COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, December 11, 2008 12:00 p.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Dr. Ernest McNear from the True Gospel Tabernacle. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Green. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.) REVEREND McNEAR: To our honorable members of the City Council, our President, to everyone that's gathered, may the Lord bless you richly. Let us pray. Dear God our God, we're grateful for this, another day, a day to do the will of the people even as you guide us. blessing of wisdom, knowledge, understanding, justice, even as these servant leaders make decisions and set policy, even as others come to present opportunity and to gain as they go forth in their vision. Lord, bless today, and that it will all be done in such a way that you'll be pleased and that you'll be glorified. It is in your name that we pray. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Reverend McNear for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 4, 2008, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 4, 2008 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of December 4, 2008 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill, who will present a resolution honoring the George Washington High School Football Team. and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. I would ask the students to please come up and stand with Councilman O'Neill.
I'd like to thank President Verna for her indulgence for allowing this large a group here. This is one excited school, the coaching staff, the team, the administration, the student body. This is the first City Championship game in just under 30 years in the City of Philadelphia, which will now be a tradition every year. So we have the team that won it in an upset. We have the winningest coach in the history of the Public League, Ron Cohen. So this is a very special day for Public League and for George Washington High School, and this is a resolution honoring the George Washington High School Football Team on winning the City Championship. Whereas, the George Washington High School Football Team won the Public League Championship with a record ten wins and one loss; and Whereas, for the first time since 1979, the Public League Champion and Catholic League Champion met for a City Championship; and Whereas, on November 22, 2008, the George Washington High School Eagles and LaSalle High School Explorers faced off in the City Championship; and Whereas, Coach Ron Cohen, the winningest football coach in Public League history with a record of 217 wins, 58 losses and two ties, took a team with ten All-Public League honored players and a slue of underclassmen and honed them offense and an intrepid defense; and Whereas, the Eagles defense, led by seniors James Flower and Jamal Williams, and juniors Sharrif Floyd, Martin Haynes and Elijah Douglas, wreaked havoc on LaSalle's potent passing offense, limiting them to just 12 completions in 33 attempts; and Whereas, the Eagles upset the favored Explorers by a score of 23 to 14. Now therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we honor the George Washington High School Football Team on winning the City Championship; and Resolved further, that we congratulate both George Washington High School and LaSalle High Schools on their excellent seasons. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the George Washington High School Football Team as evidence of the legislative body. It's a certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 4th day of December 2008. Signed by Anna C. Verna, President of City Council, and co-sponsored by all members of City Council. Congratulations, team. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Coach Cohen for remarks. COACH COHEN: Thank you. What a privilege it is to be here today representing George Washington High School and these young men, who showed the City of Philadelphia what young people can do in a positive light. We were a 30-point underdog going into the game, and the only people that really believed that we could do it were these young men and women on the stage today. you, Ms. Verna. Thank you, Councilman, for recognizing us, and thank the audience for allowing us this opportunity to represent the fifth largest city in the state of the United States, and thank you again for this honor. Thank you. (Applause.)
Again, congratulations. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution recognizing Keystone Mercy Health Plan. Will Ms. Battle and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium.
This resolution this morning is being presented to some very good friends of mine and strong operation in the City of Philadelphia, and I'm proud to present City Council resolution recognizing Keystone Mercy Health Plan for receiving the National Committee for Quality Assurance Award for innovative efforts to reduce healthcare disparities. Whereas, Keystone Mercy Health Plan, Keystone Mercy, the largest Medicaid managed care in Southeastern Pennsylvania has been awarded the prestigious "Recognizing Innovation in Multi-Cultural Healthcare Award" by the National Committee for Quality Assurance, NCQA, and this award recognizes the 40-Day Journey, a component of the company's Health Ministry Program, for its success in reducing health disparities and helping African American women and their families receive appropriate services; and Whereas, NCQA is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality and it accredits and certifies a wide range of physicians in key clinical areas and is committed to providing healthcare quality information through the Internet, media and data licensing agreements in order to help consumers, employers and others make more informed healthcare choices; and Whereas, according to NCQA President, Margaret E. O'Kane, Keystone Mercy Health Plan's innovative efforts to improve the lives of African American women and their families is a model for health plans across the country, and as a nation of diverse cultures, languages, lifestyles, it's essential for health plans to recognize the health risks and vulnerabilities of special populations and design programs that reach out and improve the quality of those members' lives; and Whereas, in 2000, Keystone Mercy created a faith-based wellness program for African American women called the Health Ministry Program for Women, the program, the 40-Day Journey, focuses on the family through a six-week educational series emphasizing nutrition, exercise, medication compliance and water intake; and Whereas, participants in the Health Ministry Program reported an improvement in mobility and flexibility, as well as in their attitude and hope for the future, and participants with diabetes showed health improvements that included a drop in triglycerides, decrease in LDL, which is bad cholesterol, weight loss, drop in systolic blood pressure and a decline in diastolic blood pressure. Now therefore resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and commend the Keystone Mercy Health Plan for receiving the National Committee for Quality Assurance Award for innovative efforts to reduce healthcare disparities by creating the women and the 40-Day Journey, which we have in my district. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of Keystone Mercy Health Plan as an expression of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 16th day of October 2008, and it's supported by all members of City Council. We thank you for the hard work you do, because you worry me to death all the time about your program, and I love that, because you're doing a good job. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Ms. Battle for remarks.
I'd like to thank Council President Verna and the members of Philadelphia City Council for this resolution and for recognizing Keystone Mercy's efforts to reduce healthcare disparities. I'd also like to have a special thanks to the Honorable Councilwoman Marian Tasco, the Chair of the Committee of the Public Health and Human Services. We really thank you for the great work you are doing with this committee and for taking the lead on this issue. On behalf of our team, we are very honored to receive this recognition from this very esteemed body. We appreciate the fact that the City Council has recognized us, Keystone Mercy has recognized the Health Ministry Program and specifically the 40-Day Journey, and the 40-Day Journey is done in almost the entire City. So it's not just up in Councilwoman Tasco's area, but it's a whole series, but I bug her the most. A really is six weeks. So this really does embody our mission, which is we help people get care, stay well and build healthy communities. We want each individual woman in our communities to be her own greatest health advocate. We want them to know their numbers, their risk factors and their treatment so they can be empowered to take charge. We are very proud to have received this NCQA award, as well as the recognition from the City. We don't make this program happen by ourselves and we owe a lot to the success from our wonderful pastors, our religious leaders, and we also want to thank the City nurses of the Philadelphia Health Department who are involved for all six weeks in this program. This program wouldn't be possible without the help of many of our community and health organizations who form the coalition. We thank all of them for their involvement and support. Thank you again to all the members of City Council and Councilwoman Tasco for this resolution and the recognition of Keystone Mercy Health Plan. We greatly value your regard and appreciate your support of all of our community programs, and I look forward to seeing you at our 2009 Health Ministry Program. (Applause.)
She will call you, e-mail you and come visit you, because it's a wonderful program. We appreciate the leadership of Maria. She is an advocate for eliminating the disparity in healthcare in our community. Thank you so much.
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones, who will present a resolution congratulating Charles A. Bishop. Will Mr. Charles Bishop and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And I see that the Councilman is being joined by Councilman Goode, Councilwoman Brown and Councilwoman Blackwell.
Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. There is not a time in my life that on the North Broad Street that you could not see the guiding light, inspirational light of the Masters of Masonry, the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. So, therefore, it is truly appropriate that them, and congratulating and honoring Charles A. Bishop on being elected and installed as the 99th Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on October 14, 2008. Whereas, Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. It is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. For many years, Freemasons have followed three great principles: brotherly love, relief and truth.
Whereas, the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania is recognized as the Father of Black Masonry and it currently has over 5,000 active members. On October 14, 2008, Charles A. Bishop was elected and installed as the 99th Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Prince Hall Masons for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, where his theme is to, quote, "Preserve the past and enrich the future," end quote; Whereas, Grand Master Charles A. Bishop became a member of Ionic Lodge No. 112 in September 1970, and since his induction has served his brethren with vigorous commitment and dedication; and
Whereas, Grand Master Charles A. Bishop embodies the spirit, ethics, character and morality of a true Masonic member, which has been evident in the roles he has held within the society; Whereas, Grand Master Charles A. Bishop believes that if you extend yourself to mankind in all phases of life, you will be a better person because of it. With this belief, his ongoing commitment and dedication to his family, community and brethren has provided the City of Philadelphia and all members of the Freemasonry a living example of the true spirit of servitude. Now therefore
Before I read, let me note that this was the late Lucien Blackwell's lodge as well. Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby congratulates and honors Charles A. Bishop on being elected and installed as the 99th Most Worshipful Grand Master of Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on October 14, 2008. Further resolved, that a copy of this resolution be presented to the Grand Master Charles A. Bishop as evidence of the sincere acknowledgment and recognition of this legislative body. We note that this was introduced by Councilman Curtis A. Jones, Jr., Fourth District, and it was agreed to by our President and every member of City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
I would like Worshipful Grand Master Leonard Heard, who will in turn -Deputy Grand Master. Sorry. No promotions in the Chambers, not today -who will in turn introduce the Most Worshipful Grand Master Charles A. Bishop. DEPUTY GRAND MASTER HEARD: I haven't been promoted yet. Thank you so much, Councilman Jones. To Madam President, Ann Verna, to members of City Council and to all present, I bid you a good afternoon. Prior to my introducing our Grand Master, let me take a moment, if you will, to talk about Prince Hall Masonry, its beginnings and where we are today. I will be brief. In 1775 while our country was at war, in Boston, Massachusetts the Reverend Prince Hall and 13 others were initiated into Freemasonry, and after their initiation, they petitioned General a part of the Continental Army and to take part in the Revolutionary War, and their petition was granted to take part in that war. While in Philadelphia, the Free African Society, along with the Reverend Absalom Jones and Revered Richard Allen, were moving forward with providing charity and uplifting their community, and in 1797, they were so interested in freemasonry that that petitioned Prince Hall to become freemasons, and Prince Hall himself initiated the Reverend Absalom Jones and the Revered Richard Allen into Freemasonry in 1797. And through their charitable efforts and the general uplift of the community, membership grew, and in 1815, we had enough members to form a grand lodge for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. And out of these two grand lodges, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, grew 44 more grand lodges nationally and internationally, with millions of members being initiated into Prince Hall Masonry. Now here in America due to societal concerns, we had separate communities. We have the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge, which is right across the street at One North Broad, and the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, which is at 4301 North Broad Street. However, our Grand Lodges are in full cooperation with one another, our missions are the same, and our mutual recognition is the norm. The only thing that separates us are our buildings, and even that does not separate us, because we meet together in each other's buildings. And so I say to you, the greatest men of all times have never deemed it derogatory to their dignity to level themselves with the profession and to attend our assemblies, men such as the Reverend Leon Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Franklin; men such as Dr. Benjamin Hooks, of Tennessee; President Harry S. Truman, Grand Master of Indiana; Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; former Mayor Wilson Goode; and the father of our country, George Washington. And so 98 men have served as Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania since 1815, and it is my pleasure to present to you this morning the 99th Grand Master of Prince Hall Masons, the Honorable Charles Alan Bishop. Please hear ye him. (Applause.) GRAND MASTER
Thank you to the Council President Anna Verna, to Councilpersons. It is indeed an honor and a pleasure for me to be here this morning to receive such a distinguished honor, and it is most pleasing to have the Councilpersons individually and collectively present this to me. As Jannie Blackwell has indicated, that her husband, Lucien Blackwell, belonged to the Prince Hall Masons. But I think if you look anywhere in any place that anyone that's doing something in a positive nature, you're going to find a master mason there, along with our current Mayor, Mayor Nutter, belonged to Sons of Light No. 120, the same as Lucien Blackwell. You find in society that when you see positive things being done, not only in your churches but in city, state or federal government, you're going to find a master mason there. One of the distinguished things that you see up in Gettysburg where it says Friend of Friend, a statue of a confederate soldier from the north where one was falling, and when the other found out it was a master mason, he reached down to help him and bring him up. So there's masons that will help one another to show that the things that we believe in society to help mankind, that's what we're about, to help mankind. One of the things is to look at our youth. I was looking at the Lincoln High School Team that was here -- George Washington High School, that one of our things that masonries do, mentor our youth, because they are our future. As you see, my theme was "Preserve the past, enrich the future." The only way we could enrich the future is to be positive with the current times. We had, out of 44 lodges in Philadelphia, 37 of them had "adopt a school," because if we don't reach down -- and our theme with the youth and our Knights of Pythagoras, they say, No man stands as tall as when he stoops to reach up to a young boy. So we look at helping those young. As I indicated, we have 37 of those 44 lodges that had "adopt a school" program. I'm extending that throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. We 97 lodges throughout Pennsylvania. I'm going to see to it that all of them will take "adopt a school" program, because if we work with our youth, our future will be saved. One of the schools up in the North Philly is the Prince Hall School. That's the only school named after our founder. So, again, we have to preserve our past so we could enrich the future. So, again, it is my honor to be here. It is my honor to be here. To my Deputy Grand Master, who gave us a brief history, he's making sure I don't forget my future, because I want to go home, so I make sure I introduce my wife. But I have behind me some of my master masons. There was plenty of them here. Some of them work in the day in protection, not only myself but the members here in police uniform today. They are about doing their job, their civic duty. So I have with me all my master masons and some of our Eastern Stars, which is our female auxiliary. And I have standing beside me at all times, my wife, Jacqueline Bishop. (Applause.) GRAND MASTER
She's beside me. I would tell her to stand up, but she is. She's a past matron of Louisa S. Rumford, Chapter No. 15 and several other auxiliaries of our female side. She found out she might as well join me since I've been in this since 1970 and continue going. Once you get involved with masonry, it's like those of you that work on the computer, you get indoctrinated. But if you see the good that we do for the community, you have to involve yourself. If you get involved with the church, you're going to see masons there. If you get involved with City government, you're going to see masons there. Because our precepts is to do good by mankind. I have also with me my niece, Hall, and a good friend that's always been with me, Irene Jones. Again, they said any good man has to have a good woman beside him. I won't say behind him, but in this current time, they're beside you and they help you move. So I'm hoping with all of this that's been done to me today will make me continue to move on to the future to do good for mankind. I want to thank my brothers for supporting me today, even though it was a long day, and I want to -- I appreciate and accept this certificate, but I'm going to keep it in my office, but they earned it for me. (Applause.)
I'd like to welcome and introduce to our City Council session Mr. Howard H. Sullivan, the newly appointed President and CEO of Opportunities Industrialization Centers of America, Inc. Howard is the only son of the founder of OIC of America, the late Reverend Dr. Leon H. Sullivan. And he returns to Philadelphia after working with the Sullivan Foundation in Washington, D.C. and the International Foundation of Education and Self-Help. So he's been here all morning.
I know. I did have the honor of meeting him, and I see he's standing, and I would like all of my colleagues to please him, Mr. Sullivan. (Applause.)
Welcome. Council will stand in recess until the Public Property Committee concludes its public hearing. I'm sorry. Councilwoman Blackwell, you wanted to be recognized?
Thank you. Yes. For the first time in all these years, I would like to be recorded as voting aye on all bills and resolutions, because we have this last meeting on the SEPTA Elevated Street Project at MSB and, you know, I'm afraid if I don't go, we won't be covered. So I'd like to vote aye on all bills and resolutions, and I'll be back in time to meet you across the hall.
Yes. I'd like to recognize Mr. Rick McKiddy, who is the North Region Executive Screen Actors Guild President of Philadelphia. Is he here? He was here, and I guess he had to go.
The Public Property Committee will continue its public hearing. Immediately after they conclude, we will then continue with our session. So we will now stand in recess. Thank you. (Stated Meeting recessed from 12:40 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)
Council will come to order. business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on December the 8th, 2008, I signed the following bills that were passed by Council at its session on December 4, 2008: Bill No. 080853, 080854, 080855, 080856, 080858 and 080859; and Pursuant to Section 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today submitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 080588, Bill No. 080875; and I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept from the Delaware River Port Authority conveyance of title to certain parcels of land located in the vicinity of 8th and Race Streets and Florist between 2nd and 4th; and An ordinance authorizing the Public Property Commissioner and the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with Motorola for the upgrade of the City's 800 megahertz trunked municipal radio communications system; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 17; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel 18; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-2400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Towing and Immobilizing of Parked or Abandoned Vehicles," by changing the fees for damage to vehicle booting devices, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion on the resolution.
Okay. Thank you. The Chair now calls on Councilwoman Blackwell.
An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," to establish towing zone locations and hours in University City, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have one resolution.
A resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating the Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King National Memorial for its creation of a memorial to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s national and international contributions to world peace through non-violent social change.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution will be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
An ordinance correcting the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by conforming the dimensions of a property located within an area bounded by "B" Street, Erie Street, "G" Street and Tioga Street to more accurately reflect the area rezoned by Bill No. 080754.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez. Thank you. It will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez. I think she has some other bills.
We have two resolutions she hasn't read in the record.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Move for the adoption of the resolution. It's my first time, guys. Just give me a minute.
I'm hanging in there. All right? Councilwoman Sanchez.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 18.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that we adopt the resolution. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
There being none, the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have three bills, one resolution.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of a portion of City Plan No. 231 by changing the grades of Cross Street from Gates Street to Hermitage Street.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Ridge Avenue, Rector Street, Houghten Street and Walnut Lane.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the paving of Cross Street from Gates Street to Hermitage Street and Gates Street from Silverwood Street to Cross Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities, in anticipation of the incoming federal administration's commitment to invest in urban infrastructure building initiatives, to conduct an independent investigation of the Water Department, so that the City will be prepared to effectively utilize any additional funding streams.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. It's a resolution. Move for the resolution to be adopted, please. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
There being none, the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks you very much. Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I have one resolution that's co-sponsored by my colleagues Councilman Kenney, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and Councilman Greenlee, and one bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept the Delaware River Port Authority's conveyance of title to certain parcels of land located in the vicinity of 8th and Race Streets and Florist Street between 2nd and 4th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on the Environment to hold public hearings on Pennsylvania's Guaranteed Energy Savings Program, its potential to finance energy-saving capital program projects, Philadelphia's current participation in the program and what additional opportunities may exist for both the City and the School District.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
There being none, the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 14-1800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning Board of Adjustment," to prohibit accessory uses in connection with the principal use authorized by variance, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I have three bills, three resolutions, one introduced on behalf of Council President Verna.
An ordinance authorizing the Public Property Commissioner and the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with Motorola for the upgrade of the City's 800 megahertz trunked municipal radio communications system, all under certain terms and conditions.
And an ordinance amending Subcode "P" (The Philadelphia Plumbing Code) of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, by providing for the use of ABS plastic pipe and PVC plastic pipe, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Broad Street, 15th Street, Oxford Street and Cecil B. Moore Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 83.
It has been moved and seconded that this resolution will be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
There being no opposition, the resolution will be passed. Thank you.
And a resolution authorizing the Council President to direct the Committee on Fiscal Stability and Intergovernmental Cooperation to investigate and report on actions the City could take to stimulate the local economy.
It has been moved and seconded that this resolution will be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 32nd Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and seconded. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
There none, this motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you very much. The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Madam Chair. The Committee on Rules reports one bill out with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 080881, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Spring Garden Street, Broad Street, Buttonwood Street and 15th Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 080881. (Duly seconded.)
It has been properly moved and seconded. All those in favor will say aye. 12/11/08 - STATED - 1ST READING (Aye.)
Thank you. It has been properly moved and seconded. Those in favor will -- I'm sorry. The bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please call up the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 080874, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Tacony Street, Homestead Street, Milnor Street extended and Dark Run Lane; and Bill No. 080877, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of 12/11/08 - STATED - 1ST READING certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Girard Avenue, Front Street, Spring Garden Street and 6th Street; and Bill No. 080883, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps -I'm sorry; an ordinance amending sections of an ordinance, Bill No. 080383, approved June 3, 2008, by extending the period for compliance and revising the extent of the encroachment, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 080900, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 314 and 356 by placing on the City Plan an extension of Tinicum Boulevard with its existing terminus on 86th Street to Bartram Avenue; and Bill No. 080902, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 231 by striking from the City Plan certain unopened portions of Umbria Street from 12/11/08 - STATED - 1ST READING Leverington Avenue to Wright Street; and Bill No. 080903, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 297 by relocating, widening and extending Keely Street from Henry Avenue northwestwardly; and Bill No. 080881, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land bounded by Spring Garden Street, Broad Street, Buttonwood Street and 15th Street.
The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion concerning the bills on the Second 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Reading and Final Passage.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar: Bills -Bills -- it's my first time, too. Bill No. 080319-A, Bill No. 080588, Bill No. 080837, Bill No. 080851, 080897, 080898, 080899, 080835, 080838, 080876, 080757, 080760, 080761, 080794, 080796, 080803, 080804, 080833, 080834, 080836, 080852 and 080904.
It has been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bills just read by Councilman Clarke. All in favor please indicate by saying aye. 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. And we will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Clarke for the purpose of calling up bills on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. In addition to the bills being considered on the Consent Agenda, Bill Nos. 080724-A, 080857, 080875, 080882, 080896, 080623, 080624 and 080880 are being called up for a Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you. We will now consider today's Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the bill on the Consent 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Agenda. Upon such an objection and without debate, the bill will be immediately removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on our regular Final Passage Calendar. The Clerk will now read the title of the bills on the Consent Agenda.
Bill No. 080319-A, an ordinance naming and designating Public Health Center 9 located at 131 East Chelten Avenue as the "Mattie L. Humphrey Health Center"; and Bill No. 080588, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Arch Street, 18th Street, Cuthbert Street and 19th Street; and Bill No. 080837, an ordinance amending Section 14-304 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "'C-3' Commercial Districts," by amending the floor area requirements for hotels, all under certain terms and conditions; and 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Bill No. 080851, an ordinance amending Section 19-203 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Payroll Deductions," to add the Philadelphia Police and Fire Association for Handicapped Children and the Philadelphia Fire Department's Historic Corporation; and Bill No. 080897, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Aviation Fund to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions; and Bill No. 080898, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions; and Bill No. 080899, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Water Fund to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions; and Bill No. 080835, an ordinance 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a second amendment for the City's use of certain office space located at 1101 Market Street; and Bill No. 080838, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, for a certain parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon, known as 1433 to 35 Poplar Street; and Bill No. 080876, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a second amendment for the City's use of certain space located at 4000 North American Street; and Bill No. 080757, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 060317, approved September 28, 2006, by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING therein; and Bill No. 080760, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by relocating the westerly curb line and house line of 15th Street between Arch Street and Cherry Street; and Bill No. 080761, an ordinance granting permission to Howard Foreman, owner of the Island Caribbean Restaurant, 1338 to 44 Rising Sun Avenue; and Bill No. 080794, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 030681, approved December 18, 2003, by deleting the requirement that the terms and conditions stated therein be complied with within a certain period of time; and Bill No. 080796, an ordinance amending Bill No. 070443, approved by Council on June 14, 2004 and signed by the Mayor on July 3, 2007, by authorizing an extension in the time in which the 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Archdiocese must perform its obligations under the ordinance; and Bill No. 080803, an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on both sides of Whitten Street between President Street and Roosevelt Boulevard; and Bill No. 080804, an ordinance authorizing Edward and Veronica Leonard, their successors and assigns, to own, operate and maintain a one-story garage extension and entranceway steps on the east sidewalk of North Pennock Street; and Bill No. 080833, an ordinance authorizing the construction of storm water sewers and appurtenant work in Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Orthodox Street; and Bill No.
080834, an ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to Sidewalk Sales, by prohibiting sidewalk sales on Cheltenham Avenue within the Ninth 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING District; and Bill No. 080836, an ordinance authorizing the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to construct, own and maintain a marquee canopy at the Saint John the Evangelist House; and Bill No. 080852, an ordinance authorizing Kevin Goodchild to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe and planters at 9236-9242 North Delaware Avenue; and Bill No. 080904, an ordinance amending Section 12-901 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Stopping, Standing or Parking Prohibited in Certain Places," by permitting the overnight parking of commercial vehicles on the 600 block of Cheswick Road.
These bills having been read on two different days, the question for each bill now is shall the bills pass finally. The Clerk shall call the roll and -12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
This is on the Consent Agenda, so I have to read these instructions. The Clerk shall call the roll, and upon being called, each Councilmember shall vote aye on each of the bills, nay on each of the bills or indicate those bills for which the member is voting aye and those bills for which the member is voting nay. The Clerk may now call the roll.
Aye on all bills. The majority of all the members having voted in the affirmative for each of the bills, the bills on the Consent Agenda are passed. We will now consider the bills on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
Bill No. 080724-A, an ordinance amending Section 14-305 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "'C-4' Commercial and 'C-5' Commercial Districts," by negating any setback over 65 feet in height for lots designated 'C-5.'
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are -- the ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all the members 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Clerk will please read the next bill.
Bill No. 080857, an ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," to revise the fees for the use of parking meters in certain locations, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
Bill No. 080875, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development the parcels of land owned by the City in Pike and Monroe Counties, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Aye. 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
Bill No. 080882, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone and Economic Development District," by providing for additional properties to be added to certain subzones, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Councilman 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
Bill No. 080896, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to purchase a certain tract of land with the improvements thereon in the area bounded by 46th Street, Market Street, Haverford Avenue and 48th Street, all under certain terms and conditions. 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
Bill No. 080623, an ordinance amending Section 11-611 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk and Roadway Lane Closures," by amending the provisions relating the application for and issuance of permits for the temporary closure of a sidewalk or roadway lane, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
Bill No. 080624, an ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code by amending the provisions of Chapter 33, including provisions relating to the protection of 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING pedestrians, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
Bill No. 080880, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of 22nd Street and Cherry Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Councilman 12/11/08 - STATED - 2ND READING DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This completes our Calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes
Madam President, I'll be very brief. The Youth Study Center, Philadelphia's secure detention center, is designed to provide temporary care, custody and control for alleged young people 13 years and over. Currently, one of our talk radio stations in the City, WURD, under the leadership of Thera Martin, is organizing a book drive, because the young people there do not have books. So during this holiday season, the appeal is for those of us who have used books at home that are sitting on our library shelves, if we could please remember to send them to the Youth Study Center so that those young people there while awaiting court action can be engaged in their studies. Happy holidays. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Madam. I'm going to be brief, because I see my colleagues have suffered long and hard this year. But I wanted to say that this Council has done some good work. Earlier this year you pointed out the need -- and this Council unanimously agreed -- the need to look into the Sheriff sale situation, and hundreds, if not thousands, of people are in their homes this holiday season because of the good works of this Council. I'd like to warn us in the upcoming year that there have been federal bailouts, $700 billion, for Wall Street and bankers and there's going to be bailouts for the auto industry, but none of those bailouts, none of them, have actually helped small-town people, people in inner cities, people living below the poverty line yet. If the Obama Administration's hope and promise is that they will turn relief, that spigot of relief, we need to be building the baskets now so that we benefit from it. It's time, as Bilal Qayyum talked about this week, to relook at the CEDA program, the old Welfare-to-Work programs to train our workforce to take advantage of jobs that Councilwoman Brown talks about as green jobs and others that you talk about in the health industry. But if we do nothing, if we don't prepare our workforce to take advantage of it, it will mean nothing to the people in the cities and neighborhoods that it's meant to help. Thank you and have a good, prosperous holiday.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I would just like to put the context. I believe that this body has been extraordinarily supportive of the Administration. We have agreed with 99.85 percent of every single priority and spending program in the Five-Year Plan. We have passed, almost unanimously, every single revenue enhancement that the Administration has proposed, and I think Councilman Jones wanted people to know that we are working with the Administration to solve the problem together, and I think we have acted in that spirit. Of the 0.15 percent where we have a disagreement with the Administration, 12 members of City Council propose that the Library save $8 million, the same savings proposed by the Administration, through a shared-sacrifice model rather than ripping libraries out of working-class neighborhoods. NBC National News had a story noted that in these economic times, library use is up 40 percent nationally. We are not rightsizing. We are blind downsizing. We have 75 percent of the population as 1960 and one-third as many -- that's two-thirds fewer -libraries than that time, when you take into account all the libraries and librarians that were in our school system at that time. Almost all of the comparison cities provided by Ms. Reardon have libraries staffed with library professionals in 100 percent of their public schools. We are at less than 50 percent in our public schools. Twelve members of this body called for hearings so an open and honest debate can occur on this issue. We understand that the leaders of City Council are unwilling to schedule a hearing on the library resolution passed out of Council last week while Council is recess, which means that the hearing won't take place until after the 11 libraries at issue are scheduled to close. In this case, our elected leadership should ensure that the Administration respects the wishes of 12 members of this body and uses our shared-sacrifice model to achieve the necessary savings in the Free Library's budget until we are able to have the hearings called for in the resolution and pursue the appropriate open and transparent process. I would also like to ask our leadership to put in place a dialogue and -- an opportunity for dialogue and a process for discussing additional cuts that the Mayor says may be necessary publicly prior to final decisions being made so stakeholders can share their ideas and provide input and we can help the Mayor achieve the necessary savings in the spirit of cooperation that we believe we have been working in. you, Madam Chair.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you very much. Today is the President's Christmas party and always tomorrow, for those who will be in town, we always have ours the next day so that we give the President her respect, and certainly we invite all staff and all Councilpeople who are here to ours, which will begin at noon, our office party. But I really rose because my colleague mentioned the issue that I'm most concerned with, and that's homelessness and people in need. And as many of you know, we do every year a big affair, a big party, a dinner, fun time for homelessness. That will be on December 18th. The City has opted not to do its anymore, so we are it for the City of Philadelphia. The minimal number of are homeless is 3,000. We're never below 3,000. So we'll serve between 3,000 and 4,000 people, men, women and children, and certainly that will be on December 18th at 3:00 at the Convention Center, and we invite anyone to attend who would like to attend and to help out who can. And let me thank everyone who has contributed. We have so many people across the City who have contributed, from unions to people like the PFT, just across the board that we want to recognize for helping us to get all that we need for a crowd so large, and we're very grateful to them and grateful to everybody, and certainly wish you all a blessed holiday season.
Thank you very much. Certainly we wish all of you a very happy holiday, and enjoy yourselves while you're away. Have a good time when you come back. Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
All right. Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, January 22nd, 10:00 a.m., 2009. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, January 22nd, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The motion is carried. Good day, and have a happy holiday. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 2:40 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on December 11, 2008, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)