Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, January 24, 2019 11:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting January 24, 2019
We're going to get started. Sorry to be a little tardy. First day back jitters and some of the other things that we have to go through. I appreciate you being here today. If the members will take their seats and any visitors will retire behind the rail, we will be able to start our session. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Matt Leckie of The Block Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Bobby Henon. I would ask all members, guests, and visitors to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests, and visitors rise.)
Will you bow your head and close your eyes with me. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Father, I thank you for the freedom that we have today to meet. Father, I lift up all the proceedings that are going to be happening today, Father, and I pray that through all the things, through all the decisions that need to be made, through all the votes that need to be had, Father, I pray that you would move in the midst of all of these things, and I pray that your will will be done through it all. Father, I know that above all, you are our leader. You are the one above all. And I pray that today that you would speak through our leadership here. I thank you for every leader that is represented in this room. I thank you for the role that they play regardless of lines that have been drawn in the sand. Father, I thank you for every role that they play, and I pray that today would be a day of tremendous Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 that we have leaders that represent the people in this city, Father, and I pray that you would bring guidance, you would bring direction, and you would bring unity so the decisions that can be made today would be further help making this city great. Continue to make progress in this incredible city, Lord, and I pray that at the end of the day, people's lives would be able to be bettered by the things that happen in this place. Father, I love you. I thank you for the freedom that we have in this nation to meet. I thank you for the freedom that we have to make the decisions, Lord, and I pray that you would be honored by the proceedings today. I love you, God. I thank you for who you are. I thank you for your mercy. I thank you for sending your son Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 for us, Father. And I thank you for all that you are. It is in your precious and holy name that I pray. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor, for those inspiring words. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much. Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 13, 2018, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 13th, 2018 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 in favor say 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 Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests of leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to thank everyone who has come down to witness their government in action. We genuinely appreciate you being here. We hope that your stay here is a knowledgeable one but, more importantly, a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. So, again, thank you so much for being here today. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Green, who will present a resolution recognizing the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter on the occasion of the 108th annual Founders' Day of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Would Thomas L. Battles, Jr., the 33rd -- the 33rd? All right. I was getting ready to say. All right. I'm sorry. I digress -- (continued) Grand Polemarch, and those accompanying him please join Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 podium. Thank you very much. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Good morning. Good morning. It's an outstanding morning here in the City of Philadelphia. It's not every day I get a chance to wear this distinguished blazer here in the Council Chambers, but we have an opportunity to have the 33rd Grand Polemarch, Thomas L. Battles Jr. of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated --
Councilman, hold on one second. Folks, could you all be quiet, please.
-- that's here with us this morning. In addition, we have our 27th Northeast Province Polemarch, Craig Chisholm; also our 48th Philadelphia Alumni Chapter Polemarch, L. Douglas Harrell, Jr. The Executive Director of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Incorporated, John Burrell, is also here with us this morning. And there's a strong connection between the City of Philadelphia and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. For me on a personal level, there's a very strong connection, because I got first introduced to this bond of fraternity through my father, Walter Green, Jr., who is a James Kidd awardee of the Northeast Province. But in Philadelphia, there's a strong connection with Kappa Alpha Psi. One of our founders, John Milton Lee, founded the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter. He also founded the Epsilon Chapter at Lincoln University and the Lambda Chapter of Temple University. In addition, if you go right up Broad Street, we have our international headquarters here in the City of Philadelphia. So there's a strong connection between Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated and the City of Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Effectiveness.
I knew the Deltas would like that. So with that, I will begin our presentation this morning. Also this year between July 30th to August 4th, we will have the 84th Grand Chapter meeting of this outstanding organization here in the City of Philadelphia. Not only will we have brothers, silhouettes, young men and young ladies coming here to the City of Philadelphia, but also spending money in the City of Philadelphia, which in my other hat as a member of City Council is very important for our General Fund. So with that, we'll begin. Recognizing the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter on the occasion of the 108th annual Founders' Day of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019
Whereas, on January 5th, 1911, on the campus of Indiana University at Bloomington, Indiana, Elder Watson Diggs, John Milton Lee, Byron K. Armstrong, Guy Levis Grant, Ezra D. Alexander, Henry T. Asher, Marcus P. Blakemore, Paul W. Caine, Edward G. Irvin, and George W. Edmonds founded Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated; and Whereas, through their vision, these ten astute men founded a college fraternity now comprised of functioning Undergraduate and Alumni Chapters on campuses and in cities throughout this nation and the world, and through that seed, a fraternal tree was grown whose fruit of membership is now available to, and now enjoyed by, well over 150,000 college men, regardless of race, religion, or national origin; and
Whereas, from its origin through today, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity is a unique Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 members share a common purpose of achievement in every field of human endeavor, and this unified purpose is exemplified every day by its members in Congress, city halls, courtrooms, boardrooms, newsrooms, classrooms, concert halls, film and recording studios, physicians' offices, athletic fields, fields of combat, pulpits, et cetera; and Whereas, in addition to the achievement of its members, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity is dedicated to training for leadership and through its various programs, including the A-Man Initiative, Achievement Academy, Guide Right, Kappa Kamp, and Kappa League, has mentored several young men in the past, current, and future leaders of our country; and
Whereas, members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity have a lifelong commitment to serving the common person and, through this commitment, have provided substantial Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Children Research Hospital, United Negro College Fund, Habitat for Humanity, and several other nationwide and grassroots community service initiatives around the world; and
Whereas, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the City of Philadelphia share a special bond in that the Fraternity's International Headquarters is located in Philadelphia and, historically, the Greater Philadelphia Region has been home to hundreds of members in both the Undergraduate and Alumni Chapters; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter on the occasion of the 108th annual Founders' Day of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. I'll be remiss in not also acknowledging the achievement in this building of Kappa's former Mayor John Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 the first Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, W. Wilson Goode, and also members of this legislative body, Cecil B. Moore, George Burrell as well. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Thomas L. Battles, Jr., the 33rd Grand Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, as evidence of the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Mr. Battles for remarks.
On behalf of the brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi throughout this community and indeed the world, we humbly accept this resolution. We are looking forward to coming to Philadelphia this summer where we will paint the town Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 are excited about being here. This is certainly our international headquarters, and we enjoy being here. You certainly have welcomed us here. Thank you for the leadership here in this city. Our sisters of Delta Sigma Theta, you have taken good care of us and all of the other members of the Divine Nine. We're looking forward to sharing this time, and certainly our brother, Brother Green, and your leadership here in the City Council. Thank you for welcoming us here, and we just look forward to your hosting us here where we will paint the town crimson and cream and bring all of our families here to enjoy what the City of Philadelphia has for us. God bless you and thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 (Council at ease.)
Thank you, and congratulations. Our next order of business is communications, and the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages to the Chief Clerk from the Mayor. Mr. Decker, please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on December 20, 2018, January 3 and January 22, 2019, I signed the remaining bills that were passed by Council on December 6, 2018; and that on December 19 and December 21, 2018 and January 3 and January 22, 2019, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council on December 13, 2018, except Bill Nos. 171009, 180909, and 180935, which I am returning without my signature. And I am submitting herewith Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 your honorable body a resolution reappointing Richard Goldberg to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District; and A resolution appointing Betsy Oliphant Ross to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District; and A resolution proposing an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation of an Office of Immigrant Affairs, to provide for the powers and duties of such Office, and to otherwise provide for incorporation of the Office into the City government; and An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter establishing and defining the responsibilities of the Office of Immigrant Affairs; and Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Bicycle Lanes," by authorizing the Department of Streets to designate a bicycle lane and to remove a travel lane on Market Street and on John F. Kennedy Boulevard, all between North 15th Street and North 20th Street; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2019 from the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, the Grants Revenue Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional communications?
Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Thank you very much. Our next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer three resolutions this morning.
A privileged resolution honoring the African American Children's Book Project on the Occasion of its 27th Annual African American Children's Book Fair.
And a privileged resolution Recognizing and Commending Governor Tom Wolf on the Establishment of the First Statewide Goal to Reduce Carbon Pollution.
Today's Calendar. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019
And a privileged resolution recognizing January as "National Human Trafficking Awareness Month" in the City of Philadelphia and honoring those who work to eradicate human trafficking in the United States and across the world.
Also on today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce one resolution sponsored by everyone and one bill.
An ordinance to amend the Master Plan for Drexel University and to approve the proposed addition to 101 North 34th Street.
Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Referred to committee.
And a non-privileged resolution calling on the United States Congress and the President of the United States to protect vulnerable citizens by funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and other federal food assistance programs as soon as possible.
And that will be on next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer one resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Fifth Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Councilmanic District.
And that will be on next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two bills, one resolution, and I ask that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the consideration of the resolution on today's Calendar. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules be suspended. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
You want to wait? Councilman, let's wait until we call it up. We're going to read the title and then you make your motion.
A resolution calling on Philadelphia Charter Schools Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 to close, or adopt a modified schedule in observance of Election Day, in order to provide for higher quality polling locations for residents across the City.
Thank you, Mr. President. I ask that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the passage on today's Final Calendar -consideration of passage on today's Final Passage Calendar. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor of the rules being suspended to allow consideration on today's Calendar? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. It will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019
And an ordinance amending Chapter 10-100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Animals," to revise certain provisions relating to the ownership of dogs and cats; revising the definition of animal retailer; and making technical changes.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 9-637 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Opioid Antidote Availability," to revise certain provisions relating to the form of naloxone available and technical changes to the penalties for not complying with provisions of this law.
Also referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Mr. President, first of all, welcome back, also colleagues. Today I have one Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 non-privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing AJC Philadelphia for its interreligious work in hosting the Muslim-Jewish Commemoration of International Holocaust Remembrance Day; and further acknowledging January 27th as International Holocaust Remembrance Day in the City of Philadelphia.
For the record, that was also co-sponsored by Councilman Domb.
Thank you, Councilman. The record shall reflect that. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Johnson.
Council President, I have one privileged resolution and two bills on your behalf.
An ordinance amending Section 19-2900 of Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Senior Citizen Low Income Special Tax Provisions," by extending the deadline for low-income seniors to apply for a refund or forgiveness of Real Estate Taxes.
And a privileged resolution calling for the City Council Committee on Legislative Oversight to Hold Hearings on the Implementation of Charter-Change Legislation Establishing the Department of Planning and Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Development, and its Subordinate Divisions of Planning, Zoning, Licenses and Inspection and Housing.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Special Committee on Gun Violence Prevention to hold hearings to examine the effect of gun violence on victims and co-victims, as well as the resources available to them.
And that will be on today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have three bills and two non-privileged resolutions, one resolution on the Charter change for the Office of Immigrant Affairs. I want to recognize the hard work of my Council colleagues. Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, as we all know, has been a Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 leader in this through her Caribbean Affairs Committee and Councilwoman Helen Gym that even before arriving to Council has been a strong advocate around immigration issues. We want to thank the Administration for working with us through this process and look forward to engaging everyone through this Charter change process. Thank you.
An ordinance amending Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Philadelphia Land Bank," to amend standards for the acquisition and disposition of vacant and underutilized property; and to further provide for certain powers, duties, and responsibilities of the Philadelphia Land Bank.
And an ordinance Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2019 from the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, the Grants Revenue Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
And an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter establishing and defining the responsibilities of the Office of Immigrant Affairs.
And a non-privileged resolution calling for the creation of an Opportunity Zone Oversight Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Committee.
And a non-privileged resolution proposing an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation of an Office of Immigrant Affairs, to provide for the powers and duties of such Office, and to otherwise provide for the incorporation of the Office into the City government.
And that will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution, one non-privileged resolution, and one bill for today.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled "Referenda Approved by the Voters," by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia call upon the Pennsylvania General Assembly and the Governor to pass legislation that will de-criminalize, regulate, and tax the use, and sale to adults aged 21 years or older, of cannabis for non-medical purposes.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter on the occasion of the 108th annual Founders' Day of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.
And a non-privileged resolution submitting to the electors of the an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled "Referenda Approved by the Voters," by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia call upon the Pennsylvania General Assembly and the Governor to pass legislation that will de-criminalize, regulate, and tax the use, and sale to adults aged 21 years or older, of cannabis for non-medical purposes.
And that will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, I have three bills and one privileged resolution, and I wish to be recognized for comments after the privileged resolution's title is read.
An ordinance Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 establishing a no parking regulation on Ivy Hill Road in the vicinity of Mansfield Avenue.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 12-2700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Permit Parking Districts," by creating a new Permit Parking District 36 in the vicinity of Cottman Avenue, Roosevelt Boulevard and the Tacony Creek.
And an ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers' Markets," by revising the limitations on a permissible location on Castor Avenue.
And a privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of Karen S. Coates, Esquire. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019
Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, it is with a heavy heart and the sincerest respect, admiration, and sympathy for the Coates family that I am honored to join with you as our President, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson as a former member of the Pennsylvania House, and republican members Brian O'Neill, Al Taubenberger, and David Oh to introduce this resolution celebrating the life of Ms. Karen S. Coates, Esquire. For many here in City Hall, Mr. President, the name Karen S. Coates doesn't ring a bell, but Karen S. Coates matters to Herb Wetzel, to Hal, to you, to the School District of Philadelphia, because we here in this City of Philadelphia working very closely, this City Council along with our republican colleagues in the Pennsylvania House, would not have been able to get Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 significant legislation that we needed passed to place Philadelphia on sound economic footing had it not been for Ms. Karen Coates, Esquire. Now, Mr. President, for the record, I just want to note that while she broke significant glass ceilings in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives when she became the first female Chief of Staff and the Chief Counsel to the Pennsylvania Speaker of the House of Representatives, Speaker Turzai, I always called her in private, Mr. President, the Republican Mighty Lioness. Now, we didn't get things done during that time, Mr. President, in front of a camera or on social media, but we did have some knock-down, drag-outs on issues behind closed doors, and we may have disagreed 99 percent of the time, but it was that one percent, Mr. President, that one percent that gave us the enabling authority to enact LOOP that Councilman Squilla and Councilman Johnson Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 know and needed so well. If we don't get support of colleagues in Harrisburg, Philadelphia doesn't have the authority to enact that program. The ability to collect additional delinquent property taxes; that is, we introduced it just to help Philadelphia, but when we introduced it, municipalities across the state said, wait, this can't just be for Philadelphia, we want to be able to lien properties of owners outside of our respective municipalities. In addition to that, we codified the ability to make payment arrangements, and we will all remember that much-needed cigarette tax that was not a sexy tax and/or a sexy vote, but we couldn't get it done as democrats alone unless we worked in a bipartisan manner with our republican colleagues. So it is with that spirit in mind, Mr. President, that I thought it was fitting for this body to acknowledge the life and legacy of Ms. Karen Coates, Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 the Mighty Republican Lioness, because she was born here in Philadelphia. However, she was really raised and considered to be a native of Bloomsburg. Speaker Turzai, Leader Cutler, Leader Dermody, Whip Harris, all staff on both sides of the aisle in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, know that this legislative body sends you our deepest sympathy. We thank you all for sharing the intellect, savvy, and compassion of the Mighty Lioness. And despite all of the political partisan gridlock coming out of Washington, DC now that doesn't make much sense at all to move America forward, we will continue to work in a bipartisan manner to get what we need to get done here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and our great City of Philadelphia. We love you, respect you, and thank you, Karen Coates. And we'll be sending a formal copy of our resolution to her family so that they can have it as Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 part of the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body, the city of her birth. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilwoman. That will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Good morning, Council President. I have three privileged resolutions today.
A privileged resolution honoring and remembering the late Raymond G. Perelman, master investor and philanthropist, who passed away Monday, January 14, 2019 at the age of 101.
And a privileged Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 resolution honoring Judge Harold Berger, lawyer, electrical engineer, philanthropist and recipient of many accolades in recognition of the virtuous life which he has led.
And a privileged resolution honoring Vernon Odom as he retires from his position as an Action News Reporter for 6ABC after 42 years.
Also on today's Calendar. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Good morning, Council President. I have two bills, one privileged resolution, and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Taxes," by reducing the amount of real estate taxes to be exempted for certain improvements to, or construction of, certain residential, commercial, industrial or other business properties; and by reducing the duration of such exemptions.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Taxes," by reducing the amount of real estate taxes to be exempted for certain improvements to, or construction of, certain residential, commercial, industrial or other business properties; and by reducing the duration of such exemptions.
And a privileged resolution declaring January 30th, 2019 Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 the Constitution in Philadelphia.
And a non-privileged resolution declaring solidarity with and support for the #MuteRKelly campaign, a grassroots movement that seeks to remedy decades of silence surrounding the sexual abuse of young Black women and girls by denying R. Kelly a public platform within the City of Philadelphia and nationwide.
And that will be on next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Good morning, Council President. As today is our first session in 2019, I wish everyone a happy and healthy 2019. And I have no bills nor resolutions. Thank you very much.
Thank you, Councilman. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and three non-privileged resolutions.
An ordinance granting permission to Vincent Cappello, owner and operator of Vinny's Fruit and Produce located in the right-of-way on the north side of Dickinson Street between 9th Street and 10th Street, to install, use and maintain certain electrical wires, conduits and appurtenances in, under and over the right-of-way on the north side of Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Dickinson Street between 9th Street and 10th Street.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming Madison Street between Gaul and Chatham Streets as "Tommy Dunbar Way."
And a non-privileged resolution appointing Betsy Oliphant Ross to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District.
And a non-privileged resolution reappointing Richard Goldberg to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District.
Referred to committee. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer three bills and one privileged resolution.
An ordinance establishing parking restrictions on East Gowen Avenue, Devon Street to Ardleigh Street, south side.
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 Stenton Avenue, Chelten Avenue, Broad Street, Windrim Avenue, Belfield Avenue, and Wister Street.
And an ordinance Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2019 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance Provision for Other Grants to the General Fund.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings on the increase in maternal mortality among African-American women in Philadelphia.
And that will be on today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much, Council President. I offer one privileged resolution co-sponsored by Councilmembers Gym, Squilla, Domb, Parker, Blackwell, and Bass. It is actually a reintroduction of a formerly introduced resolution. There was a typo Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 mistake on my part. So this is not new, but a reintroduction. Thank you.
A privileged resolution recognizing, commemorating, and celebrating the Centennial Anniversary of the Historic First Korean Congress held in Philadelphia from April 14th to April 16th, 1919.
And that will be on today's Calendar. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions. There are no reports from committee today, so our next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. There being no bills on our First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up resolutions and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 2ND READING
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Bill Nos. 180992-A, 180893, 181005, 171112. All other bills and resolutions 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 have not signed up to testify on a bill and resolution that is on the Final Passage Calendar today, you may do so at the table to my left. When your name is called, you will go to the middle of the Council Chambers. There is a podium with a device on that podium. When the light turns green, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 remarks. When the light turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to our guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes to speak. Mr. Decker, can you please call the first name on the list.
Don Haas, commenting on 171112. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is Don Haas. I'm here as a representative of BOMA Philadelphia, and I'm here today speaking on not just behalf of BOMA Philadelphia but the Philadelphia real estate community represented by the real estate coalition, which includes the Building Industry Association of Philadelphia, Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors, Homeowners Association of Philadelphia, and the Pennsylvania Parking Association. Together we stand united in opposition to Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Bill 171112 in its current form. We respectfully ask Council to hold this bill to allow the parties to have a mediation session and come to an agreement. Thank you.
Bryan Bush, commenting on 171112. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, everyone. Council President Clarke and members of Council, I'm Bryan Bush with Sheet Metal Workers Local 19. I appreciate you's having this hearing today for us. I'm very happy that Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell is sponsoring this for us and Councilwoman Sanchez for having this hearing on the legislation. Many of my brothers and sisters Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 are here in the audience today to support this public safety legislation as well. Again, this is public safety legislation. It's not about real estate. It's not about gaining work or anything else. There's a lot of different things that are being thrown around out there through the newspapers and everything else, but this is basically -- it's for public safety. It's something that should be done. It's something that I believe and that we all believe that will put Philadelphia on the forefront, like it is with pretty much everything else. Listen, we've been in many talks with L&I and other people as well, and we're just looking for all your support on this just to make this go through, and it will be one step closer to putting Philadelphia on that forefront. So I appreciate everything that it took to get us here today. Of course it's been eight years in the making, ever Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 since Fran Burns from L&I. Like I said, this is about saving lives. Sprinkler systems, they put out fires, but they do not control the smoke. And what is it that kills 80 percent of occupants in buildings is the smoke. So that's why we all need this legislation pushed through today. It's funny, reading some of these different articles talking about the Sheet Metal Workers just want this to gain more work for their members. That's not what it's about at all. We're all working in these buildings as well. We want to be safe also, and we want to be able to help make everybody, all the different occupants, safe as well. So we appreciate this. We appreciate your support. And we have no problem with sitting down with BOMA after this bill is passed. We have no problem with that at all. So thank you very much.
Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 Thank you. (Applause.)
We got your message. Thank you. Mr. Decker, please call the next name.
Joe Danihel, commenting on 170675, 181005, and 181044. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. This is an official decree of the people in writ of mandamus quo warranto and, as such, requires immediate action and remedy. Every week, Council, Mayor, Governor, and others transfer private property to the government, probably illegally. Philadelphia brags all the time about being the largest MLK celebration. Dr. King fought for the equal treatment guarantees of the Constitution. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 My home was stolen. My 25 years of government-caused expenses were never paid. Most of Logan was paid, but not me. Could any oath-bound official look Dr. King in the eye and explain this? Tyranny has been defined as that which the government does, but the people cannot legally do. I cannot steal someone's home or 25 years of their labor. Has Council, Mayor, Governor, and others unanimously approved spending upwards of 120 million low-income housing HUD money to build a mall on my stolen home? Why has the Attorney General and FBI refused my multiple filings to investigate and prosecute oath, Constitution, and law violations? The constitutions require immediate remedy of this breach of law, breach of close, breach of fiduciary duty. Your oath of office requires you to act or face prison. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1987, 18 USC 241, 242, 2381, 2384, PA Constitution Article I, Sections 1 through 28, 26 PA CSA 703, 705, 708, 709, 711, 712, 713, 716, 902, and other laws listed in SCOTUS 15-8965, 14-1330, 14-4056 appear violated. I call on the federal and Commonwealth governments to perform their constitutional obligation to investigate and prosecute all involved in the theft and illegal deed transfer of my home, 1038 West Wyoming Avenue. The denial of God-given 42 USC 1982 property rights for 25 years is egregious, extraordinary, oath-violating, and requires immediate remedy. A just government must obey the rule of law. This color of law government must have its Charter to govern revoked until a constitutionally compliant government is installed. Public servants cannot refuse their sworn duty to act any more than a Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 fireman can refuse to fight a fire. The sovereign people require oath, Constitution, and law be enforced, and jail is required for all who violate oath, Constitution or law. I remind Council, it takes a lot of cooperation to create and allow monumental corruption.
Good morning. Thank you. I'm Joe Cox. Bill 180888, to prohibit gifts by pharma manufacturers to healthcare practitioners, as Bill Greenlee said at last Council, this should be a no-brainer. In 2017, 1,217 people lost their lives from overdose. People are Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 1/24/19 - STATED - 2ND READING dying from overdose every day. Not too long ago I personally had to call 911 because I saw someone passed out behind the wheel of a vehicle. We need to do something about this epidemic. What job requires gifts? If it takes gifts to get a job done, who can I send gifts to to fix our schools? (Applause.)
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. We will now move to our Calendar, and, Mr. Decker, if you can read the title of 180992-A.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-3900 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Property Licenses and Owner Accountability," by providing for exemptions. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 1/24/19 - STATED - 2ND READING
This bill has been heard on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Councilwoman Gym. Stated Meeting January 24, 2019 1/24/19 - STATED - 2ND READING