pennsylvania, and its successors, assignees, and agents to construct, maintain, and operate, replace, and remove a telecommunications system.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980336
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilman O'Neill STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980336 is voting aye. Councilman Ortiz.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980337. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. Oh, I'm sorry. The next bill for consideration, then, will be Bill No. 980338. The Clerk will please read the title of this bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Crime Prevention Association of Philadelphia, 230 South Broad Street, owner of the STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980338 property located at 2407 and 2419-37 South Broad Street, to construct and maintain one electrified marquee.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980338 Krajewski.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980339. The Clerk will please read the STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980339 title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Crime Prevention Association of Philadelphia, 230 South Broad Street, owner of the property located at 2407 and 2419-37 South Broad Street, to construct maintain various encroachments.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Fernandez. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980339
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980340 majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 980340. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Harry Sarkisian, owner of the property located at 604-606 South Third Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain two electrified signs.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilman DiCicco. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980340
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Council President STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980341 Street.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 980341. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Harry Sarkisian, owner of the property located at 604 through 606 South Third Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct various encroachments.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilman Cohen. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980341
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980374 Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980374. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Demcorp II LP, 2006 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to maintain an electrified marquee.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman Clark. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980374
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration Bill No. 980375. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
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 Rosewood Street.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980376. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance granting permission to IXC Carrier, Inc., a Nevada corporation registered to do business in Pennsylvania.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980376 Blackwell.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Councilman O'Neill is voting aye. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980377 Councilman Ortiz.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 980377. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by relocating the southerly curb line of Rodman Street from Ninth Street to Tenth Street.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980377 is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. Councilman Mariano is voting aye. Councilwoman Miller is voting aye. Councilman Nutter. STATED MEETING - FINAL PASSAGE - 980377
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Councilwoman Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This concludes our consideration of the calendar
Are there any speeches on the part of Members of the Minority? (No speeches on the part of the Minority.) STATED MEETING - SPEECHES
Are there any speeches on the part of Members of majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I understand that after your efforts today and our meetings downstairs with members of SEPTA and the TWU that certainly took longer for them to get to the negotiating table than it was for SEPTA to say that there was nothing to talk about and that the negotiations lasted less than ten minutes. It seems to me that our efforts were undermined certainly if both sides said they were ready and if SEPTA specifically said they were ready to negotiate, then in good faith, they should have at least given us some respect. By the time they sat there, it took longer to get from City Hall there than it did for actual negotiations to take place. And I think it is unfair for SEPTA to meet with us and then say they did not have anything to say. So I would certainly like to STATED MEETING - SPEECHES send them a message that we are certainly condemning their actions of not negotiating. And certainly the ridership, as well as those unemployed people, deserve to have people sitting at the table so that we can get this strike resolved.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. There's no speech. Just simply an announcement that the Council Committee on Rules will convene immediately after the session, so I would ask all members of the committee to remain in the room to establish a quorum.
Mr. President, I think it's time to end the game-playing. The negotiator for SEPTA is a former Chief of Staff of the City of Philadelphia. He's known to be very close to two STATED MEETING - SPEECHES people -- one is the Mayor of the City, the other is the President of City Council. I think he feels that he is absolutely free to adopt a position that we used to say was the position of the old robber barons in the old days when unions were targets, when it was a crime for workers to associate together and form a labor organization. I think David L. Cohen is taking advantage of his former positions. I believe that the positions he took this morning at the meeting in the Mayor's office were very clear indications that SEPTA is not bargaining in good faith, that SEPTA has determined and believes it has the right to set the boundary lines of what it's going to agree to. And if we permit that situation to remain, I think it's going to be a very, very long and unfruitful period ahead of us in which the people of Philadelphia are going to be suffering. I think it's urgent that this Council adopt a time position, a position that says you have, say, 24, 48 hours, 72 hours in which to reach an agreement; and if you don't, the issues, in the interests of the citizens of Philadelphia, STATED MEETING - SPEECHES have to be referred to an arbitration board of some kind or a mediation board having the power to consider both the positions of both sides. It may well be -- it may we will be that such an arbitration has to take place after the return of people to their jobs because each side may need more time. But I think if we set up a structure which enables both sides to present their positions to some outside force with the binding effect, you know, of -- that an arbitrator generally has, I think we will be moving this forward. Otherwise, I think we're in the old days where SEPTA is relying on the power of the City money, and I'm delighted that this Council took the first step to try to see that SEPTA doesn't have that money available, but I don't think that's going to be enough. And I think it is the duty of this City Council to make very clear that the policy of this Council is to compel, compel good-faith bargaining. And, Mr. President, I don't think we ought to adjourn this meeting without taking some STATED MEETING - SPEECHES further action. Thank you.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Mr. President. Also in reference to SEPTA, I hope the SEPTA management is listening very clear to this Council and they don't plan to try to operate the el and the subway system. We passed a resolution asking them not to do that. I think that would be devastating to the ridership of the SEPTA system. And, again, I hope that they are listening and do not plan to try to operate that system. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Mr. President, I think it was obvious this morning that the management of SEPTA and its main negotiator, David L. Cohen, do not believe that the strikers have any rights whatsoever, and that they have any position that is viable or realistic. They made it very clear that they have STATED MEETING - SPEECHES the parameters of the negotiations and the negotiations are that they're supposed to be able to come in along management's rules and regulations. Either you take it or leave it -that is not, obviously, negotiations. That is just saying, This is all that you're going to be offered and there's no room, no wiggles, no anything to be able to begin negotiations. Obviously, the ten-minute meeting or the five-minute meeting that took place at noon today is a very clear example of that. I think you and the Council made it very clear that we would want negotiations to take place around the clock. SEPTA is not willing to sit down because SEPTA is not willing to negotiate. They have the truth, they have the papers, they have the parameters, the parameters are set. It's like Ken Starr. He has the truth that either you come in with the way I believe and what I believe the truth to be, or there is nothing. And that is not the way to go. I think they have to begin to understand that the trolleys, the buses, the trains, they should sit STATED MEETING - SPEECHES and not be run by management, scabs, or any other individuals. I think we have made very clear the intention of this Council. We will stand with the workers, we will stand for negotiations, but we also want fair, fair negotiations. We don't want threats, we don't want name-calling, we don't want a process that only one side holds the truth. We want them to be able to sit down and come to some conclusion. But we have made it very clear. They know where we stand, and if the management of SEPTA decides to go along that way, I think that this Council needs to act very quickly on the transfer ordinance that Councilman Cohen introduced today. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. President. I wanted to add again how insulting it is for us to meet this morning instead of doing our Council business, to have them say that they STATED MEETING - SPEECHES would negotiate and not do that, and then to also send us a message that they are going to try to operate the trains and the subways. My understanding is that yesterday in some kind of test case, two trains ended up facing each other on the same track. It takes, what, 18 months of training to learn how to operate trains? And management thinks that they can act as scabs and come in and try to jeopardize the lives of City residents? It's unconscionable that they would try to even imply or insinuate that they would consider such an action. Certainly we, as representatives of the public, have a responsibility to try to make sure that they live and work and travel in a safe environment. And for SEPTA to even consider having management people who have no training to try to operate trains is absolutely unbelievable. Again, we want to send a message that we passed a resolution a week ago or however long ago it was.
March the 12th, denouncing that kind of action. And we STATED MEETING - SPEECHES expect them to honor our resolution. Thank you.
I notice representatives of Local 234 are here. I would ask that they be permitted to speak and to report to us what happened, and I would suggest that a request go by to you David L. Cohen, or whoever else represents SEPTA, to also come here immediately to make management report as to what happened following your request, which Council unanimously supported, for round-the-clock negotiations.
Councilman, I don't have any objection to giving a report. My request is that we recess or adjourn this Council, convene in the caucus room, and get whatever report we want.
I want to adjourn this meeting or recess it and convene in the Council caucus room and get whatever report you STATED MEETING - SPEECHES want.
Well, I don't think this session ought to adjourned. I think we ought to stay in recess until we are sure that genuine, good-faith bargaining is taking place and that there is a structure -
Councilman Cohen, we want to give you what you want, but we want to do it fast; we do not want to do it slow. And I suggest that we stand in recess for 30 minutes, go to the caucus room, and get a report.
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. STATED MEETING - SPEECHES The ayes have it. We stand in recess for 30 minutes. (Recessed at 1:20 p.m.) (Proceedings continue in caucus room.)
The City Council session that has been recessed, we recessed for about 30 minutes. That session will stay in recess until 4 o'clock this afternoon. Councilmembers, at 4 o'clock, in the Council caucus room, will be meeting with the City's representatives on the SEPTA Board. Mr. Brookens will be back, Mr. Cohen has been invited to be back, although I think he may decline our invitation. But we will further consider what we will -- the Council might be able to do to effect some kind of resolution of the SEPTA work stoppage. C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, June 4, 1998, were reported and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, Registered Professional Reporter