COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 401, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 11, 2001 10:20 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DI CICCO COUNCILMAN WILSON W. GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 INVOCATION
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Father Charles Smith, Parochial Vicar at Saint Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Mariano. All members and guests will please rise.
I have left with the Sergeant-at-Arms copies of the prayer that we're going to pray together in case any of the Members of the City Council would care to have a copy of it. And our dear ladies and gentlemen, as we pray together, let's keep in mind that, as you know, this is October 11th when one month ago on September the 11th the act of hate was committed which changed all our lives. God, our Father, we beg your devine guidance and protection in these turbulent times. We ask it for the President and his advisors, we ask it for the boys and girls of our country in the armed forces, we ask it for this Council. Grant APPROVAL OF JOURNAL - LEAVES OF ABSENCE that our deliberations may always be inspired by your truth and always reflect your love, that we may all live as brothers and sisters under your fatherly care as you intend it to be. We ask you to bless with your peace the families and friends and homes of all here present in this Chamber. We ask you to hear these our sincere petitions. In your mercy, dear God, do not look on our offenses, but rather on our faith in you. And in your wisdom, answer this, our sincere and humble prayer according to your gracious will. Amen.
The Chair thanks Father Smith for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of Thursday, October 4, 2001. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 4, 2001, stand approved. APPROVAL OF JOURNAL - LEAVES OF ABSENCE
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 4, 2001, stand approved. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 4, 2001, stands approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. There are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the majority.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill. WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans, leave of absence is requested for Councilman Thacher Longstreth.
Leave will be granted. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all Members of City Council, I welcome you to this Council Session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. We certainly invite you to join us again. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo for a presentation honoring the City of Philadelphia employees who were deployed to the World Trade Center in New York City. Will Police Commissioner Timoney, Fire Commissioner Hairston and PHA Executive Director Greene and those accompanying them please join the Councilman at the podium.
Thank you, Madam WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS President. Prior to our recognition of this fine valiant effort on behalf of our employees, I would like to remind the Chamber and those watching at home on television that as we speak, our fire fighters still do not have a contract that legally should be binding and was arbitrated fairly. And the Administration of this government still does not recognize that contract. I'd like people to take that into consideration today as we speak about how heroic and brave they are. Thank you very much.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President and the guests and Members of Council, because of the significance of this presentation today, I have asked my colleagues in Council to all participate in the reading of this. Since it's a little bit crowded up here, we're just going ask them to file up one at a time in an orderly way to read a portion of these citations, these resolutions, to honor our great fire fighters, police officers, and housing authority people.
If I may interrupt, WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS wouldn't it be maybe more expedient if we would do it from our desk?
I was going to suggest that because I think it would be rather confusing and there's not much room at the podium. Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, that's fine. Do you have the documents there? I thought that you might want to actually participate. That will be fine if you'd like to do it that way. Among the thousands of tragic stories -and Father reminded us all, today is the one-month anniversary of the tragedy on September 11th. Among the thousands of tragic stories of September 11th, there are countless tales of bravery and heroism as fire fighters, police, and other rescue personnel risked their lives and gave many of their lives to ensure the safety of others. These people are heros in the truest sense of the word. We are proud to have among us today several of those heros of which I speak. The individuals that you see standing with me were mobilized immediately and went to New York to help in the search, rescue, and recovery effort as well as the victim identification WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS and investigation effort. They witnessed in the most intimate way the destruction and devastation that exists at Ground Zero. All of those who have assisted in the effort in New York City deserve the thanks and admiration and the gratitude of this City. And again, I ask the Members of City Council, starting with Councilman Nutter, to read the resolution that we have prepared for our fire fighters, police officers, and housing authority. And then I'll make the presentation to the heads of those departments.
Thank you, Councilman. The resolution by the City Council of the City of Philadelphia. The City of Philadelphia honors all of those who have lost their lives or are missing at the site of the terrorist attack at the World Trade Center in New York and recognizes the hard work and dedication of Heavy Rescue 1 of the Philadelphia Fire Department and members of the Philadelphia Housing Authority for their search and rescue work at the site of the World Trade Center and for the support that they have provided to the New York Fire Department, other rescue workers, and the people of New York City in that effort. WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS
Whereas, on Tuesday, September 11, 2001, the United States experienced a horrific and tragic terrorist attack at the World Trade Center in New York City resulting in the collapse of the two 110-story towers and thousands of innocent civilian casualties; and
Whereas, as a result of these attacks and the resulting collapse of the World Trade Center towers, a massive search and rescue effort was undertaken by thousands of volunteers and professional workers throughout the country. Among them, the City of Philadelphia deployed Heavy Rescue 1 of the Philadelphia Fire Department and members of the Philadelphia Housing Authority, as part of an urban search and rescue team to New York City, whose professional services and expertise have been instrumental in recovering the victims of the tragedy; and
Whereas, there were 19 members of the Philadelphia Fire Department in place in New York City, including Deputy Chief Joseph Mack, Captain Gerard McKeown, Lieutenant Fred Endrikat, Lieutenant Francis Werner, Lieutenant John O'Neill, Lieutenant Michael Whalen, Fire Fighter WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS Gerard Smink, Fire Fighter Louis Brasten, Fire Fighter Richard Benditt, Fire Fighter Sylvester Evans, Fire Fighter William Reynolds, Fire Fighter Robert Crossfield, Fire Fighter Christopher Fisher, Fire Fighter Craig Murphy, Fire Fighter David Tretter, Fire Fighter Shawn Glynn, Fire Fighter Michael Foley, Fire Fighter Joseph Lockett, and Fire Fighter John Ross; and
Whereas, there were five members of the Philadelphia Housing Authority in place in New York City, including Daniel Quimby, John Glenn, Kevin Brady, Alfred Howard, and Robert Keehfuss; Now therefore
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that the City of Philadelphia honors all of those who have lost their lives or are missing at the site of the terrorist attack at the World Trade Center in New York, and recognizes the hard work and dedication of Heavy Rescue 1 of the Philadelphia Fire Department and members of the Philadelphia Housing Authority for their search and rescue work at the site of the World Trade Center and for the support that they have provided to the New York Fire Department, other WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS rescue workers, and the people of New York in this effort.
Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the members of Heavy Rescue 1 of the Philadelphia Fire Department and the members of the Philadelphia Housing Authority that were deployed to New York City for their hard work and valiant effort in the face of extreme tragedy and danger. Councilman Frank Rizzo, President Anna C. Verna, September 20, 2001. (Applause.)
We'll make the presentations after we read the second resolution. Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. This is a resolution recognizing the members of the Philadelphia Police Department that were deployed at the site of the terrorist attack at the World Trade Center in New York, for their hard work and professionalism in providing support in the victim identification and investigation effort.
Whereas, on Tuesday, September 11, 2001, the United States WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS experienced a horrific and tragic terrorist attack at the World Trade Center in New York City, resulting in the collapse of two 110-story towers and thousands of innocent civilian casualties; and Whereas, as a result of this tragedy, countless relief workers and investigators from around the country offered their time and expertise at the site of the World Trade Center in the search, rescue, and recovery effort, as well as in the victim identification and investigation effort; and
Whereas, among the highly skilled, professional investigators at the scene, the City of Philadelphia deployed its own team of trained, professional investigators to provide technical support in the victim identification and crime seen investigation effort; and
Whereas, there were four members of the Philadelphia Police Department's crime scene unit in place in New York City, including Lieutenant Mark Fisher, Police Officer John Taggert, Police Officer Terry Lewis, and Police Officer Mike Vincent, as well as one civilian Criminal Evidence Specialist Leo Rahill; and WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS
Whereas, there were two members of the Philadelphia Police Department's K-9 Unit in place in New York City, including Police Officer Paul Bryant and Search Dog Azeem; Now therefore.
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes the members of the Philadelphia Police Department that was deployed to the terrorist attack at the World Trade Center in New York for their hard work and professionalism in providing support in the victim identification and investigation effort.
Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the members of the Crime Scene Unit and K-9 Unit of the Philadelphia Police Department that were deployed in New York for their hard work and courageous efforts in facing extreme tragedy and danger. (Applause.)
I'd like to now present to Commissioner Harold Hairston a copy of City Council's resolution, along with Commissioner Timoney and Carl Greene of the Housing Authority. WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS
The Chair recognizes Commissioner Timoney for remarks. COMMISSIONER TIMONEY: I want to thank the Council for its kind resolution today and also remembering the heros that gave their lives, the police, the fire EMS up in New York. I want to thank you very much. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Commissioner Hairston. COMMISSIONER HAIRSTON: Thank you and thanks to all the Councilmembers that were so gracious in your applause and your support of this department. I'm glad that we chose a day like this when we have so many kids that are out here so they can see what role models really look like. (Applause.) COMMISSIONER HAIRSTON: These members that you see before you, the members of Rescue 1, really represent the best fire fighters that there are any place in this world. (Applause.) COMMISSIONER HAIRSTON: I would be remiss if I didn't take this opportunity to say WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS congratulations to Commissioner Timoney and all the police officers that you see before you and certainly to Carl Greene for all the support that his members have given us in our quest to be the very best that we can be in terms of rescue operations, so thanks to both of you. And thanks to all of the Councilmembers for your continued support for the kind of work that we've been doing. And you can see that the dollars that you have allocated to us have been well spent with having members like this. Thank you. (Applause.)
On behalf of the five PHA employees and all of their support staff, I would like to thank the members of City Council for honoring and recognizing the PHA staff today. The PHA employees who participate together with Heavy Rescue 1, they are out all the time responding to emergencies in the City and have been working so closely with Heavy Rescue 1 over the years as a part of the Pennsylvania urban search and rescue team that today as we recognize them. And when they were WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS needed on September 11, September 12, for the two weeks they were in New York, their experience and working together with Heavy Rescue 1 came to much-needed assistance of those fallen ones in New York. So I really appreciate the fire commissioner and the police commissioner and their support for the employees at PHA and allowing them to work with them to provide help to the ones who really need in the City of New York. Thank you, City Council, for your support. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds-Brown for a presentation recognizing Lights on After School Day. Will Ms. Gail Hawkins and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium?
The Chair WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I am forced to be led at my heart and not my head. Let me take a couple seconds and first commend Councilman Frank Rizzo for allowing us or allowing me to connect with the tragedy in New York City in a way that I haven't to date. We need to echo the sentiments of Commission Harold Hairston and say to you, our young people, that the men and women you just saw up here in uniform are really the true heros and role models that we as adults need to get better at encouraging to aspire. So, Frank Rizzo, thank you for that. That tragedy has touched all of us, including my family, in a profound way; but today I got a chance to connect in a way I had not before and I would be remiss not to share that with all of us. Let me first welcome to our City Orlando Mohan of Washington, D.C., Matthew Freeman of Washington, D.C., along with Brian Gardner representing the Philadelphia Academy Charter School, Amica Allen, Branda Brown of United Way, Pat Andrews who's representing the Mayor's Office of children's policy, and long-time friend, activist WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS and educator and resident of the 52nd Ward and 4th Councilmatic District, Gail Hawkins-Bush. For that reason we have her councilman up here, Councilman Michael Nutter. And her work, though we know after-school programs are operating city-wide in a meaningful, substantial way, the work of the After School Alliance is mostly anchored in the 5th Councilmatic District, and here of course representing that district is our colleague Councilman Darrell Clarke; and the 6th Councilmantic District and of course no one other than Councilwoman Joan Krajewski. Whereas, children are at greater risk of being in crime and substance abuse between o'clock p.m. and o'clock p.m., the hours between the end of school and the time working parents return home; and
Whereas, throughout the country, as many as 15 million children are home alone without adult supervision on any day due in part to the fact that families have difficulty finding after school programs; and Whereas, according to the United States Department of Education, studies show that students WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS in after school programs have stronger academic performance, better behavior, and school attendance and greater expectations for the future; and
Whereas, quality after school programs are essential to families with young children in Philadelphia because they stimulate children's imaginations and enrich students' lives, provide a safe, friendly learning environment for our youth that boost their academic achievement, support working families by ensuring that their children are in safe, structured, stimulating and productive programs after the regular school day ends; encourage families to become more effective partners in their children's education, build stronger communities by involving students, parents, business leaders, and adult volunteers in the lives of our young people; and
Whereas, the City of Philadelphia has shown its commitment to improving after school through the children's investment strategy; and Whereas, Lights on After School, an initiative of the After School Alliance sponsored by JC Penney is a national celebration of after school WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS programs that on October 11, 2001, will promote the critical importance of quality after school programs in the lives of the children, their families and their communities; now for be it
Now for be it that an engrossed copy of this resolution will be presented to Gail Hawkins-Bush, an after school ambassador of the After School Alliance as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. This initiative was sponsored and endorsed by every single member of City Council, starting with our Madam President Verna. Let me call your attention to your flashlights and your T-shirts on your desks, and they are symbolic of this important initiative here in our City. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to mention a very, very special person who is here day. This person is a member of my family. It is my great nephew James Farthing. WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS Would he stand and be recognized? (Applause.)
Thank you very much, Councilwoman Brown and the rest of the Councilpeople. I have many opportunities to talk to Council at any given time. I just want to thank you for your support. And I want to make the small check available to Brian Gardner from the Philadelphia Academy Charter School in the amount of a thousand dollars to support after school activities and information to all schools, both public, charter and private schools. Represented here today we have the Philadelphia Academy Charter School under the direction of COA Brian Gardner, as well as the Preparatory Charter School under the direction of John Bodiacci. In addition to that, of course, Matt Freeman is here from the After School Alliance in Orlando from the lights on activity. But without further ado, the most important person I'd like to introduce is Kyrus Birckett who is a student at the Prep Charter School to talk to you a WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS little bit about his after school experience. Thank you. (Applause.)
First I would like to say good morning to President Verna, Members of City Council and invited guests. My name is Kyrus Brickett. I'm a senior at the Preparatory Charter School of Mathematics, Science, Technology and Careers. I'm here this morning to represent the teaming to assist youth 21st century program, a partnership of the Taggart, Kirkbride, and Christopher Columbus Elementary Schools and Prep Charter High School. For the past two years I have experienced and benefitted from the stay at our school. These extraordinary programs are Saturday science classes at Drexel University, Saturday SAT preparation workshops, summer school enrichment programs, and a variety interactive after school activities, including one that I enjoyed the most is drama and peer mediation. After school programs at our elementary schools are held daily and many educational and cultural trips are pardoned by students and parents. WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS As a mentor, I've seen firsthand how excited these little guys get about after school activities, but my personal goal of attending the college of my choice has come more reachable because of the support I received through the state program. Today, October 11th, after school programs across the country will turn their lights on and rally neighborhood support. After school programs keep kids save, help working families, and improve academic achievements. But today, as many as 15 million children have no place to go after school. All children should have the opportunity to benefit from STAY as I have. So I ask you today on behalf of all our in South Philadelphia to support continued funding for STAY and other after school programs. If you do, others will have the opportunity to reach their goals like me. I thank you for your dedication and support. As you pass through this day, please look for us, Lights on After School. (Applause.)
Council can see why this is so important. And I'd like all of the young people to stand, please, and their parents who are WELCOME AND PRESENTATIONS here from the various charter schools. (Applause.)
And on behalf of the After School Alliance and JC Penney initiative, I am 1 of 25 around the country, today we're supporting Lights On activities and we will bring other after school ambassadorship programs to you. And I thank you very much, Council, for allowing us this opportunity. (Applause.)
Thank you. While we are preparing to take pictures, we see Andre and we have another member Shawn, but we want to thank the Prep Charter School and the charter schools in general for all the work that their students do to not only -- they learn about government, but they provide an invaluable service to all of our offices. So we certainly want to COMMUNICATIONS thank them. And while I have the mike, if it is in order, I would certainly like to say a welcome and ask him to stand, Charles Gibbs. He's the youngest block captain in the City, 18-years-old, and a leader in his own right. (Applause.)
Councilman Mariano, did you want to be recognized?
Thank you. Council will now be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Clerk. The Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
The Chair thanks the Clerk. Are there any other communications in your possession? INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I'm requesting a leave to take care of City business, but I'd like to be recorded as voting aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you. Leave is granted. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will say aye. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriation for fiscal year 2002 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance, to the General Fund, the Director of Finance, contribution to the School District.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning I introduce one resolution on your behalf.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Eastwick Urban Renewal Area designated as Parcel No. C1B, also sometimes identified by house number and street address.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Madam President, I INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 22 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "City of Philadelphia Public Employees Retirement Code," by providing that employees may purchase credit service for approved leave of absences taken to participate in the United Nations peace-keeping or police missions, all under certain terms and condition.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Madam President, I INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown -- the Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Public Health and Human Services and Public Safety to hold a joint committee hearing to continue monitoring and investigating the quality level of medical and mental health care services that is provided or made assessable to prison inmates under the care of the Philadelphia Prison System.
Madam Chair, I move the adoption the of the resolution. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committees. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings to obtain an update on community behavioral health, its programs, policies, and service delivery to eligible Philadelphia residents.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 1st, 18th, and 31st Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution has been adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS deeds located in the 1st, 18th, and 31st Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution has been adopted.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 30th and 36th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
The Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS City Council's Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold public hearings on the potential effects of layoffs in a potential national recession on the region's economy.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Has been adopted -- was that to be referred to committee? The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, no bills or resolutions today. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES
Thank you. The next order of business reports from committees, and the Chair recognize Councilman Cohen for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Law and Government, having held eight hearings, the final one of which occurred on October 10th, issues an interim report, a copy of which has been given to every member of City Council. I move the approval of the report which was unanimously adopted by the committee. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the interim report on Resolution No. 000476 be approved. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The interim report of the Resolution No. 000476 has been accepted. That concludes reports from committee. SPECIAL BUSINESS Before considering the calendar, there is one item of special business. Resolution No. 010578 was introduced at last week's session, however, inadvertently we did not vote on the resolution. A copy of that resolution has been distributed to all Members of Council. And I would now ask the Clerk to please read the title of that resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban of a portion of the Grace Ferry Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 150.
Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 010578 be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE (No response.)
The ayes have it. The resolution has been adopted. The next order of business is the consideration of the calendar. There are no bills on today First'S Reading Calendar. So therefore, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill Nos. 000586, 000587, 000588, 000644, 010265, 010266, 010290, 010291, 010292, 010293, 010294, 010295, 010296, 010505 and 010525 are being called up for second reading and final passage.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 000586.
An ordinance revising parking regulations on Ninth Street, both sides from Bainbridge Street to Fitzwater Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 000587.
An ordinance revising parking regulations on Fitzwater Street, both sides, from 10th Street to 11th Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 000588.
An ordinance revising parking regulations on Fitzwater Street, both sides, from Eighth Street to Ninth Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration Bill No. 000644.
An ordinance revising parking regulations on Watts Street, east side, from Ritner Street to Porter Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 010265.
An ordinance revising parking regulations on Carlisle Street, both sides, from Mary Avenue to Butler Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010266.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation of Gravers Lane, east side, SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE Germantown Avenue to Shawnee Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter. SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is bill No. 010290.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Hicks Street, east side, Ritner Street to Porter Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill 010291.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Porter Street, both sides, 15th Street to 16th Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010292.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Rosewood Street, east side, Jackson Street to Wolf Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010293.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Rosewood Street, east side, Shunk Street to Oregon Avenue.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0 -Councilman Mariano.
What bill are we at SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE now? I'm sorry.
I believe you did not vote on Bill No. 010292. We are now considering Bill No. 010293.
The ayes are 16. The nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 010294.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Shunk Street, both sides, Broad Street to 15 Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010295.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Shunk Street, both sides, 15th Street to 16th Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE The next bill to be called consideration is Bill No. 010296.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on 15th Street, both sides, Ritner Street to Porter Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called up for consideration is Bill No. 010505.
An ordinance authorizing Irving Burskin, owner of the property 2451 South SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE Fifth Street to construct and maintain a fence for a dumpster enclosure, 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 please call the role.
Councilwoman Miller voting SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The final bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010525.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Murdock Street between Pickering Avenue and Cheltenham Avenue.
This bill SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. This concludes our calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? Are there any speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. Back in June of 2001, this Body passed an appropriation of $60 million for the School District of Philadelphia. In September of 2001, the SPEECHES Mayor vetoed that bill over concerns which I think are justifiable concerns about the effect of Act 46 on the perpetuity of that appropriation. We were all willing to wait, and I think that Mayor Street and former Governor Ridge really did attempt to find, through good faith efforts, a way to solve the problem of the Philadelphia Schools and its funding issues. I think they both acted in good faith and I think they tried their best to get a hard job completed. Then came September 11, 2001, and all of our worlds changed. Governor Ridge was called on by the President to help protect our country from further terrorist attacks. I believe that he's a tremendous person for the job. We're all very proud of his elevation to this position, although saddened by the reasons for it. But he's no longer here. And the issue surrounding the School District have certainly changed dramatically as a result of it. We have a new Governor. Governor Schweiker is a very decent person, hard-working person, but in his own admission has not been totally engaged in the issue of school funding in the Philadelphia School District. SPEECHES I think in the end, though, we really can't wait. And I've asked today through a bill that I've introduced along with a number of cosponsors for $75 million appropriation to the School District of Philadelphia. Any solution that may be coming from Harrisburg is going to require local increased aid to the district. I don't believe we can sit by and wait to see what happens. I don't think we can wait to see if a private company is going to come in and take these schools. I don't think we can wait to see for a magic solution coming from the legislature to give us the aid that we need to run the schools. I think in the end -- also, I believe that the legislature's made it very clear, the leadership there, that unless and until Philadelphia steps to the plate with additional substantial new monies for the District that they're really not willing to provide us with any additional funds that will make any difference. In the end, it is our responsibility to deal with the District. In the end, the Mayor and Councilmembers here have been elected by the people of this City to be responsible for the schools. Councilmember Nutter was successful in SPEECHES passing a charter amendment which allowed the Mayor to appoint the entire School board under the understanding that past mayors had always used that as an excuse for not being able to run the School District effectively because all the people weren't part of his or her team. I can't think of a more important investment than we can make in this City other than the education of our kids. And I will argue that probably even beyond blight and taxes and auto insurance and other reason why the citizens of Philadelphia decide no longer to be citizens of Philadelphia, probably the No. 1 reason is the condition of the schools and lack of choices that they feel they have for their kids. So I think that we ought to really take the bull by the horns, move forward, step up to the plate, provide a substantial sum of money that I think $75 million represents, show the legislature that we mean business and that we'd like their help and really put our best foot forward in trying to get these schools' funding issues and governance issues resolved. So I would seek in the future support from members of this council and the president in trying to get this done SPEECHES so that we can move forward and live up to our responsibilities of running these schools. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. Two items that I wish to speak on. The first is I'd like to commend our president and all Councilmembers for supporting the resolution introduced last week calling for additional support for our men and women who are public employees here in Philadelphia who have been called up to active duty because of the national crisis. There was a concern about the extension of health benefits and other provisions that those employees and their families enjoyed because of their call to duty and the distinction between what they would have when they were working versus what those members and their families would enjoy while called up for national service. I want to thank the Council for passing that resolution last week and also thank the Mayor and the Administration for taking quick action. It was announced the other day that all of SPEECHES the City of Philadelphia public employees will enjoy the same level of benefits as extended by the State to state workers and in the protection of their families that they will continue to have their health coverage and other benefits that they so desperately need especially at this time of national crisis. On that same point, I also want to thank one of my constituents Ed Tolin who called me about this when the call went out for people to go to service. There was a concern expressed, and I want to thank my constituent Ed Tolin for raising that issue and the Administration getting it resolved very quickly. Secondly, Madam President, I wish to speak fairly briefly about our situation here. We have many, many things still to do in the course of this term. It will require a great patience and good judgment and also the ability for us to continue to talk and trade information, share what our concerns are. " We have a responsibility to work with each other in the spirit of collegiality, the spirit SPEECHES of frankness and openness, but we also have much work to do. These are the type of days and the kinds of days that Dr. King must have thought about in one of his speeches when he talked about the need to carve a tunnel of hope through a mountain of despair, to try to transform dark yesterdays into bright tomorrows. We have much work to do, and it will take some time and a little bit of healing, but I think in the good work, in the good spirit that goes on in this great and wonderful building that we have an opportunity to work in called City Hall and these great jobs that we have as Councilmembers -not many people get the opportunity to serve in such a great way. And so all I can ask is that we continue to respect and support and encourage our leadership. For leaders to be able to lead, we must be willing to be led. And that will require more tolerance and patience and much more work. There is no fight here today. " We are, in fact, one body. We are the City Council of Philadelphia. Our disagreements come out of our notion and our understanding of what a democracy is all about. And this is a democracy in which we believe, in which we have faith, in which SPEECHES trust. And we will continue to participate in this wonderful experiment called democracy. Thirty days ago today, we witnessed one of the most tragic events in all of our time, an attack against not only this country, but about our beliefs and our way of life. We are still shocked and saddened, but as Americans we have united, we have pulled together and we continue to believe in each other and trust in each other. Likewise, the events of the past week, even in this Chamber, will continue to challenge us; but they can not affect our oath that all of us took, which was to discharge our duties with fidelity. Let me reaffirm my commitment to you, Madam President, to the leadership of this Council, you as our president; our majority leader, Councilwoman Blackwell; our majority whip, Councilwoman Tasco; and to our good friend, the minority leader, Councilman O'Neill.
The four of you share the pleasure, the responsibility, but also the burden of leadership. I support this collective leadership and I fully believe that the four of you working together will make all of us proud Philadelphians and also proud members of this SPEECHES Philadelphia City Council. Let me close by using the words of another person that was a great leader and one whom I admire greatly. In his 1861 inaugural address, Abraham Lincoln said the following: "We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. " Let our better angles lift us up as we understand very clearly and very directly that even in our disagreements, we will not be disagreeable, for we are one body, the City Council of Philadelphia. Thank you, Madam President. )
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. Last week this Council unanimously SPEECHES passed Bill 000716, which is a bill I introduced last November in the year 2000. I want to take this time to thank my colleagues for their support of that bill. It was the fifth bill that I offered and the fifth bill was passed offered unanimously. I have three other bills pending, all reviewed and approved by the policy committee of the Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations, which is a City-wide association of 78 community-based organizations. I took it to their policy committee this summer for the amendment on 000716 and for the three other bills to ask for their input. I view Bill 000716 as a neighborhood transformation bill. I want to explain exactly for those people who don't know what 00716 was about, exactly what it does. It mandates that at least 5 percent of all community development block grant money be spent on economic development programs administered by community development corporations. A lot of people within this Council and maybe within government and the listening audience and throughout Philadelphia are not as familiar with those economic development programs the CDC is engaged in. We had SPEECHES a hearing here a couple weeks ago where up to 9 or 10 talked about their work. We have a program at Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation called the Neighborhood Development Fund. We have a program the Commerce Department called the Neighborhood Development Grant Program. We have a program in the Philadelphia Commercial Development Corporation called a Acquisition Grant Program. In year 27 in the Neighborhood Development Fund, there is $2 million. It's the first time that this fund has been capitalized in five years due to some of the policy and legislative here. 5 million in year 27. Last year was not funded due to some of the policy and legislative work done here. PCDC has a program that I created called the Acquisition Grant Program would actually allow CDCs to purchase property on behalf of neighborhood businesses, to rehab their property and then use it as an equity investment actually in those businesses. Many people wouldn't know that. There's a lot of work being done here, a lot of work being done out in the community in terms of community economic development. SPEECHES In testimony on behalf of Bill 000716, the director of PCDC talked about the work that CDCs are doing, from supermarkets to retail commercial space development to business development to operating main street programs, special services districts, know they're taking over efforts to strengthen neighborhood commercial corridors. 000716 is a neighborhood transformation bill that passed unanimously. In fact, 000715 which was introduced before it, Councilwoman Tasco's predatory lending bill was in fact a neighborhood transformation bill. That leads me to believe that if we actually take the charge of neighborhood transformation and we broke it down to a series of Council bills, they probably would pass unanimously. I completely concur with what Councilman Nutter said. We here are united. We stand with each other. We have stood behind each other's bills. The problem is once you put the label of Mayor Street's Neighborhood Transformation Initiative on it, efforts that all of us might undertake individually, it becomes Council politics, Council versus Mayor. That's the way some people play the game. It's unfortunate. It's happened for SPEECHES years. It's happened for a lot of years. I happen to have witnessed it in the administration of my father. It disturbs me, but it is what it is. So I would just say today that Council politics is what it is. Let's talk about unity, let's work toward unity; but let's also be honest about what disagreements exist. And on the note of Council politics, let me say this also, share this story. About two months ago I was walking down the hall going to lunch. I ran into Councilman Kenney in the elevator.
I wished him a belated happy birthday. He said thank you. He didn't know that I knew it was his birthday a few days before because his birthday was a couple days before mine. He said to me, "Oh, you're a Leo also. " I believe I am in the right business because I believe that if it was not for Jim Kenney in this Body, this job would not be as interesting as it is, it would not be as challenging as it is, and because of Jim Kenney, I love this job. I love this job so much, I'm willing to do it for free. Thank you. ) SPEECHES
Thank you, Madam President. I want thank Councilman Nutter and Councilman Goode for observations. I think as we strive to develop a sense of unity in Council, we have to understand that we have to look at our own policies. We've been criticizing the Mayor and the City Administration, and I think in most cases for very good reason. We have applauded ourself as being the people's Council. I think we have to examine whether, in fact, we are the people's Council or whether other forces have overtaken most of the feelings of people in Council. I'm very concerned about one recent aspect, this concept of commitment to a bill passed introduced by a Councilmember, any Councilmember. I believe it's our duty before we arrive at a decision to hear every point of view and to reserve decisions until final action. And I'm hoping that in this spirit of unity, in the spirit of compromise, we're going to be willing to be critical of ourselves as well of the City Administration. Thank you, Madam President. I think we're moving in the right SPEECHES direction. (Applause.)
Are there any other speeches? The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
I know everyone's on the edge of their chair at this moment. Relax. I just want to remind Councilman Goode that we actually are working for free this week, since we have not passed the redistricting plan. Thank you, Madam President. (Laughter.)
And if Councilman Goode would like to give up his salary, I'll take it. Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, October 18, at 10:00 a.m., 2001. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, October 18, at 10 o'clock. SPEECHES All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. And the Council will stand adjourned until Thursday, October the 18th. Thank you. (Council adjourned at 11:45 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of October 11, 2001, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. RE: STATED MEETING ___________________________ Lisa C. Bradley, RPR and Notary Public