COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 1, 2026 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN CINDY GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK - - -
Visitors, please retire to the seats outside the rails. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this City Council is present. Before proceeding, I would like to -- for all those who are present, please set your cell phones to silent and/or vibrate. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Rev. Jay Bergen, Pastor of Germantown Mennonite Church. He is here today as guest of Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, visitors and guests rise.)
Thank you all for being here. Normally, Mennonites consider political leadership more of a punishment than something to celebrate, but it is an honor to be here nevertheless. We come here to acknowledge, to recognize the one in whose oneness we find our shared humanity. And when we gather to deliberate, to discuss, to discern, our greatest responsibility is to hear each other. If our discernment is to mean anything, it is dependent, I think, on who we are hearing, not just who we listen to but who we actually hear. We are all of us from our different traditions, our different faiths, our different practices, always seeking out the voice of the divine, the presence of the Holy One who is here guiding our discernment. So God, give us ears to hear you. As we discern our response to a warming climate, help us hear the choking cries of our neighbors crying out for clean air. For their cries or your cries, O God, as we discern our response to rising fascism. Help us hear the cries of those living under fear of deportation. The families on 66th and Pascall this morning, who hid in their homes as ICE agents stalked the streets, for their cries are your cries, O God. As we discern the budgets for our police, for our jails, let us listen especially to the tears of the mothers who have buried one child and lost another child to incarceration. For those who live at the intersection of such pain and loss and injustice, their cries are your cries, O God. And as the fortunes of the wealthy pile higher, may we here in this room, may all of us in this city hear the cries of the workers, of the families who cannot afford rent, of the everyday people who are made in divine image and yet denied full humanity by the rapacious greed and violence of racial capitalism. Their cries are your cries, O God. So Holy One, by whatever name we know you and call on you, give us ears to hear. Give us hearts and hands to act. Help us remember the words of the prophets who warn that unhearing leaders do not last long atop their pedestals. Help us be worthy of the work that is before us for our own sake, for our children and our children's children and for all of your creation. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair Thanks Rev. Bergen for his invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair recognizes the presence of Councilmember Mark Squilla. The next order of business is the Approval of the Journal of the meeting of Tuesday, September -- September 24th of 20 2026. 21 The Chair recognizes 22 Councilwoman Cindy Bass. 23
24 Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 24, 2026 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 24th of 2026 stand approved. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is the request for leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Majority Leader. The Chair recognizes Minority Whip Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Minority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Leave is granted. Thank you very much. The Chair thanks the Minority Whip. The Chair now recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar, and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Council 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 the legislative affairs of our great city. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you for the acknowledgement today. I wanted to recognize the presence of Independence Blue Cross Foundation on the occasion of their 15th anniversary. Today we are joined by Heather Major, the President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation; Courtney Stefan, Manager of Independence Blue Cross Foundation; Jovi Hammer, Government Affairs Manager; Lindsay Van Horn, Associate Policy Analyst and all the team members from the Independence Blue Cross Foundation. We thank you for joining us here in Council today for your 15th anniversary. Please stand and be recognized. (Applause.)
Welcome to City Council. I want to take a moment of personal privilege to acknowledge the honorable former State Representative and spiritual icon here in the City of Philadelphia, the Honorable Louise Williams Bishop. Let's give her a round of applause. (Applause.)
Thank you for joining us today. We also have another special guest that I'm going to ask Councilmember Rue Landau to please introduce.
Good morning, Council President. Thank you. I would like everybody to give a warm welcome to Mayor Erica Deuso from Downingtown. She is here as a special guest today and will be speaking at public comment. On behalf of my National Coming Out Day Resolution, Mayor Deuso is the first openly transgender mayor in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Please stand up. (Applause.)
Welcome to City Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I want to welcome to our body, the National Council of Negro Women, who are here today. If we could ask them to please stand. And we wanted to just make note that they are here. (Applause.)
And they were founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and established to unite African American women and organizations to improve the quality of life for women, families and communities while advancing equal rights and opportunity. So we want to thank them for their service and we'll be hearing more from them during public comment. Thank you so much for being here. (Applause.)
Welcome to Philadelphia City Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. And good morning, everyone. I have several guests in chambers today that I'd like to recognize. I'm proud to recognize first, the elders, descendants, advocates and historians who are here with us today in support of my resolution formally recognizing the historic neighborhood of the Black Bottom in the city's records. Please join me in welcoming Black Bottom Elder Gerald Davis, Amy Hillier and Cara McClellan from the University of Pennsylvania. (Applause.)
And here on behalf of Dr. Shawnna Thomas-El and Eddie Gong, Emily Ndiokho here on behalf of Professor Edward Epstein at the University of Pennsylvania, along with representatives of the Black Bottom Association, the Black Bottom Tribe, and especially Dr. Walter Palmer and the Palmer Foundation as well as the Penn Advocacy for Racial and Civil Justice Clinic. The Black Bottom was a vibrant Black community in West Philadelphia that was essentially razed and dismantled by the City of Philadelphia, in concert with the University of Pennsylvania and other institutional partners. In the name of the University expansion and economic development. And through that activity, it is estimated that 15,000 Black people were displaced from West Philly. And I think it's important that we always recognize that history so that it never happens again to another community. Can the representatives from the Black Bottom please stand up and be recognized? (Applause.)
I am also proud and honored today to welcome into chambers representatives from Monumental Baptist Church. Today we're honored to have Rev. Dr. J. Wendell Mapson, his wife Mrs. Mapson and their son Jesse Mapson. They are here in support of a resolution 14 that I have naming the 200 block of South 50th Street "Monumental Way." And they are also the church home of one of our wonderful Council staff members, Carmella Green, who I also think is in chambers. Monumental Baptist has such a proud history. They were founded in 1826 and they are celebrating 200 years of faith and service and community impact. I'm so proud to have them in my district and to be naming the street where they reside after them. Can you all stand and be recognized, please? (Applause.)
They also just happened to have an outstanding gospel choir. I just want to acknowledge that for the record. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. Later this morning, I am going to do a presentation recognizing the contributions of Latino leaders across the city, but they have brought with them some guests that I'd like you all to help me welcome into our chambers. They are members of the leadership team at Jefferson Health as well as members of Local 57. If you'd like to please stand up to be recognized. (Applause.)
Welcome to Philadelphia City Council. Always good to see Esteban Rivera of Local 57. Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Council President. I'd like to recognize Marni Gangel and congratulate her on her retirement. After 37 years of exemplary service at the Defender Association of Philadelphia. Marni has been a steadfast champion for children and youth in Philadelphia, both as an attorney representing young people in the dependency system and as the first Director of Policy and Child Advocacy. On behalf of Minority Leader Brooks, I'd like to thank Marni for her excellent work on the Reproductive Freedom Task Force and her decades of advocacy for young people in need of reproductive care. Marni, would you please stand to be recognized? We certainly welcome you in the chambers. (Applause.)
And I'd also like to recognize workers from Starbucks Workers United, SEIU, who are calling on all of us to boycott Starbucks until they come to the table and negotiate a fair contract. Somebody say, No contract, No 3 coffee. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. Welcome to Philadelphia City Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to welcome to our chambers, former Police Commissioner, I believe he was the 13th Police Commissioner in Philadelphia's history, Commissioner Sylvester Johnson. Would you please stand and welcome you to Philadelphia City Council? (Applause.)
The Commissioner is here today in support of someone we're honoring today, Lieutenant Greg Brown, who is retiring after 40 years of serving our city with the Philadelphia Police Department. So thank you for being here in support of Mr. Brown today. (Applause.)
Welcome. Thank you for being here today, Commissioner Sylvester Johnson, who coined the phrase, We will not arrest our way out of this situation, we have to invest in people. Thank you, Commissioner Sylvester Johnson, for being here today. (Applause.)
And soon we will honor an outstanding labor leader here in the City of Philadelphia. He's joined by his better half, First Lady of Labor Toni Staten. We'll be honoring Sam Staten, Jr., thank you for being here, Local 332. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, who will present a resolution honoring and recognizing the distinguished Latino leaders and community advocates in the City of Philadelphia during Hispanic Heritage Month. Can those joining Councilmember Quetcy Lozada please join her at the podium. Members joining Member Lozada are Councilmember Mike Driscoll, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke, Councilmember Jim Harrity, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson, and the good Dr. Councilmember Anthony Phillips. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Thank you, Council President. Good morning. Buenos dias. (Buenos dias.)
Para todos ustedes aqui, gracias por el trabajo y el labor de amor, qué hacer en cada dia en nuestra comunidad. It is an honor for me to have all of these Latino leaders in chamber this morning. And I thank them for the work that they do in our community day every day. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich history, culture and contributions of Latino communities across the city of Philadelphia. But it is also an opportunity to recognize the individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving the communities and creating opportunities for others. Today I am especially proud to honor five Latino leaders whose work has made a lasting impact in Philadelphia, from media and health care to labor, education and community advocacy. It is my privilege to recognize Maria del Pilar Morales Albino, Jannette Diaz, Ranery Figueroa-Torres, and Esteban Vera, Jr. We are unable to be joined by Reverend Wanda Novales, who was also being recognized for her contributions and leadership in the community. She sends her regards for not being able to be here today. With that, I am proud to introduce this resolution honoring their leadership, service and commitment to our city, recognizing and honoring distinguished Latino leaders and community advocates in the City of Philadelphia during Hispanic Heritage Month. Whereas, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15th to October 15th to recognize and honor the history, culture and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America; and
Whereas, Philadelphia's Latino communities have long enriched the social, cultural, and economic fabric of our city, distinguishing themselves as business owners, educators, civic leaders, artists, and essential workers who build stronger neighborhoods and inspire future generations. And for a point of personal privilege, special shout- out to my home church, Iglesia de Dios de la Provincia; and
Whereas, while the achievements and enduring legacy of Hispanic and Latino communities should be honored throughout the year, Hispanic Heritage Month offers a dedicated moment to celebrate the resilience, vibrancy, and immeasurable impact on the life of our city and the nation; and
Whereas, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month 2026, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is proud to recognize local advocates, educators, artists, leaders, those who work in health and wellness, youth empowerment, education and cultural preservation continue to uplift and empower Philadelphia's Latino communities; and
Whereas, Maria del Pilar Morales Albino has distinguished herself as a proud Puerto Rican media leader and champion of Hispanic culture, dedicating more than 37 years to television and radio across Puerto Rico and the United States. Through her work with Radio Borinquen, Telemundo 62 and Mega Radio, Pilar has used her voice and platform to uplift Hispanic stories, celebrate Puerto Rican heritage, and keep communities connected. And through her longstanding commitment to media and culture, she has become an influential voice and source of pride for Philadelphia's Hispanic community; and
Whereas, Maria -- excuse me, sorry. Whereas, Jannette Diaz, President and CEO of Congreso de Latinos Unidos, has dedicated more than 35 years to serving and strengthening Philadelphia's Latino community. Born and raised in North Philadelphia, Jannette has held leadership roles focused on health, wellness, youth services and family well-being, helping create greater opportunities for Latino families to thrive. And through her leadership at Congreso and commitment to equity, economic mobility and opportunity, Jannette continues to advocate for and uplift Philadelphia's Latino community; and
Whereas, Ranery Figueroa-Torres is a dedicated health care and community engagement leader who has spent nearly a decade building partnerships and expanding access to healthcare resources for underserved and culturally diverse communities. As Manager of Community Engagement at Jefferson Health Plans, Ranery brings together healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and families while working to ensure Latino communities have access to information, resources, and opportunities. And as a bilingual and culturally responsive leader, she is helping create a more equitable healthcare system where Latino families are represented, heard and empowered; and
Whereas, Esteban Vera, Jr. is a proud Puerto Rican and longtime Philadelphia labor leader who has dedicated his career to creating opportunities for working families and strengthening the voice of the Latino community. As Business Manager of Laborers' Local 57, Esteban became the first Latino to lead a major union in the Philadelphia region. And as the first Latino to serve on SEPTA's Board of Directors, he has brought Latino representation into important spaces of regional leadership. And through his commitment to organize labor, community service and expanding opportunity, Esteban continues to serve as a powerful example of Latino leadership in Philadelphia; and
Whereas, Wanda Novales is a proud Puerto Rican educator, faith leader, and community advocate whose life's work has been rooted in serving Philadelphia's Latino community. After moving from Puerto Rico to Philadelphia as a child, Wanda dedicated her career to education and became the founding CEO and principal of Pan American Charter School, creating opportunities for students and families in Kensington today. As a member of the Philadelphia Board of Education, Executive Pastor of City Reach Church and longtime community leader, she continues to advocate for Philadelphia's students and families, bringing people together through faith, education, and community service, while uplifting Latino families and inspiring the next generation of leaders; and
Whereas, these five distinguished leaders reflect the strength, resilience, and diversity of Philadelphia's Latino community. And through their leadership, service and dedication have helped create a city where Latino families can see themselves, their culture, and their future represent it; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, Hereby recognizes and honors these distinguished Latino leaders and community advocates during Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrates the countless ways Latino Philadelphians continue to shape and strengthen our city, and reaffirms our commitment to uplifting Latino voices, honoring our shared histories and culture, and ensuring that in every corner of Philadelphia, there is an opportunity to thrive. Felicidades a todos. (Applause.)
Congratulations. Now, please introduce your guests.
At this time, I'd like to introduce Local 57 Representative Esteban Vera.
Oh my goodness. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Good morning, everybody. Thank you guys. I won't be long, just to say a few words. I'm so grateful and honored to be sitting up here with everyone that does so much great work. I got to give a shout-out to my brother, Vice-President of our International Union, Sam Staten, who is here with Tony and the representatives from our Local, our Business Agents, Marcial, Confessor and Raheem. Thank you so much for the hard work that they do. Real quick. I appreciate this citation, but this isn't about me. This is about the work that all of us do collectively. And one thing that I've learned growing up in this city is that if we don't take care of our own, nobody's going to come to save us, nobody. So I'm honored to be amongst like-minded. I believe that we're a family here in Philadelphia, and it isn't by coincidence that we get so much great work done in this great city. It's because of everybody in this room that's doing the work. Thank you and I'm honored. Thank you so much for everything. (Applause.)
Esteban, I just have one question to ask you. I don't know how you have a former labor member that's a member of Council who let his other member make the acknowledgment honoring you first, Member Jim Harrity. But that's a different conversation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair also will take a moment of personal privilege to recognize former City Council President and Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, Mr. John F. Street. Thank you for being here today, sir. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young, who will present a resolution naming the 1400 block of Thompson Street as "Samuel Staten Jr. Way" to honor the life, leadership and enduring contributions of Samuel Staten, Jr. to organized labor working families in the City of Philadelphia. Would Sam Staten, Jr. and those accompanying him please join Councilmember Young at the podium. Joining Member Young are the following members: Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Mike Driscoll, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Jim Harrity. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Thank you, Mr. President. Today we have the privilege of honoring someone who has been supportive of communities throughout the city for a long time. As you can see, standing behind us or with us, Councilmembers are people that represent different parts of what keeps Philadelphia going. And they're up here because of the support that Mr. Staten has provided over the years to keep Philadelphia going. And we had a ceremony, you know, on Labor Day to recognize Mr. Staten. But this is to formally do it in City Council and pass the legislation so it can be forever known, the 1400 block of Thompson Street can be forever known as Samuel Staten Jr. Drive. And so, we're going to start the presentation: Also naming the 1400 block of Thompson Street as "Samuel Staten Jr. Way" to honor the life, leadership and enduring contributions of Samuel Staten, Jr. to organized labor, to working families and to the City of Philadelphia.
Whereas, Samuel Staten, Jr., born September 9, 1952, is a native of Philadelphia and a graduate of Germantown High School and the son of the late Sam Staten, Sr. Yeah. (Applause.)
Whose own life of service helped establish a proud tradition of leadership within Philadelphia's labor community; and
Whereas, Samuel Staten, Jr. began his career in 1972 when he joined Laborers International Union of North America Local 332 and spent seven years working in the field as a laborer, gaining firsthand knowledge of the work, sacrifice, dignity and determination of the men and women whose labor has built and sustained the City of Philadelphia, and
Whereas, over the decades that followed, Samuel Staten, Jr. rose through the ranks of Local 332, serving as Field Representative, Recording Secretary, Secretary- Treasurer, Assistant Business Manager, President and ultimately Business Manager, dedicating his career to advancing the interests of laborers and expanding opportunity for Philadelphia's working families; and Whereas, Samuel Staten, Jr.'s leadership extended throughout the labor movement, including service as a leader within the Laborers' District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and Vicinity, the Philadelphia AFL-CIO and the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council. And in 2016, he was appointed Vice- President of the Laborers International Union of North America, bringing his Philadelphia rooted leadership to a union representing working people throughout the United States and Canada; and
Whereas, his service to Philadelphia has reached far beyond the Union Hall, including leadership and service with organizations concerned with workforce development, housing, education, African American labor leadership and the well-being of Philadelphia's communities, and in 2018 the Council of the City of Philadelphia approved his appointment to the Board of Commissioners for the Philadelphia Housing Authority; and
Whereas, Samuel Staten, Jr. has made the preparation of the next generation of workers a central part of his legacy, championing training and apprenticeship opportunities and founding the Samuel Staten Sr. Pre-Apprenticeship Program to introduce Philadelphians to family- sustaining careers in the skilled trades and provide young people with pathways forward towards economic security, professional development and lifelong opportunity; and
Whereas, in recognition of his decades of leadership and commitment to developing skilled workers, Laborers' Local 332 named its new training facility the Samuel Staten Jr. Building in 2021, ensuring that generations of laborers will enter their profession in a place bearing the name of a man who devoted his life to strengthening their union, their craft, and their possibilities; and
Whereas, for more than five decades, Samuel Staten, Jr. has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the principle that working people deserve dignity, opportunity, representation, and a meaningful stake in the prosperity of the City they helped build. And his leadership has strengthened Philadelphia's labor movement while opening doors for countless workers and families; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that the 1400 block of Thompson Street shall also be named "Samuel Staten Jr. Way" in honor of Samuel Staten, Jr. and his more than five decades of distinguished service, leadership and commitment to organized labor, working families, workforce opportunities and the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Yep, got to make sure my better half is right here next to me because she is the spoke in my wheels for sure. First, I want to say God is good.
To my Honorable Mayor who is my sister, to my City Council President Kenyatta Johnson who is my brother, to City Council, family and friends who are my family, I want to thank you for this honor. My family, thank you for this honor. I tell you, I try to live by my word. I'm going to say that again. I try to live by my word. What I found out in this world, your word means everything. It comes along with trust. It comes along with love. It comes along with dedication. I wasn't always an angel. But God spared me. Gave me a second chance. (Applause.)
And I've been committed to giving young men and women a second chance because for a long time they were throwaways. People didn't care until how they've been treated. But God touched me. And as bad as I was, he said, I got a plan for you. I got a mission for you. And I've been on that mission ever since, to try to save every young gentleman, every young woman that want a second chance at life. Today is really special, really, really special, because it's my dad's birthday. (Applause.)
And I know he is smiling down on me. He truly blessed me with the opportunity because I tell you, every father would have threw me away a long time ago, that's how bad I was. But again, when you have to try to do the right thing, God holding you up. I just want to say to City Council that our young people need help. Just last night if we could just take a moment of silence for the 83-year-old woman that got shot last night on her porch. I mean, you spend your life working and you retire and you can't even sit on your porch to enjoy life. Something's wrong with that. But guess what, it's all our fault because we're not taking charge of our neighborhoods. Like when I was small, there was a lot of going on, the gambling. They wouldn't let you see it until you get away from it. And that's when neighbors were neighbors. We got to bring the neighbors back to the hood because that's the control we need. Men got to stand up. You're living in a situation you know it ain't cool. And you make it sound like it's not your problem. It is your problem. In most cases, you created some of the problem. So we need to stand up and make our Mayor and the City Council have a better way of producing for our young people, our communities in our neighborhood, to make Philadelphia be what it can be, the greatest city in this nation. We got a lot of hard workers and sometimes we're not working on the same page. Got to get on the same page. We got to put trades back in our schools so our young people, all of them, will have opportunity. Not just special schools. All schools should have the trades. And what I'm saying to you, if we don't do this every time a 12th grader graduate don't have a job, they don't have college, you send them straight to the street to create havoc. All guys on the corner is not bad guys. They need opportunity. They have a family to take care of. So when they stick somebody up, it's not because they want to. They may have to bring some money and food in the house and willing to sacrifice themselves to go to jail for their family. That shouldn't be the philosophy that we know. We have a better Philadelphia and we can do much, much better. We got to work together. This Council, our Mayor, put people first, put community first and you're going to get the best results from that. When people start turning over, doing the right thing, the killings stop. Our kids are getting a better education. As long as God gave me strength and breath, I'll be here to fight the fight. Even if I retire, I plan on fighting the fight because our young people need that guidance. They need some heroes and sheroes, because right now they're working on air because we're not supporting like we should. So again, I want to thank Council for the opportunity. I want to thank Councilman Jeffrey for the opportunity to have my name on the street that I know will be there forever. I purposely put that school on Broad Street or we, our Council, Mr. Esteban, if he's still here, put that school on Broad Street to bring the school to the community. Because the one we have out Exton is kind of far, it's still there. It's going to serve Exton. But, Philadelphia, we want us to take advantage of the training school for our young people. So again, thank the Council, thank the Mayor. God bless. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will the Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in his possession.
To the President, the members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I'm transmitting for the consideration of your Honorable body the following proposed: A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2751 Kensington Avenue located in the 1st Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 1808, 1809, 1810, 1812, 1819 North Bailey Street, 2611 Cecil B. Moore Avenue, 2438, 2442, 2456, 2648, 2651 North Corlies Street, 1816, 1838, 1839, 1841, 1843, 1845, 1848, 1851, 1861, 1862, 1866 North Etting Street, 2519, 2600, 2611, 3019, 3021, 3027, 3029, 3031, 3039 West Oakdale Street, 2423, 2425, 2437, 2446, 2501, 2504, 2506, 2513, 2516, 2517, 2526, 2539, 2556 North Stanley Street, 1726 North 26th Street, 1735, 1747 N. 27th Street in the 5th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code. A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank a deed conveying title to 1811 West Stiles Street, located in the 5th Councilmanic District, pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act. A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 1412 West Clearfield Street, 1709, 1711, 1713 West Lippincott Street, 2935 North Hicks Street, 2941 North Sydenham Street, 3152, 3156, 3157 North Carlisle Street, 3110, 3116 North Rosewood Street, 3131 North Chadwick Street, 3127 North Bancroft Street, 3106, 3141 North 15th Street, 3035 North 16th Street in the 8th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of the Philadelphia Code. And I am pleased to advise you that on September 30, 2026, I signed the following bill 22 which was passed by Council at its session on September 17, 2026: Bill No. 260381. There are no further communications in my possession, Council President.
Thank you very much. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Good morning, Mr. President. Again, I wanted to recognize former 5th District Councilmember and former Mayor John F. Street, who was in our chambers. I no longer see Mayor Street, but I wanted to make sure you recognize him when he comes back in here. Thank you.
Thank you very much, sir. Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good morning, Council President. I apologize for being tardy. Philadelphia knows how much you don't like that. But I did want to, on your behalf, say welcome to Philadelphia Soccer 2026. And thank you for your leadership as it relates to recognizing them today. And give a special shout-out to the Executive Director Meg Kane, who also worked closely with my office through the planning process, and also to Dale Hilferty and Michelle Singer and everybody else who worked across two districts to put us in a position to have six games at the Linc Fest, over 39 days Fan Fest and a lot of great things, not just across the city, but especially in the 2nd Councilmanic District. So, Council President, thank you for your leadership. Welcome to our special guests. And thank you for being a big part of a great celebration in 2026. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, my friend. Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.
Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, Member Thomas, for the acknowledgement of the wonderful summer we had enjoying football as opposed to American soccer. I would also like to say that in addition, Lemon Hill. Lemon Hill was the site of a lot of Fan Fest activities, but more importantly, long after the football games are done. Commissioner Slawson has committed to putting in one of the largest outdoor centers of fields, playgrounds in the city of Philadelphia to be a memorial to that summer of fun. And I will share it, somewhat reluctantly, with Jeffrey Young. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Member Jones. That's a great project to share though, so I think that works. At this time, we will have introduction of bills and resolutions. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you so much, Council President. I have one non-privileged resolution for introduction today.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution urging the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Department of Licenses and Inspections, Department of Sanitation and other appropriate city agencies to immediately prioritize and coordinate efforts to address the growing rodent infestation in the Lower Northeast section of Philadelphia, and to treat current conditions as an urgent public health and quality-of-life emergency requiring immediate City action.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of the Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two resolutions, one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution 24 confirming the appointment of Monique Myatt Galloway, Esq., as the City Solicitor.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the Independence Blue Cross Foundation on the occasion of its 15th anniversary.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, Council President. Today I have one non-privileged resolution, one bill 6 and two bills on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance 13 authorizing the Sanitation Commissioner and Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into agreements for the collection, transfer and disposal of municipal solid waste, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Sanitation Commissioner and Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into agreements with several vendors to process and market recyclable materials, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance 16 to approve amendments to the University of Pennsylvania Master Plan in the area bounded by Walnut Street, 32nd Street, South Street and 33rd Street related to the David Rittenhouse Laboratory at 3200 Walnut Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming the 700 block of North 47th Street as "Men of Mill Creek Way" to honor the legacy and impact of the Men of Mill Creek in the Mill Creek community.
Very well done. This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. And so, let me add a little brevity to this Council session. So I'm going to acknowledge Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young. It is a little different when you stand on the shoulders of a giant in the spirit of Cecil B. Moore to the great John F. Street. So the Chair recognizes Member Jeffrey Jay Young of the 5th Councilmanic District.
Thank you, Mr. President. And as you were saying that, I'm looking at a bookmark that my office created with the former 5th District Councilmembers, and it reads, History lives on. When we read and have pictures of all the former 5th District Councilmembers, myself, Council President Darrell Clarke, Mayor John Street, the Honorable Cecil B. Moore, Ethel Allen, the first Black woman Councilmember of City Council, you know, Councilmember Thomas McIntosh and of course, Raymond Pace Alexander, the first African American on Philadelphia City Council, the first African American Judge in the Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania, so when you think about 5th District Councilmembers, right, that's the legacy that we have to live up to in 5th District Councilmembers. And I want to honor and recognize former 5th District Councilmember and Mayor, someone whose administration I've been a part of since I was years old, 12 learning and understanding how to 13 really make this city the best city 14 it can be. So I really want to 15 honor Mayor John F. Street here 16 this morning for being with us 17 today. Mayor Street. (Applause.)
Always a pleasure to see Mayor Street. We appreciate you, sir. He still continues to serve to this day. Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good morning again, Council President. Good morning, colleagues and Philadelphia. Today I have one resolution on your behalf, Council President.
Thank you. Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution congratulating Daniel Hilferty, Michelle Singer, the Board of Directors and the entire Philadelphia Soccer 2026 team for their successful planning and execution of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President, colleagues and the listening audience. Today I offer one bill, one privileged and one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much, Member Jones. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bill and resolutions.
An ordinance 19 to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Lancaster Avenue, 62nd Street, Lebanon Avenue, 63rd Street and Malvern Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution recognizing October 5, 2026, through October 9, 2026, as the City of Philadelphia’s Maximizing Economic Development (MED) Week: Celebrating Small and Local Businesses, a focused week of programming providing small and local businesses throughout Philadelphia’s neighborhoods and commercial corridors with access to key information and resources.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Very well done, Member Jones. Continue, Chief Clerk.
And a non-privileged resolution renaming the 5200 block of Lancaster Avenue as "Sharif El-Mekki Way" to honor Sharif El-Mekki and his decades of distinguished service to Philadelphia's students, educators, schools, and communities.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Good morning again, Council President. Thank you. Today I have four privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing National Coming Out Day on October 11, 2026 in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing October 2026 as LGBTQ+ History Month in the City of Philadelphia and honoring the activists, advocates, and members of the LGBTQ+ community who continue to fight for civil rights and equality.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing October through the 10, 2026 as 4 Digital Inclusion Week in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing October 2026 as Cybersecurity Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia, and acknowledging the importance of empowering individuals and organizations to prevent and recognize online threats, providing resources to protect sensitive data and fostering a culture of digital safety by educating the public on best practices.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. Good morning, everyone. I have nothing today.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I have three bills, two privileged resolutions, and one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance 1 authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 1849 Walnut Street, Philadelphia PA, 19103, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be 8 referred to the appropriate 9 Committee. 10
An ordinance 11 renaming the Penrose Recreation 12 Center to the "Shirley M. Kitchen 13 Recreation Center" to honor the 14 life and legacy of Shirley Kitchen, 15 a pioneering public servant and 16 civic leader with an immeasurable 17 impact on the Greater North 18 Philadelphia community. 19
Very well done, Member 21 Young. 22 This bill will be 23 referred to the appropriate 24 committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a multi-year agreement with Broad Street Love Park, LLC for the design, construction, management and operation of a food and beverage concession at the Welcome Center Building ("Saucer") in Love Park, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Lieutenant Gregory A. Brown, Sr., on the occasion of his retirement from the Philadelphia Police Department and commending him for 40 years of exemplary public service.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution 10 authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank a deed conveying title to 1811 West Stiles Street located in the 5th Councilmanic District, pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar next week -- this resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution 5 authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 1808, 1809, 1810, 1812, 1819 N. Bailey Street, 2611 Cecil B. Moore Avenue, 2438, 2442, 2456, 2648, 2651 N. Corlies Street, 1816, 1838, 1839, 1841, 1843, 1845, 1848, 1851, 1861, 1862, 1866 N. Etting Street, 2519, 2600, 2611, 3019, 3021, 3027, 3029, 3031, 3039 W. Oakdale Street, 2423, 2425, 2437, 2446, 2501, 2504, 2506, 2513, 2516, 2517, 2526, 2539, 2556 N. Stanley Street, 1726 N. 26th Street, 1735, 1747 N. 27th Street in the 5th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. I have several resolutions on behalf of Member Brooks that will be introduced by member Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Council President. I am introducing one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution on Leader Brooks behalf today.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution honoring, commending, and congratulating Marni Gangel on the occasion of her retirement from the Defender Association of Philadelphia, celebrating her extraordinary career and enduring commitment to justice, reproductive rights, and the children and families of our city.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing October 12, 2026, as "Indigenous Peoples Day" in the City of Philadelphia, honoring and commemorating the achievements, traditions and contributions of American Indians, also known as "Indigenous peoples"; and affirming the city's commitment to historical truth, cultural respect, education and partnership with Indigenous communities.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Member Harrity.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Council President. I have one non-privileged resolution to introduce today.
Thank you very much, sir. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
He can hold it for next week. You can hold it for -- I can introduce it now and you can hold it for passage next week. Let's do that.
A privileged resolution honoring the Citywide Tenant Union of the Philadelphia Democratic Socialists of America and tenants, tenant leaders, and tenant organizers at the Emerson and Florence Gardens, who are organizing to end rental junk fees and secure basic tenants’ rights and protections in the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you very much. This will be held until next week. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Thank you very much, Chair recognizes Councilmember Brian O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills and resolutions.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two non-privileged resolutions and one bill.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bill and resolutions please.
An ordinance 11 to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Lehigh Avenue, Belgrade Street, Aramingo Avenue and Miller Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution 23 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2751 Kensington Avenue located in the 1st Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution 16 designating the week of Sunday, October 11 through Saturday, October 17, 2026, as “Italian American Heritage Week” in the City of Philadelphia. This is done in celebration of the countless contributions Italian Americans have given to our country and honoring Bob Pantano as Grand Marshall of the 2026 Philadelphia Italian American Heritage Parade.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. Well done, Member Squilla. It's a South Philly thing. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill and three privileged resolutions on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bill and resolutions.
An ordinance 24 authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 149 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portion of Hartwell Lane from Seminole Street to its terminus southwestwardly therefrom and reserving and placing on the City Plan a right of way for water main purposes and public utility purposes within the lines of the portion of Hartwell Lane being stricken and authorizing acceptance of the grant to the City of the said right-of-way, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring the Black Brain Campaign for a decade of dedicated work to destigmatize mental health in Black communities by providing mental health services and culturally competent training for clinicians.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Philadelphia Police Department's "Women in Patrol" and honoring five decades of women's service and leadership in law enforcement.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) for its unwavering commitment to empowering women, strengthening families, advancing educational and economic opportunities, promoting health equity, advocating for social justice, and uplifting communities
Outstanding organization. Very well done, Member Bass. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I'm introducing four privileged resolutions, one of which is on your behalf and one is being co-introduced with Councilmember Jones.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the resolutions please.
A privileged resolution recognizing October 2026 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia and honoring survivors, advocates and all those affected by breast cancer.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing October 2026 as Vision Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia and honoring Overbrook School for the Blind's leadership and advancing education, technology and access for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.