Stated Meeting, March 2, 2023

STATED MEETING 1 3/2/2023 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, March 2, 2023 10:34 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK STATED MEETING 2 3/2/2023

We're going to get started now. Thank you. Can I have a little quiet, please. We're going to get started. We want to make sure we can accommodate the Mayor's address. We've established our quorum. I'd like to welcome everybody. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend Michelle Anne Simmons of Why Not Prosper, Incorporated. She is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Bass. I would ask all guests, members, and visitors to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests, and visitors rise.)

Good morning. (Good morning.)

I'm so grateful and honored and have much appreciation for Councilmember Bass for STATED MEETING 3 3/2/2023 do the invocation, and I am so grateful to be here to do it. Let us look to the Lord in prayer. Dear Father God, we come to you this morning by all the names that you're known and called, giving your name glory, honor, and total praise. We come right now in this moment just appreciating you for being our strength, for being our balance, for being the way. We come confessing right now, God, that sometimes I just go through life so fast and I don't really pay you any attention. I come right now in this moment, God, just confessing that that doesn't really serve me well. I come in this right now moment, God, just confessing that I do belong to you and we belong to you. I come confessing right now, God, that without your hand and your grace and your mercy upon our work, on STATED MEETING 4 3/2/2023 minds, God, that we're just running amuck. So in this right now moment, God, we just come thanking you for this day you've made, and we will rejoice and be glad in it. You say how great it is when brethren come together in unity, and so on this day, God, we're inviting you into this Council meeting. We're inviting you into our city at large. We're lifting up our leaders, our Councilpeople, our Commissioners, God, and all of our elected officials. God, we're praying even now right now for the election at hand. We pray that your will will be done. We pray, God, that you will choose who will be our next elected officials in the leadership of this city. God, we ask that you bless our outgoing President. We ask that you bless the new Mayor coming in. We ask that you bless the new judges. STATED MEETING 5 3/2/2023 God, we need you right now to come and just do a work in the City of Philadelphia. We have made many strides and we are on our way, God, but still we're standing in the need of prayer. So on this day right here, before we have this meeting and before we have the Mayor's budget speech, we ask that you go first, God, and you figure out it all, and then, God, give us our assignments and let us work out our assignments. For, God, we pray right now that we just be able to move egos to the side and distention so that love and joy and unity and cohesion can reign. We know you can do it, God. We thank you for it now. We ask you bless us all, keep us all, as we all work for the betterment of our city and for our lives and for our families. We thank you, and we know that STATED MEETING 6 3/2/2023 just prayed is already done. It's in your name we pray, with thanksgiving. Amen. (Amen.)

Thank you. Thank you so much, Reverend. We really appreciate you being here. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

Thank you and, Reverend, again, thank you so much for your spiritual guidance today. We really appreciate it. Before we get started, I would like to recognize State Representative Morgan Cephas, Philadelphia delegation. (Applause.)

I hear you all did some historical things the other day. STATED MEETING 7 3/2/2023 CEPHAS: Historical.

Awesome. Awesome. Thank you. Thank you for being here. We appreciate it. In a different capacity. Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 23rd, 2023, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 23rd, 2023 be approved. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 23rd, 2023 stand approved. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) STATED MEETING 8 3/2/2023

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that Journal is approved. And our next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of members of Council, there is a request for leave of absence from Member Vaughn.

The Chair thanks the gentleman. Leave shall be granted to Councilmember Vaughn. And at this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of the Council session today that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's session. Councilman Squilla. STATED MEETING 9 3/2/2023

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 action by Council that arose too late to be included in the STATED MEETING 10 3/2/2023 was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilman Squilla may be added to the agenda for today, should those matters arise during the course of this Council session. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the many distinguished visitors other than Representative Morgan Cephas, but thank you all for being here today. We really STATED MEETING 11 3/2/2023 to see how your money is going to be spent. That is one of the most important things that this legislative body can do, is to appropriate dollars in a way that's most meaningful to move the agenda forward, particularly for the citizens of the City of Philadelphia. So I would like to thank you so much for being here. At this time, our next order of business is communications, and I would ask the Clerk to please read the messages from the Mayor and any other messages that he may have in his possession.

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 1, 2023, I signed all of the bills which were passed by Council at its session on February 16, 2023, and that I signed all of the bills which were passed by Council at its session on February 23, 2023. And I am transmitting for the STATED MEETING 12 3/2/2023 body a resolution providing for the approval of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of a Revised Five Year Financial Plan for the City of Philadelphia covering Fiscal Years 2024 through 2028, and incorporating Revised changes with respect to Fiscal Year 2023, which is to be submitted by the Mayor to the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority; and An ordinance to adopt a Capital Program for the six Fiscal Years 2024 through 2029 inclusive; and An ordinance to adopt a Fiscal 2024 Capital Budget; and An ordinance adopting the Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2024; and An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Wage and Net Profits Tax," by revising certain tax rates; and An ordinance amending Chapter STATED MEETING 13 3/2/2023 19-2800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority Tax on Wages and Net Profits," to provide for the continuation of the tax and to make other conforming changes; and An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Income and Receipts Taxes," by revising certain tax rates; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2023 from the General Fund and the Grants Revenue Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, to the General Fund, the Hotel Room Rental Tax Fund and the Grants Revenue Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, all under certain terms and conditions.

Thank you, Mr. Decker. STATED MEETING 14 3/2/2023 And our next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. I would ask Mr. Decker to please read the title of the legislation that's being offered today by our members.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson offers two resolutions, a privileged resolution recognizing and supporting the accomplishments of women and girls throughout history on the occasion of Women's History Month.

Today's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution Honoring and Celebrating Representative Joanna E. McClinton, Esquire on her historic election as the first Black woman and first woman Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore STATED MEETING 15 3/2/2023 Richardson.

Thank you, Council President. Good morning, Council President and colleagues, and in the presence of our Chair of the Philadelphia delegation, State Representative Morgan Cephas, it is my absolute honor and privilege to introduce today's resolution honoring my friend, daughter of Southwest Philadelphia, lawyer, minister, glass-shattering, history-making first woman and first Black woman to serve as the Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, our Representative, Joanna Elizabeth McClinton, Esquire. (Applause.)

Speaker McClinton is no stranger to shattering glass ceilings. In fact, it's what she does best. In 2018, she became the first STATED MEETING 16 3/2/2023 woman and first African American elected to serve as House Democratic Caucus Chair. Two years later she made history yet again by becoming the first woman elected democratic leader of our State Legislature. And just last month she became Pennsylvania's first female Majority Leader. Since 2015, Speaker McClinton has served as a strong advocate, not only for the 191st Legislative District, but on behalf of all Pennsylvanians. Her journey to public service started long before she took elected office. As an attorney, she brought her talents to the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office, the Defender Association of Philadelphia, and later as Chief Counsel to State Senator Anthony Hardy Williams. I actually first met Rep McClinton during her days as a student at La Salle University in Councilmember Bass's district. STATED MEETING 17 3/2/2023 In addition to all that she has accomplished, I am truly excited about what that means for our great city. We know there is much work to do, and working with our partners in Harrisburg, including our new Appropriations Chair, Representative Jordan Harris, I know that we will get the job done. So, colleagues, please join me and my colleague Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who co-introduced this resolution with me, in congratulating State Representative Joanna Elizabeth McClinton, Esquire, the first woman to serve as Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Not only is this momentous occasion good for all of us, it is good for our city and the contributions she has made towards creating a brighter and more equitable future for all Pennsylvanians. We thank you, we appreciate you, and we congratulate you. Kudos. STATED MEETING 18 3/2/2023 (Applause.)

Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gauthier.

Thank you, Council President. I wanted to thank Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for the opportunity to co-introduce this resolution, and I wanted to offer my own personal congratulations to Speaker McClinton. It's hard to put into words the enormous sense of pride that is felt in West and Southwest Philadelphia in particular about her ascendance to the Speaker position, and I know that that's a sense of pride that also extends throughout the City and the State. And everywhere I'm looking, I see people congratulating Speaker McClinton, and I can feel how much people are inspired. STATED MEETING 19 3/2/2023 And I think the reason why there's been such an overjoyed reaction is because this is what it feels like when someone deserves the role and the title that they get, and there's no one more deserving of this than Speaker McClinton. She puts her whole heart into her work. She brings resources, badly needed resources, into our community, and she is a member of the community through and through. And I think we all feel so proud of her because we relate to her. And so I want to just offer my sincere congratulations. Thank you so much.

Thank you. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. STATED MEETING 20 3/2/2023 I just want to echo the sentiments in congratulating and honoring my little sister, now Madam Speaker Joanna McClinton, and it's truly significant that she not only broke a glass ceiling but also shifted the dynamics of how the body of Harrisburg, specifically the General Assembly, will operate moving forward. Being a former member of the State House of Representatives, it's critically important to be able to have a coalition across the state as it relates to advocating for the issues and concerns of the State of Pennsylvania as well as the City of Philadelphia, and Joanna McClinton has showed she's a worthy and, most importantly, exceptionally qualified leader within that area in making sure that she's bringing everybody together and advancing the State of Pennsylvania. So I know that our Philadelphia delegation chairwoman, who is sitting here as well, knows when you have elected STATED MEETING 21 3/2/2023 an African American woman to serve the State House in the State of Pennsylvania is truly a significant and, most importantly, a big deal. So I just wanted to also put my comments on the record. I'm truly proud of the young lady that Joanna McClinton has become, just watching her grow throughout this process from wanting to run for office to now becoming Madam Speaker in the General Assembly in the State of Pennsylvania. So I just want to personally say congratulations as well.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Driscoll.

Thank you, Mr. President. I want to welcome Morgan Cephas, Representative, our leader of the Philadelphia delegation, my former colleague, person I sat next to for a STATED MEETING 22 3/2/2023 full term. We are so proud of you being in the majority. My only regret on Tuesday was that I wasn't a member of the General Assembly. I would have nominated Joanna McClinton and I would have voted for her, because she's going to be a tremendous leader in the House of Representatives, and colleagues here in City Council, Philadelphia will be treated with respect. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)

Awesome. Look forward to that. Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. That will be on today's Calendar.

Councilman Thomas offers a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating Champions of the Week, the Julia R. Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School's Debate Team, on STATED MEETING 23 3/2/2023 their success in the 48th University of Pennsylvania Debate Tournament.

This week's Calendar.

Councilman Jones offers eight bills and three resolutions, entitled "An ordinance to adopt a Capital Program for the six Fiscal Years 2024 through 2029 inclusive." Also on behalf of Council President Clarke, an ordinance to adopt a Fiscal 2024 Capital Budget. An ordinance adopting the Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2024. An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Wage and Nets Profits Tax," by revising certain tax rates. An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority Tax on Wages and Net Profits," to provide for the continuation of the tax and make other STATED MEETING 24 3/2/2023 conforming changes. An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Income and Receipts Taxes," by revising certain tax rates; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2023 from the General Fund and the Grants Revenue Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions. And on his own behalf, Councilman Jones offers an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on both sides of Port Royal Avenue between Henry Avenue and Old Line Road. And on behalf of Council President Clarke...

Those eight bills will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And on behalf of STATED MEETING 25 3/2/2023 Council President Clarke, a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Housing Authority a deed conveying fee simple title to 800 West Cumberland Street located in the Fifth Councilmanic District.

Next week's Calendar.

And a non-privileged resolution providing for the approval of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of a Revised Five Year Financial Plan for the City of Philadelphia covering Fiscal Years 2024 through 2028.

Next week's Calendar.

And a non-privileged resolution condemning the acts of vandalism that took place at the Masjidullah Center for Human Excellence on February 24, 2023. STATED MEETING 26 3/2/2023 Mr. President, Councilman Jones would like to be recognized for a motion on this resolution.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of this resolution at today's session of Council. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The resolution passes. That shall be on this week's Calendar.

Councilman Johnson offers four resolutions, a STATED MEETING 27 3/2/2023 privileged resolution congratulating the Audenried High School Girls Basketball Team on winning the 2023 Public League Championship against Imhotep High School.

This week's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings regarding strategies to ignite business and job growth and to make Philadelphia a more economically competitive city.

This week's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing broadcasting pioneer Patty Jackson for her induction to the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame and congratulating Ms. Jackson for breaking new ground as the first female radio personality to be inducted to the Walk.

This STATED MEETING 28 3/2/2023 week's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution congratulating Shayla Smith, 15-year-old Audenried sophomore, for becoming the faster girls' basketball player to score 1,000 points in Public League history.

Also this week's Calendar.

Councilwoman Brooks offers a privileged resolution recognizing the work and contributions of lifelong nurse and labor organizer Patricia (Patty) Eakin, who built worker power for the benefit of Philadelphia nurses and patients and whose leadership and mentorship has inspired generations of activists and leaders in the City of Philadelphia.

This week's Calendar.

Councilman O'Neill offers, on behalf of Council President Clarke, a resolution STATED MEETING 29 3/2/2023 authorizing and ratifying Council President Clarke's appeal, on behalf of and as representative of City Council, of the decision of the Zoning Board of Adjustment with respect to 1451 North Broad Street.

Next week's Calendar.

Councilman Squilla offers four bills, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-1132 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Cashless Retail Prohibition,' by providing exemptions for airport retail establishments and gym membership fee payments"; and An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Morris Street and South 6th Street; Fernon Street and South 6th Street; South 7th Street and Wharton Street; Latona Street and South 12th Street; Ellsworth Street and South 12th Street; Broad Street and Dickinson Street; Annin Street STATED MEETING 30 3/2/2023 and South 7th Street; and An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Passyunk Avenue to Queen Street; Queen Street and South 5th Street; Washington Avenue to South Front Street; League Street and South Front Street; and An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Daly Street and South 8th Street; Emily Street and South 6th Street; McKean Street and South 6th Street to South 9th Street; Mifflin Street and South 7th Street; Warnock Street and McKean Street.

Those four bills will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Councilwoman Bass offers two bills and four resolutions, entitled "An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Erie Avenue and Sydenham Street"; and An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: STATED MEETING 31 3/2/2023 Lawrence Street and Rockland; Lindley Avenue and North 2nd Street.

Those two bills will be referred to committee.

And a privileged resolution honoring Myra Brown for being the first African American female to be designated to the position of Board Chair of Women's Way Organization, her exemplary work throughout the city of Philadelphia, and leadership among women.

Today's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring the Philadelphia Tennis Club for being the oldest Black-owned tennis club in the Country.

Today's Calendar.

And a non-privileged resolution renaming the 4300 block of Broad Street "Prince Hall Way." STATED MEETING 32 3/2/2023

Next week's Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring the Woodford Tennis Club for being the oldest Black tennis club in the state of Pennsylvania.

This week's Calendar.

There are no other bills or resolutions being offered today by the members, Mr. President.

Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. That concludes the introduction of bills and resolutions, and our next order of business is reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson for a report from the Committee on Rules.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports out five bills with a favorable recommendation. STATED MEETING 33 3/2/2023

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Mr. Decker, please read that report.

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 220941, entitled "An ordinance approving a new plan, estimated costs and proposed method of assessment of charges of the City Avenue Special Services District for and concerning business improvements and administrative services to portions of the City Avenue area of the City of Philadelphia and Township of Lower Merion"; and Bill No. 220973, 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 17th STATED MEETING 34 3/2/2023 Street, Indiana Avenue, Broad Street, and Glenwood Avenue"; and Bill No. 221015, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Finance, Taxes and Collections,' to incentivize Affordable Housing development by authorizing tax exemptions pursuant to the Affordable Housing Unit Tax Exemption Act"; and Bill No. 230001, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by defining and clarifying certain definitions"; and Bill No. 230034, 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 Haverford Avenue, 44th Street, Belmont Avenue, Girard Avenue, and 40th Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills STATED MEETING 35 3/2/2023 favorable recommendation.

Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 220941, 220973, 221015, 230001, and 230034. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 220941, 220973, 221015, 230001, and 230034. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? STATED MEETING 36 3/2/2023 (No response.)

The ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Law and Government reports one bill and one resolution with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.

The Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 230106, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia the proposal in a Resolution STATED MEETING 37 3/2/2023 amending The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter by establishing the Office of the Chief Public Safety Director to be responsible for ensuring public safety by coordinating the resources (personnel and employment, property, plant and equipment) within the departments of Police, Prisons, Recreation, and all other relevant City agencies; and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election"; and Resolution No. 230115, entitled a "Resolution proposing an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to establish the Office of the Chief Public Safety Director of the City of Philadelphia; providing for the method of appointment of the Chief Public Safety Director and defining their powers, duties, and areas of responsibility," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the STATED MEETING 38 3/2/2023 to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 230106. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 230106. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.) STATED MEETING 39 3/2/2023 2ND READING

The ayes have it. This will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution No. 230115 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. That concludes our reports from committee, and our next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had their first reading. They will be on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up resolutions and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today.

Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up from Second STATED MEETING 40 3/2/2023 Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 230040, 230071, 230072, 230135, 230136, 230138, 230139, 220244, 220736, and 220810. All other bills and resolutions are being held.

Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. Before considering the bills and resolutions, we will have our public comment. These are the guidelines established: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for possible action at today's Council session. All the speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already done so, you may do so at the table outside of the Chambers where the Sergeant-At-Arms will take your name. Once you've signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Today we will have three minutes to speak, but I STATED MEETING 41 3/2/2023 ask you to please adjust your testimony to reflect that three-minute limit. In order to be fair to all the speakers, we intend to hold faithfully to the established time limit. So when you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When that light turns green, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. And when the light turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to our guidelines and conclude your remarks. Once those three minutes have passed, we will ask you to discontinue and move on for the next speaker. We also reserve the right pursuant to the rules of Council to limit repetitious comment on the same subject matter. Mr. Decker, if you are prepared, please call the first name on the list. Again, thank you all for your STATED MEETING 42 3/2/2023 willingness to participate in the public comment today and participate in seeing your government in action. Mr. Decker.

The first speaker today, Mr. President, is Vicky Ung, commenting on Bill 220244. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning, everyone. I'm President of Vietnamese American community in Philadelphia. I would like to thank the City of Philadelphia for allowing our community to display the South Vietnam flag over the past several years. This simple but symbolic gesture should be continued. The South Vietnam flag is the identity of Vietnamese American community. Recognizing this can acknowledge the contribution and experience of nearly 16,000 Vietnamese American taxpayer. STATED MEETING 43 3/2/2023 This is the same flag that fly high in the Vietnamese American event throughout the Vietnamese business district, like on the 6th and Washington Avenue, at the Vietnam Veteran Memorial where it's paired with the U.S. flag, and everywhere else in the City. I'm the one that the treasurer, that do fundraising with Vietnamese. We raise over $80,000 for that Penn Landing, two flag there, the Vietnamese flag and American flag right there. Beside paying a tax and being a dutiful citizen, Vietnamese American have served in the U.S. Army, Navy, and also the Air Force. Our Vietnamese American people that live in this country, we honored to live here, and I think we should honor this fine Vietnamese American servicemen and our region by display the South Vietnam flag. Don't forget, 58,000 servicemen die in Vietnam and 1,600 are still missing in action in Vietnam. Let's STATED MEETING 44 3/2/2023 raise the yellow flag at the City Hall to pay the homage to the bravery and service of Vietnam veteran and raise awareness for those who still missing. We must not forget about them. During the Vietnam War, many Vietnamese Philadelphia fight along with U.S. servicemen. When the war ending, we all suffer. The people work with or know American people, we be in the prison and suffer many, many year under the communist they call reeducation camp, where they nearly starve to death. They were stripped to act as citizen and they change the way of life. The yellow flag symbolize where we come from and our fight for the free society. I am survivor of Vietnam War. For those survivor, the communist-risen officer red flag with yellow star in the middle elicits anger and profound sense of loss. I have here so many, so many story about the communist abuse, which STATED MEETING 45 3/2/2023 Vietnamese --

Ma'am, can you wrap it up.

So I urge you to pass the Bill 220244. Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.)

The next speaker is Le-Quyen Vu, commenting on 220244. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning, everyone. My name is Le-Quyen Vu. I am the Executive Director of the New Chinese American Council. I am here to offer my voice to represent all immigrants and refugee in Philadelphia. This bill is important because this bill was introduced as a result of STATED MEETING 46 3/2/2023 the rules of which flag and how flag is being raised at City Hall. The flag being raised at City Hall for some community in Philadelphia represent their struggle for freedom, their escape to America. Philadelphia is a city that is the birthplace of freedom. Philadelphia is the City of brotherhood. So I am asking all Councilmen to introduce -- to pass this bill, because this is the balance and it fix the rule that was broken. You are close to the people. You live among your constituent. This is what your constituent wants, and I urge you to please vote yes for this bill. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you for your testimony.

The next speaker STATED MEETING 47 3/2/2023 is Serge Shaliga.

Welcome. Please state your name for the record and begin your testimony. (Witness approached podium.)

Dear Councilmember, dear audience, my name is Serge Shaliga. I represent Belarusian American community of Philadelphia, Group Belarus Freedom Philadelphia, and Nationwide Organization Association of Belarusians in America. On March 25th, 1919, the Belarusian People Republic was percolating, and the white, red, white flag was established as the official flag of Belarus. After the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, the same flag became the official symbol of Belarusian independence and freedom. White, red, white flag of Belarus was the flag that President Bill Clinton waved along the American flag when he visited Belarus in STATED MEETING 48 3/2/2023 1994. I will show this picture. In Belarus, however, this symbol of freedom is forbidden under regime of Dictator Lukashenko. The use of this flag can threaten innocent Belarusians with years in prison. The current official red, green, white flag is the former flag of the Belarusian Soviet Socialist Republic and was re-established by the Dictator Lukashenko in 1995. This flag is a painful reminder of the oppression Belarusians were subjected to during the USSR and serious human rights abuse, persecution, furity (ph), and the murders of Belarusian opposition members and single activities by Lukashenko regime. Under this official red, green, white, red flag, Russian missiles are launched from the Belarusian territory to kill innocent Ukrainians. Therefore, I, Serge Shaliga, a representative of the Belarusian American community of Philadelphia, appealing to STATED MEETING 49 3/2/2023 City Council to pass Bill 220244, which would allow the City Council to authorize resolution the display of our historical Belarusian white, red, white flag. Thank you.

Thank you for your testimony. Mr. Decker.

The next speaker, Mr. Chairman, is Joe Tran, commenting on 220244.

Thank you. (Witness approached podium.)

Please state your name for the record and begin your testimony.

Joseph Tran. Thank you. Thank you, and good morning, Council President and members of the City Council. My name is Joseph Tran, current student and President of the Philadelphia student body and government of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and Board member of STATED MEETING 50 3/2/2023 the Vietnamese American community of Pennsylvania. I am grateful for the opportunity to be speaking here before this body representing both the Vietnamese American community of this Commonwealth and the City of Philadelphia in support of Bill No. 220244. The Vietnamese American community are people and children of immigrants, including myself, many of whom are refugees who have, like among many other groups throughout our nation's history, have come to call the United States our home in search of all the values all Americans hold dear, which is democracy, freedom, and opportunity. Today there are over two million Vietnamese Americans across the United States, with almost 45,000 in our state and over 14,000 who reside here in the City. I'm a first-generation Vietnamese American who is proud to call STATED MEETING 51 3/2/2023 Philly my home. Having been raised and living here my entire life, I am both grateful for the opportunity that both America and the City of Brotherly Love has given to my family and myself, a place that gave my father, who is President of the Vietnamese American community of Pennsylvania, the opportunity to pursue and practice medicine again and for me to follow in his footstep, being a student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine where I currently serve as Student Government President, representing our fine medical and graduate students. I come before you today again to ask for your support as our elected representatives to vote yes in this bill in order to codify a formal solution to recognize the Vietnamese American heritage flag as the flag of the Vietnamese American people and for the City to officially support this flag and STATED MEETING 52 3/2/2023 its raising as a symbol for our community and its people. This flag is more than a symbol of our people in diaspora. It is the embodiment of the values and struggles in the fight and name for freedom, equality, and democracy. But almost over 60,000 American troops have sacrificed and spilled their blood during the Vietnam War, values that are shared by us both as Americans and as free Vietnamese people. As a country and city that prides itself on diversity, equality, and democracy, I sincerely and humbly ask that this City Council simply recognize this fact for our people as one of many groups that make up our great city and great country. Thank you very much for your time.

Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.) STATED MEETING 53 3/2/2023

The next speaker is Nghi Vo, commenting on 220244. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. My name is Nghi Vo and I would like to give my comment to the Bill 220244. The Philadelphia flag raising event is held as a way the City government try to connect to various refugees and immigrant communities living in Philadelphia. We were very happy to come to the City to recognize our heritage, but last year Mayor Kenney borrow directly from the State Department to forbid any flag to be raised at the City flagpole if the flag is not recognized by the U.S. Department. My question to everyone here, if we cannot raise the flag we want, then what flag we should raise? Effectively Mayor Kenney tells STATED MEETING 54 3/2/2023 us that we have to show support the U.S. approved flag. That is the red flag of the communist government in Vietnam. We once were political refugees, and that is the reason why we are here today and why we have been admitted into this country. Mayor Kenney tells us that go through the City Hall and show affection and affiliations to the communist party. That is an irony and does not make any sense. The City flagpole is not a federal property. The flag raising event is not an event to honor any government delegates or any country. That event is to recognize the various community of immigrants and refugees into Philadelphia. Mayor Kenney should know that his (unintelligible) is deeply hurtful to our community. I would like to appeal to City Council to approve this Bill 220244 so we can decide how we want to represent. STATED MEETING 55 3/2/2023 There is a chance to offer petition that we have more than 1,500 persons sign to support this bill. Thank you for your time.

Thank you your testimony. (Applause.)

The next speaker is Ogbonna Hagins, commenting on 230139. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Great morning, everyone. Ogbonna Hagins, H-A-G-I-N-S. Of course I am in agreement with renaming the 4900 block of Walnut Street Paul L. Robeson Way. I would like to recite a quote by Paul Robeson. "You want to shut up every Negro who has the courage to stand up and fight for rights of workers, and I have been on many picket lines for the STATED MEETING 56 3/2/2023 steelworkers too." In some respects, at the same time that I agree with renaming the 4900 block of Walnut Street to Paul Robeson Way, I feel that the work of this body should also reflect what Paul Robeson was about. Robeson also said, "to be free to walk the good American earth as equal citizens, to live without fear, to enjoy the fruits of our toil, to give our children every opportunity in life. The dream which we have held so long in our hearts is today the destiny that we hold in our hands." Council, you have the ability to fulfill the works of Brother Robeson in Philadelphia by not going along to get along, not being selfish, and by fighting and lobbying for economic repair, other words -- otherwise known as reparations. Particularly in the Afro American community, it would make an incredible difference. Unfortunately, some of your STATED MEETING 57 3/2/2023 former colleagues have shown selfishness by resigning to run for Mayor, essentially gutting this body and making it a lame duck Council. Finally, Robeson fought for civil rights for Afro Americans. I ask you, are you fighting for the Afro American in this city? Are you fighting for reparations for Afro Americans in this city? Do you know that crime and violence is as a result of poverty? Alan Greenspan said that there is no debt that America cannot pay, because it prints money. Pay the debt that's due to the Afro American, and I guarantee you you'll see a reduction in the crime and violence in this city. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. Thank you for your testimony. STATED MEETING 58 3/2/2023

The next speaker is Lynn Landes, commenting on 210913. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. I'm Lynn Landes of protocolsfordemocracy.org. The current restriction on public comments to agenda items only is a violation of the public's First Amendment right to petition the government for redress of grievances as well as a violation of the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, which states quite clearly that City Council shall provide a reasonable opportunity for taxpayers to comment on matters of concern, official action, or deliberation which are or may be before the board or Council prior to taking official action. According to a 2015 decision of the U.S. District Court in Duff versus the City of Philadelphia, the main reason City Council is getting away with this STATED MEETING 59 3/2/2023 restriction is that they haven't actually enforced it. In the words of the court, quote, "The court finds the plaintiff has failed to state a claim upon which relief may be granted because plaintiff has been permitted to speak on non-agenda items at City Council meetings," unquote. If City Council's aim is to manage public comments in a reasonable manner, City Council can do that under the Sunshine Act, caselaw, and common sense. Clearly, the public comment period is not an opportunity for the public to talk about their favorite recipes, and it is reasonable to impose restrictions on the content of public comments for special hearings as well as during regularly scheduled City Council meetings and committee meetings when discussing specific bills or resolutions, but not for the entire duration of a regularly scheduled public meeting. STATED MEETING 60 3/2/2023 The Philadelphia School Board and other cities and towns do not impose this restriction on public comments for a good reason. It's an unfair suppression of our freedom to speak. In this City of Liberty, it is time to end this unconstitutional restriction that has done untold damage to the public's trust and to their human right to hear what their fellow citizens have to say about their own government at City Council meetings. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. Thank you for your testimony.

The next speaker is David Nixion, commenting on 220244. (No response.)

David Nixion? (No response.) STATED MEETING 61 3/2/2023

Not here.

The next speaker is Vince Feldman, commenting on 220244. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Thank you. Thank you. Good morning. I'm Vince Feldman. I'm President of the Pennsylvania Chapter of Children's Health Defense, and I wanted to speak to a very important matter of concern that has been before this Council on this Council's agenda, and that is the limiting of speech in this Chamber. President Clarke, let us not travel further from democracy. Your legacy of keeping the Chamber shuttered to in-person meetings six months after every major municipality in the nation had reopened must be examined in this context. You cannot be a politician and also be anthrophobic. STATED MEETING 62 3/2/2023 I've been told that some of the members by a former Councilmember of this Council enjoy the digital intermediation that Google Meets provided because of the insulation to the public it gave, and I think that's a shame. I'm heartened to see that the galleries are now open today, and I hope other restrictions that are being made that --

Excuse me, sir. Are you talking about the flag raising?

I'm not.

So you're supposed to, according to your testimony, talk about flag raising.

Right. I'm talking exactly about that issue of being restricted in my speech.

That has nothing to do with raising the flag.

But if you would like to stop me because I'm not speaking STATED MEETING 63 3/2/2023 of that, I believe you'd be restricting my speech.

Okay. I'm just telling you. Based on what you put down, that you were going to speak about -

And I look forward to Ms. Landes who -

No. I hear you. I'm just saying, we had this conversation last week about people going beyond the guidelines, but go ahead, because we have to -- we have to -

I'm speaking as a grievance against that requirement that we speak to a very specific issue. This is a public --

That's fine, but I'm saying the guidelines in here say you have to speak until we change the guidelines. That's fine, sir. Go ahead, continue your speech.

It's a matter of STATED MEETING 64 3/2/2023 concern that is limiting the speech in this Chamber, and so that I'm concerned. I'm glad -- I'm heartened to see that the galleries are open today, and I hope that continues to be -- these restrictions be lifted, because a lot of them or most of them are bereft of science, this being a good example. The attempts to muzzle speech must not be a part of this government. There have only been disastrous outcomes when censorship has been allowed to take root. Do not violate the Constitution of the state and of the nation in a vain attempt to stifle speech in this Chamber. I call on Councilmembers and the residents of this city to not support public officials who want to move away from light and towards darkness. Thank you very much.

Thank you for your speech. (Applause.) STATED MEETING 65 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.

Thank you, Mr. Decker. And, again, thank you all for your public comment and your willingness to participate in today's Council session. We will now consider the bills and the resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, if you can, please read the title of 230040.

A resolution honoring the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated on the occasion of their 92nd North Atlantic Regional Conference, and declaring March 9, 2023 as "Alpha Kappa Alpha Day" in the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson. STATED MEETING 66 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Resolution No. 230040 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that the Resolution No. 230040 be withdrawn. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. Resolution 230040 has been withdrawn. Mr. Decker, read the title of Resolution No. 230071.

A resolution honoring the Philadelphia Tennis Club for being the second oldest Black-owned tennis club in the Country.

The STATED MEETING 67 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Resolution No. 230071 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that Resolution No. 230071 be withdrawn. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. Resolution No. 230071 has been withdrawn. Mr. Decker, 230072.

A resolution honoring the Woodford Tennis Club for being the oldest Black-owned tennis club in the country.

The STATED MEETING 68 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Resolution No. 230072 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 230072 be withdrawn. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

230072 has been withdrawn. Mr. Decker, 230135.

A resolution also naming North 41st Street between Parkside Avenue and South Concourse Drive as "Barbara Daniel Cox Way," in honor of the late Barbara Daniel Cox, organizer of the Black Family Reunion. STATED MEETING 69 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. Just briefly, for those of you who knew Barbara Daniel Cox, right next to the Webster definition of a boss was her picture. She was assertive before it was fashionable for women to raise their voice. She raised her voice and always provided a guiding path for young administrators to harken to. Her level of inspection and insistence upon perfection was second to none, and I am so very thankful to have that type of example in my life and hundreds of others that have experienced her guidance. With that, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. STATED MEETING 70 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, 230136.

A resolution also naming the 5900 Block of Media Street as "James Rice Way", in honor of James Rice, the owner of Rice's Barbershop, which has served the Carroll Park neighborhood of Philadelphia since 1951.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying STATED MEETING 71 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Resolution No. 230138.

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 1728 Federal Street, 1213 South Bonsall Street, 2114 Manton Street, 1303 South 23rd Street and 1148 South Cleveland Street in the Second Councilmanic District.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the STATED MEETING 72 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, 230139.

A resolution renaming the 4900 block of Walnut Street "Paul L. Robeson Way" to honor the life and legacy of Paul Leroy Robeson, Esquire, Actor, Singer, Athlete, Lawyer, Author, Activist, Scholar, Linguist and American Hero. Recognizing and honoring Philadelphia's Paul Leroy Robeson, on his 125th birthday and his exemplary service to the world with special acknowledgment STATED MEETING 73 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING of his leadership in civil rights, sports, and the arts.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gauthier.

Thank you, Council President. Before I move for the adoption of the resolution, I'd like to say a few words about it. Naming the 4900 block of Walnut Street after Paul Leroy Robeson is my immense privilege. Paul Robeson is and was truly a renaissance man. This actor, singer, athlete, lawyer, author, activist, scholar, and linguist paved the way for Black artists across almost every medium. His signature song, Ol' Man River, remains one of the top show tunes in American history. He shattered the glass ceiling as the first African American to play Othello on Broadway. He became a staple of the silver screen both in Hollywood and here in Philadelphia. And this only STATED MEETING 74 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING scratches the surface of what Paul Robeson achieved during his lifetime. But rather than using his success to avoid the struggles plaguing our country and our people during his lifetime, Paul Robeson used his platform to stand up for oppressed communities and people, and the United States government rewarded Paul Robeson for his activism by branding him a communist sympathizer and throwing him in front of the U.S. House Un-American Activities Committee, resulting in his art becoming banned from public consumption. So today we push back on that injustice by recognizing Paul Robeson for what he truly is, an American hero whose groundbreaking legacy still inspires Black children in Philadelphia and across the world 125 years after he was born. And so with that, Council President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) STATED MEETING 75 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 220244.

An ordinance amending Title 21 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Miscellaneous," by adding a new Chapter 21-3300, entitled "Flag Raisings," to establish uniform standards for flag raising ceremonies.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll. STATED MEETING 76 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye.

Councilman Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman STATED MEETING 77 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker -(Applause.) STATED MEETING 78 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 220736.

An ordinance amending Section 21-1203 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Appointments to Citizens Police Oversight Commission," by revising prohibited activities for Commissioners.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye. STATED MEETING 79 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye.

Councilman Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman STATED MEETING 80 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 220810.

An ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner to enter into agreements to purchase electricity, natural gas and motor fuel for use by the City in City facilities and vehicles, including agreements that obligate payment for delivery of such energy supplies in future fiscal years.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill STATED MEETING 81 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye.

Councilman Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones. STATED MEETING 82 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, do you have STATED MEETING 83 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING additional resolutions?

A resolution recognizing and supporting the accomplishments of women and girls throughout history on the occasion of Women's History Month, introduced today by Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. STATED MEETING 84 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

And a resolution honoring and celebrating Representative Joanna E. McClinton, Esquire on her historic election as the first Black woman and first woman Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, introduced today by Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Mr. President. I enthusiastically move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and enthusiastically properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.) STATED MEETING 85 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

The ayes have it. The motion carries.

And a resolution honoring and congratulating Champions of the Week, the Julia R. Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School's Debate Team, on their success in the 48th University of Pennsylvania Debate Tournament, introduced today by Councilman Thomas.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Thomas.

Thank you, Council President. Thank you for your support, colleagues. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) STATED MEETING 86 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries.

And a resolution condemning the acts of vandalism that took place at the Masjidullah Center for Human Excellence on February 24, 2023, and honoring the officers of the 14th Police District for apprehending the suspect, and further declaring there shall be No Hate in Our State, introduced today by Councilman Jones and Councilman Phillips.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

In conjunction with my colleague Councilman Phillips, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying STATED MEETING 87 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries.

And a resolution congratulating the Audenried High School Girls Basketball Team on winning the 2023 Public League Championship against Imhotep High School, introduced today by Councilman Johnson.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Thomas.

Before Councilman Johnson makes a motion on that, I just wanted to first thank him for being the leader on that. I just wanted to also acknowledge all of the folks who made Saturday's event a huge success. I know we have our Superintendent here as well as our School STATED MEETING 88 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Board President. It was an amazing event, an amazing atmosphere. The sisters and the brothers were absolutely amazing, and I just wanted to put that on the record before Councilmember Johnson made a motion.

Thank you.

Thank you, Council President.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. I make a motion -- I make a motion for adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) STATED MEETING 89 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries.

And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings regarding strategies to ignite business and job growth and to make Philadelphia a more economically competitive city, introduced today by Councilman Johnson.

The Chair again recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. I make a motion to move the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) STATED MEETING 90 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries.

And a resolution honoring and recognizing broadcasting pioneer Patty Jackson for her induction to the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame and congratulating Ms. Jackson for breaking new ground as the first female radio personality to be inducted to the Walk, introduced today by Councilman Johnson.

The Chair again recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying STATED MEETING 91 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries.

And a resolution congratulating Shayla Smith, 15-year-old Audenried sophomore, for becoming the fastest girls' basketball player to score 1,000 points in Public League history, introduced today by Councilman Johnson.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) STATED MEETING 92 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries.

And a resolution recognizing the work and contributions of lifelong nurse and labor organizer Patricia (Patty) Eakin, who built worker power for the benefit of Philadelphia nurses and patients and whose leadership and mentorship has inspired generations of activists and leaders in the City of Philadelphia, introduced today by Councilwoman Brooks.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brooks.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying STATED MEETING 93 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries.

And a resolution honoring Myra Brown for being the first African American female to be designated to the position of Board Chair of Women's Way Organization, her exemplary work throughout the city of Philadelphia, and leadership among women, introduced today by Councilwoman Bass.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Well, thank you, Mr. President. I wanted to just take a brief moment before I call for the adoption of the resolution, because I really wanted to make sure that people knew and understood what a very special person STATED MEETING 94 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING that Myra Brown is and all that she's done here in the City of Philadelphia for its citizens. And, you know, in the title of the resolution, we acknowledge Myra for being the Board Chair, the first African American woman Board Chair of Women's Way, which is incredibly significant. It's a huge organization that does a lot of work around women's issues and has been around for a very long time. And so for us to just have a woman of color, an African American woman, leading that organization, I think it's incredibly significant. And I'm going to ask Myra to just stand, if she would. (Applause.)

And it's an organization dedicated to the advancement of women, girls, and gender and racial equity. She has also been an STATED MEETING 95 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING instrumental Board member on the Board of Directors for organizations like Philly Girls Rock -- or Girls Rock Philly, the AIDS Law Project of Philadelphia, and the Philadelphia International Airport Capacity Enhancement Project. Myra was named in 2019 Woman of and Minority Business Leader of the Year by the Philadelphia Business Journal, and as Chief Executive of NWON Opportunities, she provides work readiness and career preparedness workshops and training to jobseekers. NWON also helps businesses meet their staffing needs while businesses -- building a skilled workforce. And the one thing that's not mentioned here that really is near and dear to my heart is the work that Myra does with the Nicetown-Tioga Library. And so we've had a wonderful program that Myra and I put together over at Nicetown-Tioga Library to make sure that there was job readiness and skills being STATED MEETING 96 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING offered at that library two days a week. They're there all day. And they're really having an incredible impact and having folks come in, get the training, and get very high-paying jobs. And so we hope -- Myra, stand back up. We hope that we would be able to have some comments, but I'm going to ask David to stand up with her. David is a young man that Myra recruited from the neighborhood, who is now working with NWON and who is moving forward in his career, and one of those high-paying jobseekers who is now fully employed and just has a wonderful future ahead of him. And when we just give people a chance, it makes all the difference in the world. So thank you to Myra, and I am honored -(Applause.)

I am STATED MEETING 97 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING honored to call for the adoption of this resolution, Mr. President. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.

And a resolution honoring the Philadelphia Tennis Club for being the oldest Black-owned tennis club in the Country, introduced today by Councilwoman Bass.

The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption STATED MEETING 98 3/2/2023 3/2/23 - STATED - 2ND READING of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.

And a resolution honoring the Woodford Tennis Club for being the oldest Black tennis club in the state of Pennsylvania, introduced today by Councilwoman Bass.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) STATED MEETING 99 3/2/2023

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.

There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President.

Thank you very much. It is now that time. Okay. Folks, it is that time. The time has come to consider the Mayor's presentation of his annual budget. The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter states that the Mayor shall submit to Council, no later than 90 days before the end of the fiscal year, his STATED MEETING 100 3/2/2023 and proposed operating budget ordinance for the ensuing fiscal year. At the same time, the Mayor shall submit to Council the recommended capital program and the capital budget as received from the City Planning Commission, to the extent approved by the Mayor. I now appoint the following committee to escort the Mayor into the Council Chambers: Councilman Jones, Councilman Squilla, Councilwoman Bass, and Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson. (Brief pause.)

Council President, the Mayor has arrived.

Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen, I'm pleased to introduce the Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, Mayor James F. Kenney. STATED MEETING 101 3/2/2023 (Applause.)

Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Welcome back.

Thank you. It's been a while. Before I start, I want to acknowledge the presence of one of our great State Representatives, Morgan Cephas. I was told she was here. There she is. Thank you. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thanks for all your hard work. You really do us proud. So thank you. I appreciate it. And really happy about our new Speaker. Isn't that wonderful? So good morning, everybody, and let me begin by thanking Council President Darrell Clarke and members of City Council for the invitation to speak STATED MEETING 102 3/2/2023 happy to be back in this Chamber as we kick off the annual process of creating our city's budget. The last time I gave this speech in person was March 5th, 2020. Only 17 days later, COVID-19 shut down our city and changed our lives dramatically. Looking around me this morning and thinking about the uncertainty and the seismic sudden changes we have navigated together since 2020, I am overwhelmed with admiration for our city, its residents, and public servants and my fellow City leaders. We have lived and led through history. Together we have navigated and continue to lead our city through a global pandemic, a nationwide reckoning on racial injustice, and a national crisis of gun violence that is causing heartbreak and pain for too many families and communities across Philadelphia. STATED MEETING 103 3/2/2023 to working with this esteemed body of elected leaders to adopt a budget that reflects our commitments to equity and progress, and prioritizes sustainability and fiscal stability so that our city is ready for any changes and all the opportunities that the future holds. I also want to take this moment to recognize and thank Council President Clarke, who has served in this role for the entirety of our Administration and has been a valued colleague for much longer than that. Darrell and I spent a lot of time after I was elected envisioning what we could accomplish during our time in office. So I want to give him a round of applause. He deserves it. (Applause.)

Things like STATED MEETING 104 3/2/2023 better funding for public education, affordable housing, and new jobs. I am so proud of what we've achieved, and thank you very much, Mr. President. Together with all our City Council, we will build on our success and finish with energy, momentum, and a strong foundation for our city's next chapter. As we begin the budget process, I want to acknowledge the months of work already completed before today. Our vision for the final budget of this Administration is to make investments that provide quality services and infrastructure for residents, maintain the City's fiscal health, reduce racial disparities, and achieve equitable outcomes. We have asked City departments to ensure that their budget proposals are designed with racial equity as a guiding principle, and we have continued to STATED MEETING 105 3/2/2023 process to include more voices and more input from a diverse group of employees and residents. This budget cycle we held 15 community focus groups with residents, six sessions with local organizations across many sectors, and five employee focus groups. This process revealed that we all agree on what's important to our shared future: education, public safety, racial equity and alleviation of poverty, housing, and quality and accessible services and infrastructure. These priorities reflect our concern for each other. They are our city's values, and I couldn't be more honored to be this city's mayor. I am confident that together we can pass a budget we can all be proud of. As we entered 2023, I reaffirmed our commitment to the priorities that have guided me since the beginning of our first term. These STATED MEETING 106 3/2/2023 education for all, a safer and more just Philadelphia, thriving neighborhoods, and inclusive growth and economic opportunity. We have made progress in each of these areas, but there is still urgent work left to do, and this budget features new and immediate investments that will bring more opportunities, supports, and services to all Philadelphians. Seven years ago I told City Council that together we could expand quality pre-K, create community schools, invest in our public spaces, and help small businesses. We took on corporate interests to pass the beverage tax, and as a result, today there are more than 13,000 children who have attended free, quality pre-K funded by the City. (Applause.)

And now, partly STATED MEETING 107 3/2/2023 Clarke's urging, and now 10,000 students and their families are benefiting for expanded activities at community schools. We didn't stop there. From the Catto Scholarship to the PHLConnectEd, we've prioritized education during our second term as well. Providing our children with high-quality services and opportunities from infancy to adulthood is still the absolute best thing that we can do for them and for our city. We have made historic commitments to public education over the last two terms, totalling over $1.68 billion in new revenue. Our partnership has helped the School District establish new fiscal stability. They've achieved an investment-grade bond rating, and their projected fund balance at the end of this fiscal year is an impressive 591 million. Different from the old days when I first STATED MEETING 108 3/2/2023 This year we will follow through on our commitments to fund public schools and invest $1.4 billion in the School District over the life of the Five Year Plan, in addition to the local tax revenues that support the District. Our proposed budget for FY24 includes a $282 million contribution to the District. That's 171 percent higher than it was the year before my first term. In my 2020 budget address, I announced our plans to create a City scholarship for the Community College of Philadelphia, and despite the financial uncertainty brought on by the pandemic, we followed through and established the Octavius Catto Scholarship that year. To date, over 1,400 Catto Scholars have received tuition-free enrollment, funds for basic needs, and wraparound support services. I am proud that we held firm on this commitment, STATED MEETING 109 3/2/2023 has been vital for many students' recovery from the pandemic and their plans for the future. Here are just a few stories: Tabatha Bywater works full-time in the Jefferson Health radiology department while raising twins. She is a Catto Scholar studying healthcare so she can advance in her field. Tabatha says, quote, "This scholarship has given me the opportunity to finally be able to reach the goals I have not only set for myself, but for my growing family. Thank you for granting me this wonderful opportunity and thank you for being just as invested in my future as I am." Norma Nicholas is a 40-year-old Catto Scholar and an immigrant to the U.S. She says the scholarship has given her the opportunity to show her children that anything is possible. She earned her GED last year, and is studying healthcare in hopes of STATED MEETING 110 3/2/2023 She says, quote, "I am going to take advantage of this chance to be a good role model for my family, to work hard, and to fulfill my potential." Another scholar, Christina Tsan, is her parents' oldest child, and says she felt like, quote, a million bucks, when she told them she could go to college for free. The scholarship turned her dream of getting a debt-free college education into a tangible reality. Christina is here today. Christina, thank you for sharing your story. We are all incredibly proud of you and your classmates. Could you please stand. (Applause.)

Hearing these stories makes me feel like a million bucks. The Catto Scholarship makes dreams possible, not just for individual STATED MEETING 111 3/2/2023 students, but for their families as well. To meet the increasing demand for this anti-poverty initiative and prepare more Philadelphians for the academic and professional success they dream of, the proposed budget will dedicate $11.6 million to Catto Scholarships in FY24. We will also invest a total of more than $270 million in our city's Community College through FY28 to ensure this vital institution remains accessible and affordable, while offering the quality educational opportunities that Philadelphians need for post-secondary success. And for our youngest learners, this year's budget will create 950 new PHLpreK seats in FY24, bringing the program's size to 5,250 seats total. That's over 5,000 children -it's more than the number of freshman students at Temple -- attending City-funded pre-K each year. STATED MEETING 112 3/2/2023 proud of what this program has accomplished in just six years, serving more than 13,000 children, funding diverse neighborhood businesses, expanding the number of quality pre-K seats citywide, and creating opportunities for caregivers to find employment, work additional hours to save for their families, or even go to school themselves. Most importantly, it's giving children the quality early education that they surely deserve, which prepares them for early literacy and academic success. When we make investments in education, especially in the youngest learners, we're investing in a process that takes longer than an election cycle to prove its full potential. But the wait is worth it. We recently heard from one of our first PHLpreK families. Diana's son Mason attended pre-K at Prodigy Learning Center, which is one of the first pre-K STATED MEETING 113 3/2/2023 with when PHLpreK started in 2017. The PHLpreK program allowed Diana to send her youngest son to a pre-K center she trusted without worrying about the financial burden of his tuition. Because Mason was enrolled in a safe and enriching environment during the day, Diana was able to earn her Bachelor's degree in 2017 and her MBA in 2018. She also earned a Master of Education in 2020, and now works for the Defender Association of Philadelphia. (Applause.)

Today, Mason is in the 4th grade and earning outstanding grades, which his mom credits to his excellent pre-K experience. Diana also thanks the PHLpreK program for supporting Mason to grow emotionally and facilitating a strong partnership between her and her son's STATED MEETING 114 3/2/2023 the incredible story of just one pre-K family. With the expansion proposed in this budget, more than 18,000 children will have attended PHLpreK by the end of our term. This is an extraordinary accomplishment for our city. Establishing and expanding this program is the highlight of my career, and I look forward to its continued success in the years to come. While we continue to invest in places of learning, it is just as important that we invest in the places where our residents live. Rebuild is an historic investment in public spaces, transforming rec centers, libraries, and playgrounds that have languished for far too long. With the program now in high gear, we are committing $47.5 million of combined new borrowing and operational support for Rebuild in FY24. STATED MEETING 115 3/2/2023 us reach our goal of 80 percent of low-income households living within a mile of a recently renovated public space by the end of the calendar year. We have over 20 groundbreakings and at least 15 ribbon-cuttings planned in 2023. And let me be clear, because I think there is some confusion in the press. We have doubled down on our commitment to Rebuild even in the face of the sector-wide cost increases. We are dedicating all the dollars needed to bring 72 sites to world-class standards that we and the City Council have promised our communities, and we remain dedicated to working with community members to ensure that their vision is reflected in every project. Rebuild is a win-win program that transforms lives as well as facilities, by offering support and opportunities for underrepresented STATED MEETING 116 3/2/2023 The construction projects have a minority and women-owned business participation rate of more than 65 percent. (Applause.)

And we will make sure those spaces are consistently available to the public by committing $14 million over five years to make sure every library branch has the staff it needs to provide residents with dependable five-day service, with an additional $37 million committed to expanding service at all branches back to six days per week. (Applause.)

Just last weekend, we hit an important milestone as ten neighborhood branches reopened for STATED MEETING 117 3/2/2023 new funds from the budget we passed together last year, I am so proud that our Parks and Rec team has been able to open 66 recreation centers on the weekends, with all rec centers being open on the weekends by the end of 2023. And in this budget we have added another $1.7 million in Parks and Rec inclusion plan, which ensures that facilities are more accessible and welcoming to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. We will also sustain our investments in arts and culture, which over seven years have funded 700 free, family-friendly cultural events in Philadelphia neighborhoods, prioritizing low-income zip codes. We are proud of the number of public art projects in neighborhoods and the increased diversity in the stories being told through public art. STATED MEETING 118 3/2/2023 forward to working with Council to support the African American Museum in Philadelphia as they prepare to move to 18th and Vine, where they belong. I am very excited for their incredible collection and programs to join our other iconic institutions along the Parkway. This is important. It's really important. I'm pleased -(Applause.)

I am pleased that our continued focus on reliable City services is working. Our on-time trash pick-up is at the highest consistent rate in almost a decade, and in 2022, the new street sweeping program cleaned more than 16,000 miles of street, a distance equivalent to traveling two-thirds around the way of the globe. The program also removed almost 800 tons of debris in high need STATED MEETING 119 3/2/2023 City. In this budget, we are making new investments in sanitation services, including a $2.5 million investment to expand street sweeping and $4 million for the creation of another crew to address the challenges presented by illegal dumping in neighborhoods across the City. (Applause.)

And I want to introduce some of the newest members of the Streets Department over here with us today. Our first cohort of Public Safety Enforcement Officers started with the City on Monday. They are the first civilian City employees to provide official support for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. You will see them working during peak traffic times to address congestion, promote safety, and help our STATED MEETING 120 3/2/2023 travel the City more easily. It takes dedicated, skilled people to deliver the services I've mentioned and reach the goals that we have set for the budget process. And just like many other employers, one of the greatest challenges we've faced after the pandemic is hiring and retaining workers. To make sure we are doing all we can to help departments hire the workers they need, the FY24 budget will provide an additional $1.9 million to the Office of Human Services to support improvements to the way we recruit and hire. I want to thank City Council for their support with this urgent issue facing the City, which includes creating a Special Committee on Retention and Recruitment of Municipal Workers. As this group convenes and as we work together to pass a budget, we STATED MEETING 121 3/2/2023 we are prioritizing the needs of City workers, current and future. Our first goal with this work will be to ensure that the lowest paid City workers are paid enough to sustain their family's needs. We've also made commitments in this budget to fund our labor agreements. Public service does not need to be a sacrifice. All workers should be able to live here comfortably, with benefits that support them and their families. While poverty in Philadelphia is at a 15-year low, we know that economic hardship and the overall cost of living are urgent challenges for far too many residents citywide. One way we are addressing this is advancing our commitment to racial equity, establishing a $5 million fund in FY24 to clear criminal justice-related debts that create barriers to employment and opportunity. STATED MEETING 122 3/2/2023 (Applause.)

We want to support, not penalize, people who are taking the right steps to keep their lives on track. The Five Year Plan will also expand on our collective commitment to affordable housing, housing stability, and housing opportunities for people experiencing homelessness. We are investing $29 million over five years into eviction prevention, including expanding the Right to Counsel program which guarantees free legal assistance with eviction proceedings for low-income residents in the zip codes most affected by evictions. We all agree that any homelessness is too much homelessness, and I'm glad to report that our housing-first approach in Philadelphia is making significant strides. STATED MEETING 123 3/2/2023 prevention and rapid rehousing efforts have reduced homelessness by 22 percent in the last five years, and family homelessness has been reduced by an incredible 42 percent. Our efforts won't end there. We are investing $6.7 million over five years to create 100 new supportive housing units for people who are chronically homeless. (Applause.)

And we know that this model is 90 percent successful in preventing a return to homelessness. We are also committing $3.2 million over five years to operate Sanctuary Village, which will be Philadelphia's first tiny home community. And we are committed to sustaining the Kensington-focused Encampment Resolution Team, which makes daily contact with people experiencing STATED MEETING 124 3/2/2023 homelessness, offers connections to treatment, housing and services, and responds to neighborhood concerns. Thanks to funding from the national opioid settlement, we are investing in community-driven planning and solutions in Kensington. We are also using the funds to address the overdose crisis with expanded outreach and engagement, and reduced barriers to treatment through mobile supports. Ensuring thriving neighborhoods across the City also requires us to plan ahead and invest now to prepare for a warmer and wetter climate. To that end, the FY24 budget includes $20 million of new borrowing and operating support for the planned transformation of FDR Park, which is the first park plan in Philadelphia's history to incorporate climate change projections. FDR Park is a welcoming space STATED MEETING 125 3/2/2023 underserved communities, and a sanctuary for local wildlife. The plan will address frequent and future flooding so that this historic park is accessible and preserved for generations to come. (Applause.)

We know that climate change presents an elevated threat to communities of color in Philadelphia, and this is in part due to the centuries of systemic racism that have shaped our city's neighborhoods and infrastructure. To confront this, last year we established the Philadelphia Environmental Justice Advisory Commission to engage residents in the process of fixing historic injustices and building resiliency for the future. The Five Year Plan will provide $1 million over five years to fund the STATED MEETING 126 3/2/2023 direct funding to communities working to address this goal. The FY24 budget also includes $22 million across 12 departments to maximize the historic opportunity presented by the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is already yielding results and bringing transformative opportunities to Philadelphia communities. To date, the City has won more than $136 million in five major competitive BIL grants, in addition to $450 million expected in surface transportation formula funds. While we make plans for our city's future, we are ever-mindful of the urgent crises facing us today. The challenges of the pandemic have precipitated an alarming rise in gun violence across the nation and here in Philadelphia as well. I know that ending this crisis is an urgent and personal priority for STATED MEETING 127 3/2/2023 in this room. And there is no higher priority for our Administration. Public safety is a pre-condition for every single one of our goals. Last year we announced a record investment in gun violence with your help, and this year's $233 million budget will keep up the momentum as we roll out this year's public safety and criminal justice investment. This includes $50 million for a new forensic lab and another $14.7 million over five years for new forensic specialists. (Applause.)

We are also committing $9.2 million over five years to Operation Pinpoint, which deploys additional police resources to the places where violent crimes occur the most. Operation Pinpoint carried out STATED MEETING 128 3/2/2023 in four areas across the City at the end of 2022. We know hiring is crucial to our success here, and the Five Year Plan invests a million dollars in recruitment for the Police Department with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. In FY24, we will work to further reduce shootings by continuing to partner with the Civic Coalition to Save Lives, and I am pleased to announce the latest development in this partnership, which is that we will soon welcome Estelle Richman as the Managing Director's Senior Advisor for Gun Violence Intervention. (Applause.)

Drawing on her years of public leadership and service to the City and State, Estelle will work closely with the dedicated teams of City staff and community leaders who are STATED MEETING 129 3/2/2023 every day. Together, we will continue to expand ongoing efforts to intervene with individuals at the very highest risk of being involved in gun violence, and strengthen the coordination to keep these individuals alive. One of the key proposals in this effort is the Group Violence Intervention, or GVI. Earlier this week we shared a promising evaluation of this nationally recognized model, which lowered the average rate of weekly shootings by up to 50 percent among participating groups here in Philadelphia. We are making new investments in the program with this budget by allocating an additional $1.4 million in stipends to encourage participation. And we are investing in a Youth Leader Program run by the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, which will bring conflict resolution training to STATED MEETING 130 3/2/2023 (Applause.)

We will continue to partner with the School District to prioritize student safety so children feel safe and welcome in places of learning, show up every day, and access all the services and academic opportunities that their schools offer. Our collective attention to this crisis is making a difference. I am grateful for the support of City Council, our police officers and partners in public safety, and the many departments and agencies working around the clock to prevent violent crime through proven interventions and community investment. Their work is literally saving lives. (Applause.) STATED MEETING 131 3/2/2023

They know, and I know, that we can't move fast enough on this issue. So we will continue to invest in the strategies that are working to accelerate their impact. And we will continue to call on some state legislators to help us address the reckless availability of firearms in our city. It is unacceptable for lawmakers in Harrisburg to keep us from saving the lives of our own residents. The common denominator in every fatal shooting is a weapon, and we need to be able to adopt gun policies that are saving lives in other states and other cities. With every challenge that we face together, I remain confident that this city will prevail. Looking back on our recovery from the pandemic, I am more optimistic than ever about Philadelphia's growth and the opportunities we can create for our STATED MEETING 132 3/2/2023 generations. Three years ago, our city came to a standstill and this government pivoted to address an unprecedented crisis affecting every single person in Philadelphia. We knew our city's resilience would see us through, but we didn't know when. Today, children are back in school, Center City's comeback is national news, airport travel is up more than 25 percent compared to last year, and new businesses are opening, arriving, and expanding here with the same pluck and innovation that our city has known since its founding. (Applause.)

Last year we announced that Chubb, one of the world's largest insurance companies, will build and open a new Philadelphia office in 2026, creating the company's largest STATED MEETING 133 3/2/2023 America as well as 1,250 new jobs. Philadelphia will have yet another chance to shine on the world stage as a 2026 World Cup host city. (Applause.)

These opportunities are a testament to the work that we have done to support business, startups, and commercial corridors while fostering equity and inclusion. Philadelphia is a world-class city, and everyone is welcome to live, work, and play here. This budget will sustain our commitments to inclusive growth by further lowering business and wage taxes, which are already the lowest they've been in decades. We are also continuing to support the Quality Jobs Initiative Program, which will provide grants to STATED MEETING 134 3/2/2023 new, quality jobs accessible to all Philadelphians. I think we can all agree that an accessible, safe, and reliable transit system is essential to growth and equity in any major city. Our budget includes two major investments that will reduce the burden of transit costs on Philadelphia families and promote SEPTA ridership. By bringing more riders into the system, we can build an even stronger, faster, and safer system for everyone and reduce emissions in our region. Over the next two years, we will commit $62 million to pilot a zero-fare transit program that will serve at least 25,000 Philadelphia residents who are near or below the poverty level. (Applause.)

This means much STATED MEETING 135 3/2/2023 free trip. In a recent community needs assessment, 39 percent of residents in poverty cited transportation as their biggest obstacle to finding and sustaining employment. The zero-fare transit program will make it easier for low-income residents to get to work and access all of our opportunities that our city has to offer. In addition, the City will invest $9 million per year to join other large employers in the region participating in the SEPTA Key Advantage program. Working with our labor partners, we will provide free transit to all City employees. (Applause.)

This two-year pilot is an opportunity to boost the City's hiring and retention efforts, and STATED MEETING 136 3/2/2023 goals of sustainability, traffic safety, and equity as well. SEPTA's system is rebuilding ridership back to pre-pandemic levels, and we are optimistic that these investments will help the agency sustain and improve the critical services that so many Philadelphians rely on. While Philadelphia's economy is on a good path, we know that global factors are driving fluctuations beyond our immediate control. The Five Year Plan takes into account the impact of inflation, not just on households but also on operating departments, and we will remain committed to the City's financial health as a whole. I am very proud that the City now holds its highest bond rating in 40 years, thanks to our success in strengthening the pension fund and rebuilding our reserves. STATED MEETING 137 3/2/2023 (Applause.)

This really matters, because we want to be prepared for every challenge and opportunity, whether it's an economic downturn or a moment where we can step up to what's right in a crisis. On that note, I want to recognize all the partners and departments that welcomed buses of asylum seekers over the course of several weeks. We worked with non-profit partners to stand up a welcoming center to receive 838 tired travelers, including children, looking for a better life and a safe home. Last month, Welcoming America made it official. We are a Certified Welcoming city. (Applause.)

I am proud of STATED MEETING 138 3/2/2023 by our Office of Immigrant Affairs, and the departments and agencies we work with, to make sure that everyone feels a sense of belonging here in Philadelphia. I know that our welcoming values will only further our city's success, and we will always step up when our leadership as a city is needed. I will end with this: The first day of the PHLpreK program was a very cold day in January of 2017. I remember it was cold because I remember the tiny coats the students all wore on their way to school. That was more than six years ago. A three-year-old student who started the program that day is nine years old today. Like Diana's son Mason, they gained skills in pre-K that have benefited them throughout elementary school. They will be in middle school when the 2026 World Cup arrives in STATED MEETING 139 3/2/2023 likely start college nine years from now in 2032. It is my hope that they will choose a rewarding career and a home for their family here in their own hometown. I hope that decades from now their family can go for walks in FDR Park, where the bold investments we make in FY24 will have protected this one-of-a-kind natural refuge from flooding and improved access for everyone. And they will meet their friends at a local rec center, where Rebuild's renovations this year have transformed the facility for future generations to enjoy. I hope that they will feel safe and healthy regardless of where they live, thanks to our investments in violence prevention and environmental justice. And I know they will enjoy even more commercial, cultural, educational, STATED MEETING 140 3/2/2023 because of our investments in equitable growth and because we've worked with SEPTA to make all areas of the City more connected and more accessible than ever. And when their mayor stands in front of City Council or if they're the Mayor themselves, don't think it doesn't cross my mind every time I visit a pre-K. I hope that our investments in growth and opportunity, paired with sound financial practice, have positioned the City's finances, stability, and prosperity to a point where the services and infrastructure we provide reflect our city's highest ambitions. I have always approached this role with the years beyond this Administration in mind, with faith in the power of education, faith in the incredible potential of our residents, and faith in the innovative, resilient, caring, and optimistic character of our city. STATED MEETING 141 3/2/2023 dedicated each day of the remainder of our term to a brighter, safer, more sustainable future for the City, just as I have each day since 2016. (Applause.)

It is an incredible honor to serve this city and to be part of its progress, and it is also an honor to work alongside City Council as dedicated to services as each of you. So thank you. We need to get to work. And I want to just say to all of you, I learned a lot in this Chamber. I was taught a lot. I grew up a lot. I matured a lot. I had people like Gussie Clark and Marian Tasco and Jannie Blackwell who brought me along, this kid from South Philly, and taught me how to represent the entire city, and I just want to thank all of you for your STATED MEETING 142 3/2/2023 work. And this is my last budget address. I wish you all well, and God bless you. (Applause.)

We have one last item we have to resolve, so if we can ask for a little quiet. Thank you. I want to thank the Mayor for his last budget message, and we will start our budget process shortly. At this time, we will move to our speeches. Are there any speeches on behalf of the minority? (No response.)

Speeches on behalf of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Yeah. Thank you, Council President. STATED MEETING 143 3/2/2023 clarify an announcement regarding our withdrawal of the AKA resolution where they're celebrating their anniversary next week. That resolution will be reintroduced next Thursday during their conference. So I just wanted to clarify that just for all the listening audience and those who are watching that the AKA resolution celebrating their anniversary will be reintroduced next Thursday. Also, on next Wednesday, March the 8th, we will be announcing the Joe Frazier -- Smokin' Joe Frazier Day in the City of Philadelphia. That's going to take place at 3:00 p.m. outside of the Joe Frazier statue in South Philadelphia at Xfinity Live, 1100 Pattison Avenue. And, again, March the 8th of 2023 we'll be declaring Smokin' Joe Frazier Day in the City of Philadelphia in the memory of the Fight of the Century when he beat Muhammad Ali. And so that's going to take STATED MEETING 144 3/2/2023 at 3:00 p.m., located at 1100 Pattison Avenue, and all those who would like to attend are more than welcome as we honor a true outstanding Philadelphian. Thank you, Council President.

Awesome. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. It was good hearing the budget address and knowing all of the work that was put into this budget by members of Council, things they advocated for, things they fought for, and it was good to see it manifested in a document called the budget. My staff is delivering at this point a budget care package, and in that budget care package is a Snickers bar, some healthy granola kind of substance, water, because we have work to do and STATED MEETING 145 3/2/2023 a lot of hours in here making that budget document a real living document. I know all of us have a lot of work to do this year in particular, but we're going to spend a lot of time in this. To that end, I'd like to encourage members and staff to join me in visiting some of these facilities. One-third of our budget is public safety, Police, Fire, Prisons, Courts, and it's difficult to, in a half a hour budget presentation, really digest all of the aspects of a department. So starting tomorrow, we're going to take our first road trip domestic, not like yours in different cities, Mr. President, but we'll be up at the police training facility. And former Member Oh talked about non-lethal training. It's important that we kick the tires, see what they do, see what they can do better. Councilman Johnson STATED MEETING 146 3/2/2023 legislation that passed, but see how that is being trained, implemented, and included in their training. In addition, we will be dealing with simulators to look at real-life scenarios when people get stopped by cars, real-life scenarios when they have to make a split-second decision about whether to use lethal force. So I encourage us, those who can make it, to come up. We're leaving tomorrow. We're going to take that ride. But if you cannot go, send someone in your staff that is dedicated to analyzing those particular departments within the budget. And enjoy your budget survival kit, and we put Snickers in there so that during the process, none of the members get hangry. So thank you very much, Mr. President.

STATED MEETING 147 3/2/2023 you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gauthier.

Thank you, Council President, and many thanks to Mayor Kenney for joining us today. I am excited by what we just heard, and I'm very excited to continue working with Council and with the Mayor and his team on a budget that centers racial equity across every part of the City. Even though this budget marks the end of our legislative term, I know that none of us intend to slow down, because our constituents cannot wait another year for a budget that takes Philadelphia boldly out of the pandemic and into a more equitable future. I'm proud that over the past two fiscal years, we've doubled down on our efforts to fund an urgent, targeted, and trauma-informed response to the gun violence epidemic, but I also know that STATED MEETING 148 3/2/2023 way to go before we restore peace to our streets. That's why I look forward to once again banding together as a Council to invest in grassroots violence prevention programs, paying special attention to redirecting youth at risk of, or already involved, in gun violence. And as part of our anti-violence strategy, we must also ensure that all residents, no matter if they call Center City or Mill Creek home, receive reliable municipal services proven to reduce crime. I'm proud that last year my JustServicesPHL campaign successfully won an additional $30 million above the proposed budget for the equitable provision of City services. However, my conversations with City agencies and constituents confirms that $30 million barely scratches the surface of what it will take to give every resident their fair share. That's why I'm bringing STATED MEETING 149 3/2/2023 to housing-related services as well. According to the Office of Homeless Services, 70 percent of the residents they served in Fiscal Year 2022 entered their system for the very first time. Frankly, this does not surprise me, because a study my office completed pre-pandemic found that Philadelphia's rent gap pre-pandemic was $75 million per month. As I speak, constituents facing homelessness are desperately calling government agencies and non-profits in search of rental assistance or supportive housing, but many of them will get the same apologetic answer, we're out of money and you have to try somewhere else. The 100 new supportive housing units proposed by the Mayor is an excellent start, but City Council can go further by shoring up OHS's emergency rental assistance budget, as well as by funding additional case managers so the STATED MEETING 150 3/2/2023 neighbors experiencing homelessness get back on their feet. We cannot ignore the need of families forced to make the impossible choice between homelessness and living in a home that could collapse at any time, thanks to the neglect of absentee landlords. And that's why I want to allocate funds to help residents displaced due to unsafe conditions find a new home rather than ending up on OHS's doorstep. And to further prevent evictions, we must ensure our nationally acclaimed Eviction Diversion Program has a budget it needs to help every tenant at risk of eviction stay in their home, and support the Mayor's plan to expand Right to Counsel. We must also protect vulnerable neighbors long before they make it to the eviction stage. For instance, the City must do more to preserve our affordable housing stock. Frankly, inaction isn't STATED MEETING 151 3/2/2023 option, because more than 5,400 affordable housing units can disappear across this city within the next five years, and 900 of those are in my district alone. So let's couple our work on housing insecurity with a renewed effort to solve this crisis at one of its roots - poverty. And I can think of few better ways to accomplish this challenging feat than by investing in workforce development.

The life sciences sector is booming in Philadelphia, and nowhere is this growth more visible than in the areas of West and Southwest Philly that I represent. In the past month alone, I've been to groundbreaking ceremonies for over one million square feet of life sciences development. And I could not be more excited, because the life sciences generates high-paying jobs for residents from all educational backgrounds. But STATED MEETING 152 3/2/2023 body to fund high-quality workforce development programs that prepare working-class residents to be competitive applicants for these jobs before they even come online. And we must start now if we want to make sure the life sciences industry grows alongside rather than without our communities. It's been the mission of this City Council to lead Philadelphia into a more community-minded and equitable future. Philadelphia is counting on us to keep going, and I intend to deliver. Thank you so much.

Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Harrity.

Yes, Council President. I just wanted to commend Mayor Kenney and his Administration on his efforts to help the normal citizen. STATED MEETING 153 3/2/2023 SNAP benefits being cut by $95 a month to our most vulnerable citizens, I believe that his program for SEPTA will help greatly in kind of evening that out. So while we criticize him on occasion, I just have to commend him for his commitment to the safety of the citizens of Philadelphia with his investment in law enforcement, and I look forward to actually seeing the budget in completeness. Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. That appears to conclude the speeches on behalf of the minority and the majority. And with that, the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla for a motion to adjourn.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, March 9th, 2023 STATED MEETING 154 3/2/2023 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)