COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 27, 2014 10:40 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Thank you. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
That's pretty sad. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
That's what I'm saying. I see we have a packed house today. We have some wonderful people down here and we look forward to today. I'd ask all guests and visitors to please retire behind the rail, Councilmembers take their seat. We have a quorum and we will start the Council session. Thank you. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Father Stephen Wetzel, Chaplain for the Fraternal Order of Police. He is here today as the guest of Councilman O'Neill. I would ask all guests and visitors to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us pray. Lord, inspire this body today with the qualities of good counsel. Give this City Council insight to make wise decisions, integrity to face truth, courage to make difficult choices, and compassion for the needs of others. Make those here present a model of justice and honor for the world. Lord, today we pray for our Mayor, for the various levels of City officials and, in particular, for this assembled City Council. Grant them wisdom to govern amid conflicting interests in issues of our times, a sense of welfare and true needs of our people, a keen thirst for justice and righteousness, confidence in what is good and fitting, personal peace in their lives and joy in their tasks. I pray for the agenda set before them today. Give them an assurance of what would please you and benefit those who live and work here in the City of Philadelphia. It is in your most blessed name I pray. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much for those inspiring words. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much. Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 20th, 2014. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 20th, 2014 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that meeting of February 20th, 2014 be approved. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you. Thank you very much, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. At this time, I will dispense with the regular order of business. I would like to welcome everyone here today. I want to thank you very much for coming down to see your government in action. We really appreciate you taking time out of your day, and we hope that your experience today is so nice that you do it twice and you come back again. So thank you very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Oh, who will present a resolution recognizing 2014 as the Year of the Veteran in Philadelphia. Would Scott Brown and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining Councilman Oh, we also have Councilman Squilla and
Thank you very much, Council President. I would also ask all the veteran organization leaders to join us up here while we read and present this resolution. Thank you very much. Please come up. (Applause.)
As our veteran organization leaders are assembling, let me first start by thanking our Council President for his leadership as Council President in really focusing attention of our city government on veterans, revitalizing our city's Veterans Advisory Commission. And I'm very proud to say that we will be hearing shortly from our new Executive Director. Joining me are my co-introducers, Councilman Mark Squilla, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, and let me just say that any year could be Year of the Veteran. This is a special year for us. Any year could be Year of the Veteran, but this year is Year of the Veteran and it will be such a year if we make it so, and that is the point of this resolution. So let's make it so. This is a City Council resolution passed by all members of City Council recognizing 2014 as the Year of the Veteran in Philadelphia to highlight and celebrate the accomplishments as well as to continue to raise public awareness of issues related to veterans and the ongoing initiatives to serve those who have served. Whereas, Philadelphia is the birthplace of the United States Army, United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps, establishing a link between our city and those who have served our country dating back to pre-Revolutionary War times; and Whereas, veterans from past wars and peace time as well as those currently serving from overseas military duty to Philadelphia are part of the having served our country in the armed forces, putting themselves in harm's way, willing to make the ultimate sacrifice, to protect us and preserve our liberties; and Whereas, there are roughly 88,000 veterans living in Philadelphia with service spanning World War II until the present, men and women of all races, religions, ethnicities, gender identifications and physical abilities; and Whereas, a new generation of veterans, including many female veterans, are returning from service and choosing to live, work and further their education in Philadelphia; and
Thank you. Before I read my section, let me acknowledge the late and great Lucien Blackwell, who was a Korean War veteran, and Ed Speller from the Veterans Advisory Commission, who could not be here today. Whereas, veterans offer our experienced pool of leaders, workers and neighbors; and Whereas, many vets face challenges in living to their fullest potential because of the injuries, both mental and physical, suffered during their service; and Whereas, in 2012, Philadelphia became the first city in America to offer a tax credit to employers hiring returning vets which will be assessed and modified as needed in 2014; and Whereas, in 2012, a coalition was formed to include the City of Philadelphia, the Department of Veteran Affairs and other partner non-profit organizations, such as the Veterans Multi-Service Center, to end veteran homelessness in Philadelphia by the end of 2014; and
And I want to say too before I read my section is that it's an honor and a privilege for me to be here and to be part of this people who have fought for our freedom and given us what we have and have here today. Whereas, City Council passed a Resolution authorizing the Committee on Global Opportunities and the Creative/Innovative Economy to hold hearings on the state of veterans in Philadelphia which will be held in 2014; and Whereas, the Philadelphia Free Library, One Book, One Philadelphia Program has chosen The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers, a tale of a veteran's experience while at war, as it is selected for discussion and events to be held throughout the City in 52 existing libraries; and Whereas, Philadelphia will host the Veterans Wheelchair Games in August 2014, with over 600 competitors from all over the nation traveling to Philadelphia in order to participate; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the City Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes 2014 as the Year of the Veteran in Philadelphia to highlight and celebrate the accomplishments as well as continue to raise public awareness of issues related to veterans and ongoing initiatives to serve those who have served us. Thank you. (Applause.)
At this time, I'd like to present the resolution to Scott Brown, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Veterans Advisory Commission. (Applause.)
Council President Darrell Clarke, Councilman Oh, Councilman Squilla, Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilmembers, colleagues, the Veterans Commission, and fellow veterans, good (Good morning.)
It is with great honor that I accept the job as Director of Veterans Advisory Commission and County Director of Veterans Affairs for the City of Philadelphia. I am truly humbled by this choice and thank all who have helped me get here. Though contrary to my first piece of news media released, I am a veteran who served in the United States Navy. I served aboard the USS Briscoe (DD-977) destroyer in the late 1990s, early 2000, and I myself am a hundred percent service-connected veteran who utilizes the VA health system on a daily basis. I come from a long line of veterans - my father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, which I mere remember every time underneath my beret. I have spent many hours volunteering with claims for my fellow veterans, just as someone did for me. Working as your Director, I intend on collaborating all veterans' organizations that put veterans first. I want to continue to work side by side with Wanda Pate and Joyce Mckeown, who are here. They together have carried this office for the past two years diligently and productively. Sadly, earlier this month we lost a great director and a friend to the veterans of Philadelphia, Edgar Howard, and I would be remiss if I didn't ask for a moment of silence in his great memory. (Brief moment of silence.)
I know that Edgar would expect a lot from our office, and we as a staff intend on doing just that. We will continue to have roundtables, fairs, and presentations for our veterans. The office will work to introduce numerous other activities and events throughout the year, holding to faith a filled agenda. I'm not perfect. I need the help of good veterans. Please make yourself and your organization known to me and to the office. The resolution today circumferences numerous veterans organizations in Philadelphia. Present today up here with me is Tim Meserve representing of the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service Center right here. Also another person who continues to help veterans throughout Philadelphia, Elizabeth Helsel, Associate Director of the VA Medical Center. She's back here somewhere with me. Numerous veterans organizations here, the Philadelphia Vets Center, the Veterans Support Group, Safe Haven, Impact Services, Support Homeless Vets, Vet Corps, Travis Manion Foundation, Thank a Vet, People First, the Perimeter, Sunrise House, Stand Down, USEF, Our Vets Success, Point Man Ministries. A couple directors and here, Andre Mears, the Latin-American Post No. 840. Here we go. Here he is. Bill Coles, 5th District up here with me. John Peterson, the Commander of 405, the Union League. Dave Adams, a radio personality somewhere here. Okay. Al Willis, WP Roach Post No. 21 and recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal, World War II right here in our presence. (Applause.)
My personal commander of Southwest Philly, Post 959, who reminded me that my dues were due, John Tomaski. He's up here. As he always does. Greater Philadelphia Veterans Networks and You Are Not Alone. What a group to end with. You veterans are not alone in Philadelphia. These groups here today are just a smidgeon of what is offered in Philadelphia. I truly believe that our office and these organizations mentioned and numerous more will better the City Thank you to every veterans group here today. Can I get all the veterans here to stand? How about a round of applause for our fellow veterans. (Applause.)
Fellow veterans, thank you for being so important to us, so good to our country, and for being in this Council Chamber today. I accept this resolution on behalf of all veterans organizations and all veterans throughout this great city of ours. I am truly moved that my introduction and this citation are within the same agenda this morning. I will assure you that while at the helm of this office, I will keep this resolution, the Year of the Veteran 2014, and you, the veterans of Philadelphia, my first priority. God, family, and the love for your country are what those who have served are taught. I hope to work as hard for veterans as all of the Thank you all for this resolution. That will remain always on display in Room 127, our office, as a reminder that veterans are always number one. Our first public hearing will be March 5th at 2:00 p.m. where I'll be present, and it will be here in Council Chambers. Again, March 5th at 2 o'clock. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Would you say -- I'm sorry, Council President. I know this is going a little long. Can I break protocol and request two more -
Thank you very much, Council President. I would like to ask Tim Meserve from the Veterans Multi-Service Center and Betsy Helsel from the VA, Philadelphia Veterans Administration, to MR. MESERVE. Tim Meserve, and I'm a veteran. I want to thank Councilman Oh, Councilman Squilla, and Councilwoman Blackwell for sponsoring, along with their staffs, for this great tool for veterans. I also want to thank the Council President for your leadership and Councilman Johnson, but in today's world in Washington can't get along, the entire Council, I want to thank you for unanimously supporting this and showing that Philadelphia leads the way in all things. (Applause.)
We want to thank a couple people real quickly. I want to thank Kayla Williams from the One Book Philadelphia. There's a great event. If you haven't read Yellow Birds, they have over a hundred plus events that are going through 19 March. Fern Villit (ph) from the VA and Debby Derricks from my organization process. I wanted to say that the Wheelchair Games -- and there's so many things that are going on in Philadelphia, but I just got to speak this morning about the coalition to end veterans homelessness. I want to talk about the amazing things that the organization of the City is doing. There's six charities, three City organizations and HUD and the VA as well as the state Veterans Commission involved. When VA and PHA got together, they took a process for HUD-VASH vouchers that used to be more than 140 days. They've done it multiple times, put a veteran from start to finish in a brand new apartment in three to five days. They are doing amazing things. (Applause.)
Real quick. Our chronic homeless numbers for veterans went up 400 percent since the beginning of the boot camp in this process and we number of veterans every month, from 30 to 60 homeless veterans every month. We will end homeless veterans and it will be because of everyone in this room. I just want to say to all the VSOs out there that Council has given us this great tool. Every one of us needs to use this, because in our organizations, it is the Year of the Veteran every year, but now it's the Year of Veteran in Philadelphia. We do have a kick-off event on 10 March, and there'll be lots of events from all these different organizations celebrating the Year of the Veteran. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning. I just have two minutes of brief comments. I just want to tell you how thrilled and delighted I am to be here to represent Philadelphia VA at this presentation, and we at the VA feel so fortunate to be that has chosen to elevate the visibility of veterans in such an important way. So thank you for all of that. We feel we already do have a strong relationship with the City, but we think this proclamation will really go a long way to cement that partnership and also to add additional visibility and support to the Wheelchair Games that you've already heard about, which are coming to the City in August 12th to the 18th. Not only is that bringing 650 veterans and thousands of visitors and volunteers, but lots of economic positive impact to our city. So thank you. So on behalf of the VA, I just want to extend my deepest gratitude to all of you and invite you to join us in celebrating veterans and veteran causes, not just this year but each and every day. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. We're going to take a photograph right now. Because we have so many people up here, I believe the Councilmembers will come up front, but I see veteran leaders still in the audience and spouses of veterans and others. Would you just come up here and take this picture with us. We have room. You know who you are. Please don't be shy. Come on up. You're veteran leaders. Come on up here and take this picture with us. Thank you.
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. Thank you very much for your service, to all our veterans. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Curtis Jones, who will present a resolution honoring and celebrating Philadelphia's living those accompanying the Councilman please join him at the podium. (Applause.)
Can we hold off on the cameras until we do the presentation. Thank you. Thank you. Councilman Jones. Folks, could we have a little quiet, please. Thank you.
On the occasion of Black History Month, we reflect on those who came before us who wrote pages and chapters in the history of America and in particular African American culture. In 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson started Negro History Week, and in 1975, it was recognized by President Gerald Ford. It became a month in 1986 when Congress passed it into law. But here in Philadelphia, we've lost a lot of those living legends last year. When we think about the Honorable Gussie Clark, when we who passed away, names like Congressman Bill Gray, E. Steven Collins, and Dr. Lomax, to name a few. So what we've tried to do each year since 2008 is recognize the living legends in our community who are continuing to write those pages, to create those chapters in Philadelphia African American culture and history and to, in a small way, the body of Council say thank you. So with that, names like former Mayor John Street, former President of City Council; names like Ethel Barnett; names like Commissioner Sylvester Johnson; labor leaders like Sam Staten, Jr., a legacy, a second generation in labor; names like Jerry Wyatt Mondesire, to name a few; Joyce Batchelor, an advocate for children for over 25 years. And with that, we want to let them know that we recognize their contributions, that we care deeply about what they do done for all of us. And without further adieu, as part of commemoration of Black History Month, today we honor and celebrate Philadelphia's living legends: John Street, Ethel Barnett, Sylvester Johnson, Joyce Batchelor, Sam Staten, Jr., Doris Smith, Jerry Mondesire, Trudy Haynes, and Della Clark. The panel before you demonstrates exemplary leadership in the areas of government, public safety, social justice, civil rights, labor relations, journalism, community activism, and business leadership; and
Whereas, John F. Street, Esquire, Philadelphia's second African American mayor, led the City from 2000 to 2008 after nearly two decades of public service on Philadelphia City Council. Mayor Street was elected as Council President for seven years during his tenure on City Council. As mayor, Street worked to revitalize Philadelphia, improve graduation rates, of life for the City of Philadelphia for all citizens. Still a public servant today, former Mayor Street currently teaches political science at Temple University and advocates for women and youth in politics; and
Whereas, this elegant Ethel S. Barnett is a longstanding public servant who served as a Philadelphia police officer from 1961 to 1971 and became the first African American to serve on the Pennsylvania Civil Service Commission in 1977. Barnett served on a multitude of government boards, including the Philadelphia Energy Education Council, the Mayor's Commission for Women in Philadelphia, and the Governor's Study Committee on Employment of the Handicapped to forge important public policy changes in Philadelphia and throughout Pennsylvania. She was also the first Vice President of the NAACP been a staunch civil rights advocate; and Whereas, J. Wyatt Mondesire is a longtime Philadelphia political and civil rights activist, expert in the power of the press to organize citizens and to influence public policy. Mondesire began his career in journalism, formerly writing for the Philadelphia Inquirer and then went on to serve as the Chief of Staff to the Honorable Congressman William H. Gray, III, where he assisted in writing the South African Sanctions legislation. In 1991, Mr. Mondesire founded the Philadelphia Sun, a weekly newspaper for our African American community. Mondesire also served as President of the Philadelphia Chapter -- also serves as President of the Philadelphia Chapter of the NAACP and increased its membership by more than 5,000 members. Mondesire continues to support our city through community and numerous all-time civil rights activism;
Whereas, Sylvester M. Johnson, retired Philadelphia Police Commissioner, received the highest award in Philadelphia Police Department, the Medal of Valor, after stopping an armed robbery while off-duty. Appointed to Police Commissioner in 2002, he helped reduce the record crime rates to a 17-year low in Philadelphia under his wonderful leadership. Commissioner Johnson's service to the community has been recognized by Mayors Rendell, Street, and Nutter; and
Whereas, Joyce Batchelor, MSW has committed her life to struggling children and families as a Child Advocate Social Worker for the Defender Association of Philadelphia Child Advocacy Unit for more than 25 years. Batchelor's impact on needy children and families comes through the personal assistance she renders to teens entrance applications, purchasing clothing and toiletries for children from her own coffers, or remembering abused and neglected children with gifts on birthdays and holidays. Batchelor touches and improves lives of underprivileged children and families in Philadelphia through a deep commitment to social justice and pours her heart and soul into each case to ensure that every child's needs are met. Batchelor is committed to making a difference for those in need who need it most; and Whereas, Samuel Staten, Sr., represented by Samuel Staten, Jr., served as Business Manager of Laborers' Local 332 encouraging activism in the labor community until his retirement in 2008 after 30 years of dedicated service. Staten has served on numerous boards, including the Philadelphia Housing Authority and the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority. He's also the trustee Staten, Sr., Charitable Trust which aims to assist those living in poverty in the Philadelphia area; and
Whereas, Doris A. Smith, formerly served as Commissioner of the Fairmount Park; founded 100 Black Women in Philadelphia and served as executive for Pennsylvania's Department of Health and other health and wellness organizations. Ms. Smith is a longtime public service and community activist deeply committed to park preservation and improving outcomes for Philadelphians. She currently chairs the Philadelphia Civil Service Commission and helps high school dropouts to obtain GEDs, vocational training, and to secure gainful employment through her work with the Exodus Project; and Whereas, Trudy Haynes pioneered the pathway for African Americans on television as the nation's first African American TV weather caster and television reporter. Haynes served 33 years on air at KYW-TV, Channel 3 hosting programs such as The Trudy Haynes Show, Sunday Magazine, Sunday Side Up and a news segment called "Trudy's Grapevine." Throughout her trailblazing career, Haynes interviewed news and entertainment celebrities from President Lyndon B. Johnson, Martin Luther King, Jr., Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to Sylvester Stallone, Denzel Washington and Tupac Shakur. In 1999, Trudy Haynes' groundbreaking career in journalism was honored by the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia's Hall of Fame; and
Whereas, Della Clark has helped minorities and entrepreneurs establish and maintain businesses in Philadelphia for more than two decades in her role as President of The Enterprise Center in West Philadelphia. Della Clark brings international entrepreneurial activities observed and explored in Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic and Ireland through the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship's Philadelphia International Leadership Initiative to local minority businesses. She's been recognized as a minority business leader in the Philadelphia community by the Philadelphia Business Journal. In addition to creating and supporting small business ownership, she has supported the community in her roles with the University City District, Saint Christopher's Foundation for Children, the Philadelphia Historical Commission, all of West Philadelphia and certainly the new zone in Mantua that we now have, the promise zone. Thank you.
Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby honors, celebrates the Philadelphia living legends: John F. Street, Ethel S. Barnett, Sylvester M. Johnson, Joyce Batchelor, Sam Staten, Jr., Doris Smith -- and Senior -- Doris Smith, Jerry Wyatt Mondesire, Trudy Haynes, Della Clark in the areas of government, public safety, social justice, civil rights, labor relations, journalism, community activism and business leadership in the City of Philadelphia as part of the commemoration of Philadelphia's Black History Month. And let it be further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia living legends as evidence of our sincere admiration of this entire legislative body. Thank you all very much. (Standing ovation.)
Thank you. ease. I'm sorry. I'm moving too fast. The standing ovation threw me off. The Chair recognizes Mr. Staten for remarks.
I'm truly grateful for this honor. My thank you to Council Curtis Jones and the entire City Council. I'm humbled by this award. I accept this award with honor, not simply in my name but I share with, first of all, Harry Murray, a little black man who organized Local 332 and gave African Americans a base from which to fight for equality in the workplace. I share with my dad, Sam Staten, Sr., a man who did so much for all labor organizations and he changed the face of labor in politics of Philadelphia. honor with the members of Local 332 who do the great jobs on our construction sites, but also give back by raising funds for charities and scholarships. They also hit the streets each spring and November to help put in office people who support decent jobs and decent pay. Again, my sincere thank you to City Council. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. Thank you. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. And I am being told we have no messages today. Thank you very much. Mr. Decker, do you have any other communications today?
Thank you very much. We'll move right into the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney. (No response.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf I offer one bill.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, by amending Section 9-212 relating to newsstands by prohibiting newsstands in the area bounded by Spring Garden Street, Broad Street, Callowhill Street, and 16th Street.
That bill will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Mr. President, I have no bills or resolutions today. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
I feel like we're going a mile a minute here. Thank you, Council President. I have two bills.
An ordinance amending Chapter 21-1700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Publication of Notices by City," be revising provisions concerning how notices of regulations proposed by departments, boards and commissions shall be published and advertised.
And an ordinance amending Section 19-1301 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to real estate taxes imposed by the City, and Section 19-1801 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to real estate taxes imposed by the School District of Philadelphia, by shifting an additional portion of the real estate tax from the City to the School District of Philadelphia, without changing the overall combined rate of the City and School District real estate tax.
That bill will also be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer one resolution this morning.
A privileged resolution recognizing and congratulating ASTECH Development Services (Overbrook Environmental Education Center), the Clean Air Council and the Council of Spanish Speaking Organizations for their dedication to environmentalism.
And that resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and two privileged resolutions, one on your behalf.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, a parcel of land commonly known as 147 Gay Street.
And a privileged resolution proclaiming March 2014 as "Social Work Month" in the City of Philadelphia and further embracing the 2014 National Association of Social Worker theme that "All People Matter."
That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating Allen Ezail Iverson on the occasion of his retirement from professional basketball and the permanent retirement of his number "3" jersey by the Philadelphia 76ers.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. And, Councilman, I've been asked once you circulated that resolution if Mr. Iverson is coming into the Council Chambers. Will we be so privileged?
Well, considering it's your resolution, Mr. President, we'll try to make that happen.
Councilman, they told me that I can't ask myself a question, so...
Okay. So we will attempt to, Mr. President, get him to show up and celebrate with us.
Is there a practice? We can't be practice. We ain't talking about practice.
Councilman, we are veterans. We know how to maneuver. Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two privileged resolutions, one co-sponsored by Councilwoman Blackwell, Tasco, and Reynolds Brown and the other by Councilman Jones and Reynolds Brown.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Pennsylvania Chapter, on the occasion of its 28th Annual Madam CJ Walker Luncheon and Economic Development Seminar.
That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing City Council to hold public hearings regarding Philadelphia Housing Authority practices in domestic violence cases.
That resolution will also be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. And the Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one non-privileged resolution and I wish to be recognized after the title is read for a motion on the resolution.
A non-privileged resolution officially responding on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to a letter dated February 7th, 2014 from the Democratic National Committee Chair, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz to Mayor Michael A. Nutter asking for confirmation of interest in hosting the 2016 Democratic National Convention prior to a March 1st deadline. Since the Administration does not plan to convey interest in recruiting this massive economic boost to Philadelphia, City Council is forced to do it for them.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of this resolution on today's Final Passage Calendar. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. That concludes the introductions of bills and resolutions and we will now move to our committee reports. And at this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, would you please read that report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 140005, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the areas of land located within an area bounded by 18th Street, 19th Street, Arch Street and Cuthbert street"; and Bill No. 140009, entitled "An ordinance to amend Section 14-701 of the Zoning Code, entitled 'Dimensional Standards,' and to amend Section 14-702(4) of the Zoning Code, entitled 'Maximum Floor Area and Height Bonus Amounts,' and to amend Section 14-806 of the Zoning Code, entitled 'Off-Street Loading,' and to amend Section 14-502 of the Zoning Code, entitled 'CTR, Center City Overlay,'" respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 140005 and 140009. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 140005 and 140009. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and those bills will be on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee of Law and Government.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Law and Government reports one bill with a
Thank you, sir. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 140054, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 20 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Officers and Employees,' including Chapter 20-600, entitled 'Standards of Conduct and Ethics,' by prohibiting certain gifts, adding and modifying certain definitions, establishing penalties and making technical amendments, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 140054. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 140054. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Squilla for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, on Streets and Services reports five bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, sir. Mr. Decker, would you please read that report.
The Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 140003, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by striking from the City play and vacating Croskey Street from its terminus north of Cherry Street to a point approximately five feet southwardly therefrom"; and Bill No. 140004, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Liberty Property 18th and Arch LP, owner of the property at 1800 Arch Street to be improved with an office tower and hotel, to install security bollards on and under Arch Street, North 18th Street, North 19th Street, and bike racks and benches on and under Arch Street, adjacent to 1800 Arch Street"; and Bill No. 140007, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by relocating the curblines of Cuthbert Street from Eighteenth Street to Nineteenth Street, thereby increasing the cartway width of said Cuthbert Street, and by regrading Eighteenth Street, from John F. Kennedy Boulevard to Arch Street, and regrading Cuthbert Street from Eighteenth Street to Nineteenth Street, thereby raising said Eighteenth Street and Cuthbert Street"; and Bill No. 140008, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Liberty Property 18th and Arch, LP to construct, use and maintain, an underground pedestrian tunnel crossing the Unit block of 18th Street extending the existing underground 18th Street and an underground utility vault"; and Bill No. 140010, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' to remove the requirement that operators of farmers' markets obtain a license from the Department of Licenses and Inspections, to provide for registration by market operators with the Department of Public Health, and to adjust various requirements to the operation of farmers' markets, 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.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, that the rules of Council be suspended so to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 140003, 140004, 140007, 140008, and 140010. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day so as to permit first reading of Bills No. 140003, 140004, 140007, 140008, and 140010. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and those bills will be on our First Reading Calendar today. That concludes our committee reports, and at this time, we will consider the Calendar. I note that all the bills just reported from committee with suspension 2/27/14 - STATED - 1ST READING of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. Mr. Decker, would you please read any other bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 130901, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and enter into a Declaration of Rights, Easements, Covenants and Restrictions to govern the relationship among (1) that certain parcel of land, together with the improvements thereon, commonly known as JFK Plaza, located at 15th and Arch Streets, and (2) that certain parcel of land, together with the improvements located thereon, commonly known as Love Park Parking Garage, located generally beneath JFK Plaza at 15th and Arch Streets, and (3) certain parcels of land around and beneath Love 2/27/14 - STATED - 1ST READING Park Parking Garage"; and Bill No. 130092, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver a deed conveying fee simple title to a certain parcel of land, together with the improvements located thereon, commonly known as Love Park Parking Garage, located generally beneath JFK Plaza at 15th and Arch Streets; together with certain rights and obligations of the owner of the Love Park Parking Garage unit under a certain Declaration of Rights, Easements, Covenants and Restrictions, all under certain terms and conditions."
The Chair agrees. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on our Final Passage. 2ND READING
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 140104, 140105, 140106, 140109, 140114, 130688-AA, 130908, 130946, 140057, and 140058. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before considering these bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, we will have our public comment session. It will go as follows: If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution that's on the Final Passage Calendar, you must sign up at the table to my left. There is soon to be a podium in the middle of the Council Chambers. It has a device on the podium. When the light on that podium turns green, it will be your time to speak. When it turns yellow, you have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks, and when it turns red, we ask that you please conclude your remarks and adhere to those guidelines that we have established. You will be given three minutes to speak. At this time, Mr. Decker, can you please read the name of the first individual who is interested in testifying today.
Clarc King, commenting on 140106. (Witness approached witness table.)
Good morning, Councilmembers. I am here to thank Councilmember Johnson for Resolution 140106, the resolution urging the United States Congress to pass Senate Bill 1410, entitled the Smarter Sentencing Act, which provides for fairer drug sentencing guidelines. We should be investigating sentencing for drug offenses, as we have an opium war in the combination of actions in the illegal importation of drugs, in drug money laundering in our financial facilities, and the privatization of prisons where corporate managers and shareholders demand that their prisons are kept full at all times to enhance their investments and monetary value. We cannot tolerate the monetary financial system intrusion in the justice system in our economy and in the operation of this city. The financial system impacts our constitutional rights and liberties. I ask that the City Council create the resolution urging the United States Congress to reinstate the Glass-Steagall standard in U.S. banking, mindful that every day the Congress fails to reinstate the Glass-Steagall standard in U.S. banking is the national security crisis. 2/27/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you.
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, would you please read the title of Resolution 140104.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Sixteenth and Twenty-Ninth Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The 2/27/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Resolution 140104 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140105.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Point Breeze Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 1734 Federal Street, 1606, 1624, and 1637 Latona 2/27/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Street, 1713, 1715, 1717, 1721, and 1726 Manton Street, and 1231 South Seventeenth Street.
Mr. President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Resolution 140105 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140106.
A resolution urging the United States Congress to pass Senate Bill 1410, entitled the Smarter Sentencing Act, which provides for fairer 2/27/14 - STATED - 2ND READING drug sentencing guidelines.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Resolution 140106 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140109.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying 2/27/14 - STATED - 2ND READING conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Seventh, Nineteenth, Thirty-First and Thirty-Seventh Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Resolution 140109 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140114. 2/27/14 - STATED - 2ND READING
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-First Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The 2/27/14 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it, and Resolution 140114 is adopted. Mr. Decker, I believe next up is 130688-AA.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by adding new rules and obligations pertaining to construction licenses and renewals of those licenses; creating demolition licenses and increasing fines for expediters that falsify information.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.