COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, March 27, 2008 10:15 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Father Bongard of Roman Catholic High School. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Kelly. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Everyone rises.)
Let us together place ourselves in the presence of Almighty God. Heavenly Father, you have made one people out of many different races and nations out of many different creeds and ethnic backgrounds, united to the confessing of the glory of your name. season of Easter to celebrate the power of faith over doubt, the power of hope over despair, the power of life over death. Your resurrection empowers us and brings true and lasting change. Positive change will only occur in our country and in this great City of Philadelphia when your followers begin to listen to your words and put them into practice. Change begins with us as citizens loving our enemies, turning the other cheek, being honest and truthful in our speech, protecting the poor, the widow and the orphan, and respecting the life of each individual. Lord God, king of the universe, look with mercy on those who represent us in this City Council. Grant to our representatives the grace to know and to do your will. Let them serve the people in truth and righteousness. Inspire our legislators with the courage to make laws for the good of all rather than for the Father, we ask in a special way that you continue to watch over our political leaders, the police officers and firemen, City workers, emergency personnel and all who work to promote a truly moral, just and safe city. For we ask all this in your name. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Father Bongard for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of March the 13th, 2008, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 13th stand approved.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 13, 2008 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal of the meeting of March the 13th, 2008 is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, on behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution congratulating would ask Mrs. Glenn and those accompanying her to please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Councilwoman Brown is being joined by Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilman Jones. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. Good morning. It gives me enormous pleasure to present to some and introduce to others a woman that is now standing on the shoulders of the first African-American female to lead the School Board of Philadelphia. And that would have been who? A little known Philadelphia history fact. To chair the Public School Board. And that would have been the former Honorable Ruth Hair. So today we're calling to support the appointment of Sandra Dungee Glenn as Chairwoman of the School Reform District of Philadelphia. Whereas, Sandra Dungee Glenn has worked diligently and consistently to fulfill the duties of a Board member through public policy, legislative oversight, adjudication and as a public liaison since her appointment to the School Reform Commission in January 2002 by Mayor John F. Street; and
Whereas, her record of working to ensure the equal treatment and educational rights for all Philadelphia students has been exemplary as seen through her efforts in the District's decision to require all students to take an African-American history course to graduate; and Whereas, in August 2007, Governor Edward G. Rendell appointed Sandra Dungee Glenn as Chairperson of the School Reform Commission upon the resignation of James Nevels; and
And whereas, she has proven leadership through her work as a member of the Board of Education for the School District of Philadelphia, as a former Commissioner of the Philadelphia Housing Authority and through serving as a founding partner in the creation of the Pennsylvania Campaign for Public Education; Whereas, currently, she serves as the President of American Cities Foundation, an organization committed to the development and implementation of national urban policy and defining the leadership in new relationships between our cities and the federal government; and Whereas, because of her advocacy, editorial and political experience, it is precisely the reason Mrs. Dungee Glenn is needed as Chairwoman of the School Reform Commission; and
Whereas, under her leadership, every student will equally, allowing for all students an opportunity to be educated in the public school system. Now therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby support, lift up and celebrate the appointment of Sandra Dungee Glenn as Chairwoman of the School Reform Commission for the Philadelphia School District. Further resolved, that a copy of this resolution be presented to Sandra Dungee Glenn of the School Reform Commission and to the desk of Governor E. Rendell as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Signed by our Honorable Anna C. Verna, President of City Council. Introduced by the Chair of the Education Committee, Jannie L. Blackwell, Councilman W. Wilson Goode and myself, and celebrated and sponsored by all members of the Philadelphia City Council. (Applause.)
Let me say thank you. There's some very dear friends standing up here. I have to note that Councilman Jones and I attended first grade together at Barry School. So it is truly a pleasure to be here with him. Thank you, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown. Thank you, Councilwoman Blackwell. And thank you, Councilman Goode, and all members of City Council for this wonderful honor. And I want to say also and recognize my husband, Manuel Glenn, standing here with me this morning. I accept this honor, and I have to accept it on behalf of the entire School Reform Commission, my colleagues, Armbrister, Marty Bednarek, Dr. Jim Gallagher and our newest member, Dr. Heidi Ramirez. We sit as five dedicated, committed volunteers who are diligently working to improve the lives and life chances of Philadelphia's children, and we are very committed to that work. I also want to take a moment to recognize and thank our interim CEO, Mr. Tom Brady, who has joined us this morning. I saw him a moment ago. Mr. Brady. (Applause.)
Mr. Brady has been a steady hand and calm leadership in our District during a very difficult time of transition. And I need to note -- many of you may have read in the paper this morning -- whereas this time last year we were projecting a $181 million deficit in our School District for this fiscal year, we have now closed that gap to under $21 million, and thanks Mr. Brady, to the support -(Applause.)
And please let me not forget to the very important support we received here in this Chambers from City Council and also from our other partners in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. We are well on our way to getting on firm financial ground with the District. I also need to recognize our School Reform Commission staff and my staff at American Cities Foundation for their tireless work and their efforts, because that's what really allows me to focus on this very important work that we have. I stand here today as the embodiment of the City and the State partnership that created the School Reform Commission. I am honored to serve as one of Mayor Nutter's two commissioners, and I am humbled to have Rendell in August of 2007 to the important role as Chair of the Commission. You know my passion for education and for the betterment of our children here in Philadelphia, and what you should see when you look at me is really evidence of the cooperation and the collaboration that now exists between the City, between the School District and between the State that really is working to benefit our children each and every day. Councilmembers, I want you to know that you have been constructive, you've been loyal supporters of public education in Philadelphia. Education always has been and it will always remain the great equalizer in our society, and I want you to know that your investment in our School District and in our children over the past six years is paying dividends. It is paying dividends. We will be back here in just a few short a very detailed picture of the School District, our challenges, our progress and the opportunities that lay ahead, but I just need to tell you today that with your support, we have invested over $415 million since 2001 in academic reforms, and that investment has produced a 25 point gain in our math scores and nearly 17 point gain in our reading scores for children across this District, and that's important, that the investment has made a difference and it is paying off. So our work has well begun, but we know that much more remains to be done. So, again, I want to thank you for this wonderful honor. You need to know that we stand ready to be partners with you. I stand ready for the continued partnership with this Council, with Mayor Nutter, with our Governor Rendell and our state legislators, of course with all of our parents and our across this District that serves 200,000 young people here in our great City. Our children deserve nothing less than the highest quality school system that we can provide to them. Success is our only option. Again, I am honored by this recognition, and may God bless one and all. Thank you. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes -- may I have your attention, please. Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly, who will present a resolution honoring Roman Catholic High School's Varsity Football Team. those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilman Kelly is also being accompanied by Councilman Kenney and Councilman Greenlee, Councilman O'Neill. Would the members of the Varsity Team please join the Councilmembers at the podium. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, before I begin, I just want to point out to Father Bongard, to Principal O'Neill and to Coach Murphy that the pain and the sacrifice that Councilman Kenney, Councilman Greenlee and Councilman O'Neill are making today in helping me present this resolution, because they are all graduates of the Prep, and I think -(Applause.)
And what I Coach Murphy and to all of the current and future members of this team, please keep on winning for at least four years, because paybacks can be very severe. Please. Whatever you do. With that, I would like to present the following resolution honoring Roman Catholic High School's Varsity Football Team. Whereas, the Roman Catholic High School Varsity Football Team has won the Catholic League title, completing their 2007-2008 season with an impressive record of 12 wins and two losses; and
Whereas, they have set the bar extremely high for all future Roman Catholic High School Football players by setting a new record for the most wins in a season; and Whereas, the Roman Catholic High School Football Team scored 384 total points this season, earning them the rank of No. 1 in the Catholic League in both rushing yards and total yards;
Whereas, the Roman Catholic High School Football Team has been named Team of the Year by the Philadelphia Inquirer, is ranked No. 1 in the City of Philadelphia Daily News and ranked 6th in Pennsylvania out of 604 high schools by Maxpreps.com;
Whereas, the Roman Catholic High School Football Team's honored and respected leader, Coach James Murphy, was named Coach of the Year by the Philadelphia Eagles organization.
Therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes, honors and celebrates Roman Catholic High School's Varsity Football Team for their outstanding 2007-2008 season; and Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of the resolution be presented to Roman Catholic High School sincere admiration of this legislative body. This is signed by the President of City Council, Ann Verna, and also members of City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Principal Robert O'Neill for brief remarks. PRINCIPAL O'NEILL: Good morning. (Good morning.) PRINCIPAL O'NEILL: Whenever I'm announced, it's always said with "brief remarks." I don't know if that follows me, but they will be brief. It is truly a privilege and an honor to address this august assembly here this morning and it is with a sense of pride, genuine pride, as Principal of the oldest Catholic high school for boys in the nation. Roman Catholic High School was 1890 by Thomas E. Cahill, a very successful Philadelphia businessman, who endowed his entire fortune to create our school over 118 years ago, and it has been in continuous operation at the same location, Broad and Vine Streets, for those 118 years. I am here today to pay honor to this fine team of student athletes and their coach mentors, Head Coach Jim Murphy and his assistants, Brian Conroy, Brad Beckman, Joe McCourt, Dan Jankowicz, Len DeMalto, Neil Reagan, Jeff Grimme, Tom Kearns and Ken Eaves. As mentioned previously, Coach Murphy was honored by the Philadelphia Eagles as Coach of the Year, and we couldn't agree more. His unyielding dedication to the concept of incorporating spirituality into the sports program has been well documented and acknowledged on several occasions. And I give my personal thanks for the excellent program that he has created and special way, I would like to acknowledge and thank the parents and families who have always gone above and beyond to support this program, their sons and Roman, especially parent and former coach Sloan-El, who passed away this year. Thank you to our loyal alumni for their constant support of all things Roman, especially in memory of Mr. John Hoban, who also passed this year, and this championship is dedicated to his memory, as well as our Athletic Director, Mr. Dave Falcione, and John Pensabene and our Assistant Principal, Janet Dollard. In conclusion, I proudly present for your acknowledgment and approval our championship team. The victory was of biblical proportions. We were facing an unbeatable foe in St. Joe's Prep. We approached that contest with tremendous respect for our opponent and their excellent program. It was truly a David and Goliath match-up. But a school of fan base, we didn't go there to lose or to settle. We went there with the belief that we could win, and we did. These young men will take that never-give-up attitude, coupled with their belief in their God, into our community. I present to you the future of Philadelphia. Our City of Brotherly Love can be justly proud of their accomplishments on and off of the football field as they lead us into a very positive future of community service. Father Bongard and I are extremely proud of your many accomplishments. God bless you all. Thank you. (Applause.)
I think it only appropriate if we could hear from the coach, Coach Murphy. (Applause.) COACH MURPHY: I didn't know I anything today, but the only thing I would like to do is thank my players, my coaches and the parents and the families. The main goal of Roman Football is for the guys to come into Roman as boys and leave good men. And I can't thank the families, especially the parents, and my coaches enough, because with winning the championship, that was great, but the most important thing is to be championship people, and the guys you're looking at behind me are championship people. Thank you. (Applause.)
Again, congratulations. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution declaring March 31st through April 4th, 2008 as Week. Will Mr. Calvin Johnson and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Miller and Councilwoman Sanchez are joining Councilwoman Tasco. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning we welcome Secretary of Health Dr. Calvin Johnson and State Representative Dwight Evans, who will shortly join us, to share in this resolution declaring March 31st to April 4th as National Youth Violence Prevention Week and commending the leadership of the Pennsylvania Department of Health's PIRIS Project. Whereas, the City of Philadelphia recognizes the right of all citizens to safety and freedom from fear and supports the public health the long-term solution to gun violence throughout Philadelphia; and
Whereas, the rate of violence in Philadelphia in 2006 resulted in over 2,000 shootings, 400 homicides, over 5,000 robberies and 3,000 assaults with a gun. And for everyone directly threatened, there were many more affected by these types of violence: parents, brothers, sisters, cousins, sons, daughters, family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, classmates, employers and more; and Whereas, Council views the Pennsylvania Department of Health, local hospitals, physicians, emergency service providers and the entire healthcare community as part of the solution to dealing with gun violence by recognizing issues and providing solutions at points of contact within health systems; and Whereas, the Pennsylvania Injury Reporting and Intervention System, PIRIS, is an innovative public health approach, led by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, which provides for intervention through the trauma centers at Albert Einstein Medical Center, the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University Hospital; and
Whereas, PIRIS offers comprehensive intervention programs to gunshot victims ages 15 to 24 and their families, providing information and referrals on education, counseling, job training, health insurance and other opportunities for these individuals and their families to avoid violence in the future; and Whereas, Council also takes this opportunity to commend the collaborative efforts of the Philadelphia Collaborative Violence Prevention Center and the Blueprint for a Safer Philadelphia to help protect and help those harmed by fear and violence. Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby declare March 31st to April 4th as National Youth Violence Prevention Week and commend the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Albert Einstein Medical Center, the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation, Philadelphia Health Management Corporation, Firearm and Injury Center at Penn, Philadelphia Anti-Drug/Anti-Violence Network, the Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics for their efforts through the PIRIS Project. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Calvin B. Johnson, M.D., MPH, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health, and representatives of Albert Einstein Medical Center, the Hospital of the Temple University Hospital as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Certification, that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 6th of March 2008. Signed by President Verna, introduced by Tasco, Sanchez and Miller, and supported by all members of City Council. Thank you so much for your work. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Secretary of Health Calvin Johnson.
Thank you, Councilwomen Tasco, Sanchez and Miller and all of Council, for this recognition of a critical issue that we know affects Philadelphia. But not just Philadelphia, every place across this state. There's some very clear things we know about gun violence. We know that gun violence doesn't just affect the person that is the victim. In fact, it makes all of us victims, and it makes everyone connected to that person a victim. And perhaps one of the most important things we know about gun violence is that gun violence is preventable, and that is one key reason why it is a key public health issue in addition to a criminal justice issue and a social service issue. And so we will continue our efforts at the state level in partnership with Philadelphia and other communities across this Commonwealth to ultimately put an end to what is a preventable public health issue in this Commonwealth, and I thank you all for your support. (Applause.)
I am very special guests, State Representative Dwight Evans and State Representative Babette Joseph. If they would like to say some comments, we'd be happy to hear from them. REPRESENTATIVE EVANS: I'd like to, one, thank the President, as well as Councilwoman Marian Tasco, Councilwoman Miller and Councilperson Sanchez, all of them, for that introduction, and Dr. Johnson. We all recognize that this is not just a Philadelphia problem. We recognize that this is a statewide problem. Along with my colleague, Representative Babette Joseph, particularly the Philadelphia Delegation, we have been pushing this issue. As you know, we have invested in the last three years over $40 million in the Blueprint for a Safer Philadelphia. We will in this budget continue to invest more money in the youth violence with the leadership of the three Councilpeople who have just Also, the hospitals -- sorry about the little mix-up. The representatives are across the hall. They're going to come over, each of those hospitals that were mentioned that are involved. And from this idea, this idea is going to take on a statewide aspect. So we started it here in Philadelphia. We're going to do it in Pittsburgh. We're going to do it in other places. But we thank your leadership in City Council under those three Councilpeople and the President, who are willing to work with us in terms of addressing this issue. And I'd like to again thank you for this honor. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Would State Representative Babette like to say a few words? REPRESENTATIVE JOSEPH: Thank you, Madam President. Thank all of you for your leadership. I think this is an exciting initiative. I know that it works. I know that we have to work at it. I know we have to get it across the state. I know we also have to do a lot of other things, like get excess guns off of our streets. We will do that. We will work with you. I see a better future. Thank you so much. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on March 26, 2008, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on March 13, 2008, except Bill No.
080133; and I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Streets Department, the Department of Public Health, the Department of Human Services, the Board of Revision of Taxes to the Mayor's Office of Information Services; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Managing Director and the Department of Public Health to the Department of Recreation; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from to the Director of Finance; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Managing Director, the Police Department and the Director of Finance to the Law Department; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Police Department, the Department of Streets, the Fire Department, the Department of Public Health, the Department of Recreation, the Department of Human Services and the Department of Human Services - Office of Supportive Housing to the Managing Director; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Water Fund from the Water Department to the Department of Public Property, the Director of Finance, the Managing Director, the Police of Recreation - Fairmount Park Commission; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Hotel Room Rental Tax Fund from the City Representative and the Director of Commerce to the Managing Director; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Aviation Fund to the Director of Finance, Procurement Department and the Managing Director; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Community Development Fund from the Mayor to the Law Department; and An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the District Attorney in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget the compensation of used by the District Attorney; and An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the Department of Public Property the compensation of the District Attorney's employees being used by the Department of Public Health; and An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the Department of Human Services in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget the compensation of District Attorney employees being used by the Department of Human Services; and An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against the authorization made to the Board of Pensions and Retirement in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget the compensation of Office of the Director of Finance employees being used by the Board of Pensions and Retirement; and An ordinance authorizing the charge against the authorization made to the Board of Pensions and Retirement the compensation of the Mayor's Office of Information Services employees being used by the Board of Pensions and Retirement; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Council and the Auditing Department to the Department of Human Services and the Auditing Department; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Aviation Fund from the City Representative and the Director of Commerce to the Director of Finance Fringe Benefits.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and at this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution calling upon the United States House of Representatives to pass and the United States Senate to introduce and pass the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce three resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution congratulating and recognizing Carl R. Greene for his achievements during ten years as the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Housing Authority, over which time he transformed the agency from one of the lowest rated housing authorities in the nation to among the most respected for property development and management, financial innovation and strength.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing the week of April 20th through April 27th, 2008 as Richard Wright Week in Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution congratulating and recognizing the AARP for 50 years of service to our community and our nation, and for its efforts to help everyone make the most of life as they age, today and for generations to come.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-613 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Junk Dealers," by prohibiting junk dealers from transacting business with respect to certain items, making certain technical changes and providing for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution and 16 bills.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bills.
An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the District Attorney in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget the compensation of Police Department employees being used by the District Attorney.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the Department of Public Health - Office of Behavioral Health/Mental Retardation Services in Fiscal Year 2008 the compensation of District Attorney employees being used by the Department of Public Health.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the Department of Human Services in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget the compensation of District Attorney employees being used by the Department of Human Services.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against the authorization made to the Board of Pensions and Retirement in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget the compensation of Office of Director of Finance employees being used by the Board of Pensions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Police Department, the Department of Streets, the Fire Department, the Department of Public Health and the Department of Recreation.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against the authorization made to the Board of Pensions and Retirement in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget the compensation of Mayor's Office of Information Services employees being used by the Board of Pensions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Department of Revenue to the Director of Finance.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Aviation Fund from the City Representative and the Director of Commerce to the Director of Finance.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Water Fund from the Water Department to the Department of Public Property.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Hotel Room Rental Tax Fund from the City Representative and the Director of Commerce to the Managing Director.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Streets Department, the Department of Public Health and the Department of Human Services.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Aviation Fund from the City Representative and the Director of Commerce to the Director of Finance - Fringe Benefits.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Council and the Auditing Department to the Department of Human Services.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Managing Director to the Police Department.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Managing Director and the Department of Public Health to the Department of Recreation.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Community Development Fund from the Mayor - Office of Housing and Community Development to the Law Department.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring Bridesburg Elementary School for achieving the prestigious National Center for Urban School Transformation Excellence in Education Award.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer five resolutions, one bill and one resolution on your behalf, and I would like to speak on the last resolution relative to the moratorium.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the ordinance.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a section requiring a permit for the placement of the drop-off bins for the receipt of donations of clothing and household items and establishing maintenance requirements in connection with such bins.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to pass Senate Bill 1137, which extends the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error Program and establishing the Pennsylvania Access to Basic Care Program Fund.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing and acknowledging Delta Sigma Theta Sorority on the occasion of their Delta Day in Philadelphia City Council.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to pass House Bill 0001, which will allow the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority to issue bonds, loans and grants for alternative and renewable energy projects.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution urging the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare to reopen the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP, and use the approximately $13 million in unused grants this year.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 30th and 36th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution calling on Sheriff John Green and President Judge C. Darnell Jones to impose a moratorium on residential foreclosure sales in Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President and colleagues, today I take this opportunity to talk about an issue that I have been working on for several years, predatory lending and its connections to mortgage foreclosures. Many of us have read about and are experiencing the current downturn in our financial markets. The principal cause of this downturn are securities based on predatory, high cost and subprime loans. Further, these loans have caused many of our city's, state's and nation's homeowners to go into bankruptcy and foreclosures. According to ACORN's October 2007 Foreclosure Exposure to the Cost of Our Cities and Neighborhoods Report, over 3,000 of the high-cost loans made in 2006 in the Philadelphia area are likely to go into foreclosure and the cost to all of the stakeholders involved will be more than $345 million. These costs represent $23 million to individual homeowners in foreclosure, 158 million to lenders and investors, 62 million to local government and 107 million in lower income values of neighborhoods. In addition, ACORN's report demonstrates that foreclosures increase violent crimes in neighborhoods, decrease property values in neighborhoods and reduce City tax revenue, making it harder to provide good schools, police protection, code enforcement and other services. For these reasons today, I and Councilman Curtis Jones call by resolution Sheriff John Green and President Judge C. Darnell Jones to impose a moratorium on residential foreclosure sales in the City. There is precedent for this call to action. In 1983, during an economic recession, Sheriff Joseph Sullivan obtained from President Judge Edward Bradley a one-year stay from monthly foreclosure sales. In 2004, in response to a then record high monthly foreclosure sale of over 1,000 properties, Sheriff John Green received a stay from President Judge Frederica Massiah-Jackson of all residential foreclosure sales while the Pennsylvania Secretary of Banking conducted a statewide foreclosure study. Madam President, we all know this is a very urgent matter, and accordingly, I urge all of my colleagues to support this resolution and call to action so that we can do something to help protect the people we represent in this City of Philadelphia. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have two resolutions and one bill.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance naming and designating Public Health Center 9 located 131 East Chelten Avenue as the "Mattie L. Humphrey Health Center."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proclaiming the week of April 13th, 2008 as "National Crime Victims' Rights Week."
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 12th and 13th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution co-sponsored by every member of Council.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of a proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to civil service regulations to provide that when eligible lists for appointments and promotions are established, those persons who have maintained a bona fide residence in Philadelphia for at least one year prior to the date of the examination shall prevail over all others who receive the identical test score.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to civil service regulations to provide that when eligible lists for appointments and promotions are established, those persons who have maintained a bona fide residence in Philadelphia for at least one year prior to the date of the examination shall prevail over all others who receive the identical test score, and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions this morning.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs and the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold joint hearings regarding Philadelphia's Creative Economy, with a focus on young professionals, and to explore potential methods and strategies to retain the demographics for the future of Philadelphia's economic growth.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee of Health to investigate and conduct hearings on how to increase access to the Children's Health Insurance Program and to explore potential methods and strategies to raise awareness of the need for insurance.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 1st and 25th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 2nd Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution in solemn recognition during the week of May 2nd through May 9th, 2008 as the Annual Remembrance of the Six Million Jewish Martyrs, who perished during the Holocaust.
Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution by a standing vote in honor of those who died in the Holocaust.
Those standing will be voting in the affirmative. (All Councilmembers standing.)
The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one resolution and one bill.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Bill No. 080156, entitled "An ordinance adopting the Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2009," by increasing Housing Trust Fund appropriations for affordable housing to an amount that is $5 million greater than that provided for affordable housing in Fiscal Year 2008.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
I don't have it. (Councilman Kenney was handed report.)
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 080082, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Delaware Avenue, former Marlborough Street right-of-way, the Delaware River and the former Shackamaxon Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 080082. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Miller for a report from the Committee on Public Safety.
The Committee on Public Safety reports nine bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Safety, to which was referred Bill No. 080015, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' by adding a new Section to prohibit the possession or acquisition of firearms by persons charged with certain criminal offenses"; and Bill No. 080016, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' to regulate the acquiring or transferring of any firearm within the City of Philadelphia"; and Bill No. 080017, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' entitled 'Temporary Removal of Firearms of Persons Posing a Risk of Imminent Personal Injury to Self or Others'"; and 080018, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' entitled 'Prohibited Possession, Sale and Transfers of Firearms by Persons Subject to Protection from Abuse Orders'"; and Bill No. 080032, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' entitled 'Failure to Report Lost or Stolen Firearms,' by requiring prompt notification of lost or stolen firearms and imposing penalties"; and Bill No. 080033, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' entitled 'Contraband, Weapons, Accessories and Ammunition,' providing for the prohibition and registration of certain assault weapons and imposing penalties"; and Bill No. 080034, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' 'Sale or Transfer of Ammunition,' to require all sales of ammunition for firearms to be reported to the City of Philadelphia Police Department and to require the Department to maintain a registry of such reports"; and Bill No. 080035, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' entitled 'Straw and Multiple Handgun Purchase Reduction,' to limit purchases of handguns by Philadelphia residents to one a month and to prohibit straw purchases of handguns utilized by criminals for the purpose of evading the one handgun a month limitation"; and Bill No. 080036, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Safety,' by adding a new Section, 'Reporting Requirements Upon the Application for or Renewal of a License to Carry a Firearm,' all under certain terms and conditions," considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 080015, 080016, 080017, 080018, 080032, 080033, 080034, 080035 and 080036. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Council will now proceed under a special order of business, a resolution re-calling Bill No. 080133. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution, and because this resolution was not circulated yesterday, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of Councilwoman Sanchez's resolution. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is approved. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution requesting the Mayor to return to Council Bill No. 080133, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 361 and 367 by placing on the City Plan a 15-foot-wide right-of-way for drainage purposes adjacent to the northwesterly side of Bustleton Avenue," for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor will please signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution has passed. The Chief Clerk will please read the letter from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am returning herewith as requested by your resolution adopted today Bill No. 080133, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 361 and 367," for the of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez for a motion that Council reconsider the vote by which Bill No. 080133 was passed.
The ayes have it. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the motion carries and the vote by which Bill No. 080133 was passed has been reconsidered. Council will now consider Bill No. 080133. I would ask the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill.
Bill No. 080133, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 361 and 367 by placing on the City Plan a 15-feet-wide right-of-way for drainage purposes adjacent to the northwesterly side of Bustleton Avenue and extending from Scotchbrook Drive.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 080082, 3/27/08 - STATED - 1ST READING an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Delaware Avenue, former Marlborough Street right-of-way and the Delaware River.
Excuse me. Councilwoman Brown, your light is on. Did you want to be recognized?
Yes, Madam President. At the appropriate time, I'd like to speak on one of the bills on the Second Reading.
Oh, very well. The Chief Clerk will please go on.
And Bill No. 080015, an ordinance amending Chapter 3/27/08 - STATED - 1ST READING 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," to prohibit the possession or acquisition of firearms by persons charged with certain criminal offenses.
And Bill No. 080016, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," to regulate the requiring or transferring of any firearm within the City of Philadelphia.
And Bill No. 080017, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," entitled "Temporary Removal of Firearms of Persons Posing a Risk of Imminent Personal Injury to Self or Others."
And Bill No. 3/27/08 - STATED - 1ST READING 080018, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," by adding a new Section, "Prohibited Possession, Sale and Transfer of Firearms by Persons Subject to Protection from Abuse Orders."
And Bill No. 080032, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," by adding a new Section, entitled "Failure to Report Lost or Stolen Firearms."
And Bill No. 080033, an ordinance amending Section 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," by adding a new Section 10-821, entitled "Contraband Weapons, Accessories and Ammunition."
The Chair agrees. 3/27/08 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 080034, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," entitled "Sale or Transfer of Ammunition," to require all sales of ammunition for firearms to be reported to the City of Philadelphia Police Department and to require the Department to maintain a registry of such reports.
And Bill No. 080035, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," by adding a new Section, entitled "Straw and Multiple Handgun Purchases."
And Bill No. 080036, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," entitled "Reporting Requirements Upon the Application for or 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Renewal of a License to Carry a Firearm."
The Chair agrees. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. If I am not out of order, I guess I'll call for a point of order, because I'd like to make an announcement before I call the bills up.
I'd just like to say that under the Sheriff, Connie Little just reported that Sheriff John Green is going to postpone the April sheriff's sales immediately and then he's going to court to seek a longer time for the moratorium. So we wanted to let the 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING public know before they leave.
And we certainly want to thank him for his cooperation. We knew he would do that. His heart is in the right place and he cares about the citizens of Philadelphia. Madam President, today Bills 080150, 080151, 080152, 080153 and 080202 are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for today. Bill 080024 was amended. All other bills will be held.
Thank you very much. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 080024.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Commercial Activities on Streets," all under certain terms and conditions. 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Madam President. I'd simply like to remind my colleagues that the amendment to this bill was circulated and hand-delivered Wednesday morning and then sent via e-mail. And then briefly I'd like to put on the record first to publicly thank Councilman Frank DiCicco and his staff for working with my staff and our tech staff, Rosalie Leonard, as we continue to tweak this bill ultimately designed to factually and accurately address the telling of Philadelphia's story. I would be remiss also not to acknowledge Tanya Hall at the Multi-Cultural Affairs Congress, Meryl Levitz of GPTMC and Bill Moore of the Independence Center and others who have been a part of this work group throughout this process starting last summer. As we continue in our efforts 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING to get Philadelphia added to the short list of cities who already have a policy that requires for the professional certification of tour guides, we made a discovery, and, that is, currently some tour guides not only do not tell our City's story factually, but many of them fail to tell a story that is reflective of all of our City's cultures. And so like Williamsburg, Virginia; New Orleans; Charleston, South Carolina; and New York City, we want to make sure that the entire story is told. If we want to ensure that the ultimate examination for tour guide candidates represents the racial, gender, ethnic and cultural diversity of the City, then we need to make sure that the groups, organizations or agencies consulted also represent the racial, gender, ethnic and cultural diversity of the City. So the goal of the amendment today is to ensure that the 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Administration, once they move to construct the examination, that all groups of all cultures are reflected in the mix of constructing that examination. I move for the adoption of the amendment, Madam President. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the amendment has been approved. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080150.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Finance - Provision for other grants to the Law Department and the Board of Trustees of the Free Library of Philadelphia.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080151.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 from the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions from the Grants Revenue Fund to the General Certain, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
This bill having been read on two different 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080152.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Aviation Fund from the Managing Director to the Managing Director - Office of Fleet Management.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080153. 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Water Fund from the Managing Director to the Managing Director - Office of Fleet Management.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The final bill to be called is Bill No. 080202.
An ordinance authorizing the issuance of one or more series of general obligation bonds to provide funds to refund certain outstanding general obligation bonds of the City of Philadelphia.
Because this bill, Bill No. 080202, would 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING authorize the incurring of a new general obligation debt, its passage requires the votes of two-thirds of all Councilmembers. I see that Councilman Green would like to be recognized.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to be heard on this bill to put on the record the responses I received from the Finance Department that I asked during the Finance Committee hearings on this proposed bond offering. The cost of this offering will be $7.1 million, 5.5 million of which will be related to bond insurance. That is 3.1 percent of the total offering proceeds, which is extremely high for a municipality. It is almost double the costs of the 2003B Dutch auction rate note bond offering. 2.3 million of that amount was -- of the amount paid in 2003 was insurance paid in advance, which is now a sunk cost. 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING The difference in rates is currently half a percent, five percent expected on these 30-year notes versus current auction rate note -- default rate of 5.5 percent or roughly $100,000 a month in cash flow savings to the City. This means it would take seven years for the City to earn back the high costs of this offering. As the Finance Department testified before the Committee, this is not a money-savings effort. The reasons we are increasing the City's debt by $7 million are risk mitigation and reputational. Risk mitigation: The default rate for these notes is 175 percent of the London Interbank Offered Rate, or LIBOR. LIBOR is only 2.6 percent as of March 20th. In fact, the current LIBOR, 2.6 percent, the next default rate would cost the City $80,000 a month less than this proposed bond offering. It would have a rate of 4.55 percent versus five 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING percent. With respect to the City's reputation, we must consider what having Dutch auction rate notes outstanding means in the context of all of our debt, our future proposed offerings and the uncertainty created for the rating agencies and the investors in all of our securities. I would urge the Administration to consider different underwriters than those that put us in the auction rate notes in the first place without a clear explanation of the risks and urge legal action against the underwriters and the insurers in the original auction rate note offerings, to the extent we have a legal position or it is practicable. The Administration testified that if the market conditions stabilize, they would consider leaving the existing notes in place and avoid the 7.1 million in additional offering costs or an increase in the City's debt of 7.1 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING million and the loss of the 2.3 million prepaid insurance and sunk costs from the last offering. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. This bill having been -- I did say that, didn't I -- having been read on two different days, the question now is again shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
They're some pretty scary numbers, and I just wonder if this is something that has to move today, and I'm asking the -- I know it's an Administration ordinance.
I don't know if there is an urgency to passing this. Mr. McPherson is placing a 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING call to the Finance Department.
If I may add, Councilman Green didn't ask that it be held, but every one of his statements really called for a little further discussion at least.
I didn't hear him ask that it be held. Did you ask that it be held, Councilman?
No, Madam President. I wanted these facts on the record or the responses on the record. I wanted the Council to understand the high cost of this offering, why we're doing it. It may not be a money-saving measure, and for that to be considered as they voted on this bill. And I wanted to have on the record the Administration's statement that if the market conditions stabilized, they would consider not going through with this offering. I'm prepared to move forward and vote for the Administration's 3/27/08 - STATED - 2ND READING measure. I just wanted everybody to know what they were voting for and have my comments about what proposals the Administration might consider on the record.
Madam Chair, if Councilman Green is comfortable, I'm comfortable. Thank you.
Very well. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please call the roll.
Councilwoman Miller, how are you voting on this bill?
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That completes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until April the 3rd, 10:00 a.m., 2008.
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, April 3rd at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The the motion carries. Thank you. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:45 a.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on March 27, 2008, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)