COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE ON STREETS AND SERVICES City Hall, Room 400 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Tuesday, June 3, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: CHAIR JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. VICE CHAIR MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN JAMES HARRITY COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS MR. PULLIN, The Clerk P R O C E E D I N G S CHAIR YOUNG: Good morning, everyone. Welcome to City Council's Committee on Streets and Services. I'll note the hour has come. Mr. Pullin, would you please call the roll?
Councilmember Ahmad, Councilmember Bass. Councilmember Brooks.
Chair Young. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Mr. Pullin. I note for the record that a quorum of this committee is present and this hearing is now called to order. This is a public hearing on the Committee on Streets and Services considering testimony on Bill Nos. 250328, 250383, 250384, 250425, 250427, 250430, 250437, 250439, 250488, 250489, 250490, 250494, 250532, 250353 and 256536. I would like to note that Bill No. 250383 is being held at the request of the sponsor. And before we begin, do any of my colleagues have any opening remarks? Seeing none. Thank you. Mr. Pullin, would you please read the title of the first bill to be heard?
Bill No. 21 250427, entitled Establishing Parking Regulations in the vicinity of: Anchor Street between Horrocks Street and Large Street; Kennedy Street between Penn Street and Saul Street; Salem Street between Torresdale avenue and Womrath Street; Franklin Street between Cayuga Street and Wingohocking Street; N. 8th Street between Wingohocking Street and Cayuga Street; N. 7th Street between Butler Street and Pike Street; Bristol Street between Marshall Street and N. 7th Street; Bristol Street between N. 6th Street and Marshall Street; Mascher Street between Montgomery Avenue and Cecil B Moore avenue. CHAIR YOUNG: Mr. Pullin, would you call all the witnesses to testify on this bill.
The first witness to testify is Lester Emerson, Deputy Manager for the Philadelphia Parking Authority. CHAIR YOUNG: State your name, for the record, and begin with your testimony.
Good morning, Council. My name is Lester Emerson, Deputy Manager for the Philadelphia Parking Authority. Thank you for allowing me to testify before council regarding ordinance 250427, establishing parking regulations. The Philadelphia Parking Authority have no objections to the ordinance previously read before council and recommend a favorable consideration. Thank you again for your time and I'll be happy to answer any questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Mr. Emerson. Are there any questions or comments from members of the committee regarding this witness this bill? Seeing none, is there anyone else in chamber wishing to testify on Bill No. 250427? Seeing none, thank you for your testimony. Mr. Pullin, would you please read the title of the next bill?
Bill No. 7 250439, amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled Traffic Code to prohibit the stopping, standing, or parking of a motor vehicle on a public street or as otherwise prohibited for purposes of short dumping and authorization of enforcement through a camera-based enforcement system, and designating penalties and impoundment, all under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Pullin, would you call both witnesses to testify at this time?
The first witnesses to testify, Carlton Williams, director of the Office of the Clean & Green Initiative, and Rich Lazer, Philadelphia Parking Authority. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Williams, state your name for the record and begin your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and the honorable members of City Council. My name is Carlton Williams and I am the director of Clean & Green Initiatives for the Honorable Mayor Cherelle Parker for the city of Philadelphia. Joining me today is Crystal Jacobs-Shipman Commissioner for the Department of Sanitation. And I am pleased to be here to testify on Bill No. 250439 sponsored by Councilmember Squilla to address the city's response to illegal dumping and litter offenses. The bill amends the traffic code by adding provisions related to short dumping by prohibiting stopping, standing and parking a vehicle on any road, highway, alley, public park or plaza, other public space, rail road, right-of-way, private property or area adjacent to the waters of the city for the purposes of short dumping. The Honorable Mayor Cherelle Parker's vision is to ensure that Philadelphia is the safest, cleanest, greenest, big city in the nation with access to economic opportunity for all. In her first 100 days, Mayor Parker established an action plan to help implement the vision for the city and the action plan had three major goals: To create a clean and green cabinet consistent of government officials, industry professionals, businesses, community-based organizations, non-profit organizations and community leaders to develop best practices for clean and green in the city, combating illegal dumping, reduce waste and improve the city's environmental footprint. Also to create -- to adjust in the persistent quality of life issues, such as litter and illegal dumping, graffiti, potholes, nuisance properties and abandoned cars. Responding to the hardest hit areas in neighborhoods using their public ticker to show progress and partnering with the community led cleanup efforts. And finally, to develop and expand a key prevention programs, such as PHL taking care of business program to cover commercial corridors and more frequent cleaning of existing corridors and increasing the number of participating organizations. At this point I'd like to turn it over to Commissioner Shipman who's joining me today and who will read the remaining part of the testimony.
In 2022 -- CHAIR YOUNG: Excuse me, Ms. Shipman, can you just state your name for the record, please, first?
Sure thing. Crystal Jacobs-Shipman, Sanitation Commissioner. In 2022, the Cleaner Public Spaces Enforcement Committee worked with then Councilmember Parker to initiate the notice of violation process for illegal dumping. This civil enforcement process uses our city-wide network of over 2,500 cameras, 400 of which are dedicated to illegal dumping. To capture dumping in the act and hold offenders accountable with fines of up to $5,000 per item dumped from a vehicle. It has led to over 3-million in judgments and -- actually over 5-million in judgments and over 200,000 in settlements from illegal dumpers from multiple offenders from inside and outside of this city. While many potential dumpers have been deterred, we have however seen repeat offenders. This bill addresses goal No. 2, which as Director Williams mentioned, a new approach to assisting persistent quality of life issues such as short dumping with a collaborative innovative approach by partnering with the Philadelphia Parking Authority to utilize cameras based enforcement to ticket, boot and tow for short dumping violation caught on the city's vast camera network assessing the penalty of the boot and tow with a $500 fine. The ability to combine the court's judgment with the capacity to boot and tow vehicles that have been witnessed in these crimes create a powerful penalty and broad scale deterrent system. The combination of these programs is anticipated to make a significant difference and positive impact on litter, illegal bumping and other quality of life issues across the city. We could not have made progress without the support of the honorable members of City Council who have supported these efforts to improve the quality of life for all our residents who live, work and visit our city. Together we are making Philadelphia safer, cleaner and greener. And we thank you for this opportunity to testify and happy to answer any questions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you so much. Mr. Lazer, please begin with your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the committee. My name is Rich Lazer, Parking Authority and I appreciate the opportunity to appear before you today to offer support for Bill No. 250439, and also want to thank Councilman Squilla for introducing the bill. The Philadelphia Parking Authority has created a new unit that focuses on quality of life issues throughout every community in Philadelphia. We work with the Office of Clean & Green and various city departments to address nuisance vehicles, tractor trailer parking in residential neighborhoods and combat illegal dumping. Bill No. 250439 amends Title 12 of the Philadelphia code entitled traffic code by authorizing use of camera base technology address short dumping and allows the Authority to issue parking violations along with placing the vehicle used in the act on the boot and tow list. I believe this will be a vital tool in addressing illegal dumping and assisting continuing to approve the quality of life throughout our city. I also want to thank all the members of council for allowing me today to be here and take any questions you have at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Are there any questions of these witnesses for members of the committee? The Chair recognizes the author of the legislation, Councilmember Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. Chair. And I want to thank all of you for the collaboration. I think it's important and the only way we can get to root of the short dumping is collaborating together and making sure we have the resources to do that. So thank you all commissioners and Mr. Lazer for your help and looking forward to seeing this bill in action and hopefully deter. The goal is not to give tickets, the goal is to stop short dumping, and hopefully this will be enough of a deterrence to do that. So thank you. CHAIR YOUNG: Just one question. Whose camera system will be used to enforce? Are these Parking Authorities cameras, are these the city's camera or it's a combination?
It's a combination, but it's mainly the City's Philadelphia Police Department cameras that we use. We also brought into that same network for consistency. When we do investigations, those cameras then provide the evidence necessary to identify the vehicle in question. And that evidence is used to tow the vehicle to turn over to the Parking Authority once they are identified. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Are there any other questions of these witnesses on these bills? Seeing none. Thank you all for your testimony. Is there anyone else wishing to testify on 250439? Seeing none, Mr. Pullin, would you please read the title of the next bill?
Bill No. 24 250535, amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled Traffic Code, to add provisions related to vehicle parking in front of a fire hydrant, to provide for the removal or immobilization of such vehicles and for other penalties, and to make related technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Pullin, will you please call the witness to testify on this bill.
The first witness to testify is Noelle Marconi, legislative affairs director for the Department of streets. CHAIR YOUNG: Good morning, Ms. Marconi. Please state your name for the record and begin with your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name is Noelle Marconi and I'm the director of legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 250535 introduced by Councilmember O'Neill. This bill amends the traffic code by adding provisions related to vehicle parking in front of a fire hydrant and to provide for the removal of such vehicles and add related penalties. The legislation prohibits any portion of a vehicle parked in front of a fire hydrant and institutes a fine of $100 for doing so. The bill also allows for the immobilization of the vehicle by boot and towing of the vehicle. Department of Streets have no objection to this bill. Thank you for the opportunity to testify today. I'm pleased to answer any questions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Ms. Marconi. Are there any questions of this witness on this bill? Seeing none, is there anyone else in chambers wishing to testify on Bill No. 250535? Seeing none, thank you Ms. Marconi. Mr. Pullin, please read the title of the next bill.
Bill No. 13 250384, titled establishment a one-way regulation on Winona Street from Laurens Street, eastbound. CHAIR YOUNG: Please call the witness.
The first witness to testify is Noelle Marconi, legislative affairs director for the Department of Streets. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee, my name is Noelle Marconi and I'm the director of legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 250384 introduced by Councilmember Bass. This bill establishes a one-way regulation for Winona Street from Laurens Street, eastbound. Department of Streets is not opposed to this one-way regulation as signage has already been in place since 2021. This concludes my testimony and pleased to answer any questions you may have. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Just one question regarding the mechanics of the one-way street. You said it's been in place since 2021, so this legislation legalizes and authorizes.
Correct. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Any questions of this witness on this bill? CHAIR YOUNG: The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass.
Thank you for your work on this and working with us all this time to get it legalized and get the community support. So thank you so much.
You're welcome. Thank you. CHAIR YOUNG: Is there anyone else that wish to testify on 250384. Seeing none, Mr. Pullin, would you read the title of the next bill?
Bill No. 21 250425, titled authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 230 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portion of Cresson Street from Ridge Avenue to Osborn Street, under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Pullin, please call the witnesses for this bill.
Noelle Marconi, legislative director for the City Planning Commission. CHAIR YOUNG: Good morning. Please state your name and proceed with your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name is Noelle Marconi, director of legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 250425, introduced by Councilmember Jones. This is not an administration ordinance, but it is an ordinance requested by Meredith Ferlender, Esquire of Dilworth Paxson, LLP, representing G5 Realty Holdings. The purpose of this proposed ordinance is to authorize the striking from the City Plan and the vacating of the legally open portion of Cresson Street from Ridge Avenue to Osborn Street. This segment of Cresson Street is not improved and is not needed by public traffic. And the Department of Streets does not desire construction and maintaining the street at this location. The purpose of this action is to remove this unimproved street as an encumbrance on the adjacent land in order to enable development of the full property. Department of Streets have no objection to this ordinance and recommends it to the committee for favorable action. Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. I'll be pleased to answer any questions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Ms. Marconi. Ms. Brumbelow, please begin.
Good morning, members of the Streets and Services Committee. I am Paula Brumbelow-Burns, director of legislation for the City Planning Commission . I'm here to testify on Bill No. 250425, introduced to City Council on May 1st, 2025 by Councilmember Jones. Bill No. 250425 authorizes the revision of lines and graves on a portion of the city plan by striking and vacating an portion of Cresson Street between Ridge Avenue to Osborn Street. The street right-of-way has never been paved and does not convey vehicle or pedestrian traffic. The land ownership of the former street bed will revert to the owners of the adjacent parcel and is in the Wissahickon neighborhood of the lower northwest planning district. The Philadelphia Planning Commission considered Bill 250425 at its public meeting on May 15th, 2025 and recommended the bill for approval. I'll be happy to answer any questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. I have one question. When streets are stricken from the City Plan and they are reverted to the adjacent owner, does the city charge that adjacent owner for acquiring that land?
Sometimes depending on how the street is designated there will be a fee charged.
I'm going to have Tom Marrow who does our City Plan changes come up and answer that question. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you.
Good morning, Chairman Young and members of the committee. My name is Tom Marrow, I'm the City Plans officer for the Department of Streets. To answer your question, the only time we charge for the land that's reverting to the property owner when we strike a street is when our records show we paid to acquire it, which is not the case in this instance. CHAIR YOUNG: Okay. I just say that because we're looking for ways to generate revenue. You know, land is valuable, particularly in certain areas. So if they were to purchase that land on the private market, it's hard to get land for free. They're going to develop a project and building something on there, so ultimately they're making money off this land they got from the city for free.
The portion of this land that is legally open was opened by deeded dedication, which means the land was given to the city for street purposes by the owner back whenever that took place. They gave it to us basically for free so the position is really we can't charge to let them have it back. CHAIR YOUNG: So the city pays it forward essentially. Thank you, appreciate that.
Thank you. CHAIR YOUNG: Are there any other questions of these witnesses on Bill No. 250425? Seeing none, anyone else in the chambers wishing to testify on Bill No. 250425? Seeing none. Thank you. Mr. Pullin, would you please call the next title?
Bill No. 6 250328, authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 226 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Bristol Street from Second Street to Hunting Park Avenue, under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Pullin, please call the witnesses.
Noelle Marconi, director for Department of Streets. Paula Brumbelow, legislative director for the City Planning Commission. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. State your name for the record and begin your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name is Noelle Marconi and I'm the director of legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 7 250328, introduced by Councilmember Lozada. This is not an administration ordinance, but an ordinance requested by Darwin Beauvais, Esquire of Obermyer, LLP, representing Esperanza, Incorporated. The purpose of this proposed ordinance is to authorize the striking from the City Plan and vacating of Bristol Street from Second Street to Hunting Park Avenue. The owner of the adjacent K through 12 school campus has requested this action to allow for enhanced campus security and improve traffic management around the schools perimeter. The Streets Department has submitted a proposed amendment to this bill. The amendment adds language to provide for the reservation of the right-of-way for various public utility purposes within the lines of Bristol Street to encompass existing utility infrastructure which will remain in place and to require the removal or relocation of existing city streetlights, fire hydrants, storm inlets and other facilities which would otherwise be located on private property once the street is stricken. Contingent upon the adoption of this proposed amendment, the Department of Streets has no 22 objection to this ordinance and recommends the amended bill to the committee for favorable action. This concludes my testimony. I'm pleased to answer any questions you may have. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Ms. Brumbelow, please begin your testimony.
I'm Paula Brumbelow-Burns, director of legislation for the Philadelphia City Planning Commission. I'm here to testify on Bill 12 No. 250328 introduced into City Council on April 10th, 2025 by Councilmember Lozada. Bill No. 250328 authorizes the revision of lines and graves on City Plan No. 226, which will strike Bristol Street between Second Street and Hunting Park Avenue. Esperanza, Incorporated operates a K through 12 school campus adjacent to this street. Striking and vacating this section of West Bristol Street will allow for enhanced campus security and improve traffic management around the schools perimeter and located the North Planning District. The Philadelphia Planning Commission considered Bill No. 7 250328 at the public meeting on May 15th, 2025 and recommended the bill 9 for approval. I'll be happy to answer any questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Ms. Brumbelow. Are there any questions of these witnesses on Bill No. 250328? Seeing none thank you for your testimony. Mr. Pullin, are there any other witnesses testify on Bill No. 20 250328?
The next witness to testify is Reverend Luis Cortez, Jr., the founder and CEO of Esperanza. CHAIR YOUNG: Good morning, Reverend Cortez. Please take your name for the record and begin your testimony.
Thank you. My name is Reverend Luis Cortez. I'm the founder and CEO of Esperanza. Good morning, everyone. Mr. Chairman and councilmembers of the committee. As you know Esperanza is a faith based non-profit organization dedicated to empowering North Philadelphia communities through education, economic development and advocacy. I'm here today to express strong support for Bill No. 250328, which proposes the striking of West Bristol Street and Hunting Park Avenue. This stretch is a part of newly constructed campus of Esperanza Academy Charter Elementary School. And its official reclassification is critical to te safety and daily operations of our students and staff. This portion of West Bristol Street does not function as a typical street. Public traffic is minimal and the space is primarily used by pedestrians, school-related vehicles and patrons, both children and seniors assessing the adjacent medical office building, which Esperanza owns and also operates. By formally striking this section we can align it's legal designation with its practical daily use, improve security across the campus and full assume responsibility for its maintenance. We also fully support the proposed amendment from the Streets Department which will reserve access for public utilities. These provisions are both reasonable and important components of the legislation. They ensure that even as the space transitions from a public street to a school managed campus, access for critical infrastructure services and maintenance will be preserved. This reflects a balanced approach. One that safe guards the publics interest while enhancing the safety of our campus, the community and children we serve. Our broader goals are to maintain a secure and welcoming educational environment to ensure safe access for patrons visiting the adjacent medical facility during school hours and to continue our collaborative relationship with the city and our neighbors. We have conducted through community outreach and the response has been overwhelmingly supportive, especially with the assurance that the emergency vehicle access and utility services will be preserved. Finally, this action also relieves the city of the maintenance responsibilities, reduces liability risks and enables Esperanza to further our mission in a safer more secure environment. Thank you for your time and partnership and for your commitment to the safety and success of Philadelphia's children. I respectfully urge you to support this bill and the thoughtful amendments recommended by the Street Department. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Reverend. I also note for the record the testimony of Dr. Evelyn Nunez, CEO of Esperanza Academy Charter School. And also the testimony of Alicia Moheka, director of operations of New Esperaza Academy Charter School as well. They both have submitted written testimony. Are there any questions of these witnesses regarding this bill 4 at this time? Just one question for me. You know, just tell us for the record, you know, some of the things that Esperanza does in the community and why this would help uplift the things that you're doing.
So Esperanza was founded 1986 by the Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia. We currently run a charter school, K through 12. This is a new building. So our elementary school used to be on Erie Avenue. This is a new building on Hunting Park which is why we would need the Bristol Street striking. The new building is a $32-million investment. We will invite all Councilmembers to come for its dedication. The investment is for K to school. A block from this school we run our high school on an acre campus. Esperanza currently employees 700 individuals in housing, economic development and education. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you so much, Reverend Cortez. Are there any other questions of these witnesses on this bill? Seeing none, thank you so much for your testimony.
Thank you. CHAIR YOUNG: Is there anyone else wishing to testify on Bill No. 250328? Seeing none, Mr. Pullin, will you please read the title of the next bill.
Bill No. 24 250437, authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by relocating certain portions of the curb lines of Ludlow Street from Tenth Street to Eleventh Street, under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Mr. Pullin. Please call the witnesses to testify on this bill.
Noelle Marconi, director for Department of Streets. Paula Brumbelow, legislative director for the City Planning Commission. CHAIR YOUNG: Good morning, please state your name for the record and begin with your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name is Noelle Marconi, and I'm the director for legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 2 250437 introduced by Councilmember Squilla. This is not an administration ordinance, but an ordinance requested by Darwin Beauvais, Esquire, representing the Philadelphia Parking Authority. The purpose of this ordinance is to authorize the relocation of curb lines of Ludlow Street from Tenth Street to Eleventh Street in order to reduce the cartway width and widen the footway areas. The Parking Authority plans to demolish and rebuild the existing parking garage at 10th and Ludlow Streets. The proposed curb line relocation will improve pedestrian and traffic safety in the vicinity of the parking facility. The Department of Streets has no objection to the proposed ordinance and recommends it to the committee for favorable action. Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. I'd be pleased to answer any questions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Ms. Brumbelow, please.
I'm Paula Brumbelow-Burns, director of legislation for the Philadelphia Planning Commission. I'm here to testify on Bill 14 No. 250437 introduced into City Council on May 1st, 2025 by Councilmember Squilla. Bill No. 250437 authorizes the revision of lines and grades on the portion of City Plan No. 307, by relocating portions of the curb lines Ludlow Street between 10th and 11th Street, located in the Washington Square West neighborhood of the Central Planning District. The Philadelphia City Planning Commission considered Bill 3 No. 250437 at its public meeting on May 15th, 2025 and recommended the bill for approval. I'll be happy to answer any questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. And just describe one more time what the development project is here.
So currently the development project is to rebuild the existing garage. From what we've been told they are going to remove the existing garage and build a new garage. So by widening Ludlow Street they'll be able to get cars in and out improve the pedestrian experience behind the building. They are, through zoning part of the bill that is not here today, they will be preparing the building for a future expansion for potentially more stories for non-parking uses. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Are there any other questions on this bill for these witnesses? Seeing none, is there anyone else wishing to testify on Bill No. 250437? Seeing none, I'm sorry. Mr. Pullin, would you please call the next witnesses to this bill?
The next witnesses to testify is Darwin Beauvais, partner at Obermayer, Rebmann, Maxwell and Hippel, LLP, and Alan Moore, senior director of capital projects from the Philadelphia Parking Authority.
Good morning. Mr. Chairman, members of the board, it's always good to see all of you. We are excited about this build because -- CHAIR YOUNG: Could you please state your name for the record, sir.
Darvin Beauvais, that's B-E-A-U-V-A-I-S. I'm with the law firm of Obermayer, Rebmann, Maxwell and Hippel. As I was stating, we are excited about this project and we are -- it is a project that is culmination of working both with Councilman Squilla's office, working with the local RCO Wash West, as well as, you know, working with the various agencies here in this city. Again, just to give you briefly -- and we do have testimony Mr. Alan Moore from the Parking Authority will testify on the bill. But the project itself is taking the 10th and Ludlow Street parking garage. It is very old and it needs to come down. And in order to do that we sought out the help of the councilman and Wash West for their input. That input resulted in us creating something unique where as a public entity we cannot enter into a simple community benefits agreement. So instead we actually in a separate ordinance put our community benefits in that ordinance. We are putting -- the biggest complaint that community had was Ludlow Street. If you ever walk by there it looks pretty dark and dingy. And there's dumpsters there, there's not a lot of lighting, there isn't a pedestrian experience at all. So we have agreed to change that. We are putting an trash compactor inside of our garage for the purposes of retailers to take those dumpsters off the street. We also agreed to enhance Ludlow Street by putting together a package and working with the Streets Department where we can have lighting and better pedestrian walkways and street scape enhancement. All of that was required in our other ordinance. And this ordinance before you here is to follow-up and to put a cap on our commitment. With that said, you know, I would like to introduce Alan Moore who can speak on the bill itself. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Moore, please state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson and members of the committee. My name is Alan Moore, and I serve as the senior director of capital projects with Philadelphia Parking Authority. I appreciate the opportunity to appear before you today to offer testimony in support of Bill No. 250437. The Philadelphia Parking Authority is a public agency created to serve the evolving mobility, parking and infrastructure needs of our city. As a public entity our work is grounded in public service and guided by the principles of access, safety and community benefit. This proposed ordinance 11 reflects that mission. Bill No. 250437 authorizes a revision to lines and grades to portion of City Plan 307 relocating curb lines along Ludlow Street between 10th and 11th Streets. These revisions are critical to facilitating improvements to our property located at 1021 to 1029 Chestnut Street. The project is a targeted and necessary reinvestment in public infrastructure. Requested changes support our plans to modernize and reconfigure an aging public garage to better serve Jefferson Hospital and the surrounding community. These improvements are not only operational, but are intended to enhance the surrounding street scape and pedestrian experience. This legislation enables modest, but essential adjustments to the City Plan that allow for more efficient vehicular access and egress, approve safety and circulation for both vehicles and pedestrians and design improvements. The PPA has committed to accompany the infrastructure changes with direct community based benefits including coordination with city agencies on enhanced street scape treatments, ongoing engagement with local stakeholders throughout the permitting and development process, and compliance with the ordinance 24 condition including indemnification, financial requirements and coordination with the city solicitor as required by Section 2 of the ordinance. These provision ensures that the city is protected and that community benefits are implemented responsibly and transparently. We are pleased to share that this proposal has been developed in close consultation with Councilmember Squilla and has received supportive feedback from members of the surrounding community. It reflects a careful balance of operational access and public stewardship. In closing the Philadelphia Parking Authority supports Bill No. 20 250437 because it advances our commitment to accessible, safe and sustainable infrastructure. We respectfully request the committee's favorable consideration. Thank you for the opportunity to testify. And I welcome any questions you may have. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Mr. Moore. Are there any questions by members of the committee of these witnesses or comments? Seeing none, thank you for your testimony today. Is there anyone else in chambers wishing to testify on Bill 12 No. 250437? Seeing none, thank you. Mr. Pullin, would you please read the title of the next bill to be heard?
Bill No. 17 250494, authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 126 by relocating the easterly house line of Dover Street and the westerly house line of Newkirk Street, each from York Street to Cumberland Street, thereby widening said Dover and Newkirk Streets, under certain terms and conditions, including the dedication to the City of the beds of the widened portions of said Dover and Newkirk Streets. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Pullin, please call the witnesses for this bill.
Noelle Marconi, director of legislative affairs for the Department of Street, and Paula Brumbelow, legislative director for the City Planning Commission. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Please begin with your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name is Noelle Marconi, I'm the director of legislation affairs for the Department of Streets. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 250494 introduced by Chairperson Young. This is not administration ordinance, but an ordinance 3 requested by Kevin Smith, TE, Stantec Consulting, Incorporated on behalf of Philadelphia Housing Authority. The purpose of this propose ordinance is to authorize the relocation of the easterly house line of Dover Street from York Street to Cumberland Street, feet 12 eastwardly and the relocation of the westerly house line of Newkirk Street, also from York Street to Cumberland Street, 12 feet westwardly, thereby widening both Streets from 30 feet to 42 feet. PHA is in the process of redeveloping the block bound by Dover, Cumberland, Newkirk and York Streets. The proposed widening of Dover and Newkirk Street is intended to provide space for additional on-street parking. The Department of Streets has no objection to this proposed ordinance and recommends it to the committee for favorable consideration. Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. I'm pleased to answer any questions you may have. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you Ms. Marconi. Ms. Brumbelow, please begin with you testimony.
I'm Paula Brumbelow-Burns, director of legislation for the Philadelphia City Planning Commission. I'm here to testify on Bill No. 250494, introduced to City Council on May 8th, 2025 by Councilmember Young. Bill No. 250494 authorizes the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 126, by relocating the easterly house line of Dover Street and westerly house line of Newkirk Street between York and Cumberland Streets, which would widen Dover and Newkirk Street. This action also include the dedication of the beds of the widened portions to the city. This is located in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood of the lower North Planning District. The Philadelphia City Planning Commission will consider Bill No. 250494 at its public meeting June 5th, 2025 and recommendation will be for approval. I'll be happy to answer any questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you so much. Just for the record, I wanted to let folks know that this bill was requested by the Philadelphia Housing Authority as it plans to redevelop portions of Strawberry Mansion for affordable house. So this project is going to help with an issue that we see in North Philadelphia and other parts of the city which is on-street parking. And we know that's a limited commodity and this legislation will help as we redevelop that part of the city. And with that, are there any other questions or comments from members of the committee on this bill? Seeing none, anyone else wishing to testify on Bill No. 15 250494? Seeing none, thank you for your testimony. Mr. Pullin, would you read the title of the next bill.
Bill No. 20 250430, authorizing the striking from City Plan No. 123 and abandonment of a certain right-of- way reserved for water main purposes located north of Montgomery Avenue and extending from Broad Street to Fifteenth Street, under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Pullin, please call the witnesses to testify on this bill.
Noelle Marconi, director of legislative affairs for the Department of Streets, and Paula Brumbelow, legislative director for the City Planning Commission. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Please state your names and begin your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name is Noelle Marconi and I'm the director of legislative affairs for the Department of Street. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 22 250430 introduced by Chairperson Young. This is not an administration ordinance, but an ordinance requested by Eileen Quigley, Esquire, of Ballard, Spahr, representing Temple University. The purpose of this purposed ordinance 6 is to authorize the striking from the City Plan and abandonment a certain right-of-way reserved for water main purposes located approximately 500 feet north of Montgomery Avenue and extending from Broad Street to 15th Street on the campus of Temple University. The purpose of this action is to facilitate plans by the University to construct new educational facilities for the Kline College of Media and Communications and the Center for the Performing and Cinematic Arts. The Water Department has also agreed to allow the facilities within the right-of-way to be abandoned. The Department of Streets have no objection to the proposed ordinance and recommends it to the committee for favorable action. Thanks for the opportunity testified to. I'll be pleased to answer any questions you may have. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Ms. Brumbelow, please proceed.
I'm Paula Brumbelow-Burns and I'm here to testify on Bill No. 250430 introduced into City Council on May 1st, 2025 by Councilmember Young. Bill No. 250430 authorizes the striking of City Plan No. 123, an abandonment of a right-of-way reserve for water main purposes located north of Montgomery Avenue and extending from Broad Street to 15th Streets, under certain terms and condition. In the North Central District of the Lower North Planning District. The Philadelphia City Commission considered Bill No. 3 250430 at its public meeting on May 15th, 2025 and recommended the bill 5 for approval. I'll be happy to answer questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Pullin, while he's up here, please call the next witness.
George Kenny, associate vice president and senior advisor of government affairs for Temple University. CHAIR YOUNG: Good morning, Mr. Kenny. Please state your name for the record. We do have written testimony. Please begin.
It will be brief. Thank you Chairperson Young, my name is George Kenny, senior advisor for government affairs at Temple University. Chairperson, thank you for introducing this legislation, Bill 2 No. 250430, and we appreciate your support at Temple University. As mentioned this legislation will allow Temple to move forward with the new construction of our new educational facilities at 1830 North Broad which will allow the Kline College of Communications and Boyer College of Arts to build a new facility. Council, two years ago agreed to add this project, the Kline project to Temple's master plan. And here we are two years later moving this project forward which is so vital for I think Temple, the community and our city. So we appreciate your support and if you have any questions, I'll be happy to answer them. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Mr. Kenny. Is this for the North Philly Kimmel Center?
Yes, it is. Councilperson Young, at the ground breaking he mentioned he was glad to see Kimmel Center come to North Philly. So this will be called the Caroline Kimmel Pavilion for Arts and communications at Temple University. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Mr. Kenny. Are there any questions of these witnesses on this bill? Seeing none, thank you for your testimony. Mr. Pullin, please read the title of the next bill.
Bill No. 20 250536, titled authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 762 S. 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Mr. Pullin, please call the witnesses to testify on this bill.
Noelle Marconi, director of legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. And Paula Brumbelow, legislative director for the City Planning Commission. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Ms. Marconi, state your name for the record and begin with your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name Noelle Marconi and I'm the director of legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. Also here today is Deputy Commissioner Richard Montanez for the Department of Streets. I'm her today to offer testimony on Bill No. 250536 introduced by Councilmember Squilla. This bill authorizes Elaine Rubino, the owner, to install, own and maintain an encroachment in the nature of a sidewalk cafe at 762 South 9th Street. Department of Streets is opposed to this sidewalk cafe as it has not been approved by the department. Under this bill the sidewalk cafe located in front of 762 South 9th Street, the adjacent property 765 Ralph's Restaurant. Under the Philadelphia code 9-2081D states a sidewalk cafe is an open- air space a public sidewalk directly abutting, adjacent and continuous to a restaurant or any premises licensed by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. The adjacent sidewalk area at 762 S. 9th Street is not directly abutting, adjacent and continuous to Ralph's Restaurant itself, therefore the Streets Department cannot approve the sidewalk cafe location. This concludes my testimony. I'm pleased to answer any questions you may gave. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Ms. Brumbelow, please proceed.
I'm Paula Brumbelow-Burns, director of legislation for the Philadelphia City Planning Commission. I'm here to testify on Bill No. 250536 introduced into City Council on May 15th, 2025 by Councilmember Squilla. Bill 250536 will permit encroachments for a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 762 S. 9th Street in the Bella Vista neighborhood of the Central Planning District. There will be 6 feet of clear and unobstructed footway remaining after the installations. The sidewalk cafe will be placing two tables in front of the abutting residential properties which will not be compliant with city regulations. The Philadelphia City Planning Commission will consider Bill No. 250536 at its public meeting June 5th, 2025 with a recommendation of not for approval. I'll be happy to answer any questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Ms. Brumbelow, for your testimony. Just one quick question. I guess because the nature of -- the liquor license is what controls if a sidewalk cafe is available at the location?
I'll have Rich Montanez, our deputy commissioner come up and answer that. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. And just for the record, this property is also owned by the property owner. So asking for clarity what's some of the issues the Streets Department may have with this.
Good morning, Councilmember Young. I'm Richard Montanez, deputy commissioner of Department of Streets. Yes, it's tied to the business license and the business license is tied to the address of it. So the fact that the adjacent property is not tied to the business license of the restaurant. CHAIR YOUNG: What are the risks, I guess that the -- what's the risk of the city if we allow something like this to happen even if it's the same property owner.
It's a violation of the code. CHAIR YOUNG: So this legislation would legalize that, correct?
Only for this restaurant, but it is in violation of the code. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Mr. Montanez. Any question of these witnesses on this? Councilman Harrity?
So I'm trying to get it straight. The property already has a license and has an outdoor cafe?
So they're applying for an outdoor cafe, but want to extend that outdoor seating to --
They have belco doors in front of the properties which does not allow them to have sidewalk seating.
Does the adjacent property have those basement doors?
The restaurant is not licensed. CHAIR YOUNG: The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla.
This is a complicated matter that was issued during COVID. People were able to have them on adjoining properties, this is an existing property, they couldn't put it on their doors. This legislation wouldn't legalize it. It's not by code of the Streets Department, but once the legislation passed they would be able to have the cafe on their adjoining property.
So they actually had an outdoor cafe during COVID.
Okay. Got it. CHAIR YOUNG: I just asked those questions because we want our city to be friendly to businesses, we want to see the expansion of businesses, and I think that we have some road blocks that are put in place that for me in my humble opinion that are artificial. Particularly in cases like this when the property owner owns the adjacent property. So I just think there are ways we can make our city more friendly to our smaller businesses, particularly to smaller restaurants where outdoor seating is a premium here in the city. And I said this plenty of times, my wife and I love to eat at restaurants, but her preference is to eat outdoors. So I think we need to look at our sidewalk cafes and our other outdoor eateries to make it friendly for our restaurants to survive here. Thank you so much for your testimony. Are there any other questions of these witnesses on Bill 13 No. 250536? Seeing none, Mr. Pullin, would you please read the title of the next bill?
Bill No. 18 250488, titled authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 4248 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Mr. Pullin, please call the witnesses.
Noelle Marconi, legislative affairs director for the Department of Streets. And Paula Brumbelow, legislative director for the City's Planning Commission. CHAIR YOUNG: Please state your name and begin your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name is Noelle Marconi and I'm the director legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 250488 introduced by Councilmember Gauthier. This authorizes the owner to install, own and maintain an encroachment in the nature of a sidewalk cafe, Saigon, located 4248 Spruce Street. A total of eight tables and 16 seats for a sidewalk cafe will be adjacent to the building line of 4248 Spruce Street. The Department of Streets is not opposed to this proposed encroachment as it maintain feet 5 of unobstructed footway. 6 This concludes my 7 testimony. I'll be happy to answer 8 any questions you may have. 9 CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Ms. Brumbelow, please proceed.
I'm Paula Brumbelow-Burns, director of legislation of the Philadelphia Planning Commission. I'm here to testify on Bill 250488 introduced to City Council on May 8th, 2025 by Councilmember Gauthier. Bill No. 250488 will permit encroachments for a sidewalk cafe at 4248 Spruce Street located in the Spruce Hill neighborhood of the University Southwest Planning District. There will be 9 feet remaining of clear and unobstructed footway remaining after the installations of eight tables. This proposal meets the complete Streets policy. The Philadelphia City Planning Commission will consider Bill 250488 at its public meeting on June 5th, 2025 with a staff recommendation for approval. I'll be happy to answer any questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you so much. Are there any questions of these witnesses on Bill No. 250488? Seeing none, anyone else wishing to testify on 250488? Seeing none, thank you so much for your testimony. Mr. Pullin, call the title of the next bill.
Bill No. 23 250489, titled amending Section 24 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled Designation of Bicycle Lanes, to authorize a bicycle lane on South 59th Street from Market Street to Baltimore Avenue, and the removal of a travel lane within the same limits, all under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Mr. Pullin, please call the witnesses to testify.
Noelle Marconi, legislative affairs director for the Department of Street. CHAIR YOUNG: Ms. Marconi, please state your name and give us your testimony.
Good morning, Chairperson Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. My name is Noelle Marconi and I'm the director of legislative affairs for the Department of Streets. I'm here to offer testimony on Bill No. 250489 introduced by Councilmember Gauthier. This bill 2 authorizes a bicycle lane on South 59th Street from Market Street to Baltimore Avenue and the removal of a travel lane. South 59th Street from Market to Baltimore Avenue has historically been two lanes going south. After numerous complaints from council, residents and 311 requests to slow down cars, the Streets Department put forth the idea of road diet in conjunction with a buffered bike lane in the fall of 2021. Councilmember Gauthier indicated her support for the road diet and buffered bike lanes. This road diet consisted of updating the line striping in the cartway to clearly show the delineation between one driving lane, one bike lane with striped buffer and two parking lanes. During this time the Streets Department was also able to warrant speed humps for the 600 block of South 59th Street, from Catharine Street to Cedar Avenue. Council staff were able to gather signatures from the block and a letter of support from the Boys and Girls Club located at South 59th Street and Catharine Street. Traffic and design units have worked on the restriping plan to include the marking with the road diet and buffer bike lanes and speed humps that were warranted on South 59th Street. This conclude my testimony. Pleased to answer any questions you may have. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you so much. Are there any questions of this witness on Bill No. 250489? Seeing none, Mr. Pullin, please read the title of the next bill.
Bill No. 3 250490, titled Amending Section 4 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled Designation of Bicycle Lanes to authorize a bicycle lane on Port Royal Avenue from Ridge Avenue to Henry Avenue, and removal of a parking lane within the same limits, all under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you, Mr. Pullin. Please call the witness.
The first witness to testify is Cole Appleman, policy analyst for the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems. CHAIR YOUNG: Good morning, Cole. Please state your name and begin with your testimony.
Good morning, everybody. Cole Appleman, transportation policy analyst with the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems. Good morning, everybody, Chairman Young and members of the Streets and Services Committee. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak for before you today. As I just mentioned, my name is Cole Appleman. I'm a policy analyst with the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems, you probably know us better as OTIS. I'm here today to offer testimony on Bill No. 250490, sponsored by Councilmember Jones. This bill amends title 12-701 of the Philadelphia code titled, Designation of Bicycle Lanes, to authorize a bike lane on Port Royal Avenue from Ridge Avenue to Henry Avenue, and a removal of parking lane within those same limits, all under terms and conditions. This new stretch of bike lane on Port Royal Ave. will be a welcome addition to Philly's expanding bike lane network by providing cyclists with dedicated space on roadway we improve road safety for all users, not just cyclists, not just drivers, anybody who is out there. OTIS has met with the Upper Roxborough Civic Association which has also provided a letter of support for the project. This project will be implemented as part of this year's repaving. Thank you for the opportunity to be before you today. I'd be happy to answer any questions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Are there any questions of this witness on Bill No. 250490? Seeing none, is there anyone else in chambers wishing to testify on Bill No. 250490. Seeing none, Mr. Appleman, thank you for your testimony.
Thank you. CHAIR YOUNG: Mr. Pullin, please read the next bill.
Bill No. 250532 titled amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled Farmers Markets by changing the boundaries of a permissible location on North 22nd Street, all under certain terms and conditions. CHAIR YOUNG: Mr. Pullin, please call the witnesses to testify on this bill.
Ben Hartung, public policy advisor for Department of Public Health. CHAIR YOUNG: Would you call all witnesses for this bill, please?
Diana Mincus, farmers market program associate director of the Food Trust. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Please state your name for the record and begin with your testimony.
Good morning. Ben Hartung, public policy advisor for the Department of Public Health, Division of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention. Good morning, Chairperson Young, Vice Chair Squilla and members of the Committee on Streets and Services. Thank you for the opportunity to testify regarding Bill No. 250532 introduced by Councilmember Young. This bill amends Philadelphia Code Section 9-213, titled farmers Markets by changing the boundaries of a permissible location on North 22nd Street, all under certain terms and conditions. The Department of Public Health, Division of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention is dedicated to a healthy, just, liveable community for all residents and supports community driven solutions to promote food justice in areas where access to healthier food is needed. Farmer markets connect urban communities to local and rural agriculture, provide access to fresh fruits, vegetables and other locally grown products and support the local regional farming economy. The Health Department supports this bill that proposes to expand the farmers market that has been operating on North 22nd Street since 2004. The Health Department welcomes opportunities such as these to create a more sustainable local food system and enhance community reliance and well-being. And I'll also mention this is my local farmers market and I'm excited about it. We thank Councilmember Young for introducing this bill and happy to answer any questions at this time. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. Ms. Mincus, please proceed with your testimony.
Good morning, Councilmembers. Thank you for having me and to Councilmember Young for introducing this bill. My name is Diana Mincus, associate director of the Farmers Market Program at the Food Trust. I'm here today representing Fairmount Farmers Market, a vibrant community corner stone. Farmers markets like Fairmount are central to providing access to healthy food and connecting customers directly to farmers. I'm requesting your support for a crucial amendment to Bill No. 4 250532, City Ordinance Section 5 9-213.7S which governs this market's location. Fairmount Farmers Market, a cherished community fixture since 2004, has seen its customer based more than double in the last few years. This success brings us to a critical point. Our current on operation is at maximum capacity with high demand for more vendors and space. To ensure the markets full growth potential we first need to solidify the market's legal foundation. The Food Trust recently discovered that the current ordinance language specifies the sidewalk of the east side of the 700 block of North 22nd Street as the market's location. However, for over years the market has successful operated on the west side of the street. Amending this ordinance to officially include both the east and west side of the street is key to formally recognizing our longstanding operation in the current location while also rectifying this inadvertent oversight. It has also been necessary for the market's continued development and growth. This amendment would allow for expanded space, enhance spacing and improve customer experience by alleviating congestion and increasing economic opportunity by offering more space for local vendors and providing greater access to fresh food. Farmers markets are more than a place to buy produce, they are community anchors that foster strong economies, promote healthy living and build neighborhood vibrancy. Updating this ordinance 5 will directly enable a more comfortable, cohesive and inviting space for community members. We're fortunate to have strong local support with enthusiastic letters from the Fairmount Civic Association, the Park to Broad Arts and Business District and Eastern State Penitentiary all endorsing this amendment and our vision for a larger safer market. We respectfully ask for your favorable consideration in updating this ordinance. Thank you for your time and support in helping Fairmount farmers market continue to thrive, it's a vital asset to our city. And happy to answer any questions. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you so much for your testimony. I just have a question about farmers markets in general. I know given some federal cuts there were some issues. Can you describe to us, I know some of your vendors had issues with taking EBT card. Can you talk to us about that issue and how Council can be supportive?
Thanks for asking. So FNS, the Federal Nutrition Services are the folks that license farmers market operators, corner stores, supermarkets and having a license to authorize SNAP purchases. So for 30 years the Food Trust has had an umbrella license that we've been able to use at all our farmers market locations. And from our understanding we've been grandfathered into this rule because the push, regardless what's actually written in the farm bill, the push is for individual vendors to have EBT as opposed to having the market operators being able to do that. So every five years you have to renew your license and we had to do that at the end of 2024. And after we put in our application FNS was no longer going to approve our umbrella license and they requested that we reapply to have a separate license for each individual market. Which means or meant that we had the pause and completely stop accepting SNAP benefits while we were waiting for reauthorization to happen. We're currently in the process of reauthorizing Clark Park, Head House and Fairmount, which is our three largest year-round markets. However, we are getting information that they will not be renewing our licenses for three farm stand models which are our markets in under resourced communities because of the legal definition of a farmers market being, according to them, needing at least four agri-businesses to be considered a full market, which these locations cannot sustain a market of that size. So we are not going to cancel that market and we're not canceling SNAP EBT and the way we're doing that is by recruiting more farmers that can accept EBT or working with them directly so we can support them in applying to get their own FNS license. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you for that information. It's important because they provide a vital resource to the communities. I know I have one of those that's not technically a market and folks rely on that kind of stuff. They rely on that for those fresh foods and vegetables. So thank you for the work you're doing in the city and across the country.
Thank you. And just to add quickly, we were able to use some of our foundation grant funding to support at this time for folks that are SNAP users and coming to the market and not able to use their card. We're continuing to support them by reimbursing the farmers on the back end and continuing to allow people to. I mean, they're not purchasing their foods, we're subsidizing for this short period of time so everyone can have access to fresh produce. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. We really appreciate that on this body. Are there any other questions of these witnesses? Seeing none, thank you so much for your testimony. Is there anyone else in chambers wishing to testify on Bill 6 No. 250532. Seeing none. We will now transition to public comment section. Mr. Pullin, is there anyone signed up for public comment?
There are no 12 speakers on public comment list. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. I would like to thank all of our witnesses for joining us today. We will now end the public hearing and go into the public meeting. I will note for the record that a quorum of the committee is present. And the Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla for a motion on the amendment to Bill No. 250328.
Thank you, Mr. Chair. I offer amendment to Bill No. 250328. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of the committee. And move that the amendment to 250328 be adopted.
Second. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. It's been moved and seconded that amendment to 250328 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the amendment to Bill No. 250328 has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla to 250532.
Thank you, Mr. Chair. I offer amendment to Bill No. 250532. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of the committee. I move that the amendment to 250532 be adopted.
Second. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that amendment to 250532 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the amendment to Bill No. 250532 has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla for Bill Nos. 250328, as amended, 250384, 250425, 250427, 250430, 250437, 250439, 250488, 250489, 250490, 250494, 250532, as amended, and 250535 and 250536.
Thank you, Mr. Chair. I move that all bills read into the record be recorded to this committee with a favorable recommendation and further move that the Rules of Council be suspended to submit at the first reading at the next session of council.
Second. CHAIR YOUNG: Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that all bills read into the record be reported from this committee with a favorable recommendation and further move that the Rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading of these bills at the next session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. Bill Nos. 250328, as amended, 250384, 250425, 250427, 250430, 250437, 250439, 250488, 250489, 250490, 250494, 250532, as amended, 250535 and 250536 will be recorded from this committee with favorable recommendation. Further request that the Rules of Council be suspended at the next session of Council. Are there any final remarks by members of this committee? Seeing none, this concludes the business before the Committee on Streets and Services today. Thank you all for your attendance. (Public hearing for the Committee on Streets and Services concluded at 11:30 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I hereby certify that the proceedings and evidence are contained fully and accurately in the notes taken by me of the above case, and this copy is a correct transcript of the same. _______________ Samanda J. Rios