COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA PUBLIC HEARING - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, April 14, 2005, 10:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN JUAN F. RAMOS COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670 Stated - 4/14/05 P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come, and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please 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 Reverend Lynda James of the Olivet Covenant Presbyterian Church. She is here today as the guest of Councilman Clarke. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. Good morning. REV. JAMES: Let us pray. Lord God, into the chaos You spoke and acted; and out came order and life. And I pray this day that into the chaos of City business these men and women would be inspired by You. Give them the wisdom necessary to speak and bring order and Stated - 4/14/05 life to our City. Lord, I ask that You would grant them the wisdom that they need to guide this big City into the future, that You would help them as they prepare the budget, that You would remind them that in the end they answer not to themselves or to their constituents but to You; and that with that in mind, You would draw them to work together in one mind, regardless of race or gender or political party, that they might truly make a difference in the City, and by so doing in the rest of the world. All these things I ask in the strong name of my savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks Reverend James for her very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, April 7, 2005. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. Stated - 4/14/05
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, April 7, 2005, stand approved.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, April 7, 2005, stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it. The motion carries. And the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, April 7, 2005, is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Stated - 4/14/05 Madam President. On behalf of the majority, a leave of absence is requested today for Councilwoman Krajewski and Councilman Nutter.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, leave is requested for Councilman Brian O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. 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 our 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 come again. Stated - 4/14/05 At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present a resolution congratulating Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti High School and their boys' varsity basketball team. Will Coach Carl Arrigale and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And I see that Councilman Kenney is being joined by Councilman DiCicco.
Madam President, before I start to read the resolution, I think it's interesting to note that St. John Neumann St. Maria Goretti defeated St. Joe's Prep in the championship. Councilman Nutter and O'Neill both decided today coincidentally to take a leave, and I'm here to face the music alone. (Laughter.) COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: And I'm all night at Bishop Newman, so...
That's why you're up here. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: I'm up here. Stated - 4/14/05
Thank you, Madam President. This is a resolution congratulating the boys' varsity basketball team of Saints John Neumann Maria Goretti High School for winning the 2005 Catholic League Basketball Championship. Whereas, in their inaugural season, the Neumann Goretti Saints, under the leadership of senior David Burton, defeated 2003-2004 champion St. Joseph's Prep in a tremendous 57-44 victory at LaSalle University's Tom Gola Arena, where cheering Saints fans watched on, waiting to storm the court. And whereas, Neumann Goretti, coached by Carl Arrigale and staff, had an outstanding year, finishing with a final record of 25 and 2, and in the playoffs were unmatched in their dominance of the Catholic League. Whereas, this championship for Neumann Goretti is the 13th in the team's history, which is the second most in the Stated - 4/14/05 Catholic League history. Whereas, the Saints, led by Senior David Burton and underclassman Derrick Rivera, Earl Pettis, Antonio Jardine, Richard Jackson and Conner Kennedy, have shown impressive teamwork which led them to victory. And no one dunks like Derrick Rivera. Amazing to watch. Councilman. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Whereas, the Neumann Goretti Saints are nationally ranked because of their skill talent which makes our City proud that they represent Philadelphia. And whereas, Coach Arrigale is one of the most successful coaches in the Catholic League, now having won three championships in the last five years of coaching, in 2001, 2002 and 2005. And whereas, this team of true champions deserves sincere congratulations on an outstanding job and a fantastic victory. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of City of Philadelphia, that we're hereby honoring the boys varsity basketball Stated - 4/14/05 team of Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti High School, for winning the 2005 Catholic League Basketball Championship. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti Varsity team head coach, Carl Arrigale, further evidencing the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. A true and correct copy of this original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 10th day of March, 2005, signed by the Council President, Anna C. Verna, introduced by myself, Councilman Kenney and Council President Verna, co-sponsored by all members of City Council. Congratulations. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Coach Arrigale for remarks. COACH ARRIGALE: On behalf of the school and our team, I'd like to thank City Council for honoring us here today. Stated - 4/14/05 And it was kind of funny. I didn't recognize Councilman Kenney without his prep pom-poms. He dresses up pretty good. Thanks again, everybody. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution declaring April as Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month. Will Mr. Robert Eady and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium.
Good morning. It gives me pleasure to present this resolution recognizing April 2005 as Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, the purpose of Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month is to raise awareness of this disease and to emphasize the importance of finding treatment, prevention and ultimately a cure. Stated - 4/14/05 And whereas, there are 1.5 million U.S. citizens afflicted with Parkinson's Disease. While there have been recent advances related to treatment, genetic studies and political links to a possible cure, there is much yet to be done. The disease is mysterious, elusive and frustrating. It is degenerative and advances gradually, causing eventually the loss of control over body movements. And whereas, while there have been recent advances through the work of the National Parkinson Foundation, and publicity received from celebrities such as Michael J. Fox, who is afflicted by the disease, with new treatment, genetic studies and potential links to a possible cure on the horizon, again, there is yet much to be done. And whereas, the Parkinson Council is a local chapter of the National Parkinson Foundation, serving metropolitan Philadelphia and the surrounding communities, and is a major source of information and support for Stated - 4/14/05 those living with this disease and their families. It is a regional organization, whose members represent the interests of those affected by Parkinson's Disease. The Council is a strong and effective group, whose members we thank for their continuing efforts. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize April 2005 as Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month. Further resolved, an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Robert W. Eady, President of the Delaware Valley Chapter of the National Parkinson Foundation, as evidence of our respect for him, the Council's work, and our sincere hope that the dream of prevention and cure will become a reality. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 31st day of March, 2005. Stated - 4/14/05 Signed by President Verna, introduced by Tasco and supported by all members of City Council. We thank you so much. (Applause.).
President Verna, members of Council, ladies and gentlemen, thank you very much for this honor. We are deeply touched. As indicated by the Councilwoman, we are the local chapter of the National Parkinson's Foundation. We operate in collaboration with our sister organization, the Movement Disorder Center, located at Pennsylvania Hospital Campus. And we are a chapter, as I said, of the National Parkinson's Foundation. And that center is a center of excellence. On behalf of our Council, we'd like to present to President Verna a memento of an upcoming walk this Saturday. It's a tee shirt with a pin for the National Parkinson's Stated - 4/14/05 Foundation. Thank you very much for your support. We appreciate it.
Council will be at ease. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke, who will present a resolution recognizing April as Community College Month in Philadelphia. Will Dr. Stephen M. Curtis and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. Councilman Clarke will be joined by Councilman Ramos. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. Recognizing April as Community College Month in Philadelphia. Whereas, community colleges have Stated - 4/14/05 been educating students in Pennsylvania since 1964, making 2005 the 40th anniversary year of the community college system. And whereas, Pennsylvania is home to 14 community colleges with a current total enrollment of more than 362,000 students that have educated more than 1,850,000 Pennsylvanians over the past 40 years, and;
Whereas, community colleges serve not only their communities, but beyond by providing students and residents access to the most convenient and cost effective educational opportunities available, as well as opening their campuses to embrace the communities they serve; and Whereas, Community College of Philadelphia is the largest institution of higher education in Philadelphia, and the sixth largest in Pennsylvania. And whereas, Community College of Philadelphia is an open admission, associate degree granting institution, which has provided access to higher education for more than 482,000 individuals since it began Stated - 4/14/05 operation. Whereas, Community College of Philadelphia offers more than 70 career and transfer programs in business, humanities, allied health, science and technology, and behavioral sciences, associate degree programs and certificate programs, and.
Whereas, Community College of Philadelphia draws students from a wide range of ages and backgrounds, and seeks to provide a coherent foundation from which they can achieve their goals; Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that the month of April be recognized as Community College Month in Philadelphia. And further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Community College of Philadelphia. Signed and supported by Council President Verna and all members of Council. (Applause.). Stated - 4/14/05
The Chair recognizes our well respected and well known Dr. Curtis for remarks.
Thank you, President Verna and members of City Council. On behalf of our Board Chair, Rhonda Cohen, those that are representing us today, administrators and a student, Stacy Gibbs, who is the President of our Student Government Association, and all of us associated with the college, we thank you for this resolution. This is our 40th anniversary. As Councilman Mariano and others know, there have been many citizens of this community that have been involved with the college over the years, starting on South 11th Street with a couple of thousand students, and now at four campus sites across the City, at more than 30 business school and community sites via the internet, over public television, we serve more than 40,000 different students every year. So, we will continue to strive to Stated - 4/14/05 provide the educational service and programs to our community. And we're very pleased to have had the support of City Council during these years. And we're very thankful today for the resolution. Our student, Stacy Gibbs, is typical of our students, a returning adult, who has not only become head of student government but is an honor student, and was recently honored as an all Pennsylvania academic scholar which is accompanied by full tuition support for her junior and senior year, as she moves forward toward her bachelors degree as well. That's one of thousands of stories out at Community College. And we thank you for recognizing this today. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the sergeant-at-arms deliver the messages from Stated - 4/14/05 the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
Thank you. Do you have any other communications in your possession?
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended in order to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second.
It has Stated - 4/14/05 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 indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution commending and congratulating the Mayo Association of Philadelphia on the occasion of their 100th anniversary. Stated - 4/14/05
Move the adoption. UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill on your behalf and one resolution on my own.
Thank you. Stated - 4/14/05 The Chief 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 Essington Avenue, 67th Street, the Delaware River and the Former Pennypack Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
and a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 6th and 60th wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Stated - 4/14/05 resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Stated - 4/14/05 Tasco.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I offer three resolutions. One is co-sponsored by Council members Rizzo and Blackwell.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A Resolution recognizing May 15th to the 21st as National Police Week.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Stated - 4/14/05 resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 11th ward of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. Stated - 4/14/05 (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 17th ward of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions. today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated - 4/14/05 DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia for the proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council proposing amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, relating to Council's power to adopt by ordinance standards for the organization of the Fire Department and the manner by which the Fire Department carries out its powers and duties.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, relating to Council's power to adopt by ordinance standards for the Stated - 4/14/05 organization of the Fire Department and the manner by which the Fire Department carries out its powers and duties, including the deployment of fire personnel and the duty of the Fire Commissioner, Managing Director and the Mayor to abide by such standards in managing and supervising the work of the Fire Department.
Again the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: This goes to committee.
I'm sorry. That is the resolution that accompanies the bill, so it will simply be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. Stated - 4/14/05
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 New Kensington Fishtown Urban Renewal Area.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted.
The Chair Stated - 4/14/05 recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The next order of business is reports from committees. And the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports out 23 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and Stated - 4/14/05 members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill Number 040851 entitled, an Ordinance permitting three traffic lanes on Walnut Street, between 40th Street and Cobbs Creek Parkway; and Bill Number 041044, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 299 by striking from the City Plan Domino Lane from Henry Avenue to Hagner Street; and Bill Number 041070, entitled, an Ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Refuse and Littering," by increasing the fines and penalties for the dumping of debris; and Bill Number 050017, entitled, an Ordinance granting permission to Bharat Patel, owner of the newsstand at the southwest corner of Broad Street and Arch Street for the purpose of supplying electrical service and telephone service to the newsstand; and Bill Number 050062, entitled, an Ordinance amending Section 2 of an Ordinance (Bill No. 020349) approved Stated - 4/14/05 September 6, 2002, entitled "An Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 242 by extending the period for compliance with the authorization conditions therein; and Bill Number 050067, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing Felix Penzarella, 618 S. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, owner of the property 618 S. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, to construct and maintain a rear building addition on Hancock Street, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill Number 050069, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing American Music Theater Festival T/A Prince Music Theater ("Prince Music Theater"), the owner of the property 1412 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 to relocate and maintain one statue, the Allow Me statue, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill Number 050070, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing Temple University, 1101 West Montgomery Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19122, to construct, own and maintain a building encroachment on the east footway of North Stated - 4/14/05 13th Street; and Bill Number 050108, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing the Legendary Blue Horizon ("Blue Horizon"), the owner of the property 1314 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19121 to maintain one statue, the "Spirit of Philadelphia Boxing" statue; and Bill Number 050131, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No.
231 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Pechin Street from Cinnaminson Street to Lemonte Street; and Bill Number 050134, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into an agreement with the owners of the properties and their successors at 925 through 927, South Second Street and Salter Street for drainage, sewer and water main purposes; and Bill Number 050135, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner on behalf of the City to enter into an agreement with the owner of a property and their successors of private Stated - 4/14/05 roadways located within the Independence Court Housing Development; and Bill Number 050136 entitled, an Ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code by providing that all permitted vendor locations on both sides of Twelfth Street between Arch Street and Chestnut Street shall be assigned only to vendors licensed to sell prepared food; and Bill Number 050137 entitled, an Ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code by providing that all permitted vendor locations on both sides of Eleventh Street between Arch Street and Chestnut Street shall be assigned only to vendors licensed to sell prepared food; and Bill Number 050138, entitled, an Ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code by providing that all permitted vendor locations on both sides of Eighth Street and Ninth Street between Arch Street and Market Street shall be assigned only to vendors licensed to sell prepared food; and Bill Number 050140, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing Vincent and Barbara Termini, Stated - 4/14/05 owners of the property Mr. Joe Cafe, to construct, own and maintain pedestrian scale light poles; and Bill Number 050141, entitled, an Ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code by prohibiting vending on both sides of 8th Street, from Chestnut Street to Walnut Street and by permitting vending on both sides of 8th Street, from Market Street to Chestnut Street; and Bill Number 050142, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 120 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Carlisle Street from Oxford Street to Cecil B. K. Boulevard, to construct, use and Stated - 4/14/05 maintain an electrical conduit with a electrical service line; and Bill Number 050200, entitled, an Ordinance granting permission to Popi's Enterprises, Ltd. located at 3120 - 3132 South 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145, to construct, use and maintain a building encroachment; and Bill Number 050205, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into an agreement with the owners of the properties and their successors at 3101 through 3131 West Thompson Street for the grant of a right-of-way for water main purposes, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day Stated - 4/14/05 of the 23 bills that have just been read into the record.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on today's first reading calendar. The next order of business is consideration of the calendar. And I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the bills on the first reading calendar.
Bill Number 040851 entitled, an Ordinance permitting three Stated - 4/14/05 traffic lanes on Walnut Street, between 40th Street and Cobbs Creek Parkway.
And Bill Number 041044, entitled, an Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 299 by striking from the City Plan Domino Lane from Henry Avenue to Hagner Street.
And Bill Number 041070, entitled, an Ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Refuse and Littering," by increasing the fines and penalties for the dumping of debris.
And Bill Number 050017, entitled, an Ordinance granting permission to Bharat Patel, owner of the newsstand at the southwest corner of Broad Stated - 4/14/05 Street and Arch Street.
And Bill Number 050062, an Ordinance amending Section 2 of an Ordinance (Bill No. 020349) approved September 6, 2002, by extending the period for compliance of the authorization conditions therein.
And Bill Number 050067, an Ordinance authorizing Felix Penzarella, owner of the property 618 S. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, to construct and maintain a rear building addition on Hancock Street.
Bill Number 050069, an Ordinance authorizing American Music Theater Festival T/A Prince Music Theater, the owner of the property 1412 Chestnut Street, to relocate and maintain one statue, the Allow Stated - 4/14/05 Me statue.
And Bill Number 050070, an Ordinance authorizing Temple University, 1101 West Montgomery Avenue, to construct, own and maintain a building encroachment on the east footway of North 13th Street.
And Bill Number 050108, an Ordinance authorizing the Legendary Blue Horizon, the owner of the property 1314 North Broad Street, to maintain one statue, the "Spirit of Philadelphia Boxing" statue.
And Bill Number 050131, an Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 231 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Pechin Stated - 4/14/05 Street.
And Bill Number 050134 an Ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into an agreement with the owners of the properties and their successors at 925 through 927, South Second Street and Salter Street for drainage, sewer and water main purposes;
And Bill Number 050135, an Ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner on behalf of the City to enter into an agreement with the owner of a property and their successors of private roadways located within the Independence Court Housing Development.
And Bill Number 050136 an Ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Stated - 4/14/05 Philadelphia Code by providing that all permitted vendor locations on both sides of Twelfth Street.
And Bill Number 050137, an Ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code by providing that all permitted vendor locations on both sides of Eleventh Street.
And Bill Number 050138, an Ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code by providing that all permitted vendor locations on both sides of Eighth Street and Ninth Street.
And Bill Number, an Ordinance authorizing Vincent and Barbara Termini, owners of the property Mr. Joe Cafe, to construct, own and maintain pedestrian scale light poles. Stated - 4/14/05
And Bill Number 050141, entitled, an Ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code by prohibiting vending on both sides of 8th Street, from Chestnut Street to Walnut Street.
And Bill Number 050142 an Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 120 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Carlisle Street from Oxford Street to Cecil B. Moore Avenue.
And Bill Number 050143, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance Bill Number 020740 approved January 23, 2002, by extending the time for compliance with the conditions stated therein. Stated - 4/14/05
And Bill Number 050163, an ordinance authorizing Thomas Jefferson University Hospital to construct and maintain a pedestrian bridge over and across 10th Street.
And Bill Number 050167, an Ordinance granting permission to Rajedra Kothari, owner of the newsstand at the southeast corner of 17th Street and J.F.K. Boulevard, for the purpose of supplying electrical service.
And Bill Number 050200, an Ordinance granting permission to Popi's, to construct, use and maintain a building encroachment.
And Bill Number Stated - 4/14/05 050205, an Ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with the owners of the property and their successors at 3101 through 3131 West Thompson Street for the grant of a right-of-way for water main purposes.
The Chair agrees. That completes the first reading calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up the bills on the second reading and final passage calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill Numbers 050214, 041080, 041082, 041083, 84, 85, 050061, 050066, 050105, 106, and 050132 is to be amended. All other bills are being held.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chief Clerk will please read the Stated - 4/14/05 title of Bill Number 050214.
An ordinance constituting the sixth supplemental ordinance to the amended and restated general airport revenue bond ordinance, authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller and the City Solicitor or a majority of them to issue airport revenue bonds of the City of Philadelphia in a maximum aggregate principal amount not to exceed $230 million.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: I had my light on. I wish to make a brief statement on this bill.
Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't see your light on, and your name's not coming up on the board here. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. Last week I joined Council members Nutter, O'Neill and Kelly in promising to vote against this bill. While I do not question the need of the airport project, I still question the process of how this deal was put together. Therefore, I will continue to oppose this bill, and encourage my colleagues to do the same. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated - 4/14/05 Kelly.
Thank you, Madam President. I, too, like my colleague, Councilman DiCICCO... I don't feel comfortable with this bill, since we don't have any guidelines to go with. Had we passed an ethics bill, I think I'd be much more comfortable in looking at this bill. And looking the way it was put out for bid, and a lot of other things, it's not as transparent as I'd like. So, therefore, I am voting no, against this bill this morning. Thank you.
Thank you. I would suggest that the Chief Clerk start the vote again, please, by calling Councilwoman Blackwell. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
I'd like permission to leave the chamber. And I want to be recorded as voting aye on all bills or resolutions in my absence and also aye on the amendment.
Leave will be granted. The vote was nine to five on Bill Number 050214, and the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will now read the Stated - 4/14/05 title of Bill Number 041080.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for nominal consideration a deed located at the intersection of Wheatsheaf Lane and Sepviva Street for further conveyance at the fair market value.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye. Stated - 4/14/05
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the Stated - 4/14/05 affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 041082.
An Ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located 837 to 39 Montrose Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye. Stated - 4/14/05
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the Stated - 4/14/05 affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill Number 041083.
An Ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located 626 to 36 North Delaware Avenue.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. Stated - 4/14/05 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. Stated - 4/14/05 A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill Number 041084.
An Ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for nominal consideration a deed between the City of Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development and the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 041085.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located 1002 to 1010 Lemon Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill Number 050061.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located 3300 to 3322 North Front Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 050066.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located 1826 to 34 South 10th street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 050105.
An Ordinance, approving a lease agreement between Philadelphia Gas Works and the Greater Germantown Housing Development Corporation for certain premises located 212 to 14 West Chelten 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 roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill Number 050106.
An Ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a sublease agreement to lease from the Philadelphia Municipal Authority portions of the building located 701 Market Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the Stated - 4/14/05 roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Last bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 050132.
An Ordinance, authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to acquire by condemnation an easement through 3111 West Allegheny Avenue.
Madam President, on behalf of Councilman Nutter, Stated - 4/14/05 I'd offer an amendment which appears on . It's a technical amendment to this bill. The bottom of . It has been circulated, so I offer the amendment for adoption.
I move for the adoption of the amendment. UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second.
It has been moved and seconded that the amendments be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the amendments have been adopted. That concludes our calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of Stated - 4/14/05 the minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Yes. Thank you, Madam President. I would just like to follow up on my presentation of yesterday regarding our libraries. I'd like to speak to you about a plan I've developed with Larry Weiss. He's a successful businessman and strong supporter of our libraries. I'm sure most of us know the financial crisis our library is in, mainly due to the cuts in revenue from the state, and of course the projected loss of revenue from the City of Philadelphia this year. The loss of revenue totals approximately four and a half million dollars which has forced our library to plan on laying off librarians, reducing their work force, and curtailing the hours of at least 20 library branches. If we're not successful in restoring the much needed revenue, we must look for Stated - 4/14/05 other ways to help our libraries. One way would be to increase the participation of our volunteers. They are a much under-used asset of our library system. And we have a plan which, if adopted, could save us as much as one and a half million dollars, eliminating much of the drastic action which has been proposed. Now, if you remember, in 1992 our present Governor, and then Mayor Rendell did the same thing in 1992. And if you also remember, in 1992 we were in much worse position than we are today. We were almost facing bankruptcy. And what he did was to use volunteers which enabled the libraries to open the way they should be open. And now, this is a business-like plan which, frankly, is using our present resources much more efficiently. Now, I know that according to the testimony and Mr. Shelkrot and his administrators, that they have mentioned that there was 450 emergency closings in our Stated - 4/14/05 library system. This to me is not acceptable. Now, what they said the present procedure was, if someone was called in or did not make it to the library that day, one of the staff, they would close it. This to me is very, very frustrating, especially to many of the people who use those libraries, the regional and the branch libraries. You may have senior citizens that may trudge blocks to get to a library, to find it closed. You may have mothers dressing their children, putting them in the car, running over to the library, to find it's closed. It's more of a pot luck type of thing whether they're opened or not. And this to me is not the way to run a library system. We have to be more business-like. In fact, if anyone in this building... Is there anyone here that ever heard or ever saw a Wa-Wa closing because one of their employees did not make it that day? Stated - 4/14/05 Or perhaps a manager went on vacation and they closed the store for a week? No, that never happened. Because they have a backup system. And that's what we want to do. We want to have a backup system for our libraries which enables them to open and open the times they're scheduled to open. Now, even if we're successful in restoring the additional revenue from the state and the City, the savings generated by our plan would be used -- would be used to open our libraries own longer hours or to employ additional staff or to reduce the rate of fines to their previous levels. And one other thing I would like to mention. And I would like to -- I would like to go back to what my colleague Frank DiCicco, Councilman DiCicco mentioned a week or so ago. And that is that I don't think we should entertain the thought of raising and spending or borrowing $30 million for the expansion of our main library at the expense Stated - 4/14/05 of our regional and branch libraries. This is something I don't think we should do. It's just not in a step in the right direction, in my opinion. Finally, I'll be sending you, Madam President, and all of my colleagues in Council a more detailed description of our plan. And I know I would like to work with Mr. Shelkrot and his administrators. I think I find them...
that they're very intelligent, dedicated and experienced professionals, that I think can work out and they can accept most, if not all, of this plan, which will enable them to run their system much more efficiently than what they have been. So, I look forward to working with them. And I hope that we can get our libraries back to where they were. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated - 4/14/05 Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I would like to welcome Sergeant First Class Carlos Riera and his wife Wanda who have joined us today in City Council. I would ask them to please stand up.
Mr. Riera has served in the United States Army for 15 years on active duty and 14 years in the National Guard. He is currently a platoon sergeant for the 131st Transportation Company of Philadelphia. The platoon was stationed in Kuwait and Iraq from February 2003 to March 2004. During that time he led a group of 40 soldiers who transported medical supplies, food, gas and ammunition to the front lines of the Iraq War. Sergeant, we are very proud of you. Stated - 4/14/05 (Applause.)
Thank you, councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. I wanted to offer congratulations to the 24 brave families of Osage Street. I think that they have won a victory that's going to spark a national change in how people think about the rights of citizens against what are called City Halls. In Philadelphia it is a City Hall. In other places it may be called something else. But here are people who fought almost 20 years. Next month will be 20 years from the date that the City first committed wrong against them. 32 of their companions were unable to participate in the fight, for reasons that always affect individuals in the community, but 24 families held out for nearly 20 years. Stated - 4/14/05 Next month would make it exactly 20 years. And they fought. And they heard everybody say, you can't fight against City Hall; Mayor Street is all powerful. Maybe the other mayors were powerful, too, but he is invincible; nobody can do anything. Well, this jury talked. And this jury talked to the people of America and said, it's time to end the horrible bureaucracy which has pitted government against ordinary citizens. This jury did things that no jury, to my knowledge, has ever done before. Whether it will stand up in court or appeal, if an appeal follows, I have no way of knowing. But think of this: Imagine one count of an indictment saying, we think that the Mayor -- Mayor Street was named directly in this -- was guilty for arbitrary treatment of the rights of homeowners; and we value that loss to the homeowners at being one point two-thirds of a million dollars [sic]. That's talking plain language. People Stated - 4/14/05 understand money, if they don't understand rights. Or against Mayor Street by himself for malicious disregard of the right of homeowners. Every homeowner ought to rejoice. We've had Rosemary Cubas, the Latino community, come here many times and talk about how the City callously disregards the rights of homeowners: Suddenly sends them notices saying, we're going to take your property. That's what Mayor Street said to these people three years ago. He said, take my offer. I'll give you $150,000 for your homes. We're going to take your home away from you. You've got to move. These people have been subjected to all kinds of threats in the past. And they turned it down. The jury decided that the people should keep their homes; and in addition, each of them will get money damages of more than a half million. And that is money that was caused by the total arbitrary actions of Stated - 4/14/05 this City administration in denying humane treatment to the people. Now, I think you're going to see throughout the country a nationwide reaction to this, because governments have taken on too much the color and view of businesses which are known for disregarding the rights of ordinary people. It's time that the people spoke out. And this jury in the Philadelphia area spoke out clearly, convincingly, and did it in a way which produces results. Years ago when we used to fight police brutality, everybody oohed and ahhed at the terrible tales that people told about that question, but nothing ever happened, until the day came when juries began awarding damages to people who complained about police treatment. And suddenly things changed because it turns out that governments are like businesses. If you hit them in the pocketbook, they begin to react because the verdicts begin to cause budgetary problems. Stated - 4/14/05 And so, I see this as a great step forward in the rightful treatment of ordinary citizens. And I must say to the people who in my judgment have been so badly treated in the area around 20th and Olney, that you've gone 15 or 16 months. You may have a long way to go, but victory will be won as long as people continue to fight for what's right. So, once more, congratulations to Osage Avenue. Thank you. (Applause.)
Are there any other speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 10:00 a.m.
Do I hear Stated - 4/14/05 a second? UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second.
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, April 21st at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. Thank you very much. (Hearing concluded at 11:15 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings and evidence are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the public hearing of The Philadelphia City Council, taken on April 14, 2005, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. _____________________________ DAVID A. DEIK, RPR and Commissioner of Deeds (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)