Mar -- Margaret Mead once said that never doubt that a group of thoughtful and committed citizens could change the world. Young citizens indeed, that's the only thing that ever has. Give our young people another round of applause. (Applause.)
We will now consider bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 241144.
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1212 South 17th Street; 1317 and 1511 South 20th Street; 1904 South 23rd Street; 1216 South 31st Street; 1911 Gerritt Street; 1932 and 2044 Titan Street located in the 2nd Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion regarding Resolution No. 241144.
Thank you, Mr. President. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 241144 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250022.
A resolution also naming North 10th 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Street between Oxford Street and Master Street as "Paula Peebles Way."
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250022.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250022 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it, the motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250054.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 719 South 51st Street, 1124 South 56th Street and 1218 North 41st Street in the 3rd Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250054.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250054 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it, the motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250058.
A resolution declaring 2025 as the Year of Cooperatives in Philadelphia and calling on the City of Philadelphia to explore all options to support the development and resilience of local cooperative businesses.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250058 -the Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
I move for the adoption of the 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250058 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. The resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
The Clerk will please read any additional resolutions on today's Calendar.
A 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution recognizing February 2025 as Career and Technical Education Month in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.
The Chair recognizes my Majority Leader, Councilmember Kathy Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of all of our CTE students across the city of Philadelphia, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor of 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution commending the collaborative efforts of students against period poverty and the Philadelphia Youth Commission to expand awareness and access to menstrual health products, and affirming that Council will work to ensure equitable and easy access to menstrual health products within the City's public schools. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.
The Chair recognizes my Majority Whip Councilmember Thomas for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. You got to love the energy of the young people. We want to thank them for being here. I enthusiastically move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution honoring the life and legacy of Tyler Sabapathy, a beloved Temple student. Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas for a motion on the resolution.
Council President, before we take a vote on this resolution I just want to in the spirit of the young man who lost his life remind people after we win the Super Bowl this weekend, to be safe, to celebrate 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING safe and to put yourself in a position to not hurt yourself as well as other Philadelphia. So with that being said, in memory of the young man who lost his life a little while ago I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Thank you, Councilmember Thomas. Will the Clerk please 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution honoring and recognizing places of importance in Philadelphia's Black history during Black History Month for their contributions to the community and efforts in preserving history. Introduced by Councilmember Jones.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from the 4th Councilmanic District, Councilmember Curtis Jones.
Thank you so much. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Joint Committees on Children and Youth and Education to review the Parent University 2.0 website. Introduced by Councilmember Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING On behalf of all parents, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution is adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution thanking the Philadelphia Museum of Art for 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING presenting The Time is Always Now: Artists Reframe the Black Figure, an impactful exhibit that honors and celebrates the rich contributions of the Black and African diasporic experience. Introduced by Councilmember Jones on behalf of Council President Johnson.
Thank you everyone for joining me for the exhibit last evening. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones for a motion on the resolution.
On your behalf, Mr. President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is -- can we do that again? All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution recognizing and celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Philadelphia's Fashion Week for its significant contribution to the enrichment of the City's fashion community and the advancement of the creative economy. Introduced by Councilmember Lozada.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution recognizing and honoring Robert Faulds for His Exceptional Service to the United States Navy and to the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Lozada.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion on the resolution. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution recognizing and 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING celebrating the Washerwoman Strike of 1881, a Black women-led worker movement fighting for better wages, dignity and labor protections on the occasion of Black History Month. Introduced by Councilmember Brooks.
The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Brooks for a motion on the resolution.
Council President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been enthusiastically seconded. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Those opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
Let's go. That's what's up, y'all. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution recognizing and honoring the Philadelphia Community Outreach Committee, PCOC, for their dedication to public safety and community revitalization. Introduced by Councilmember Harrity.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
You going to make me laugh, right. I see you. You gritting on me hard, Council President.
I know. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution honoring and congratulating the St. Joseph's Preparatory High School football team for their success in winning the PIAA 6A state championship. Introduced by Councilmember O'Neill.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Neill for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I very enthusiastically move the adoption of the resolution on behalf of myself and Councilman Young. 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted, and the motion actually passes -- the resolution passes. Would the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution recognizing the month of February 2025 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Month. Introduced by Councilmember Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution honoring the work of the Pan-African Sisterhood Health Initiative, P.A.S.H.I., artisans, volunteers, students and supporters of P.A.S.H.I. for their selfless contributions and commitment to both local and international communities. Introduced by Councilmember Bass.
Would the Clerk please read the -- the Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) 2/6/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title -(Applause.)
Council President, there are no further resolutions in my possession.
That completes our Calendar for today. into speeches of the Minority and speeches of the Majority, we do have a special guest that will give us enthusiastic words of victory. And so, I'll ask for today if you could be brief in your remarks. And so, with that being said any speeches on behalf of the Minority. The Chair recognizes the gentle lady who is the Minority Leader, Councilwoman Kendra Brooks.
Thank you so much, Council President. I introduced the pro-worker legislation called the POWER Act today. And as we heard from several workers, this bill is a pivotal next step in a long history of protecting workers' rights, going all the way back to 1881. My resolutions today are the first in a series that I will be introducing during Black and Women's History Month honoring changemakers. Despite all the progress that we have made, Black and Brown women are still underpaid and face higher rates of retaliation at work, and that's unacceptable. And today I'm doing something about it. Women of color are the majority of service sector and domestic workers in our city, and they have told us loud and clear that we need to update our labor laws to strengthen enforcement, prevent retaliation and make our Department of Labor as strong as possible. And this will be incredibly important. We saw this week with Labor is a target of Trump's administration. And under Trump's anti-worker, anti-immigrant agenda, these domestic workers face even greater risk of retaliation and abuse by employers. Our city will not sit by and do nothing. That is why we are leading on this issue. We must use our power locally to stand with these workers and establish the necessary tools, legal tools, to enforce their rights. And I want to thank my partners in this work. More than 20 labor unions and worker organizations collaborated with my office to craft this legislation, including the National Domestic Workers Alliance, Philly Black Worker Project, the Philadelphia AFL-CIO, SEIU Health Care PA, Community Legal Services, of PA, Juntos and others. And I also want to thank my colleagues. First, Councilmember Harrity for helping us get this through, and all my other colleagues that signed on to this. Harrity and Squilla being the first two Councilmembers to sign on, and I appreciate that. And I want to thank Councilmembers O'Rourke, Gauthier, Landau for also jumping on early. In the coming weeks, I will be hosting a briefing with labor leaders and legal experts to share my why Philadelphia needs the POWER Act, so please look out for the information from my office and more to come. And the last thing I want to say is when I first came into Council, you know, me that I said, I didn't come here to make friends. I came here to make a difference. And in that same energy today thank you, Councilmember Young, for allowing me to do a street naming for Paula Peebles, who was one of my sheroes. (Applause.)
Another woman from North Philly that's unapologetically fighting for her community, fighting for her neighbors. And one of my first resolutions for Black History Month that I am committed to only honoring Black women, and is unapologetic about that because we paved the way for every other society to exist, I introduced a resolution honoring Ms. Peebles and she took very ill and was unable to resolution. And shortly after, she passed away. And I have been committed to making this happen and getting it over the line. So thank you so much, Councilmember Young, for making this happen for me and for the Peebles family and other Black women in North Philadelphia that are unapologetic who they are and unapologetic for fighting for their communities. And one of my last thoughts is I was on Instagram yesterday and a young man came and said that his mom told him -- he was a non-Black man -- his mom told him if you're ever in trouble and you're in a room with a bunch of people, find you a Black woman because she's going to help you. On that same note, as Black women we have to help each other and be and fighting for the things that are right for us. So in that spirit thank you so much, colleagues, for helping me honor Black History Month. Regardless what the President says, Black History Month is 365 to me and I'm going to continue to fight for my people. Thank you, Council President. (Applause.)
Thank you, Councilmember Brooks. Very well said. (Applause.)
Don't want no smoke from the Black woman. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.
Thank you to our guests and Council today who I believe to be working towards an incredible goal, as I lifted up earlier, putting cooperation front and center in our economic life again. Cooperation has to be as encouraged in our culture on a regular basis with as much vigor and assumption and faith as when we praise competition. As we celebrate the contributions of worker co-operatives and their role in fostering economic democracy, it's equally important to ensure that all workers, whether in co-ops, unions or workplaces, are protected from exploitation and retaliation. years of relentless organizing and struggle just to secure the basic dignity that every worker deserves. So I'm thankful for my Minority Leader Kendra Brooks' leadership and for a commitment to serving the working class folk in Philadelphia. I am honored to not only stand by and support her but also to call her my leader, and I want to invoke at this moment the name of my grandmother who also was a domestic that raised me and other rich kids in the city of Indianapolis, Dorothy McCain, for the work that she did also helping raising up folks. Protecting workers' rights requires not only strong labor laws but also government investments in public goods that support working families. Governor opportunity to advance these priorities, particularly in public education. So I want to just say that I'm grateful that Governor Shapiro's budget prioritized investments in public education while leaving out taxpayer-funded private school vouchers that myself, Leader Brooks as well as Councilwoman Gauthier, I think among others, protested last year even with using Jay-Z as one to try to get those vouchers in there. I like Jay-Z. He's a good brother and all that, but I don't like him that much. We have to ensure that resources go towards strengthening our public schools and supporting students, teachers and families. And I'll just say in conclusion, also going to state the increasingly nonsensical to see how much money the Commonwealth is missing out on over a seemingly protest resistance to legalization of marijuana. Grateful to the Governor for talking about this commonsense need for us in the Commonwealth for all the resources that we can get. Seems like half the union has already legalized it in every state surrounding the Commonwealth. We would do well to follow his lead, take this mantle up and get the job done. That having been said, Go Birds. (Applause.)
Go Birds. Speeches on behalf of the Majority. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from the Northeast,
Well, thank you, Council President and Council colleagues for the opportunity to say a few words this morning in response to the tragedy our Northeast community faced six days ago. It seems a lot longer. Our hearts are heavy for the individuals and families affected by the plane crash. While T.V. cameras and social media posts captured the unimaginable scene that was viewed around the world, I want to commend the first responders who immediately rushed into the chaos to help those that were directly impacted. I truly believe, having witnessed it firsthand, that the number of injuries and fatalities were kept down. It could have been a lot And, Council President, I want to thank you because you were on the phone that very evening with me. Leader Richardson, you were on the phone and my colleagues. There wasn't anybody that I served with here that wasn't reaching out to me, either that night or into the next couple days. So many people stepped up. This is when leadership and compassion and care is most needed. And I must highlight Mayor Parker. Mayor Cherelle Parker was on the scene leading us from day one. Mayor Parker, Northeast Philadelphia and all Philadelphians are grateful for your leadership. Governor Shapiro was there that night, the next day and on Monday, and he hasn't stopped communicating with us ever since. came in from Washington to provide assurances that whatever the federal government could do, the resources would be here. The National Transportation Safety Board were on the scene. They did not give up until they found that black box on Sunday night, and we hope to learn some valuable information when that is deciphered. The Senators and Congressmen that reached out to us and provided their support, the State Senators and State Representatives that all represent areas of Northeast Philadelphia were on the scene and continue to tell us that they'll work with Governor Shapiro to get whatever resources we need for that community. Department, my God, there were hundreds of them combing the area making sure that it didn't get worse as well as our firefighters. I mean, they were -- if you saw it on the news or I can't tell you how many spot fires there were all over this four-to-six-block area, and I mean four-to-six-block area. This was devastating. The Office of Emergency Management always there in times of crisis. I saw Dominic Morales and I just said to him, we don't want to keep meeting like this. Several of these things have happened. I had the I-95 collapse in my District, but this was unimaginable. The Managing Director's Office, Adam Thiel, he was excellent, the City departments, Streets, L&I, Human Services, the Philadelphia School District. The local businesses, charitable organizations stepped right up, and the Northeast residents all came together to show that Northeast Philadelphia and Philadelphia is strong, compassionate and the city of brotherly love. And I have to highlight my Chief of Staff, Tom Forkin, and my staff. (Applause.)
Mr. President, that phone call came in right after 6 o'clock. Tom left his family, went right to my office, made a command central because we were trying to calm folks down. When things like this happen, you don't know if it's terrorism. You don't know what it is. And so, we wanted to make sure that when they were calling our providing accurate, truthful information and not rushing to any kind of judgment. So I can't thank my staff enough. And I just want to -- if you could all join in thanking the individuals, the agencies, the businesses, the organizations for their efforts in reminding us that Philadelphia is the greatest city in the world. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Member Driscoll, we thank you for your leadership and leading your District under such difficult times. And so, again on behalf of this body and the City of Philadelphia, we applaud you for your leadership and leading your (Applause.)
I just want to say thank you, Member Driscoll. That was really touching. This past Friday, Northeast Philadelphia went through a lot, and all of us felt it across the city of Philadelphia. And I also want to commend our administration responding very decently to the matter. And it's been a lot for all of us, particularly myself. I have a big fear of heights and also planes. And so, I mean the trauma that a lot of people are going through right now is a lot. And so, I just wanted us to really recognize that there are lives that as a result of this. And as leaders in our city, we want to be there for them. So I also just want to, on a lighter note, I want to say, Go Eagles. We're excited about our Birds and we're excited for them for Sunday, and we pray for the best for them. And then next, I just wanted to briefly state while I commend the young men of the school that exists on Girard Avenue for their athletic accomplishment, I cannot publicly support that school because I'm a proud graduate of La Salle College High School. Now, while I understand they authored a bill, Councilmember O'Neill, you know, reasons why he felt compelled to acknowledge them is because, La Salle College High top-tier school that every now and then we have to make the school, that school on Girard feel good. And so, I'm just very happy that all of Council made that school on Girard feel very good. So go La Salle College High School, cheerio.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Northeast Philadelphia, Councilmember O'Neill.
I can understand the frustration of a La Salle graduate not signing a resolution. What I can't understand is voting against it. That a whole new low for City Council. I have gone up there and presented with the Council, La Salle College High School, the thing, many times. Never thought about voting against it, even though I was wishing it was my school up there and not La Salle. It gets worse. I went to St. Joe's University as well. We hated no one more than Villanova. Do you know how many times I've been up there with national champion Villanova as enthusiastic as anyone in this city, let alone this Council. It's something Councilman Phillips will learn that we do, that we do, and you just kind of eat the fact that you wish it was your school, but you don't let anyone know it. Thank you, Mr. President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from the 4th Councilmanic District, the honorable Councilmember Curtis Jones.
I'm staying out of that rivalry. I just want to rise to applaud the work that was done today, whether it is resolutions or introduction of bills. We are as a body preparing for the storm from Washington to come. And I'm very proud of the work. One of the things that was introduced was a resolution by myself talking about a tool on the tool belt to deal with that storm that is coming and, that is, Parent University 2.0 online. About a year ago my colleagues came down to the High School of the Future, spent the day with us looking at the different resources that are available to parents, because there is no instruction manual that comes parent. You either had it in your life or you need to figure it out as you go, but that one-day experience was not enough. So what we did, thanks to you and the support of my colleagues, we are now ready to launch a year-round online presence with all of those resources available, such as BenePhilly when a person comes in to apply for one opportunity, they should find out instantly what other things they are qualified. If you're coming in for child care, you should know about LIHEAP. You should be able to do that in one setting, Parent University. When you, to my colleagues, Member Bass who always talks about what do you do when the shooter lives with you, those issues are on there. How to deal is misguided, you go in the basement, you toss the mattress on Friday and you find a pack of money and a 9-millimeter handgun and you know that boy don't even have a job at a paper route, what does a parent do. So this tool -- and it was inspired in part by our mayor, Mayor Parker, who I was on a leadership call with the Mayor, as a single parent she said, I don't know what is in my zip code to send my child to. You as a parent, you need to know what those young men are eligible for and can be a part of. This tool will empower parents from around the city to be able to know those things, school programs, DHS programs, all kinds of recreational opportunities for our parents to raise our babies. that, Go Birds. (Applause.)
Go Birds. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I just want to take this moment following my colleague Councilmember O'Neill to speak about unity and to really speak about the power of sports to unite us in a divisive political climate. Sports has a unique power to bring people together as we get ready to celebrate and watch our game this Sunday. And we will be doing this regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or political beliefs. When we come together to cheer our teams, we put aside differences and share in a experience, one of pride, fashion and community. As we approach the Super Bowl this Sunday, we see two teams from different regions, different cultures but the same goal, excellence. The Philadelphia Eagles represents the heart and resilience of our city reminding us that teamwork, perseverance and unity lead to success. In our current political climate where some are working to disenfranchise and divide us, we must hold on to what unites us. Just as we stand sideby-side in stadiums and living rooms to cheer for the Eagles, we must stand together in our communities to defend our rights and our democracy. The teamwork, resilience and unity we celebrate in sports our fight for justice and equity. Just as athletes to train, strategize and execute to win, we must organize, vote and advocate to ensure our voices are heard. If we can come together for our teams, we can certainly come together for our future. Whether you're an Eagles fan or just in it for commercials and halftime shows, we all crave moments of connection and shared joy. This joy and unity is what carries us forward beyond the game, beyond the political cycle and into a stronger, more inclusive city. Enjoy the Super Bowl. And remember, the real work happens off the field. Stay engaged, stay informed and stay active in your community. Together we can ensure that unity, justice and progress the field. Go Birds. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Kensington, my good friend and Chiefs fan Councilmember Jim Harrity. (Boo.)
Thank you, Member Harrity, because we know you can go you, sir.
I will be rooting for a good game so I don't have to hear you guys cry too much on Monday. But regardless of that, today I rise to speak on how happy I am that my colleague decided to take up the issue of domestic workers, Kendra Brooks, our Minority Leader. It just proves to you that no matter what party we are, we do come together here in this body when it's important. I'd like to thank all co-sponsors of the legislation, Councilman O'Rourke, Councilman Squilla, Councilwoman Cindy Bass, Councilwoman Nina Ahmad, Jeffrey Young, Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada, Rue Landau, Councilman Jones, Councilwoman Gauthier, Councilman Phillips and myself, this is just mean, for me it's easy. I'm a union guy. I believe that everyone deserves to have the power of a union behind them. (Applause.)
But that being said, if you're not a union member, that's okay because I'm going to fight for your rights also. This bill does nothing but give these people the dignity and just the benefits that every other employed person in the city of Philadelphia has. It's just amazing to me that in this day and age that we actually have to put a bill in to tell people to do the right thing, so I'm proud. I mean, when I first got here, I met the domestic workers and I promised them that when their time came, I would be with them. so proud of this body. I mean, we come together on so many different issues and don't let our differences get in the way when it comes to something important. And this right here is something important. These people deserve a dignified way of life. They are caretakers. They only had that term during COVID of essential workers. I could imagine that the kids and families that are being taken care of by these domestic workers feel that they are essential, because they're essential for them to be able to continue the way of life that they are living now. So I believe that now's the time. I'm glad we're standing up for this, and let's give these people the same rights as everybody else. It's simple. (Applause.)
Very well said, Member Harrity. You better not give him no cupcake. That can go to someone else. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. We're going to forgive him. We're going to forgive him. But I want to start off by just saying that hate has no place in the city and hate certainly has no place in this chamber. And so, if you are uncomfortable with someone speaking a language that you don't understand, suck it up. Suck it up. I want to recognize Lopez, the Sergeant-at-Arms, who difficult job in this chamber. (Standing ovation.)
Today I also recognize one of our residents in the 7th Council District, grew up in Kensington, is now living in with Wissinoming. Mr. Robert Faulds is a veteran who is 92 years old, 92 years old. And with no staff, with no resources, he has single-handedly informed 1500 families of unclaimed assets and money-savings tax programs like Homestead, covered all the costs himself. I'm sure that many of you have read his story in The Philadelphia Inquirer, but I thought it was important to not only saved residents money, he's also saved the City of Philadelphia $11.4 million, and he is an example of the impact that one person can make in our city. So thank you all for signing onto the resolution to honor Mr. Faulds while he is still alive and while we can still show him our gratitude. I'd also like to thank each one of you who signed Council President's letter and the resource guide that my office put together. I'd like to thank my staff for putting it together. There's a copy on each one of your desks. There's a version that can be downloaded for you all to share with your constituents. The guide includes a fact sheet that covers people's rights, recommends organizations that they can reach checklist that would help people develop a plan and stay prepared. Thank you for signing on. Thank you for your support and thank you for your trust. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass from Northwest Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I also wanted to, you know, my colleague Quetcy Lozada is so modest and I didn't know if she was going to mention this fantastic work, this action guide that her office put together. And as I was sitting here reading it, I just thought this is absolutely fantastic information. So, Councilwoman, I don't want to overload your office, but everybody listening, everyone who knows someone, everyone who's interested in this issue, should be contacting Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada's office around this issue. And I thank her because sometimes, you know, there's a lot of distractions out here. I thank you for making sure that this work got done and that you are out here touching the community on this very important issue right now. So kudos to you and your office and your staff. Thank you. I also wanted to acknowledge my colleague Councilman both he and Councilwoman Lozada are just such class acts. Councilman Driscoll being on the scene when the plane crashed, that is no surprise. That is no surprise to any of us who know you, who know your work ethic, who know how much you care about your community. And so, we salute you as well, as well as our first responders and everyone who really was on the scene. I actually was out of town. You know, Mr. President, I've been here for 13 years and I've missed two Council sessions in 13 years. And it feels like it's just been a whirlwind since our last Council session with all the things that have been happening. But when I saw it on the news, I just was in shock and reached out to the Councilmember and asked, do, how can I help. But he was already, you know, he had -
-under control. So we just say thank you so much for all of your hard work. Thank you, Councilman.
Two things really quickly. I just wanted to mention quickly, Mr. President, regarding P.A.S.H.I. who came today, who's doing an outstanding job on the issue of period poverty. I want to thank them for making these very important products. Let me hold them up. Very important products available, not just here in Philadelphia but really around the world because we know that if women quality materials, they will use whatever they have at their disposal, whether it's safe, whether it's hygienic, no matter what it is, to be able to address this very important health situation. And so, we want to thank them for joining City Council and making sure that period poverty is not something that's just swept under the rug and not addressed. We passed a bill in this chamber, my office did in 2021, making period products available in our rec centers, in our libraries, in our city facilities and buildings. And so, that was something we did here in 2021 and State Representative Dorisha Parker, my partner in the Northwest and all things good, passed a bill in 2024 in the Commonwealth, in the same things. And so, we want to just thank all of those who have been paying attention to this very important issue. And the last thing I just wanted to mention briefly was around Teen Dating Violence Awareness. And today I introduced a resolution recognizing and naming February 11, 2025 as Wear Orange Day in Philadelphia. Teen dating violence is a serious problem and it can be physical, it can be emotional and it can even be digital. As the mother of a teenage girl, I know how important it is to be available to support them through difficult times and situations while they learn to navigate the world around them. And I want all of us to think about lives and remember the pervasive impact of teen dating violence. I hope that this helps you to be available for those teens if they need to talk about a difficult relationship, and also that we support one another during these very trying times. And thank you to the Office of Youth Engagement for providing education and resources related to this very, very, very important issue. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you, Council President. I want to start by my colleague Quetcy Lozada. This is language -we have a great set of laws in the city of Philadelphia to help us protect everybody and to help us protect their rights when they're engaging with the City, and that includes language access, that includes freedom from discrimination based on national origin or ethnicity. We really stand by this. And as a body, these are essential principles for us. So glad to see what happened today where we stood up to respect those, and I think it's especially important in the wake of what's coming down from the Feds. Every day we see more racist, xenophobic and transphobic actions by this federal government, and we need to make sure that we are body, that our offices are always open to everybody in Philadelphia. So I leave that as the moment to say, every single one of us has an office that is safe for you. So please come to us because that's a safe space. I wanted to just also take a moment to remind everybody that the Low Income Tax Freeze deadline has been extended to February 28th. If you meet the income requirement, all it takes is one simple form to stop property taxes from increasing above the current bill amount. It's money left on the table for Philadelphians to utilize. And with tax season around the corner, every penny counts. That's why I also introduced a resolution urging Child Tax Credit. This credit is an essential anti-poverty initiative that has cut child poverty in half and benefited millions of families in uncertain times. We need residents to feel not only physically safe and secure but financially as well. So let this be a reminder to parents even if you earned very little last year, you should file your taxes. Low-income Philadelphians are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit, but you must file your taxes in order to get that money back. Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt thoughts to the residents and the neighborhood and the community of Northeast Philadelphia. And it's important times of tragedy we must come together to uplift one another. My heart goes out to the victims. All our love, anything you need from us you know we're here for you. Thank you everybody. And got to end with, Go Birds.
That's what's up. Thank you, Rue and Jamie, for extending the Low Income Tax Freeze during this time of the year. That's a key way to address gentrification and also making sure people don't lose their homes. The Chair now recognizes the gentleman from the greatest part of the city of Philadelphia, Councilman Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to thank able to provide the little donuts that we passed out to all the Eagles fan, even the consolation prize to the Chiefs fan, so everybody will get one. But it's really important to support our small businesses here in the city of Philadelphia. And Tiffany's down at the Fashion District does a great job. So thank you so much. And Go Birds. (Applause.)
Go Birds. And the Chair recognizes the gentleman from the mighty 5th Councilmanic District, North Philadelphia Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. So first, definitely want to commend our Chair of the for all his hard work, his dedication to this community and making sure that Philadelphians remain safe and understand what really happened up there in the Northeast, so thank you for your leadership on that. But first, I must say that I am disappointed in Amazon, right, for filing objections in an attempt to delay the first unionized Whole Food store in the country, which is in the 5th Council District. These workers conducted fair elections and they earned the right to collectively bargain. And so, I want to make sure that those workers know that this City Council has their back in this fight to unionize. Second, I want to echo the sentiments of my colleague Brooks, and thank you for putting that resolution for Paula Peebles to my office. Paula Peebles spent 50 years fighting for justice in the city of Philadelphia, fighting for not just in our criminal justice system, she was a housing advocate. She led Philadelphia's National Action Network. She was a professor. She is everything you want in the North Philadelphia Black woman. And so, I'm proud to introduce that resolution and proud to rename a street in North Philadelphia after Paula Peebles. She was also a developer. She developed shopping centers in North Philadelphia, housing in North Philadelphia. So again, she was everything that we look for in a champion from North Philadelphia. finally, Mr. President, today I introduced a bill that would amend our city's lead paint ordinance, right. Our Pennsylvania Superior Court in a court case called Hand v. Fuller ruled that our lead paint ordinance was not intended to permit former tenants to retroactively recoup rent after the lease agreement has been satisfactory completed when there were no issues raised during the existence of the lease. So what does that mean in English, right? Essentially, tenants were suing landlords to get back all their rent money based on our lead paint ordinance because the landlord failed to provide them with a lead safe certificate granted, but it's not because it was lead found on the properties. Just because our landlords failed piece of paper. So what does that mean in real life? What that means in real life is that landlords were forced to give back $15,000, $20,000 to a tenant after the lease had ended, after the tenant had already moved out the property because the landlord failed to give them this piece of paper, not when lead was found at all on the property, just because our law that we have in the books allowed them to do that, which I think to me is unfair. We have to remember that most landlords are small businesses, and we have to -- me and this body must remove all barriers to allow small businesses to thrive, right. And so -(Applause.)
So just put our Code in line with what our Superior Court has already ruled. You cannot file suit after you've already moved out. And many tenants have been doing this as a retaliatory measure against their landlord to get all their rent money back when there were no issues with the property whatsoever. And so, we just want to make sure there's fairness in our Code, and I do think that this piece of legislation would provide a little bit more fairness in our Housing Code. So thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, sir. There will be no more speeches. And so, joining us today our Eagles pep rally is former Eagles defensive end and linebacker, Trent "the Hunter" Cole. Let's give him a real big round of applause. (Applause.)
So before I do a formal introduction, all those in favor of a motion to adjourn, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas.
Thank you, Council President. I move that Council stands adjourned until February 13th at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. And let me get back to my introduction. Trent played for the NFL for 12 seasons, primarily with the Philadelphia Eagles. Trent was selected by the Eagles in the fifth round of the 2005 NFL Draft where he played with the Eagles from 2005 to 2014. He is a two-time NFL Pro Bowler and was named a member of the NFL All Rookie Team. Now, dig this part, y'all. Trent was the second-most cornerbacks with sacks in Eagles history with a 90.5 only behind the late great Eagles Reggie White who had 124 sacks. Let's give him a round of applause. (Applause.)
You talk about hunting. career, resulting in him being placed in the Eagles Hall of Fame. Let's give that a round of applause. (Applause.)
He is also very active in his community. He is an entrepreneur, an athlete, an outdoorsman, farmer and family man. So with that being said, let's Go Birds and let's give Trent a real big round of applause, y'all. (Applause.)
Councilman Johnson, I just want to thank you. It's an honor to be here. I also just want to say -- I want to say thank you to the governing body here, all you guys in what you're doing. The 20 years I've been here in Philly and all the first responders and the servicemen out there and also the people in the back there, to you guys too back there with all the yellow on, keep that voice. (Applause.)
It's my first time in here seeing something like this, and it's just -- it's opened my eyes up, and I love what you guys are doing. I mean, you guys are here, you're getting stuff done and everything. And I also can say what a great week to be a Philly fan, what a great week. I mean, it's a lot of energy in the air. And I was going to come up here with a little energy but I wanted to take a little different direction. that, I just want to say there's a lot of energy here. And like coming here, I mean Philadelphia, we have the best fans and we have the greatest city, and I definitely think that. And also, I want to say with all this energy we've been having, we start getting back the Super Bowls and stuff, and I like to tell all you guys here, the government, Councilman Johnson, use that energy guys. Take advantage of the energy. I'm saying, this is your city. And use it and take advantage of it and find a way, use that energy, you know what I'm saying, because that's what makes the city. When I got here in 2005 when the Eagles went to the Super Bowl and they was -- yeah, it was 2005, went to the Super Bowl. I was a rookie. I just got here. And, man, I got to say this, even though we lost the Super Bowl, this city was on fire. I mean, the energy, the love. I mean, I thought was -- I couldn't believe I was telling people back home how great this city was and how great it is. And that's what I wanted to say to you guys, just use that energy that you guys hear about. I mean, everybody in here I'm talking about, take that. And remember, you guys are part of this. You're part of your the heart of this city. Just like the Eagles down there, them guys down there, they appreciate you guys. Okay. You know, they appreciate everybody. Appreciate all the energy and we're going to need it. We got one bump in the road and that's Jim and Kansas Kansas City. So, you know, what a true eagle does, a technique when he hunts his prey where he swoops down on him and he snaps through with his talons. He soars to great heights. You know what he does after that, he drops him. And you can finish the rest of that. So, guys, I want to say thank you very much for having me here. Thanks again, Councilman Johnson. And like I said, it's time to hunt guys. It's time to hunt.
Go Birds. Go Birds. ) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I, hereby certify that the proceedings and evidence noted are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me in the foregoing matter, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. m. C. H. 196:7 e 68:10 24:14 33:21, k I. org. V. N. S.