COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, March 21, 2002 11:40 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, Deputy Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this council is present. Council will come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. At this time the junior ROTC and drill team from Roxborough High School under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Russell A. Gallagher will post the flags for the colors of the flag. (Applause.)
To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Monsignor Wilfred Pashley from St. Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church. Monsignor is here as the guest of Councilman Nutter.
Thank you. Dear God, source of all of our power, we stand before you today and invoke your blessings upon the City Council of Philadelphia and all the citizens of this world-class city. Many of the people of this city are preparing to celebrate two wonderful events which doubtless prove to the eyes of the believers your constant and benevolent presence. Jews will follow that night on which the angel of death, aware of the blood of the land, passed over the homes of their parents in faith. Christians celebrate that event observed by Jesus and his death, the lamb of God, and his wonderful resurrection from the dead. The warm rays of the sun call us this first full day of spring to once more be a people of hope, to see in today the promise of tomorrow. The first spring flowers call us to a new optimism, which some may call foolhardy and others premature. Allow the members of this council to be ever peopled with a fresh and challenging vision, to be men and women not afraid to bring new vision to a city where so often people live in the darkness of a past, glorious and rich as it may have been, but so often a time which can never be revisited. God, source of all of our strength, fill this chamber today with understanding and a prophetic vision. Allow us the quiet we need to hear one another, the light we need to see another's point of view. With eyes and ears opened, allow our voices to enter into respectful discussion that what we do hear today may benefit all of our constituents and glory. To this may we each in his or her own way resound amen amine amen. MEMBERS: Amen.
The Chair thanks the monsignor for his very inspiring invocation. Before counsel is at ease, I would like everyone to join me in thanking and recognizing the junior ROTC and the drill team from Roxborough High School. They have been very patient. (Applause.)
Counsel will be at ease. The next order of business is the approval of the journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 14, 2002, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 14, 2000, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 14, 2002, stands approved. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 14, 2002, stands approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today a leave of absence is requested for Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans there are no requests for 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION leave of abscess.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order or business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter, who will make a presentation honoring the junior ROTC and drill team from Roxborough High School. Will Lieutenant Colonel Russell A. Gallagher and those accompanying him please join the councilman at the podium? I'm sorry. It is going to be Councilwoman Tasco's resolution and she is being joined by Councilman Nutter.
Good morning. We certainly are pleased this morning to present this resolution honoring the junior ROTC of Roxborough High School and its drill team. 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION Whereas the Army Junior ROTC program was established by Congress in 1916 and expanded by Congress in 1964, today Junior ROTC operates 2800 programs with over 300,000 cadets participating. This program offers a unique opportunity for personal growth and self discipline, confidence, organization, ethics, integrity and responsibility. Whereas the state admission of the Junior ROTC is to motivate young people to be better Americans, today's Junior ROTC goes beyond that into areas of personal growth working in areas such as time management, planning, organization, teamwork and goal setting.
Whereas the Roxborough Junior ROTC is the largest and most active program of its kind in the city, the participants earn the honor unit with distinction award four years in a row, and in the last school year students who were ranked first in their classes from ninth to twelfth grade were all junior participants, and whereas the Roxborough High School Junior ROTC also hosts a championship drill team, its accomplishments include placing first in regional competition in 2001, winning the League 5 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION competition in 2001, and enough other honors and tributes that they have been invited to compete in the National High School Junior ROTC championships in Florida in May 2002. Now, therefore -
-- resolved by Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend the Roxborough High School Junior ROTC program and its drill team. We are persuaded that this program enhances the lives of all young men and women who participate in it and we congratulate them and the personnel who make it possible. Therefore, be it resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Lieutenant Colonel Russell A. Gallagher as evidence of his sincere respect and deep admiration of this legislative body. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Lieutenant Colonel Gallagher for remarks. LIEUTENANT COLONEL GALLAGHER: Madam President, members of the City Council, we are very, very pleased to be able to be here before you today. When I retired from the Army in 1995, I 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION wasn't sure what I would do after that. All I ever wanted to be was a soldier. The following day I started teaching Junior ROTC at Roxborough High School, and these young people that I have the privilege of working with today have given my life and the gentlemen and ladies that I work with new meaning. It is great to see that in a world where we have so many problems these young people can achieve so much. So, again, thank you very much for recognizing them. We really do appreciate it. (Applause.) CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER BONITEZ: Members of the City Council, my name is Chief Warrant Officer Hiram Bonitez, and as Lieutenant Colonel Gallagher said, my colleague, First Sergent Warley, we are all retired noncommissioned officers in the United States Army, and I just wanted to point out that it has been a very rewarding experience for me since I retired in the year 2000, and also I want to state the fact that after retirement it seems like I haven't really retired because it is a way of serving but in a different capacity, and I have to agree and I honestly can say that it is a very 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION rewarding experience seeing these young men and women perform in the manner in which they have. I thank you all for this honor and recognition and on behalf of the students as well. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Demonstration from the drill team.) (Applause.)
At this time the Chair Recognizes Councilman DiCicco honoring Women in Transition on their 30th anniversary. Will Roberta Hacker and those accompanying her please join the councilman at the podium?
Thank you, Madam president. Good morning. We have a resolution commemorating the 30th anniversary of Women in Transition and applauding their successful history of empowering women in the greater Philadelphia region. Whereas 30 years ago Women in Transition began their historic advocacy for women endangered by domestic violence and substance abuse, working to 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION empower all women by promoting their emotional and economic independence and -
Whereas the results of Women in Transition proudly rests in the many women who, through guidance and support, escape substance abuse and domestic violence for themselves and their children and walk confidently and live happily among us today and whereas over the years with expanding its core ideology to making changes in sexual, gender, racial and economic challenges by offering its direct services such as its 24-hour crisis hot line, intake assessment, life-long peer support groups and individual and life management counseling to anyone in the greater Philadelphia region who has experienced physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological abuse and which continues to build on their successful achievements by educating the public about domestic violence and substance abuse by advocating for its core constituency and by providing their expert training to the community and -
Whereas WIT seeks to create a community network in the region that advocates for safety and justice for battered women 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION and that aggressively promotes abuser accountability as well as an end to the violence against women and children and resolved by this Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby commemorate the 30th anniversary of Women in Transition and applaud its successful history of empowering women in the greater Philadelphia region, further resolve that a copy of this resolution be presented to Roberta Hacker, executive director, as evidence of the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body signed by the Council President Anna C. Verna and introduced and co-sponsored by all members of City Council. Thank you and congratulations. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. I want to thank this body for your support of all of our work and the endorsement of our 30th anniversary, and I look forward to the future when you will be working side by side with the rest of us in the community to end domestic violence and to increase batterer accountability. Thank you. (Applause.) 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION
Counsel will be at ease. The Chair requests that the Sergent at Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the clerk. The clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the president and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on March 20, 2002 I signed the following bill that was passed by Council at its session on March 7, 2002, Bill No. 010557A, and I am also pleased to advise you that I have signed Bill No. 020047 that was passed by council at its session on March 14, 2002. And I am returning herewith as requested by your resolution adopted today, March 21, 2002, Bill No. 020027 entitled an ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and towards various capital municipal purposes authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller and the City Solicitor or a majority of them to sell bonds at a public or private negotiated sale for the purpose of reconsideration by the council of the 3/21/02 - VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATION vote by which said bill passed council.
The messages will be printed in the journal. The clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of council be suspended so as to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has moved and properly seconded that the rules of council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will signify by say aye. MEMBERS: Aye. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS/RESOLUTIONS
The ayes have it and the motion carries. At this time we will consider a special order of business, a resolution recalling Bill No. 020027. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution requesting the Mayor to return two counts of Bill No. 020027 entitled an ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and toward various capital municipal purposes authorizing the Mayor, City Controller and City Solicitor or a majority of them to sell bonds at a public or private negotiated sale and for holding such elections for the purpose of reconsideration by the council of the vote by which said bill passed council.
Thank you. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS/RESOLUTIONS The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution and ask to be heard.
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to explain the need for this recall. Bill No. 020027 would authorize the City to issue general obligation bonds. The state law that permits the City to borrow money requires that before any loan is authorized the City Controller must certify that the proposed expenditures are capital in nature. Bill No. 020027 was passed at our last session on March 14, but the City Council did not receive the required City Controller certificate until March 15. The law department recommends that to avoid any question as to whether this loan was duly authorized council should recall the bill and pass it again now that the required controller certificate has been received. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS/RESOLUTIONS I therefore urge my colleagues to vote to recall this bill. Thank you, Madam President. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. A motion has been made and seconded by Councilman Kenney to adopt the resolution requesting the Mayor's return of Bill No. 020027. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The resolution has passed. The clerk will please read the letter from the Mayor.
To the president and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I'm returning herewith as requested by your resolution adopted today, March 21, 2002, Bill No. 020027 entitled an ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and towards various capital municipal purposes authorizing the Mayor, City Controller and City Solicitor or a majority of them to sell bonds at a 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS/RESOLUTIONS public or private negotiated sale and fixing a date for holding the election for obtaining such consent and providing for the arrangements for holding such election for the purpose of reconsideration by the council of the vote by which said bill passed council.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion that council reconsider the vote by which Bill No. 020027 was passed.
It has been moved and seconded. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the motion carries and the vote by which Bill No 020027 was passed has been reconsidered. This bill will be placed on today's 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS second reading and final passage calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney.
I have no bills or resolutions today, Madam President.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
I have no further bills or resolutions, Madam President.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill which repeats the bill that I introduced last week except that it accepts suggestions, technical suggestions, made by the solicitor's office.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of the Philadelphia code entitled "Wage and Net Profits Tax" by providing relief for 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS said taxes to certain low-income persons under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring St. Matthew's Parrish on the occasion of their 75th anniversary.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance approving a new plan, estimated cost and proposed method of changes of the Manayunk Special Services District for and concerning business improvements and administrative services to the Manayunk business district of the City of Philadelphia.
The bill will 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution also naming the 500 block of North Robison Street as Pastor Talmadge Way.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one resolution today.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
A resolution recognizing April 2002 as child abuse prevention month.
I should indicate that that resolution was co-sponsored by my colleagues, Councilwomen Jannie Blackwell and Marian Tasco. And I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have no bills or resolutions. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have two resolutions. The one resolution that involves the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has been signed by 15 members of this council.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution urging the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to establish a more complete rationale for issuing place cards based on mobility impairment.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will indicate by saying 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to conduct public hearings on providing additional funding for the Philadelphia Film Society.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
Those opposed? (No response.) 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, I offer one resolution on behalf of myself, Councilman Rizzo, Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Krajewski.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution whereas red light running which occurs when a motorist disregards traffic laws by entering an intersection after the signal turns red is the most frequent type of police reported urban crash in the United States, posing a significant threat to drivers, pedestrians and property.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have two bills and three resolutions, one co-sponsored by Councilman Goode, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, and Councilman Rizzo, and the other is co-sponsored by Councilman Goode Jr. and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown.
The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 119 by placing on the city plan Marvine Street from Poplar Street to Harper Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the paving of Marvine Street, Cambridge Street and George Street under certain terms and conditions. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the model cities urban renewal area.
Move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The clerk will please read the title of 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS the second resolution.
A resolution congratulating the Community College of Philadelphia men's basketball team.
Move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The clerk will please read the last resolution.
A resolution congratulating Strawberry Mansion boys' basketball team.
Move for the 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. Our next item of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Madam President. I move that the rules of council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 02 -
I'm sorry. The Committee of the Whole reports out three bills with a favorable recommendation.
The clerk will please read the title of the report.
To the president and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Bill No. 020032 entitled an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1800 of the Philadelphia code entitled "School Tax Authorization" by amending Section 19-1806 to further authorize the board of education of the School District of Philadelphia to impose a tax for the use and occupancy of real estate within the School District of Philadelphia and Bill No. 020034 entitled an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1800 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "School Tax Authorization" by amending Section 19-1804 entitled "Authorization of Net Income Tax" and Bill NO. 020040 entitled an ordinance authorizing transfers 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS in appropriations for fiscal year 2002 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the director of finance, provision for other grants to the general fund, the director of finance, contribution to school district, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Bill Nos. 020032, 020034 and 020040 will be placed on the first reading calendar of our next session of council. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski for a report from the appropriations committee.
The Committee on Appropriations reports three bills out with a favorable recommendation.
To the president and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred Bill No. 020037 entitled an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for fiscal year 2002 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS within the Grants Revenue Fund from the director of finance, provision for other grants to the police department and the board of trustees of the Free Library of Philadelphia and Bill No. 020038 entitled an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for fiscal year 2002 from the general fund and Bill No. 020039 entitled an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for fiscal year 2002 within the aviation fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill Nos. 020037, 020038 and 020039.
It has been 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS moved and properly seconded that the rules of council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 020037, 020038 and 020039. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it and the motion carries and the bills read will be placed on today's first reading calendar. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports out 25 bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the president and members of the council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services to which was referred Bill No. 010608 entitled an ordinance authorizing a revision of lines and grades in a 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS portion of City Plan No. 307 by striking from the city plan and vacating Cuthbert Street from 17th Street to 18th Street and Bill No. 010621 entitled an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 990306 approved June 24, 1999 entitled an ordinance authorizing revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 120 and Bill No. 010636 entitled an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Pickering Street from Greenwood Avenue to Vernon Road and Bill No. 010637 entitled an ordinance granting permission to Aspen Street Corporation, owner of Rembrandt's, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe and Bill No. 010693 entitled an ordinance authorizing Charles McNeil, the owner of the property located at 432 South 48th Street to construct, use and maintain a wooden deck extension all under certain terms and conditions and Bill No. 010713 entitled an ordinance authorizing revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 194 and Bill No. 010714 entitled an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 990373, approved July 1, 1991 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 207 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS and Bill No. 010715 entitled an ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner on behalf of the city to enter into an agreement with CIP housing all under certain terms and conditions and Bill No. 010716 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 284 and Bill No. 010717 entitled an ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner on behalf of the city to enter into an agreement with Villa Vincent all under certain terms and conditions and Bill No. 010720 entitled an ordinance amending Section 4 of an ordinance, Bill No. 00262, entitled an ordinance authorizing Whole Fruits Market Group, tenant at the property located at 929 South Street, to construct and maintain various encroachments and Bill No. 010741 entitled an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 990834, approved December 30, 1999 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 246 and Bill No. 020051 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 307 and Bill No. 020073 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revisions of lines and grades in a portion of City 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Plan No. 23S by striking from the city plan and vacating Banbury Street from Morris Street to Moore Street and Bill No. 020074 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 107 and Bill No. 020090, an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on the 8200 block of Temple Road, both sides, and Bill No. 020091 entitled an ordinance authorizing the construction of sewers and appurtenant work in portions of Green Lane and Bill No. 020093 entitled an ordinance authorizing the construction of sanitary sewers and appurtenant work on portions of Briar Road and Bill No. 020096 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 231 and Bill No. 020097 entitled an ordinance granting permission to Rayu and Knehi Desiree, owners of the newsstand located at the southeast corner of Broad and Chestnut Streets, all under certain terms and conditions and Bill No. 020098 entitled an ordinance authorizing the construction of a water main and appurtenant work in portions of Segal Street and Bill No.
020117 entitled an ordinance amending Section 9204 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Sidewalk Vendors in 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Center City" and Bill No. 0200120 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 358 and Bill No. 020121 entitled an ordinance authorizing the repaving of Reilly Road and Conwell Avenue under certain terms and conditions and Bill No. 020141 entitled an ordinance authorizing Boca Restaurant, a tenant at the property 1501-1509 Spruce Street to construct and maintain two statutes on the west footway of 15th Street adjacent to the property 1501-1509 Spruce Street all under certain terms and conditions respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of council be suspended so as to permit first reading today of the 25 bills that have just been read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of council be suspended so as to permit first reading 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS this day of the 25 bills just read by the clerk. All in favor will signify by saying aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on today's first reading calendar. That concludes reports from committees. Our next order of business is the consideration of the calendar. The clerk will please read the bills on the first reading calendar.
Bill No. 020037, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for fiscal year 2002 within the Grants Revenue Fund to the Philadelphia Police Department and the board of trustees of the Free Library of Philadelphia and Bill No. 020038, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for fiscal year 2002 from the general fund, provisions for other grants to the general fund, certain or all city offices, departments, boards and commissions.
The Chair agrees. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
And Bill No. 020039, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for fiscal year 2002 within the aviation fund to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
And Bill No. 010608, an ordinance authorizing the revisions of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 307.
And Bill No. 010621, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 990306, approved June 24, 1999, entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 120.
Bill No. 010636, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Pickering Street from Greenwood Avenue to Vernon Road.
The chair 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS agrees.
And Bill No. 010637, an ordinance granting permission to Aspen Street Corporation, owner of Rembrandt's, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe.
And Bill No. 010693, an ordinance authorizing Charles McNeill, owner of the property located 432 South 48th Street to construct, use and maintain a wooden deck extension under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 010713, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 194.
And Bill No. 010714, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 990373, approved July 1, 1991 entitled an ordinance authorizing revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 207. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
And Bill No. 010713, an ordinance to authorize the water commissioner on behalf of the city to enter into an agreement with CIP Housing all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 010716, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 284 under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 010717, an ordinance to authorize the water commissioner on behalf of the City to enter into an agreement with Villa Vincent all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 010720, an ordinance amending Section 4 of an ordinance, Bill No. 000262, entitled an ordinance authorizing Whole Foods Market Group under certain terms and 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS conditions.
And Bill No. 010741 an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 990834, approved December 30, 1999 entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 246.
And Bill No. 020051, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on the City Plan No. 307 by striking from the city plan and vacating Bonsall Street from Race Street under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020073, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 23S by striking from the city plan and vacating Banbury Street from Morris Street to Moore Street.
The Chair agrees. 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
And Bill No. 020074, an ordinance authorizing revision of lines and grades on City Plan No. 107 under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020090, an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on the 8200 block of Temple Road, both sides.
And Bill No. 020091, an ordinance authorizing the construction of sewers and appurtenant work in portions of Green Lane.
And Bill No. 020093, an ordinance authorizing the construction of sanitary sewers and appurtenant work in portions of Briar Road and Greenwood Lane.
And Bill No. 020096, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades in a portion of City Plan No. 231 under 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020097, an ordinance granting permission to Riyu and Knehi Desiree, owners of the newsstand located at the southeast corner of Broad and Chestnut Streets under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020098, an ordinance authorizing construction of a water main, appurtenant work in portions of Segal Street.
And Bill No. 020117, an ordinance amending Section 9204 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Sidewalk Vendors in Center City" under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020120, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grids in a portion of City Plan No. 358 all under 3/21/02 - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020121, an ordinance authorizing the paving of Reilly Road on Conwell Avenue under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020141, an ordinance authorizing Boca Restaurant, a tenant of the property 1501-1509 Spruce Street, to construct and maintain two statutes in the west footway of 15th Street under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. The bills read by the clerk will be placed on the second reading and final passage calendar for our next session of council. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling bills on the second reading and final passage calendar to be called for consideration.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill Nos. 020048, 020024, 3/21/02 - FINAL READING/BILL NO. 020048 020025, 010635, 020041, 020050, 020088 and 020095 are being called up for second reading and final passage. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 020048.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "City Funds, Deposits, Investments, Disbursements," by amending Section 19-201 entitled "City Depositories" by authorizing the City treasurer to deposit funds in Citizen's Bank under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The clerk will please call the roll.
Council President Verna? 3/21/02 - FINAL READING/BILL NO. 020048
Aye. The ayes are 16 and nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Councilman Kenney?
Thank you, Madam President. I have a need to leave the chamber. I would like to be recorded aye on all votes that are taken in my absence.
Thank you. Leave will be granted. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 020024.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved April 4, 2001, Bill No. 010001, relating to the capital program for six fiscal years, 2002-2007, by increasing and adding projects in amounts in certain departments.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. 3/21/02 - FINAL READING/BILL NO. 020025
Aye. The ayes are 16 and the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 020025.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved April 4, 2001, Bill No. 010002, relating to the fiscal 2002 capital budget by increasing and adding projects and amounts in certain departments.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010635.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Susquehanna Avenue, American Street, Diamond Street and 3rd Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16 and the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020041.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within and area bounded by Gillingham Street, Tackawana Street, Orthodox Street and Ditman Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. 3/21/02 - FINAL READING/BILL NO. 020050 The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020050.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600 entitled "Miscellaneous" by amending Section 14-1610 entitled "Olde City Residential Areas Special District Controls" by amending permitted uses and zoning controls under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. 3/21/02 - FINAL READING/BILL NO. 020088 The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 020088.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Oregon Avenue, 19th Street, Johnson Street and 20th Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The clerk will plead call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the 3/21/02 - FINAL READING/BILL NO. 020095 affirmative, the bill passes. The last bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020095.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Section 14-1615 entitled "Main Street Manayunk Special District Controls" by amending certain prohibited uses and the Sunset provision all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman Kenney voting 3/21/02 - FINAL READING/BILL NO. 020095 aye.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. 3/21/02 - FINAL READING/BILL NO. 020027 Mrs. Rafferty, we now have to call up Bill No. 020027. Do you have a copy of the bill?
An ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and toward various capital municipal purposes authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller and City Solicitor or a majority of them to sell bonds at a private or public-negotiated sale, providing for obtaining the consent of the electors to increasing the indebtedness of the City of Philadelphia and fixing a date for holding the election for obtaining such consent and providing for the arrangements for holding such election.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That concludes our calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. I will be extremely brief. Two items. One is given some of the debate and discussion that we have had with regard to schools and public education, a number of members have talked about the need and Councilman Clarke on a number of occasions has mentioned the need for statewide tax reform. I think all of that issue is on the minds of many people, and without giving endorsement to a particular idea or bill, I know that Reverend Shine last night at the public meeting last night made mention of one legislative matter that has been put out there by Representative Nicosi and I just wanted to mention I guess or even suggest, and I know that Councilwoman Miller is not here, our chair of education committee, but there might be in this 3/21/02 - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT context a unique opportunity, slightly unusual methodology, that council might actually have some hearings around the issues that are at least raised in that bill to get greater public attention on that particular issue. I think there have been some public hearings in different places actually including here in Philadelphia, but I think if there was an opportunity to hear testimony as well as ideas around a particular -- not only a concept; this is obviously a bill, that we might be able to push along this issue of true statewide tax reform, and if there is a bill out there, that it or some variation of that bill might get some momentum, but also we could bring here to Philadelphia some additional attention to the need for that particular issue. The second matter, Madam Chair, I actually want to rise to some extent. There was a news report I think two days ago about an unfortunate series of indictments regarding plumbing inspectors. The newspaper account, though, indicated that 12 public employees had been indicted for a variety of alleged criminal activity and 3/21/02 - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT behaviors, but one person in that unit, Madam President, decided not to participate in these alleged activities, for which that public employee was apparently the source of great scorn and disdain by fellow workers. I do not know this individual. I have no idea what their name is. He obviously knows who he is, and I at least wanted to recognize that person as a strong person, the embodiment of good public service that they would not allow themselves to be coerced to participate in such activity and that person holds up the true ideal for all of us as public servants that you have to stick to your mind-set and what your true calling is in public service and not allow the pressures around you to get you to do things that you know are in fact wrong. So whoever that person is, Madam President, I certainly salute them for being a good public servant and not engaging in that kind of behavior.
Thank you and I think your suggestion is an excellent one and one I'm sure that Councilwoman Miller would probably 3/21/02 - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT love to pursue. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. During the first several weeks of this year a lot of attention focused on the negative behavior of some of the activities that occur on South Street in my district. We got through a relatively peaceful Mardi Gras this year compared to last year when we actually became a national disgrace. Unfortunately, that type of behavior that gets publicized carries on and over through the year. The perception a lot of people have about South Street is that the Mardi Gras type of atmosphere and attitude is something that is a daily and weekly occurrence. Nothing could be further from the truth. Although South Street is a very eclectic street, sometimes referred to in a song years ago as the hippest street in town, that doesn't necessarily mean that it is something that is wrong or bad. Earlier this morning, as you know, we offered a citation to the South Street Head House District folks in recognition of the 9th annual 3/21/02 - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT South Street Easter parade that will be taking place on March 31 of this year. That is one of many, many positive events that occur on South Street year in and year out. Unfortunately, we were not able to all participate in that citation presentation this morning, but I would encourage my colleagues and anyone who is listening today to go down to South Street on Easter Sunday if you have the time and see really a positive environment where people from all over the city, from all walks of life, all different cultures come together to enjoy real true family entertainment. I have been fortunate as a representative of that South Street parade to be in a position to be a judge in the promenade. Although last year I was out of town, this year I expect to be there, so I would welcome my colleagues to come down, bring your families, mention my name and you may get a discount, but if not, I'm sure you will have a good time anyway. Again, my hat is off to South Street Head House District and the folks down there for providing the kind of entertainment that we want to encourage in the City of Philadelphia and not to 3/21/02 - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT think that Mardi Gras is the only thing we have to offer. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to thank all of my colleagues and all concerned. As many of you know, but I say this for those who did not read it in the papers, that the courts decided with the people in returning misdemeanor and preliminary trials back to neighborhood divisional courts, and it is such an important thing. It makes such a big difference to the quality of life that cases be decided in neighborhoods where people live and where people have access, so certainly we commend everybody from the courts to the police department, to the victim witness services and to all who were concerned who realized and all here who were in sync with realizing that we have to side with the people who elect us to understand what their issues are. This was an example where everybody was of one mind. We were all in tune with what the public needs certainly, and everyone agreed that 3/21/02 - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT these cases go back to neighborhoods. It will make a big difference to downtown obviously. We won't see so much of a crowd down at the Criminal Justice Center. It makes a big difference in the police department scheduling people in neighborhoods. It makes a big difference from people who don't have to come in town. In so many areas it makes all the difference in the world, so certainly I thank all of those concerned and involved from the top to the bottom who realized that we have to side with the people in the neighborhoods to certainly have this decision rescinded. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Thank you, Madam Chair. Yesterday the Senate in the United States passed campaign finance reform after a ten-year struggle. With a fortuitous combination of getting a Democratic majority and a Democratic leadership of the Senate together with the leadership of the Republican Senator McCann, they were able to bring about campaign finance reform that I believe is going to have a significant impact on people and taking money and the meaning of pay as you play out 3/21/02 - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT of the national politics. We have to do that here in Philadelphia. Councilman Kenney, myself, Councilman Cohen, others have been struggling with campaign finance reform, and during the next week I will be reintroducing the bill that we had before this chamber during the first few months of this term, and hopefully we will take a page out of the Senate and pass that for the City of Philadelphia as New York, L.A., and other cities have done across the country. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. For me I will be very brief. That doesn't mean I will be brief though. I think a lot of very good things have been said today, but I take most hope from the statement made by our majority leader, Councilwoman Blackwell. When this council acts in a united way as we did behind Councilwoman Blackwell's leadership on the site location of preliminary hearings, we are very effective. I'm hoping to see the day, and I hope it will be soon, when this council acts with that same spirit all across the board. Thank you, 3/21/02 - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT Madam President.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the majority? Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that council stand adjourned until Thursday, April 4, 10:00 a.m., 2002. (Duly seconded.)
It has been proved and properly seconded that the council stand adjourned until Thursday, April 4, 2002, at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. Thank you. (Adjourned at 1:00 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Monday, November 5, 2001 are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING ______________________________ Cynthia A. Whyte, RPR (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)