Stated Meeting, September 26, 2024

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, September 26, 2024 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK F. SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, INTERIM CHIEF CLERK

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. City Council will now come to order. Asking for all Members to please take your seats, asking all visitors to please retire to the seats outside the rails. Before proceeding, I will ask all those present to please set your cell phones to silent and please take all sidebar conversations outside of the Council chambers. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes the Honorable, the outstanding, the inspiring, the empowering, the passionate, the compassionate Reverend Bonnie Camarda of The Salvation Army. She is here today as the guest of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada. I will ask all Members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors rise.)

As we start praying today, I want to leave you with a verse, that this is the day that the Lord has made. And no matter what happens anywhere we are going to rejoice and be glad because he is in our life. Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we come before you today with hearts full of gratitude for the opportunity to serve the great city and his people. We acknowledge your presence and seek your wisdom as we make decisions that will impact the life of many. We ask you for your guidance over the leaders here today. Help them to act with integrity, compassion and fairness, keeping the well-being of all citizens of Philadelphia at the forefront of their minds. May they have the strength to face challenges with courage and humility, to listen to different perspectives. We also recognize the diversity of faith, backgrounds and belief in this chamber and across our city. In that spirit, we pray for unity, mutual respect and a shared commitment to justice and peace. May we work together embracing our difference to build a city where everyone feels valued and heard. session be productive and positive, fostering a future filled with hope, prosperity and opportunity for all. In your name we pray, Amen. (Amen.)

The Chair thanks the Reverend. Council will now be at ease. (Council at ease.)

The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 12, 2024. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 12, 2024 be approved. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 12, 2024 stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absence. And the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today. 9/26/24 - MOTION CONCERNING CALENDAR

The Chair thanks the Councilmember. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Brooks.

On behalf of the Minority, there are no leaves of absence today. Thank you.

The Chair thanks the Councilmember. The Chair now recognizes Majority Leader Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's session.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered 9/26/24 - MOTION CONCERNING CALENDAR today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to 9/26/24 - MOTION CONCERNING CALENDAR be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, we welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative matters of our city, and we certainly invite you to come again. I want to take a moment to acknowledge the illustrious ladies of Zeta Phi Beta who will be honored today. Could we give them a round of applause? (Applause.)

I want to also take a moment to also welcome the strong men of Phi Beta Sigma, Inc. We welcome them to City Council as well. (Applause.)

We also have joining us today the Honorable State Representative you for coming to City Council today. (Applause.)

We also have the Honorable Steve Kinsey who will be being honored today. Thank you for joining us today in our chambers. (Applause.)

And we also have the great pleasure and honor to have Ms. Erika Alexander, actress, here today as well who will also be honored. (Applause.)

I don't geek out too many times but that's Erika Alexander, y'all. Living Single, y'all. If you know, you know, right. (Applause.)

That's that culture. Those that know, know. Maxine. (Applause.)

At this time the Chair recognizes Councilmember from the mighty 5th Councilmanic District Jeffrey Jay Young who will present a resolution naming Master Street between Broad Street and Carlisle as Erika Alexander Way. (Applause.)

Will Erika Alexander and those accompanying her please join the Councilmember at the podium. Joining Councilmember Young will be the following Councilmembers: Councilmember Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada Councilmember Kendra Brooks, Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Anthony Phillips, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Jim Harrity and Councilmember Rue Landau. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.

Thank you, Mr. President. Good morning to you all. I'm excited to be here today on this day because today we are honoring a living legend who was discovered here in our beloved City of Philadelphia, someone who deserves to have all the recognition, all the flowers while she is still able to do even more great things in this society, in this world. I am honored and pleased to recognize today Erika Alexander. (Applause.)

And so, we have a long resolution so bear with us today please. But she deserves to have all of her accolades in the world so you all know the things that she has accomplished, the things she's going to continue to do and the great things that we will predict that she will do in the future again. So I'm going to start this ceremony off, but all members of Council are up here are also elated to join us in this ceremony. So a resolution also naming Master Street between Broad Street and Carlisle Street as Erika Alexander Way. (Applause.)

Whereas, Erika Alexander was born on November 19, 1969 in Arizona to Robert and Sammie Alexander and Airy, 8th District, in Northwest Philadelphia in 1983; and Whereas, Alexander joined the New Freedom Theater in North Philadelphia when she was 14 and was discovered by independent film company Merchant Ivory during the fifth week of a six-week summer acting class; and

And whereas, Alexander's first onscreen acting role was in a Merchant Ivory production, 1986's My Little Girl, a lead role she earned after twelve screen tests and four auditions; and Whereas, Alexander graduated from the Philadelphia High School for Girls in 1987 as a member of the 231st graduating class; and

Whereas, Alexander would go on to perform in plays at New York Public Theater throughout the 1980s touring the world with The Royal Shakespeare Company in Peter Brook's groundbreaking play the Mahabharata when she was 17 years old; and Whereas, the Mahabharata opened the famed Majestic Theater in Downtown Brooklyn which is known to the world today as the BAM Harvey Theater; and

And whereas, Alexander would receive her big break in 1990 when she was cast as Pam Tucker in The Cosby Show appearing -(Applause.)

We can clap for that. (Applause.)

Appearing on the highly acclaimed finale in 1992 that took her from Philadelphia to East New York, Brooklyn; and Whereas, Alexander would receive her breakout role in 1993 being cast as high-powered attorney Maxine Shaw on Fox's Living Single. (Applause.)

A role for which she would receive multiple NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series; and

Whereas, Alexander would portray Maxine Shaw for five years until 1998. Her character serving as an inspiration for many Black women attorneys such leaders as Stacey Abrams, Rep. Ayanna Presley, Joy Reid and more; and Whereas, Color Farm Media discovered the "Maxine Shaw Effect" out of Black women lawyers surveyed saying that the Maxine Shaw character influenced their decision to attend law school with 8 out of 10 Black females professionals saying, Maxine Shaw inspired them to pursue leadership in male-dominated professions; and

Whereas, Alexander's onscreen career includes numerous appearances and starring roles such as Selma Cotter in the long Walk Home, Ciel in 54, Detective Latoya in Get Out, Perenna in Black Lightning, Shanti in Déjà Vu, Yolanda in Insecure, Constance Irving in Bosch, Linda Diggs in Wu Tang: An American Saga, and Barb Ballard in Run The World, for which she was nominated for the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Guest Performance; and Whereas, Alexander's television career includes many guest starring spots on Law and Order, Special Victims Unit, ER, CSI, Crime Scene Investigation, Criminal Minds, LAX, 7th Heaven, House, Suits, Grey's Anatomy, Last Man Standing, Swimming with Sharks and a reprisal of her Maxine Shaw character on a 2005 episode of Half & Half; and

And whereas, in 2024 Alexander received numerous plaudits for her role as Coraline opposite Jeffrey Wright in a critically acclaimed American Fiction, being nominated for an Independent Spirit Award and NAACP Image Award for Best Supporting Actress as well as Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a cast in a Motion Picture, amongst a haul of nominations and awards the film receive; and Whereas, Alexander's artistic work has extended beyond the big screen, co-authoring several comics and graphic novels, including the critically-acclaimed Concrete Park, and stepping behind the camera to co-direct PBS's The Big Payback in 2023, which served as Alexander's directorial debut; and

Whereas, The Big Payback was produced by Color Farm Media, an award-winning entertainment, innovation and social impact venture, Alexander co-founded with Ben Arnon in 2017 to bring diverse and underrepresented stories to the big screen; and Whereas, in 2020 Color Farm Media released their acclaimed documentary film titled John Lewis: Good Trouble about the late icon -(Applause.)

-that won an NAACP Image Award for Best Documentary and was nominated for three Emmy Awards; and

All right. Whereas, in 2022 Alexander served as the creator, writer, producer and host of Color Farm Media's groundbreaking audio series, Finding Tamika, about a missing Black woman Tamika Huston. The series, produced with Audible, won the prestigious duPont-Columbia Award for excellence in journalism, was Audible's Best True Crime series of the Year, and won a Webby Award; and Whereas, Color Farm's social impact campaign for Finding Tamika, in conjunction with the White House and with Howard University, inspired national media projects and bolstered support for legislative and policy changes to combat "missing white women syndrome." The audio series changed how missing Black women and people of color are seen, looked for and found nationally.

And I want to say I want to thank Jay for cutting this short because there was so much more to do. But whereas, Color Farm Media also created educational curricula based off the Maxine Shaw Effect, in partnership with Microsoft, Discovery Education, Reconstruction and Langston League to teach leadership and communication skills and influence attitudes and beliefs regarding career choices, emphasizing the role of representation in media and creating awareness of legal and and high-school students; and Whereas, Alexander's commitment to social impact has touched the political realm as well, as she was the most traveled surrogate for Hillary Clinton in 2008 and 2016 presidential campaigns to elect the first female U.S. President, which included serving as delegate from California and returning to her hometown of Philadelphia to deliver a speech in 2016 at the Democratic National Convention; and

Whereas, Alexander has actively campaigned for Stacey Abrams, Kamala Harris, John Lewis and Joe Biden, among many others at the local and national level; and Whereas, Alexander has testified before the U.S. House of the topic of diversity in America and media representation of people of color, joined State Governor Stacey Abrams in Atlanta for a discussion with the Department of Education as part of the White House Initiative on Racial Equality and has testified on panels in California and Washington D.C. on the topic of reparations, the subject of her project The Big Payback; and

Alexander is a sought-after speaker as an expert on topics such as representation in media, power and entrepreneurship in media, women's empowerment, equity and education, mental health, inclusive storytelling for all genre and multi-platforms and political surrogacy, speaking at the 2023 American Federation of Teachers Justice, the 2023 National Summit on Poverty, the Geena Davis Institute on Gender Representation, Essence Fest and CBS for Diversity in Entertainment; and Whereas, Alexander is a critical thought leader on racial and gender equity, serving as a board member for One Fair Wage while remaining highly involved with social and racial justice organizations such as The Poor People's Campaign, Color of Change, NAACP, UNCF, Emily's List Creative Council, and is an advisor to Planned Parenthood; and

That's what Girls' High girls do, we work. Whereas, in recognition of her service to society, social justice, humanitarianism and social science, Alexander joined the ranks Angelou, Phylicia Rashad, Coretta Scott King, Susan Taylor, Ruby Dee and Barbara Bush when she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Bennett College in 2023 -(Applause.)

-- where she served as the school's commencement speaker that year; and Whereas, in recognition of her service to society, social justice, humanitarianism and social science, Alexander joined those ranks again and again.

Whereas, that same year her birthplace of Winslow, Arizona renamed the street she grew up on as "Erika Alexander Way" in honor of her work and career achievements; and Whereas, Alexander has long as an actress but as an activist storyteller, Afrofuturist, humanitarian, entrepreneur, creator, director and producer whose many talents and commitment to the betterment of humanity have made a lasting mark on the arts for 40 years and counting; and

So I'm bringing it home, right. We're finishing this up. But I just want to let you all know the greatness of Girls' High girls because this is what Girls' High girls can do. So to all the girls that are in our city everything that was mentioned in this resolution, this is something that you can do, this is something that you can become. This is why we renamed the street after her. So when you see her name, you see all the accolades, all the things she's accomplished and say, I can do that too. So this is exactly why we wanted to do this in City Council. Whereas, growing up in Philadelphia was a key component to the success Alexander has gained throughout the years in entertainment, activism, leadership; and Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Master Street between Broad Street and Carlisle Street shall be named as "Erika Alexander Way" -(Applause.)

Yes. And be it further resolved, that an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Erika Alexander as evidence of the true and sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body. Thank you so done. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Ms. Erika Alexander for remarks.

I'm shaking, and I want to say thank you. I wouldn't be here without friends and family and mentors. So I would like my brother, a Philadelphia police officer, to say a few remarks before I say something. (Applause.)

I won't take up too much of your time, but it would be a disservice if all this here wouldn't have happened if my mother at the age of 14 didn't find her way here singing for the Marian Anderson Award. And we don't know what God has in store for us, but that was the start of finding a city, Philadelphia, which base. And you guys have done nothing more but embraced my sister, my family, my daughter Sarai who's part of Little Big Sister who sang here in these halls and my wife Danielle, a native here, and my sister Carla. On behalf of them, I want to say thank you, Philadelphia. Thank you for embracing us. Thank you for our family that had no home making Philadelphia our home. So to the Honorable Carter who is my District Representative of South Philadelphia. Go South Philly -(Johnson.)

Excuse me, Johnson. Forgive me. Johnson, I'm sorry.

No, you good.

I want to everyone here once again. God bless you all and thank you very much. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Thank you. Overwhelmed and I'm grateful. My thanks to Councilman Jeffrey Young, Jr., his staff, and Representative Malcolm Kenyatta for making this glorious moment possible, to New Freedom Theater founders, visionaries Johnny Allen, Jr. and Robert Lesley, founders, and my teacher Johnny Hobbs, Jr. who planted the seeds of storytelling and being human studies within me. Thank you. Every part I play is a love letter for your innovation and genius in arts and education. Thank you Philadelphia High School for Girls' Class of 231 and the Alumni Association for your the tools I needed to take on the challenges and obstacles inherent to this life, knowing that she conquers who first conquers herself. Thank you to my partner and Color Farm Co-founder Ben Arnon. Thank you so much, a true business mastermind and an innovative architect of new generation of sustainable creators. And thank you to my family, John, a Philadelphia police officer, Carolyn, a Philadelphia social worker, Danielle, a Philadelphia cardiac nurse and community farmer, and my mother Sammie Alexander, who though retired now, served in Philadelphia as a social worker and educator for decades. (Applause.)

My siblings -- thank you -- Myesha, Shalonda, Robert, Diane, my nephew Sarai, Solei, Sianni who created a festival for Philadelphia musicians to find them and elevate them, my greater family the Watts family, Carlos who's here represents the achievements and legacy span decades and continue to build this community with integrity and honor. Thank you. I'm humbled yet thrilled by this recognition from Philadelphia, a city that stands for freedom, independence and the power to harness a new future by embracing a government made by and for the people. I'm a storyteller and storytelling is fundamental to how we see ourselves in the world. We are in a storytelling chain all the time and we ignore it to our detriment. Reverend William Barber of The Poor People's Campaign, my mentor, calls this period that Reconstruction. And if that's true, then it's time to push beyond the boundaries that perpetuate white supremacy and tribalism and tell a better story and tell a greater truth. For a lot of people it's undiscovered country, but not in Philadelphia, not for the City of Brotherly Love who loves me back. And what that means also is now is the time to continue to rebuild America's foundation as it should have been since the first reconstruction. (Applause.)

You are all the architects of America, Philadelphia. You are the architects of the future. Thank you for building so much of your legacy in my DNA. I'll never forget this day, this amazing recognition over my Philly street I promise you this, for all that I've been given I will do my best to do everything I can to create a new universe of possibilities alongside you and for the people of Philadelphia, for our nation's humanity and for our goodness sake. Thank you and grace and love be our guide. Thank you. (Applause.)

Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

At this time the Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson who will present a resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. on the occasion of Zeta Day at City Hall. Would Josie Jones and those accompanying her please join the (Councilmember and guests approached podium.)

Thank you so much, Council President Kenyatta Johnson. And while the members of Zeta Phi Beta, Inc. are being assembled along with our brothers of the Sigma Fraternity, Inc., I wanted to take a moment to welcome you all to our sorority party. It is my humble honor and privilege to welcome my finest sorors of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. to Philadelphia City Council's Zeta Day at City Hall 2024. First, I'd like to thank Council President Kenyatta Johnson and your team for all of your help and assistance for our entire day today and also, Council President, for your sponsorship of the street renaming of the 1900 block of 2nd Councilmanic District to Arizona C. Stemons Way. Arizona Cleaver Stemons was the principal founder of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and lived here in Philadelphia until March of 1980. She worked in the area of social work and gave back so much to our city. So, Council President Johnson, we are forever grateful for that street renaming. Thank you also to our International President Dr. Stacie N.C. Grant, to our Atlantic Regional Director the Honorable Judge Beverly S. Tatham, Esquire, to our State Director Olivia B. Miller and to all members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. who are here today, including our State Social Action Coordinator Josie Jones, we thank you and we welcome you. brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., to our International President, the Honorable Brother Chris V. Rey, J.D., to the Eastern Regional Director Nigel Coelho, and to our Pennsylvania State Director John Johnson and to all Brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., we welcome you to Philadelphia City Council. I'd like to give a very special welcome and thank you and a point of personal privilege to my partner in this work and in life and the President of the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., David R. Richardson, my husband, y'all. (Applause.)

And with that, we are recognizing honoring and Sorority, Inc. on the occasion of Zeta Day at City Hall; and Whereas, the Philadelphia City Council traditionally recognizes significant contributions to our community. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. is one such contributor and we are celebrating our Zeta Day at City Hall today, Thursday, September 26, 2024; and Whereas, on January 16, 1920, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority was founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington D.C. by Arizona Cleaver Stemons, Pearl Anna Neal, Myrtle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings and Fannie Patty Watts; and Whereas, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority was founded on the simple belief that sorority elitism and socializing should not overshadow progressive organizations - to address societal mores, ills, prejudices, poverty and health concerns of the day; and Whereas, over the past 104 years, members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. have led countless initiatives addressing a variety of crucial issues, including voting rights, affordable health care, financial literacy, economic empowerment and support for historically Black colleges and universities, political awareness and involvement; and Whereas, the ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. have come to Philadelphia City Council as a part of our mission to be community-conscious and actionoriented; and Whereas, one of the most important issues impacting Black women today is the disparity in have historically had the highest maternal mortality rates due to a combination of effects from institutional racism that have resulted in susceptibility to certain health conditions and lack of access to quality prenatal care. Members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. have advocated for continued investments in improving maternal health outcomes just two weeks ago on Capitol Hill with almost 1,000 members and in state capitals across the United States of America and now here today in the great city of Philadelphia; and Whereas, one of the most important ways to achieve policy outcomes is to make your voice heard at the ballot box. The ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. timed our advocacy at City Hall to align with National Voter raise awareness about the importance of the upcoming election and to promote voter registration. Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize, honor and congratulate Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. on the occasion of our Zeta Day at City Hall; and Further resolve that an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to representatives of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Thank you so much. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Josie Jones for remarks.

Good morning. (Good morning.)

What an amazing day to have a sea of world blue and white here at Philadelphia City Hall where sisterly love abounds. Thank you, Soror Gilmore Richardson, for being the No. 1 social action Zeta and acknowledging our birth, equity and maternal health work. Lastly and certainly not least, thank you to our brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. for being here today. Our organizations have remained steadfast in our commitment to the global mandate to elevate the bond between us and to serve our communities with zeal. Thank you. (Applause.)

I want to also take a moment of personal privilege to recognize your sister, the Honorable Palmer, first woman Bishop, that is. Is it okay? (Applause.) ARCHBISHOP FLOYD PALMER: To Mr. President, the Honorable Kenyatta Johnson, to this august body of whom many of you I know, love and respect, certainly to my sister soror our Madam Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson, to Mr. President Mr. Richardson and to my fellow sorors, what a wonderful day. The Bible says, Be ye also ready, amen. And so, I'm excited to be here. Ever since Zeta has embraced me, I have loved what it has stood for because it aligns with my own personal values and mission in life. And because of that, I'm proud to wear the color blue and white. For all of you that certainly are here to celebrate us, we thank you. And to our sister or brother Greeks that may also be here, we thank you for your support and we know that the D9 is going to do a wonderful thing. And in this time where your voice is necessary, your voice is important and it is mandated, let's raise our voice collectively so that we don't go back but we do something and then we'll see victory in the long time. May God bless you.

Amen.

Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips who will present a resolution honoring and recognizing the Honorable Stephen Kinsey for his exceptional service and leadership as a member of the from 2013 to 2024, elected to represent the 201st Legislative District in the mighty Northwest part of Philadelphia, Stephen Kinsey proudly served for six terms demonstrating unwavering dedication to his constituents and community. Would Representative Steve Kinsey and those accompanying him please join the podium. Joining Councilmember Phillips will be Councilmember Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Kendra Brooks, Councilmember Mike Driscoll, Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke and Councilmember Mark Squilla. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)

Also, or supporters that are here today as well, staff. Well, Council President, they say that imitation is a form of flattery and you're going to see why. I did something -- I'm about to do something that is a flattery to you, so thank you. So before I give some brief remarks, I would like to welcome Councilwoman Cindy Bass just to say a few words about Representative Stephen Kinsey of the 8th District.

Good morning, everyone. So Steve, you know, he's like a brother. Get over here. You know, listen, Steve and I have had a long storied history in politics in the Northwest section of Philadelphia. And the one thing I just really wanted to say is that, number one, we're going to miss your wit and humor and just general good to work with someone like Steve Kinsey. But I will say that I think sometimes people look at the work that we do and we make it look easy and it's not easy. And I think that that's something that I would say about Steve, is that he really made it look easy. And I know like I said as a friend, as someone who's like a sibling to him, you know the highs and you know the lows. And so, we're really going to just miss you and I wish you the very best in all of your future endeavors. And I know that you've always been successful so I know that you will be successful. But we're just really going to miss you. All right. So God bless and godspeed in all of your future endeavors and whatever we can do to be helpful as a body, this Council, job. Great job. And the one last thing I'll say really quickly is that Steve, I have a great appreciation for those who put in the work and then run for office. Steve didn't just show up and say I'm running for office. Steve put in the work. He was a community activist. He was engaged. He knew the people on the ground. Everybody in Germantown knows Steve or is somehow connected to the Kinsey family. And so, that's a testament of the work that he put in, not just in public service as a State Representative but in service to the community long before there was any title. So God bless you. (Applause.)

Before we go into the resolution, I just want to briefly say that we've when someone shows you who they are, you believe them. And more often than not, this well-worn quote refers to people in the negative aspects of their personality and character. However, in this instance of the person at hand retiring State Representative Stephen Kinsey has shown us who he is and we should believe him. He has shown us the highest virtues of untiring and integrious leadership. He has shown us what it means to be consistently present and when present, to make meaningful contributions to those whom he serves in the interests that best reflect their ambitions, hopes and dreams. Representative Kinsey has constantly and perpetually shown us who he is. As a champion of bipartisanship during politically times, Representative Kinsey chose to co-found the Bipartisan Caucus in the State House and he reached across the aisle when people retreated to their political concerns. He has shown us not only who he is, he has shown us who we should be. A product of Philadelphia public schools in the state system of higher education, Representative Kinsey has shown us that people produced in our neighborhoods and community can and do build fruitful lives, fight for the benefits of Medicaid and fair funding in public education and stand in the gap. He has shown us who he is, but in retirement God is not through with him yet. Now, I hope and believe that God will show Representative Kinsey who he is. I pray and give him the desires of his heart, that God will order his steps, make him prosper and also find those things which indicate to Stephen that God is the God of the second and third and even fourth chances. Representative Stephen Kinsey, we have seen who you are and we celebrate and salute you for a job well done. Good luck, God bless and keep on keeping on. Enjoy the next phase of your life and continue to show us who you are. (Applause.)

Now, for the beginning of our formal presentation I just want to acknowledge that State Representative Kinsey's office is here, also State Representativeelect Andre Carroll is here and also State Representative Anthony well in his honor. And we just want to say thank you all from the Northwest for all that you have done. So the man of the hour. Honoring and recognizing the Honorable Stephen Kinsey for his exceptional service and leadership as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 2013 to 2024. Elected to represent the 21st Legislative District, Stephen Kinsey proudly served for six terms demonstrating unwavering dedication to his constituents and community.

Whereas, a resident of Northwest Philadelphia and a proud product of the Philadelphia public school system, Stephen Kinsey holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from West Chester University, okay, all right, and a Master's in Business Administration from Eastern education and public service is deeply rooted in his own experiences in education; and

Whereas, as a distinguished leader within the Democratic Caucus, Stephen Kinsey served as Chairman of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus and was a founding Co-Chairman of the House Bipartisan Caucus.

To my esteemed former colleague, in 2023 he was appointed Majority Chairman of the Pennsylvania House Human Services Committee overseeing crucial services related to the Medicaid system and the state's most vulnerable populations; and

Okay. Not here. Okay. Nic is coming up now. Should I go? (Yes.)

Okay. All right. I'll read it. Got it. Whereas, Stephen Kinsey's dedication to equitable education funding is notable. Driven by his personal understanding of education's power to unlock opportunities, he worked tirelessly to ensure that all schools receive fair funding regardless of geographical location or zip code. Amazing.

His advocacy extended to early childhood education where he hosted rallies at the State Capitol to support funding for children and workers in the childcare industry. And in addition to his legislative achievements, Stephen Kinsey was appointed by former Governor Tom Wolf as a trustee at West Chester University and selected by House Democratic Leadership for the Authority Board.

He is also co-founder of the Northwest Action Alliance, a grassroots community organization and serves as the Vice-president of Government Advocacy and a Director of Community Engagement at CareRing Health; and

And whereas, Stephen Kinsey is the proud, proud father of Shanessa, Lanessa, may she rest in peace, Wynessa and Mila. He remains actively involved with local schools and community organizations throughout the Northwest Philadelphia area and is an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and I'm going to add by way of Kappa Gamma Chapter -STATE REPRESENTATIVE KINSEY: That's right.

-- KG, which provides leadership, training and mentoring to youth across Pennsylvania. Now, therefore, be it;

Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia extends its deepest appreciation to the Honorable Stephen Kinsey for his remarkable contributions to public service and community leadership. His legacy of advocacy, dedication and service continues to inspire and benefit the residents of Philadelphia beyond; Further resolve that an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the Honorable Stephen Kinsey as an expression of the admiration and respect of this legislative body. (Applause.)

All right. So before we have Representative Stephen Kinsey give us some remarks -- I don't think we have time for one more, right? Okay. All right. So real briefly we're just going to have Representative Anthony Bellmon say 30 seconds of remarks, and then I'm going to move on to Stephen Kinsey. STATE REPRESENTATIVE BELLMON: All right. I heard the assignment. I will be quick. I'll just say this to the Honorable Stephen Kinsey and a lot of times when people seek public office, they try to live up to the term honorable, to the adjective honorable. And, Stephen Kinsey, you have absolutely done that in your tenure in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. I want to thank you for -I've known Steve Kinsey for about 10 years. And even when I first came into politics, he always had his door open, always was willing to teach the next generation and never felt like you were too high to reach back and touch, very humble people. So thank you for your humbleness. Thank you for you willingness to teach the next generation. Congratulations on your retirement and I cannot wait to see what the next chapter has for you.

So Northwest Philadelphia, all of the residents, the staff that you work with, community leaders that are here today are really proud and thankful for your amazing work. Public service is difficult and it's challenging, and you did it well with great enthusiasm. So on behalf of us, on Philadelphia City Council, our us in the Northwest, we want to say thank you to Representative Stephen Kinsey. (Applause.)

We also have an award on behalf of our office and all of City Council just thanking you for your amazing work for the City of Philadelphia as well. So we want to present this to you to hang up in your retired office of public service. Congratulations. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes the Honorable Stephen Kinsey for remarks. STATE REPRESENTATIVE KINSEY: Wow. Council president, Councilmembers, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Anthony Phillips, I want to say thank you. I had 12 great years serving in the State House. And when I reflect back, I want to say it again, 12 great years. Even when it rained, it was a great day. Some was too hot, it was a great day. And I want to say that I had the privilege and the honor, but I also have to pay tribute to the folks that were before me because I was presented this opportunity by the people in the Northwest 21st Legislative District. But also, there were trailblazers ahead of me. Folks like the late Honorable David P. Richardson -(Applause.) STATE REPRESENTATIVE KINSEY: Folks like the late Honorable John Meyers -(Applause.) STATE REPRESENTATIVE KINSEY: And even a great lady who served in this very chamber, the Honorable late Donna Reed Miller. (Applause.) STATE REPRESENTATIVE KINSEY: They were leaders in the Northwest that I emulated, that I looked at and looked to for guidance and leadership. And folks, it's no easy task serving as a legislator. I mean, you here in this chamber you know this as well, and had the pleasure to serve and work with many of you as we work to get dollars sent right here to the City of Philadelphia. But we also know that those things don't happen simply by who we are or by our names. They happen because of the folks that are with us. And I want to thank my family. I want to thank my friends and I would not be who I am today if it were not for the great staff that I had with me also. Some of them are here with me. I believe -- I can't see me, but I'm going to just take a guest, Donna Clemon Jackson served as my Chief of Staff. I have Deborah Carter who served as my Legislative staff. I have Anthony Smith who served as my Legislative staff. I have Amir Davis -- thought I forgot your name -- Amir Davis who served as my Legislative staff, and Dana Garnett who actually I plucked out of the State office and is now with me working in health care. So folks we are only as good as the folks that we surround ourselves with, that village that we talk about. I just want to say thank you to those of you that are here in City Council because again at the state level, we can't really get it all done. We think we can sometimes because we cover the state, but it takes that village. And the City of Philadelphia, City Council, you're part of that village. And so, I want to say thank you very much. It's truly an honor to be here today to receive the recognition. Didn't want to be here, but I just want to say thank you for the acknowledgement, thank you for the work that you continue to do and I look to be a part of that in some way, shape or fashion. Thank you very much. Thank you, Council President.

You're welcome. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will read Mayor and any other communications in her possession.

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on September 18, 2024 I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on September 5, 2024: Bill No. 240368. And that on September 18, 2024 I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on September 12, 2024: Bill No. 240416-A. And pursuant into Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 240427 not for approval; 240578, 240654, 240656, 240658, 240659 approved; 240661 not for approval; and 240668 approved. Council President, there are no other communications in my possession.

Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips.

Thank you, Council President. Good morning, everyone. I have three privileged resolutions and one non-privileged resolution honoring former 49th Ward Leader Shirley Gregory.

Will the Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.

A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Streets and Services to examine the City's response to illegal dumping focusing on monitoring high activity areas, enforcement strategies and the development of effective tools to combat this issue. Illegal dumping threatens the quality of life in our neighborhoods and communities, undermining our shared mission to transform Philadelphia into the safest, cleanest and greenest big city in the nation.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution -- one second. And a privileged resolution authorizing a Joint Hearing of the City Council Committee on Children and Youth and the Committee on Technology and Information Services on the Use of Electronic Monitoring or Global Positioning Systems, GPS for Youth Involved with Philadelphia's Juvenile Justice System.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

A non-privileged resolution renaming 5800 North 12th Street to "Shirley Gregory Way," in honor of her remarkable contributions to the community and her lifelong dedication to public service.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the creation of a "Special Committee on Enhancing Efficiency and Transparency in Municipal Services," to analyze and recommend ways to enhance the efficient and effective delivery of municipal services, identify optimal models and tools to improve transparency and communication with residents regarding the submission, follow-up, and tracking of City service requests and proposed legislative and administrative policy reforms to eliminate barriers that impede the efficient delivery of services.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one bill on your behalf.

Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers Markets," by adding a permissible location on Point Breeze Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.

Thank you, Council President. Today I have four bills and five non-privileged resolutions.

Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.

An ordi --

I'm sorry. Before you read, Councilwoman Gauthier, do you want to call for the suspension of the rules for one of your bills?

Yes. Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the consideration of the non-privileged resolution that was just --

That will be read.

-that is about to be read into the record by the Chief Clerk. Should I let her finish?

Go ahead.

Okay.

A resolution also naming the 600 block of North 34th Street as "C.B. Kimmins Way," to honor the life and memory of C.B. Kimmins and his service to the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)

Thank you, Mr. President. First, I'd like to acknowledge the Honorable Jannie Blackwell who really championed the street renaming. (Applause.)

And next, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the consideration of the non-privileged resolution that was just read into the record by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And 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 839 North 39th Street, 3938 Mount Vernon Street, 3940, 3944 Mount Vernon Street, 3907, 3930 Wallace Street, 3833, 3902, 3912, 3922 Brown Street, 908, 910 North Holly Street, 3948 Parrish Street, 4117 Pennsgrove Street, 4119, 4121, 4146 Pennsgrove Street, 3814 Reno Street, 3816, 3850, 3852, 3947, 3949, 3960, 3962 and 3964 Reno Street, 666 and 664 Union Street; and 803 Union 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 to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.

And 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 3924 Cambridge Street, 3909 Pennsgrove Street, 1110, 1112, 1113, 1118 and 1128 State Street, 3900, 3902, 3911, 3912, 3919 and 3926 Wyalusing Avenue 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 to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And 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 844 Hutton 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 to Section 16-4-5 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And 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 3958 Parrish Street, 3900, 3972 Reno Street, 844 Hutton Street and 855 North 43rd 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 to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Designation of Bicycle Lanes," to authorize a bicycle lane on Woodland Avenue from Chester Avenue to South 42nd Street and make associated changes to parking regulations within the same limits, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Hadfield Street between South 54th Street and South 53rd Street; South 58th Street between Chestnut Street and Ludlow Street; Carpenter Street between South 60th Street and South 61st Street; Lindbergh Boulevard between Grays Street and South 54th Street; Ludlow Street between South 44th Street and South 43rd Street; South 59th Street between Market Street and Chestnut Street; Melville Street between Kingsessing Avenue and Woodland Avenue; Chester Avenue between South 51st Street and St. Bernard Place; Rodman Street between South 58th Street and South 57th Street; Chancellor Street between South 53rd Street and South 52nd Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Sloan Street between Powelton Avenue and Baring Street; Mount Vernon Street between North 37th Street and North 38th Street; North 42nd Street between Spring Garden Street and Brandywine Street; North 37th Street between Brandywine Street and Spring Garden Street; North 37th Street between Fairmount Avenue and Mount Vernon Street; Spring Garden Street between North 45th Street and North 42nd Street; Lindenwood Street between Arch Street and Race Street; Sansom Street between South 59th Street and South 60th Street; Wallace Street between North 34th Street and North 35th Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on North 42nd Street between Market Street and Powelton Avenue; North 42nd Street between Powelton Avenue and Baring Street; Brandywine Street between North 42nd Street and North 44th Street; Poplar Street between North 41st Street and Cambridge Street; Cambridge Street between North 40th Street and North 41st Street; North 34th Street between Fairmount Avenue and Wallace Street; Mantua Avenue between Fairmount Avenue and North 34th Street; Spruce Street between South 63rd Street and South 62nd Street; Markoe Street between Linmore Street and Woodland Avenue.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.

Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Apologize for the tardiness. But today I'm looking to introduce one bill, one privileged resolution -- oh, I'm sorry. I'm introducing one bill, two resolutions; one non-privileged resolution and one resolution on your behalf, Council President.

Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the bill and the privileged and non-privileged resolutions please.

An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, relating to the creation of the Philadelphia Prison Community Oversight Board; and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election; all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating Cheyney State College's 1982 Lady Wolves Women's Basketball Team on their induction into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating State Representative-Elect Andre D. Carroll on the occasion of his special election victory in Pennsylvania House District 201. (Applause.)

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. And we welcome you to Council chambers today, RepresentativeElect Andre Carroll. Thank you, young man. (Applause.)

And a privileged resolution honoring, congratulating State Representative-Elect Keith Harris on the occasion of his special election victory in Pennsylvania House District 195.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a non-privileged resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation of the Philadelphia Prison Community Oversight Board and the Office of Prison Oversight and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer three bills, four privileged and two non-privileged resolutions.

Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the bills and the privileged and non-privileged resolutions.

An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of North 50th Street and Wynnefield Avenue, under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Conarroe Street between Lawton Street and Ridge Avenue; Lauriston Street between Salaignac Street and Ridge Avenue; Maris Street between Jannette Street and Henry Avenue; Cresson Street between Dawson Street and Salaignac Street; Terrace Street between Dawson Street and Salaignac Street; Terrace Street between Roxborough Avenue and Lofty Street; Manor Street between East Street and Hermit Street; Jamestown Street between Manayunk Avenue and Terrace Street; Hermit Street between Terrace Street and Cresson Street; Lofty Street between Terrace Street and Boone Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on brinmar Avenue between Parkside Avenue and Gainor Road; Overbrook Avenue between Lancaster Avenue and South 63rd Street; Robinson Street between Market Street and Arch Street; Robinson Street between Master Street and Haverford Avenue; Edgewood Street between Race Street and Vine Street; Bryn Mawr Avenue between Wynnefield Avenue and Gainor Road; South 62nd Street between Market Street and Arch Street; Dupont Street between Silverwood Street and Wilde Street; Smick Street between Dupont and Green Lane; Manor Street between Hermit Street and Salaignac Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution calling upon the Department of Prisons and the Office of Re-entry Partnerships to work in collaboration with local resource providers to develop a distribution process of re-entry resource packages for individuals released from incarceration.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.

And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings to investigate the level and effectiveness of community engagement and outreach initiatives carried out by higher education institutions in Philadelphia that directly impact adjacent neighborhoods.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on the Environment to hold hearings to determine the need for a Conservation District to be enacted within Philadelphia County.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 3148 North 24th Street located in the 4th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And 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 116 North 585 Street in the 4th 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 to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority fees conveying fee simple title to 138 North 58th Street, 6214 Vine Street, 3212 North 33rd Street in the 4th 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 to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.

Good morning, Council President, colleagues. I have two privileged resolutions today.

Will the Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.

A privileged resolution honoring the anniversary of the enactment of the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and the honorable service of countless LGBTQ+ veterans, and urging all veterans discharged due to this discriminatory policy to seek an upgraded discharge, enabling LGBTQ+ veterans and their families to enjoy all the benefits they have earned.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing the week of September 23rd through September 29th, 2024 as Diaper Need Awareness Week in Philadelphia, and acknowledging the outstanding efforts of community- based organizations working to ensure that all children have the essential items needed to thrive and survive.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.

Thank you, Council President. Today I offer 11 privileged resolutions.

Will the Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.

A privileged resolution recognizing Clotilde Jimenez for his representation of the City of Philadelphia on the Global Stage as a Commissioned Artist for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

A privileged resolution recognizing Argenis Figueroa for his career in Media and Service to Philadelphia's Latino community.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Recognizing Geisha Torres for her career in Media and Service to the Philadelphia Latino Community.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Recognizing and honoring Deputy Commissioner Pedro R. Rosario as the first Latino officer to hold the position of Deputy Commissioner in the 226 year history of law enforcement in the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Recognizing David Pina for his career in Philadelphia's Restaurant Industry in Philadelphia's Latino community.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Honoring and commending Dr. Jamille Tellez Lieberman, Dr. PH, MPH, for her dedication to Public Health and Service to the North Philadelphia community.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Recognizing and honoring Prominent Public Servants during Hispanic Heritage Month who contribute to the Health and Economic Wellness of Philadelphians.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Recognizing and honoring the Puerto Rican Day Parade on the occasion of its 60th Anniversary within Philadelphia's Puerto Rican and Latino community.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Recognizing and honoring remarkable Latino and Hispanic Philadelphia Artists and Journalists during Hispanic Heritage Month.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Recognizing and honoring Nitza Walesca Sierra, Community Engagement Teaching Artist and Studio Coordinator at the Clay Studio.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Recognizing and honoring Alba Martinez for her dedication to Enhancing and Uplifting the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two bills and two resolutions, one privileged and one non-privileged.

Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the titles of the two bills and a privileged and non-privilege resolution.

An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Wylie Street between Perkiomen Street and Cameron Street; Cecil B. Moore Avenue between North 29th Street and North 30th Street; Vineyard Street between Ridge Avenue and Leland Street; Vineyard Street between Leland Street and Poplar Street; Thompson Street between North 27th Street and North 26th Street; Dover Street between Oxford Avenue and Cecil B. Moore Avenue; Perkiomen Street between North Wylie Street and Vineyard Street; Master Street between North 20th Street and North 19th Street; Ingersoll Street between North 23rd Street and North 22nd Street; Ingersoll Street between 26th Street and Taney Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Richmond Street between Marlborough Street and Columbia Avenue; Montgomery Avenue between Girard Avenue and Wildey Street; Ogden Street between Camac Street and North 12th Street; Leithgow Street between George Street and Cambridge Street; 12th Street between Allegheny Street and Sedgley Avenue; Diamond Street between Marvine Street and North 11th Street; Valley Forge Place and Flora Street (Cul-de-sac); North 19th Street between Montgomery Avenue and Berks Street; H Street between Westmoreland Street and Ontario Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying titles to 2917, 2919, 2937 and 2939 Cecil B. Moore Avenue located in the 5th Councilmanic District, pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act, whereas under Section 21-09 of the Land Bank Act, 68 Pa.CSA Section 2109(D)(3), a Redevelopment Authority with the consent of local governing body and without redevelopment contract may convey title to certain Redevelopment Authority property to a Land Bank.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And a privileged resolution honoring the Life and Legacy of internationally renowned jazz legend Benny Golson.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Brooks.

Good morning, Council President. I have one privileged resolution to introduce today.

Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.

Declaring September as National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, congratulating the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter in recognition of their 26th Annual Walter E. Brandon Sickle Cell 5K Walk/Run Fundraiser named in memory of the late Reverend Walter E. Brandon, and commending the work of researchers and medical health professionals working every day to fight Sickle Cell Disease towards the ultimate goal of a universal cure.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.

Hello, Council President. Good morning, colleagues -- good afternoon, whatever it is now. I have two privileged resolutions.

Will the Clerk please read the titles of the two privileged resolutions.

Honoring and Celebrating Jocelyn Wims, activist, gospel singer and public servant on the occasion of her birthday.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing Local 692 for their victory in the 2024 Pennsylvania Pipe Trades Tournament.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and one non-privileged resolution today.

Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bill and one privileged resolution.

An ordinance amending Chapter 9-800, Landlord and Tenant, to add prohibitions and penalties related to anticompetitive rental practices, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution calling on the Pennsylvania General Assembly to pass legislation prohibiting the use and sale of software that use algorithms to anti-competitive set rental rates, fees and occupancy levels.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.

Mr. President, no bills or resolutions today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill today.

Will the Clerk please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance authorizing the relocation of the curblines of Watts Street, from Pine Street to a point northwardly therefrom, on City Plan No. 308, and the plotting on said City Plan of an area for public pedestrian use extending along the westerly side of said Watts Street and authorizing acceptance of the grant to the City of the said area for public pedestrian use, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.

A privi -- a non-privileged resolution. Okay. A non-privileged resolution renaming the 6100 block of North 21st Street "Reverend Ceotis Pryor Way" to honor the life and contributions of Reverend Ceotis L. Pryor, the late trailblazing Pastor of the Corinthian Baptist Church.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nina Ahmad.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have four privileged resolutions.

Will the Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.

A privileged resolution recognizing September 13th to the 27th, 2024 as Welcoming Week 2024 in the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

A privileged resolution recognizing Philadelphia as the host city for the TED Democracy Fireside Chats, a pioneering event series from Ted and Visit Philadelphia that engages national thought leaders in critical discussions on the evolving role of democracy in our society, leading up to America's 250th anniversary.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing September 17th, 2024 as Mid-Autumn Festival and celebrating the cultural and historical significance of Philadelphia's Chinatown.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing September 2024 as Infant Mortality Awareness Month and highlighting the ongoing disparities in maternal and infant death in Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports out 10 bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you very much, Councilmember Young. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.

The Committee on Streets and Services to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 240578 entitled, An ordinance authorizing 5217 Whitby Mt. Moriah, LLC or a subsequent owner to install, own and maintain an encroachment at 5217-5219 Whitby Avenue, under certain terms and conditions; and 240611 entitled, An ordinance authorizing the installation, ownership, replacement and maintenance of various encroachments in the vicinity of 615 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240654 entitled, An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 1320 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240658 entitled, An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 3527-31 Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240659 entitled, An ordinance authorizing of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 3200 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240667 entitled, An ordinance amending Chapter 122700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Permit Parking Districts," by amending the boundaries for certain permit parking districts, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240668 entitled, An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 1601 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240669 entitled, An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a marquee canopy in the vicinity of 2654 South Alder Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240673 entitled, An ordinance establishing parking regulations -- one-way regulations in the designation of a bicycle lane in the vicinity of Maplewood Avenue from Green Street to Wayne Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports that it is considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation; and Bill No. 240670 entitled, An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Designation of Bicycle Lanes," to add a bicycle lane on South 3rd Street, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Streets and Services, Council President.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading on this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a report from the Committee on Licenses and Inspections.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports out two bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. please read the report.

The Committee on Licenses and Inspections to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 240304 entitled, Amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code -- entitled, An ordinance amending Subcode "A" (The Philadelphia Administrative Code) of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code (The Building Construction and Occupancy Code), to require proof of certain insurance certificates; all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240674 entitled, An ordinance rescinding Bill No. 240500 and amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by adding a new chapter creating requirements related to the operation and charging stations, installed at certain commercial and residential parcels, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report from the Committee on Licenses and Inspections, Council President.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a motion.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading of this day of Bill No. 240674 only. (Duly seconded.)

and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of Bill No. 240674 just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. And Bill No. 240674 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Bill No. 240304 will be placed on the First Reading Calendar at our next session of Council. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committees with 2ND READING the suspension of rules have been deemed to have been read on the first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.

Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 240751, 240752, 240754, 240757, 240760, 240764, 240766, 240768, 240769, 240770, 240771, 240772, 240773 and 240776. The following bills and resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 240724, 240242 and 240427.

Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters each will have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session-to-session due to the volume of individuals participating today. The time limit will be one minute. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the one-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium when there are 30 seconds remaining to your time. The light will turn yellow which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once one minute has passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not already done so. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.

Representative Andre Carroll. May Jamie Walker, Eric Tars and Twyla Nunes-Ueno also make their way to the podium. Representative Andre Carroll. (Witness approached podium.) STATE REPRESENTATIVE CARROLL: Good morning, City Council. For the record, my name is Andre D. Carroll and I am the State Representative-Elect in Legislative House District 201. First, I want to start by thanking Council President. I want to thank Philadelphia City Council. I also want to thank Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for this opportunity today --

Mr. Representative Carroll, could you just give me one second if you don't mind. STATE REPRESENTATIVE CARROLL: Sure.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.

Thank you, Council President. My apologies, Rep-Elect. I'd like to excuse myself from session and I'd like to be marked aye on all bills and resolutions.

Excuse is granted. Thank you very much.

Thank you.

The Chair recognizes Representative-Elect Andre Carroll. You can proceed, sir. STATE REPRESENTATIVE CARROLL: Thank you so much, Council President. Again, my name is Andre D. Carroll, State Representative-Elect for House District 201. Again, I want to thank Philadelphia City Council. Thank you, Council President, and also thank you, Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, for this opportunity. I would also like to take the opportunity to congratulate my future colleague Keith Harris for also winning his special election last Tuesday, September 17th. I want to start by saying 33 years ago there was a baby born to a mother who was battling with substance abuse and a father who would later go on to spend 95 percent of his life in prison. I was raised by my grandmother and I want to give honor to my grandmother today because without her grace I don't stand before you today with this opportunity. The journey to this moment has been long. It's been 10 years and it includes the opportunity to work in the Philadelphia City Controller's Office, also serving in the Senatory District Office of Anthony Hardy Williams. So I want to give great honor to Controller Rebecca Rhynhart and Allen Butkovich for the opportunity to serve in their office. Before ever serving in office, I met a gentleman by the name of Isaiah Thomas who at that point wasn't a City Councilmember. He, in fact, at that time was an educator, a mentor and a coach. And I want to thank him for this moment because it's his investment into young men all across the city that produces opportunities like this one. Also, I want to say that the best that America has to offer is what I keep in mind. As I embark on this journey as the next State Representative, I think about the things that unite us versus the things that divide us versus the investment in education, housing or health care. We must understand that we are working in collaboration and sometimes we will disagree and that's absolutely fine. I promise as I embark on this journey to give the best of my ability and the best that I can. On Monday in Harrisburg, Pa I will be inaugurated as the second openly Black gay man to serve in the House of Representatives in Pennsylvania. (Applause.) STATE REPRESENTATIVE CARROLL: While I take this opportunity with great honor, it is above identity that I will have opportunity to serve in this position. I will get a chance to serve the great community members in Germantown, West Oak Lane and Logan. So again, I want to yield back to Philadelphia City Council. I want to thank you for this opportunity and I look forward to serving with you all together. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you.

May Jamie Walker, Eric Tars, Twyla Nunes-Ueno and Kenny Arpels-Josiah. (Witnesses approached podium.)

My name is Jamie Walker and I work in the community to get involved and make positive changes. I'm here to support the idea that housing is a basic human right and to talk about the problems with the recent sweeps in Kensington. These sweeps are cruel and don't solve the issues. People are homeless, mentally ill or addicted to drugs, need help, not punishment. Locking them up is not the answer. A tragic example is Amanda Cahill who died in jail after a Kensington sweep. Amanda was a kind, caring person who struggled with addiction. She had dreams and hopes like all of us. She was a mother, a daughter, a sister and a friend. Her family is now left to mourn her loss, a loss that could have been prevented with proper care and support. She was arrested for drug possession and didn't get the medical care she needed. Our jails are not equipped to handle people going through withdrawal and they are already short-staffed. Studies have shown these sweeps are not effective in the long term. For instance, after a sweep the area might look clean for a short time but people often return because the root causes of homelessness are not addressed. Amanda's death shows that we need to change how we deal with addiction and mental health and we should provide stable housing, medical care and support service. Housing is a basic human right and it's the first step to helping people recover and get back on their feet. These issues don't just affect individuals. They impact entire families, communities when we fail to provide proper care and support. We tear families apart and create more suffering. We need to think about the children, parents and loved ones who are affected by these policies. I urge Council to focus on treating addiction and mental illness as issues not crimes. Let's work together to make our city a place where everyone can live with dignity and get the help they need. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Eric Tars and I serve as the Senior Policy Director at the National Homelessness Law Center where I helped to organize the national support for Gloria Johnson and her fellow homeless plaintiffs in the Johnson versus Grants Pass case at the Supreme Court. And I'm also a proud Philadelphia resident. In short, despite widespread understanding that everybody needs a safe place to sleep, the Supreme Court and a shameful ruling in the tradition of Plessy versus Ferguson and Korematsu versus the United States excluded homeless people from the Constitution's protections against cruel and unusual punishment, giving cities a green light to segregate desperately Black and Brown, LGBTQ+ and disabled population and ticket and arrest them for surviving outside even if there's no safe indoor place for them to be. Councilmember Brooks' resolution makes clear, throwing homeless people in jail or finding them makes homelessness worse and just because cities can do this, does not mean that they should. Council must pass this resolution as a first step to take a stand against the Court's ruling and then must continue to do the right thing and focus on housing, not handcuffs, services not sweeps as a proven solution to homelessness. Please support Resolution 240764. Thank you. (Applause.)

We have Twyla Nunes-Ueno. May Kenny ArpelsJosiah, Kayden Hujack and Zemoria Brandon also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Hi. My name is Twyla Nunes-Ueno and today I'm here to testify for Clara Hensley who worked on Resolution No. 240766 with Fridays for Future. She wasn't able to be here today because of the rescheduling of the Council session. I'm sure I don't need to stand here and explain to you all how catastrophic the climate crisis is becoming to everyone. We all know that and yet we still aren't doing enough about it. We are still going in the wrong direction. As a student, a climate activist and a 17-year-old, I'm terrified of my own future, not because of college or choices ahead of me, but because of the inaction from governments and the generations before me. It's undeniable by science that coal, oil and gas are all carbon bombs. All of these fossil fuel-driven sources of energy are the root of the climate crisis, the root that is hurting and destroying communities right now. Not in 5, 10, 20 years right now. Today on your agenda is a resolution endorsing the call for a Fossil Fuel Nonproliferation Treaty urging the federal government to support this initiative by entering into treaty discussions and committing the City to prioritizing a fair and equitable clean energy transition. Irreversible damage has been done, but we can still save the earth. We need to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, but this can't be done without holding fossil fuel producers accountable. We need a just equitable fossil fuel phase-out and we need it to start now. Clara worked heavily on creating and advocating for this and she's sorry that she couldn't be here today. But regardless, please think of the young people in your life. That's all. Thank you so much. (Applause.)

Hi. My name is Keanu Arpels-Josiah. I'm a 19-year-old climate justice organizer and today I speak on behalf of Fridays for Future USA in support of Fridays for Future Philly and Councilmember O'Rourke's Resolution 240766 in support of the Fossil Fuel on Nonproliferation Treaty. Last year I was at the U.N. climate negotiations known as the Conference of Parties or COP in Dubai. For 28 years of negotiations, the COP had failed to even mention the words fossil fuels, responsible for 92 percent of our emissions. For 28 years of negotiations, the COP failed to mention the very thing destroying our future, flooding our schools, bringing us deadly heat and fastening and worsening deadly extreme weather. Tearing apart our community for 28 years, the global south and island nations have demanded action and for 28 years countries like ours and the global north have said no. In a world where 46.9 million people were displaced from the climate crisis just last year in a country where we continue to be the largest expander of fossil fuel infrastructure, in a region where our sky was orange from wildfire smoke just last June and in a city where this past summer was the hottest in a history and yet the coolest one for the rest of our generation's lives, we must recognize the need for action. Our generation is screaming out for our future. The global south and folks across the country are calling out for their survival. That's why it's so critical this resolution is on the calendar today. We must have a just, equitable and immediate phase-out of fossil fuels to clean and community-driven renewable energy and that must begin with stopping the expansion of new fossil fuel infrastructure. That's what the Fossil Fuel Nonproliferation Treaty is all about. It's what science nearly unanimously calls for. So we can't wait for Philly to join cities around the country and calling for this resolution. (Applause.)

Hi. My name is Kayden Hujack. And I'm here to condemn the Supreme Court's decision to allow the criminalization of homelessness and instead I'm here to advocate that the City provide adequate services for these individuals instead of throwing them in an institution to be abused, neglected and in some case have their lives taken. The City's inherent evil to attack our most vulnerable populations will only add additional trauma resulting in the likelihood of reoffending. This will lead to even more homelessness on the streets exactly the opposite of Cherelle's plan. It is apparent with these types of reactionary beliefs in play that the City officials do not consider homeless people, people below the poverty line or substance abusers as actual humans and are indeed to them indisposable. Take my cousin Amanda Cahill, for example, whose life was just taken due to these types of initiatives. Amanda was picked up on the 4th of September sweep initiated by Cherelle Parker. And due to these inhumane decisions, they threw my cousin in a jail that was, in fact, not prepared for the influx of substance users and homeless people that they said they were prepared for. The streets of Kensington did not take my cousin. Actually she survived them. The PDP and the staff at PICC did as well as Cherelle and her insistent need to attack the most vulnerable. Not only is throwing homeless individuals in jail inhumane, this led to the death of Amanda which proves and wins the fight that myself and other harm reductionists have been trying to make, this doesn't work. If this is going to be the initiative, then maybe instead of deploying more officers in the streets of Kensington, the plan should be adequately staffing her jails making sure that the medical professionals are on deck and correctional officers are properly educated on how to keep these people safe. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case with my cousin. But this is why I am here, to make sure that this doesn't happen to anyone else, although it did a week later. The victim's name was Michael McKinnis, another individual who was left unsupervised all night. The system learned nothing and failed yet another person. I, Kayden Hujack, the cousin of Amanda Cahill condemns Grants Pass versus Johnson -

Your time is up -

No, I'm (inaudible)...

(Gestured).

The further we neglect to treat these people like human beings, the problems will only maximize until their death, which will more than likely happen due to resolutions like these being ignored. I, Kayden Hujack, the cousin of Amanda Cahill condemns the Grants Pass versus Johnson and I'm screaming justice for my cousin Amanda, who the PDP couldn't even bother to get a gurney for and dragged her out in a body bag allegedly. Amanda, you deserve better and I hope your death at least instills much-needed change and eradicates these God-awful beliefs before somebody else is in the bag next. Thank you. (Applause.)

We have Zemoria Brandon. May Sarah PierreLouise, Rayya El Zein and Kate Perez also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Greetings, Council President Kenyatta Johnson and other Councilmembers. My name is Reverend Zemoria Brandon. I serve as the Administrator Social Worker for the Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, a community-based organization established over 42 years ago to meet the needs across the life span for children, adolescents, adults and families living with sickle cell disease through the following services: Roundtrip transportation, newborn screening follow-up, case management, supportive services and referrals, patient parent support groups, multi-cultural initiative, advocacy support, single gene genetic counseling and education. This morning we offer our support of the Brooks' honorary resolution introduced by Councilmember At-large Kendra Brooks in recognition of our organization and her leadership, commitment and advocacy along with other Councilmembers who have supported our funding requests over the past two years of $100,000. We appreciate your continued interest in the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter. However, in closing it is our hope that this year's Cultural Fund will provide a funding opportunity for our agency to continue shining a light on sickle cell by building on our 42-year history of providing supportive services and honoring our mission of improving the quality of life across the life span for children, adolescents, adults and families living with Sickle Cell Disease and sickle cell trait, may it be so. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Good morning. My name is Sarah PierreLouis and I'm the Community Health Worker for the Sickle Cell Disease Association Philadelphia/Delaware Chapter -- all right. So I'm the Community Health Worker for the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, the Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter, and I'm also one of the people in the Philadelphia area living with Sickle Cell Disease. The impact of Sickle Cell Disease on an individual as well as a family can be devastating. And while many of you may know what sickle cell is, each experience is unique. As a child this disease has kept me in the hospital, out of school and affected my family who have always supported me. But what got me to where I am now is the help from my amazing support systems of medical professionals, social workers, camps and organizations like this one. Now, as an adult through this organization I am able to assist with raising awareness, providing much-needed support services such as transportation and financial services as well as advocating for health care for those living with sickle cell disease. I thank you for all the support from the Cultural funds that we received in the past and for your much appreciated support going forward. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)

Thank you.

We have Rayya El Zein, Kate Perez and may Teresa Duncan also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Hello. I have letters for Council. I'm here to speak against amendments to Bill 240242. Business should not continue as usual during a genocide. We, the people of Philadelphia -- we, the people of Philadelphia, stand against our country's complicity in Israel's ongoing genocide of Palestinians. We condemn our federal and state taxes funding the war machine while our own public schools are so underresourced. We call on City Council to pass a resolution for, one, an unconditional permanent and enforceable ceasefire in Gaza; two, an immediate arms embargo of Israel; three, divestment from Israeli companies and companies complicit with the occupation like Energix; four, protecting the rights of students, teachers and workers of Philadelphia to speak against genocide and war crimes in Palestine, Sudan, Congo, Haiti and elsewhere. Over the past year in Palestine, Israel has killed more than 200,000 people, detained 10,000 hostages and 80,000 people are missing. This week Israeli air strikes killed almost 600 people in just one day. In our city, weapons manufacturers Day & Zimmerman, Leonardo and Ghost Robotics are selling directly to Israeli forces. We, the people of Philadelphia, say enough of the war machine. It is morally imperative that the City Council pass the resolution calling for, one, an unconditional, permanent and enforceable ceasefire in Gaza. Two, an immediate arms embargo against Israel; three, divestment from Israeli companies and companies complicit with the occupation like Energix; four, protecting the rights of students, teachers and workers of Philadelphia to speak against genocide and war crimes in Palestine, Sudan, Congo, Haiti and elsewhere. We are tired of watching our families get torn apart. There should be no business as usual during a genocide. Cease fire now.

Will the Clerk please call the next speaker. (Applause.) (Cease fire now.)

May Kate Perez make their way to the podium. (Witness approached podium.) (Cease fire now.)

May Teresa Duncan and Amy Eusebio also make their way to the podium. Teresa Duncan and Amy Eusebio. (Cease fire now.)

Ms. Perez, you can begin your speech or do you want to defer to your team?

Cease fire now. (Witness approached podium.)

Please begin. (Cease fire now.)

Please begin, sir, your testimony.

Good morning, President Johnson and the illustrious City Council and citizens of Philadelphia. My name is Teresa Johnson Duncan. I'm the Director of the Center for Leadership Development and Advocacy, and I'm representing one of our signature programs today, the Fresh Bottoms Diaper Bank. Diaper Bank is defined as the lack of a sufficient supply of diapers to keep an infant or a child clean, dry and healthy. And in Philadelphia, many families struggle to afford this basic necessity. Diapers are not covered by any federal assistance program such as SNAP, TANF or WIC. And many daycare agencies require parents to provide diapers for their children. Some children with disabilities never outgrow the need for diapers. The consequences of diaper need are far-reaching without an adequate supply, severe diaper rashes and infections apparent to take a child to the emergency room over and over again. Parents may miss work or even school because they cannot leave their children at a day care. This creates a cycle of economic hardship and stress for families who are already facing financial challenges. During this week I urge you to consider helping Fresh Bottoms and other Diaper Banks. We are being featured at the PECO Crown Lights tonight, the 28th and the 29th, and we look for your support. Fresh Bottoms has been helping many of the Councilpeople here. We thank you for your support. We will show up at your baby showers and we are available for you. Remember, a clean diaper builds character. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Kate Perez, 240247. We know of three weapons manufacturers in your districts. Non-conformities means that these businesses no longer comply with City standards. Our conventional arms transfer policy state that the United States cannot transfer weapons when it's more likely than not to be used in violations of the Geneva Conventions or other severe human rights violations of which Israel has already been found guilty of multiple in the International Court of Justice, and especially considering their recent escalations in Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq and Syria. Companies in our city that continue to sell weapons to the Israeli occupation violate the (inaudible) Assistance Act of 1961 and the Arms Export Control Act. U.S. soldiers are now on the ground to evacuate in Lebanon as Israel aims for a regional war. You can pass a resolution calling on Congress to support the Sanders joint resolutions of disapproval to halt this next wave of arm sales to Israel. (Inaudible) are non-conformities and detrimental to the city. Pending an end to Israel's occupation, third (inaudible) states must immediately stop all forms of aid or assistance that help maintain the unlawful occupation, including halting arms transfers and ceasing all trade with illegal settlements. We want an arms transfer. We want to cease fire. Free Palestine. (Applause.)

Amy Eusebio. May Rasheed Milledge, Paul Birdsong and Kareem Price, also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good afternoon, Councilmembers. My name is Amy Eusebio and I serve as the Executive Director of the City of Philadelphia Office of Immigrant Affairs. I'm here today to comment in favor of the Welcoming Week resolution introduced by Councilmember Nina Ahmad. And I want to just share a little bit for those who don't know the Office of Immigrant Affairs, we are a permanent City office with a mission to promote the well-being of immigrants, refugees and asylees in the city of Philadelphia. And we do this by promoting policies and programs that facilitate their successful inclusion into the City's civic, economic and cultural life. And so, today I am here to celebrate our 12th Annual Welcoming Week, and it is part of a national program initiative led by a nonprofit called Welcoming America that really has a goal of creating a sense of belonging and inclusion for all of our City's residents, including the foreign born. Just want to comment briefly on some of the featured events over the last couple of weeks, including an art exhibit at the Free Library called Belonging that's on display until October 1st. Several flag-raising ceremonies, a job fair yesterday, many wonderful events. And so, I just want to thank the support of City Council for supporting immigrants, refugees and asylees in the city of Philadelphia and for celebrating Welcoming Week. Thank you. (Applause.)

You're welcome.

Rasheed Milledge, Paul Birdsong, Kareem Price and John Geeting also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

My name is Paul Birdsong. In reference to Resolution 240724 regarding merchants facilitating illegal activities that negatively impact our communities, I'm puzzled as to how the law enforcement community in Philly who due to an archaic forensics lab, poor community support and unused or inoperable cameras citywide who under the direction, yet without the support of Mayor Cherelle Parker, who can't tackle larger tasks such as the overwhelming epidemic of gun violence accompanied by 2,000-plus unsolved murder cases, plans on or has the resources to take on this task. City Council, you have given Mayor Cherelle Parker all the support she needs to give us community support. You've given her all the support she needs to give us cameras and a forensics lab. We no longer look to you for the solution rather camaraderie and putting pressure on our Mayor to prioritize Philadelphia's safety. And until she does, every victim who possibly could have been prevented by a decision it is on her to make is on her hands. I repeat their blood is on her hands. Also, President Kenyatta Johnson, just a question and you ain't got to answer me straight up right here, but I've noticed that there is a lot more priority in putting time on all the ceremonial things than the ability of the public to come testify. I wonder why that is when this whole thing is about making this city a better city for these people. All power to the people. (Applause.)

Kareem Price, John Geeting, Andrea Rogers, Victoria King, make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. My name is Andrea Rogers and I serve as Executive Director for Starfinder Foundation. I'm in support of Councilmember Rue Landau's Resolution 240757, calling on the School District to expand SEPTA student fare passes to all students for usage at all times regardless of the residential distance from schools. So Starfinder, my organization, is a sports-based youth development organization that engages youth in health and physical fitness, social emotional wellness and an ability to focus on the future from neighborhoods all over Philadelphia. So we see kids from over 50 schools in the city and we engage them through deep programs, supportive mentorship and a tight-knit community, and our foundational belief is that all youth deserve to learn, grow and thrive. So while we serve PreK through high school, our key program is our high school program which is an afterschool and summertime program that they come to us and we know that students that participate in afterschool and weekend and summer programs are less likely to engage in risky behaviors, engage in adverse relationships, interpersonal relationships and they have the ability to succeed. So among so many other barriers in the city that limit opportunity for our youth to optimize their potential, a key barrier that is prohibitive are the costs of transportation or difficulty navigating transportation within a limited set of rules. I am hopeful that this measure will help lift that barrier for youth and their families and lead to increased access to opportunities that will empower young people and allow them to explore their talents and promote increasing their options in the future. Thank you, Councilmember Landau, and thank you to your colleagues. I look forward to seeing this resolution passed. (Applause.)

You're welcome.

Victoria King, Connor Descheemaker, Cymbol Lai, MaCherie Dunbar. (Witnesses approached podium.)

All right. Hello there. My name is Connor Descheemaker. I am the Coalition member for Transit Board Philadelphia speaking in support of Councilmember Landau's Resolution 240757. I've got printed letters from two folks who could not be here today, Rebecca Fabiano from Fab Youth Philly as well as a student Aumi Long. I want to thank several members of Council, Councilmember Phillips and staff, Councilmember Landau, in particular Molly, Councilmember O'Rourke and Staff member Kate, Councilmember Brooks and Staff member Eric, Councilmember Thomas and Staff member Ben. We're all here in support of expanding student fares because this is putting us in alignment with cities across the country, including most recently New York, who are expanding transportation access for youth. We have received a ton of digital support, this is a no-brainer, for enhanced independence, improved connection to community and youth engagement, more ridership for SEPTA and support for our youth and families. This is an incredible opportunity and I'm really excited to see the momentum for this. Let's get it funded and let's get it implemented. Thank you so much for your time. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Good morning. My name is Cymbol Lai. I'm -- fine. Okay. Got it. I'm testifying today in support of the resolution authorizing a joint hearing on the use of electronic monitoring for GPS for youth involved in Philadelphia's juvenile justice system. First of all, I'd like to thank Councilmember Phillips and Councilmember Landau for introducing this resolution. We and many of our partners have been working on this problem for years so thank you very much. Philadelphia has seen an overall decrease in the spending on youth involved in the criminal justice system and a decrease in overall numbers of youth incarceration since 2016. At the same time, we've seen an increase in reliance on electronic monitoring in FY2017. We had 1500 youth on GPS surveillance. In FY2023 we have around 1,700. More and more the City has used GPS as an alternative to youth detention. While we may think that GPS is better than being confined, we've heard stories from young people challenging that assumption. So youth tell us about how they can't go to their programs and job trainings or therapy sessions that are court-mandated because they risk violations. We've heard of youth getting violations because they stopped off at a store to get a sandwich and they stayed there too long. We've heard stories about youth who can't in the middle of summer sit out on their porch because if they do, they're going to get a violation so they sit at home and they bake. So these stories and the cost of using monitoring and maintaining the GPS system is increasing are reasons why we find that the hearing is very, very, very important. We want to know what we're doing, why we're doing it and whether or not this tool has its intended effect. So again, we've been working alongside partners of this problem for years. We hope that these hearings uplift the experiences of young people who have gone through a DPS monitoring so that Philadelphia can develop a better, more holistic, more rehabilitative strategy for youth. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)

MaCherie Dunbar. May Michael Felker, Michelle Smith and Sterling Johnson also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good afternoon, Council President, ranking members and esteemed members of Council. My name is Mashare Dunbar. I'm a retired Air Force combat veteran, an out lesbian who served during Don't Ask, Don't Tell. I'm here today as a member of the Board of Directors representing the Veterans Multiservice Center known as VMC, an organization proudly supporting veterans of all backgrounds and experiences, including those like myself who faced discrimination during their military service due to the now repealed Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. First and foremost, we want to thank Councilmember Rue Landau for introducing this resolution which honors the anniversary of the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. It acknowledges the immense sacrifices made by LGBTQ+ veterans. For too long the bad paper discharge is given to over 13,000 service members between 1994 and 2011, have blocked them from basic resources like VA health care, home loan guarantees, education benefits, all critical components of successful transition from military service. At the VMC, we see firsthand the impact of these denials, creating challenges due to mental health and physical health conditions, housing insecurity and a lack of access to essential support services. These challenges are compounded for LGBTQ+ veterans who suffered additional mental, emotional and systemic trauma simply for being ourselves. Most of those discharged under Don't Ask, Don't Tell still have not come forward to seek their earned benefits and discharge upgrades. Supporting this resolution honoring the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell makes a declarative statement that says we see you, we honor you, we support you. Philadelphia can be a leader in ensuring that every LGBTQ+ veteran and our community feels welcome and is aware of the steps that they can take to restore their benefits. VMC is committed to working alongside the City to make this happen. We ask this Council to continue standing with LGBTQ+ veterans not just in words but in action. Pass this resolution and let's work together to ensure that their service is honored and that the injustices of the past do not define their future. Thank you. (Applause.)

Council President and Councilmembers. My name is Michal Smith. I'm the Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia. Thank you for hearing me today. Cradles to Crayons is the largest national nonprofit with children's clothing insecure at the core of our mission. There are no federal and few state-based programs that cover this essential critical items like shoes, coats and clothing. Cradles to Crayons closes those gaps that in children in Greater Philadelphia face by providing packages of clothing and essential items to kids living in low income and homeless situations. Since we opened our doors here in 2006, we've provided 1.5 million packages of clothing and essentials to kids in the region by helping 200 human services agencies in Philadelphia. This year we'll distribute 300,000 packages. But the reason I'm here today is to talk about diaper need. in families in Philadelphia face diaper need annually. When families go without an adequate supply of diapers, they risk diaper rashes and infection and it's really critical that we fund this. More importantly, when a family doesn't have diapers, they don't go to work and miss an average of 5.1 days of work a month. That's why we've provided 8 million diapers in America and 3 million diapers here in Philadelphia and today we're distributing 780,000 out of East Falls giving factory warehouse today. Thank you for your help with this. Thank you for the recognition of national Diaper Needs Awareness Week and thank you, Councilman Rue Landau, for supporting this today. Diaper need is vital for kids in our region. Please help us. Thank you. (Applause.)

Sterling Johnson, Byron Golson, Lynn Landes and Jeremy Blatstein also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

My name is Mike Felker. I want to thank Councilmember Landau for her resolution on the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell and recognition of LGBTQ+ veterans. I was a U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman, who served as a combat medic with the Marines in Vietnam in 1970. It is important that my fellow gay veterans, we who have served and sacrificed for our country, be given access to the benefits they have earned and deserve, including VA medical care, home loans and the GI bill. Thank you. (Applause.)

Hello. My name is Sterling Johnson. I'm from Philadelphia Community Land Trust in Philadelphia Housing Action. I'm here to support Councilperson Brooks' Resolution 240764 condemning the Grants Pass decision from the Supreme Court. First, I don't want to forget this, the reason that we're here is to support families, mostly Black and Latinx families and my organizing. I'm going to shout out justice for the Mitchell children which comes from the experience of Janie Mitchell which is one of our organizers here with us. We're fighting to keep people together with more decriminalization. The way that the systems talk to each other makes it impossible for housing to happen, makes it impossible for jobs to happen. I don't understand how you expect people with a criminal record to have equal access to jobs and housing. And what we must stop is the dehumanization of people. The fact that a senator in the center of Pennsylvania would deny the organizations in Kensington $7.5 million because he did not know that kids lived in Kensington is the result of the constant dehumanization. The videos, the slander, the statements made wildly without centering the actual people and actual families that live in Kensington, we have to stop it. The fact that he doesn't know that and that he says, no, you don't deserve afternoon -- afterschool activities, a soccer program. If we understand the need to come together, actually hold -actually this did happen, right, this has happened in our city. And even as recent as 2019, I will say Councilwoman Blackwell brought a lot of people together and said, we're going to make sure that hospitals are going to be held accountable for the people that end up on the street. You know, we're going to have a long conversation -- going to end now. But the thing -- I'm disabled. The thing that I cannot stand is when I see people that should be given care, health care, health care. A syringe is health care, to be in a hospital and receive care and pain management. Withdrawal management is health care. That's all it is. They should not be on the street and the hospitals have to be held accountable. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)

Byron Golson, Lynn Landes, Jeremy Blatstein and Noah Forer also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. Good morning, Council President Johnson and members of City Council. I am Byron Golson and I'm here to support the resolution honoring my cousin Jazz composer tenor saxophone musician arranger Benny Golson who died this week at 95, introduced by Councilmember Jeffrey Young. The last time I stood here I was representing Settlement Music School. My twin brother and I are musicians because of Benny, and this is a full circle moment, because 10 years ago Jeff Young drafted a resolution on behalf of his boss, then President Clarke, to honor Benny who was in these chambers for the first time in his life. He marveled at the elegance of this room. And as I recall, Councilman Young's father was a Benny fan as well. On the same day in 2014, Mayor Nutter honored Benny in the Mayor's reception room and Vince interviewed him for WURD. Benny was born and raised in North Philadelphia, graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School. Some of his accomplishments were he composed several Jazz standards such as Killer Joe, Whisper Not, I Remember Clifford and Blues March, and he was a very, very deep influence on my life as I became a musician following in his footsteps. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Good afternoon. I'm Lynn Landes of Safestreetsphilly.org. I support the resolution to strengthen enforcement against illegal activity in certain stores, but the City needs more. We need our laws fully enforced across the board. To that end, I ask City Council to urge the Mayor to announce the new forensic lab as soon as possible. As to last Saturday night's mayhem in Center City, there's no surprise there. The Mayor and City Council need to restore summary arrests and community court throughout the city, not just for Kensington. In violation of both local and state laws, the City is still not fully enforcing the law in every part of the city. And in violation of federal law, Philadelphia is still a sanctuary city for illegal immigration. We are sending a dangerously mixed message. We must enforce a law across the board for effective and equal justice even with a new forensic lab there is no magic bullet when it comes to public safety. From retail theft to wanton murder, from broken windows to open borders, everything matters. Thank you. (Applause.)

Jeremy Blatstein, Noah Forer, Sultan Smalley and David Gibson, make your way to the podium please. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Hello, President Johnson, City Council. I'm talking about SEPTA today. You know what the question is. Raise your -- my name is Jeremy Blatstein. I'm sorry for that. Who rode SEPTA to City Hall this morning? Oh, zero. Come on. The quality-of-life issues surrounding City Hall, you saw it on Saturday night, and you see it on a daily basis. But I really would encourage you to ride SEPTA to City Hall. I think that it really will be eye-opening to see the issues that your constituents face on a daily basis. And it really is another opportunity also what's been spoken on today regarding homelessness and how that impacts around the quality of life around City Hall. Love Park and the surrounding area has progressively gotten worse over the last 6 to 12 months. The study that came out this past week reflected that. So as we talk about housing and homelessness, I would just encourage each and every one of you to really see that firsthand and ride SEPTA. So my challenge to you, I said it last week, I'm going to say every week, ride Septa on Thursdays and really show -- ride the ride and put some oomph behind it. Thank you. (Applause.)

Hello. My name is Noah Zohar Foyer. I'm a 19-year-old environmental activist and I co-founded the Philadelphia chapter of Fridays for Future at 16 years old. Thank you, City Councilmembers, who sponsored the fossil fuel nonproliferation treaty in supporting ending new fossil fuel expansion. However, words can only be the first step. I want you to react to the global climate crisis the same way you guys reacted to the global pandemic in 2022. We changed the way we were going about our daily lives and the way our systems operated in order to ensure our chances of survival. I want you to think about how many of you need air, food and water to survive. Hoping that's all of us. I want you to think about how many people around the world do not have access to all these resources. I'll let you know how many people, 2.2 billion. 17 to 20 percent of the Amazon Rainforest has already been destroyed and its irreversible tipping point is reached when 20 to 25 percent has been cut down. When I graduated from high school in 2023, we were congratulated by being engulfed in a thick, heavy smoke greeted from the wildfires in Canada. Climate change is here. Climate change is now. Margaret Mead, a revolutionary American anthropologist said, Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has. I would like to give every single person in this room today, every individual, five things that they can start doing today to reduce their impact on the planet. One, educate yourself and your friends and your family on climate change. Talk about it. Two, reduce the amount of food and plastic we are wasting. We don't need to buy more than we consume. Three, reduce the amount of resources that you are throwing away. It's okay to share. We can be a community. We can reuse clothes. We can reuse plastic. Four, lower that thermometer. If you want to put the AC on 70, bump it down to 69 instead. It's okay -- sorry, I meant heating. It's okay to have it lower than what you need. It saves energy. And five, use public transit more or bike. It will help the transit system become more accessible to everyone and that is something we need. It does not matter what your political stance, religion, background or education is. Climate change is a threat that is impacting every single one of us right now and it is not going to disappear by ignoring it. As a community, it is our responsibility to do every single thing we can to take the steps necessary to pave the path to a sustainable, livable future. Do it for me. Do it for your kids and do it for the kids to come. Please. Thank you. (Applause.)

Hello. My name is Sultan Smalley. I am a student at the Community College of Philadelphia and a member of the Sunrise Movement. I am here to support the passage of the fossil fuel nonproliferation treaty resolution. The Philadelphia youth deserve the ability to imagine their futures with equanimity, not fear. We cannot afford to act slowly in our ongoing climate crisis. The time to act is today. Billionaires and big corporations have for too long been allowed to exacerbate the warming of our planet with impunity. Today's City Council has the opportunity to help ameliorate the decades of inaction from our government. This is an existential threat and let's not forget who bears the brunt of this. It's the working-class Black and Brown communities like the citizens near the Bellwether District who reported higher levels of cancer while an oil refinery operated near their homes and dealt with the consequences of the same refinery exploding in 2019, releasing hydrochloric acid in the atmosphere. Furthermore, Philadelphia has a child asthma rate three times the national average, but the risk is unequal. The majority Black neighborhood of West Philadelphia where I grew up in Cobbs Creek has some of the city's highest asthma hospitalization rates. This is to say that passing this treaty is not just a climate justice issue. It is a racial justice issue. It is an economic justice issue and we must acknowledge the contiguity between all these different issues in order to tackle the climate crisis with the level of seriousness it warrants. We stand at an inflection point and I often feel deflated because I don't see enough action. But in times like this, I remember that there are decades where nothing happened and days where decades happened. So please make this day worth a decade. Thank you. (Applause.)

David Gibson. May Ogbonna Hagins and Wanda Walker also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

I'm David Gibson. I'm representing members of Peace Justice Sustainability now which is the associate group of Peace Action, the nation's oldest secular peace group since 1957. I'm also representing the Philadelphia area No more War Coalition speaking in favor of the resolution for our fossil fuel treaty. Thank you for allowing me time to speak. As everyone should know by now, we all face two existential threats to humanity survival, the spread and potential use of nuclear weapons and the growing climate emergency. On the introduction to the fossil fuel treaty website page it says, just like 50 years ago when the world used international treaties to diffuse the threats posed by nuclear weapons, today the world needs a fossil fuel nonproliferation treaty to phase out fossil fuels, support dependent economies, workers and communities and to diversify away from fossil fuels. In 2019 City Council passed a resolution encouraging the U.S. to support the treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons or the TPNW. Over the years we reduced the nuclear threat from 70,000 warheads to around 12,000 today, but new nuclear weapons are being planned by all nuclear countries, though they are illegal according to the TPNW. We must continue to work to abolish nuclear weapons and we know it's possible, but we will do little good if we keep the world from frying in a nuclear firestorm to let it slowly fry thanks to the current climate emergency, like the proverbial frog in the pot. It's time to take action and compel governments to end fossil fuels. Let's take a step by passing this resolution. Thank you. One last point. Democracy takes time. A minute isn't enough. Thank you. (Applause.)

Great afternoon. Ogbonna Hagins, fourth generation chattel slavery survivor. Councilmembers, while I applaud the formation of the Special Committee on Kensington, I cannot ignore the hypocrisy staring us in the face. We rush to address issues in Kensington, but where is the same urgency when it comes to the progeny of the emancipated, the American Freedmen. Let's talk about the elephant in the room. We have offices for the Caribbean and for various other immigrant groups. Where is the office of the American Freedmen, the progeny of the emancipated? How can there be offices for everybody else in this building, but the people who save this nation, the people who built this nation doesn't have an office in this building. I demand that immediately. I talked to my man right here Councilman Harrity, who has met with us. You guys got to meet. We got to have an office of American Freedmen within this building, the first one in the history. Ogbonna Hagins, unseated Council President, American Freedman and a fourth generation 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING chattel slavery survivor. (Applause.)

Wanda Walker. (No response.)

There are no further names, Council President.

Thank everyone for their testimony today. That concludes today's public comment period. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240751.

A resolution renaming Stenton Avenue and Washington Lane to "Isabella Fitzgerald Way" to honor her significant impact on the community. Introduced by Councilmember Phillips.

9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240751.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240751 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240752. 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 5019 North Camac Street in the 9th 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 to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code. Introduced by Councilmember Phillips.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240752.

Thank you, Council President Johnson. I move for the adoption of the resolution. 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240752 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240754.

A resolution renaming the 5800 block of Oxford Street "Fred Rosenfeld Way" to honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Frederick C. Rosenfeld for his outstanding contributions to youth sports in Philadelphia. 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Introduced by Councilmember Jones.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240754.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240754 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING the title of Resolution No. 240757.

A resolution calling on the School District of Philadelphia to expand SEPTA Student Fare Passes to all students for usage at all times, and regardless of the residential distance from schools. Introduced by Councilmember Landau.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Landau for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240757.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240757 be adopted. All those in the favor of the motion will signify by saying 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240760.

A resolution authorizing the Special Committee on Kensington to convene and explore best practices in substance use disorder outreach and to investigate the effectiveness of current methods used by the City of Philadelphia and its partners. Introduced by Councilmember Lozada.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kathy Gilmore Richardson for a motion regarding Resolution No. 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING 240760.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilmember Lozada, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240760 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240764. 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

A resolution condemning the Supreme Court's decision to allow the criminalization of homelessness in Grants Pass versus Johnson and reaffirming the City of Philadelphia's commitment to housing as a human right. Introduced by Councilmember Brooks.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240764.

Council President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240764 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) 9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240766.

A resolution affirming the City of Philadelphia's ongoing commitment to the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, endorsing the call for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, urging the federal government to support this initiative by entering into treaty discussions, and committing the City to prioritizing a fair and equitable clean energy transition. Introduced by Councilmember O'Rourke.

9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240766.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the passage of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240766 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. (Applause.)

9/26/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240768.