COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 15, 2014 10:36 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS-BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO ALSO PRESENT: MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning, everyone. I'd ask that all guests and visitors please retire behind the rail. And if the Members take their seat, we can get started. Thank you very much. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend Frank Schaefer. He is here today as a guest of Councilman James Kenney. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Good morning and thank you so much for this opportunity to be here and give this invocation. A psalm to widen our intents. "Our world is too small. Our lives are too small. Our vision is too restricted. May the people of various countries, various cultures, tribes and families find room in our world and our lives. Help us to widen our tents, Adonai, so that all are welcome among us. "Our attitudes are too parochial. Our assumptions too simplistic. Our behavior too predictable. May special people, may the differently abled, may minorities of any kind of race, class, gender, sexual orientation find room in our world and in our hearts. Help us to widen our tents, oh, God, so that all are welcome among us. "Our boundaries are too limited. Our preferences too conditioned. Our habits too ingrained. May the aging and the very young, may subcultural groups of every kind, may special interests groups find room in your world and our prayer. Help us to widen our tents, Allah, so that all our welcome among us. "Our God is too small. Our rights to rigid. Our ways are too exclusive. May people of various religions and rights whose name for God and claim to God are different from our own find room in our world and our love. Help us to widen our tents, source of all life and wisdom, so that all are welcome among us. "God of all cultures, God of all people, help us not to label anyone inferior or second class. Help us overcome our attitudes of superiority and oppression. May we broaden our vision and widen our tents so that plurality and diversity determine who we are. People, called and committed to a world united in justice and peace, now and forever. "Amen."
Amen. Thank you so much for those inspiring words. Council, be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, May 8, 2014. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, May 8, 2014 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. Has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, May 8, 2014 stand approved. All those in favor? (Chorus of Ayes)
Those opposed? (No response.) The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leaves of absences. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
Chair thanks the gentleman. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Minority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to say how much we really appreciate all our guests and visitors coming here today. We see we have some young people here from some schools. Thank you all for coming down and witness your government in action. We hope you'll stay here. (Applause)
That's right. Give them a hand. We hope that your experience here today is a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. So again, we thank you so much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee who will present a Resolution on my behalf recognizing the Julia Masterman School and students for winning the Regional and State Odyssey of the Mind Championship. Would Brett Mandel and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining Councilman Greenlee we have Councilwoman Bass and Councilman Johnson.
Thank you, Mr. President. It's a pleasure to present a Resolution -
Councilman, hold on one second. Could we ask you please hold your voices down. Thank you. If anybody has a device such as a cell phone or any other electronic device that makes noise, we ask that you please cut it off or turn it on silent. Thank you. Go ahead, Councilman.
Thank you, Mr. President. It's a pleasure to present a Resolution honoring, congratulating and recognizing the Julia R. Masterman School and its students for winning the Regional and State Odyssey of the Mind Championship. Whereas, Odyssey of the Mind is an international creativity competition that synthesizes science, technology, engineering and the arts; and
Whereas, Odyssey of the Mind has been encouraging students around the world to think outside the box and work together as a team to solve challenging problems since 1978. And whereas, 5th graders Navid Verlin and Ariel Weinbaum and 7th graders Tillie Donover, Abby Leighton, Stephen Njiru, Sofia Powers and Rose Weinbaum constitute the JR Masterman School's Odyssey of the Mind Team which is coached by Chris Powers, a teacher at Samuel Powel Elementary School and Brett Mandel; and
Whereas, the Julia R. Mastbaum [sic] School's Odyssey of the Mind Team placed first among eleven teams in Southeast Pennsylvania Regional Tournament on March 15, 2014. Whereas, Julia Mastbaum School of Odyssey of the Mind went onto place first among the twelve teams at a Pennsylvania State Finals on April 12, 2014. And whereas, the Julia R. Mastbaum School Odyssey of the Mind Team won these two competitions by designing, building and driving a hover scooter that transferred into a big wheel vehicle that is propelled with ratchet wrenches thereby allowing the vehicle to travel via two different sets of propulsions; and
And I'd like to acknowledge that Ariel Weinbaum hails from the great 2nd Councilmatic District. Whereas, the Julia R. Masterman School's Odyssey of the Mind Team will compete in the 2014 World Finals at Iowa State University from May 28 through May 31 against thousands of teams from across the United States, 25 nations and 6 continents. Whereas, the JR Masterman School Odyssey of the Mind Team exemplifies hard work and creativity and their numerous applications to learning, problem solving, technological advancement and commerce; and
Now therefore, be it resolved that the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby honor, congratulate and recognize the Julia R. Masterman School's Odyssey of the Mind Team on winning both Regional and State competitions, and wish them success in the World Finals Competition in Iowa. And be it further resolved, and in gross copy of this Resolution, be presented to the Julia R. Masterman School's Odyssey of the Mind Team as evidence of sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Congratulations everybody. (Applause)
Thank you. Thank you. Chair recognizes Mr. Mandel for remarks.
-- and Councilmembers for recognizing the work of these students. The Odyssey of the Mind Program really is a wonderful program that encourages kids when we are constantly telling them to do what we tell them to do and think how we want them to think. It encourages them to think outside the box, to do something new. So if you don't mind, the State Champion Team from Masterman and, hopefully, the team that will represent Philadelphia to a World Championship has a word of advice for you as you contemplate the problems of our City. MASTERMAN STUDENT 1: Take stuff out of the context. MASTERMAN STUDENT 2: If someone says think of something red, instead of thinking apple or fire trucks, instead we think of, like, books or a newspaper. MASTERMAN STUDENT 3: Form follows function. MASTERMAN STUDENT 4: I've learned to think outside of the box and be creative. MASTERMAN STUDENT 5: Everything has more than one use. MASTERMAN STUDENT 6: Always measure twice, cut once. MASTERMAN STUDENT 7: The answer is never "I can't" but "what more can I try."
Thank you so much. We're thrilled to represent this Council and Philadelphia. (Applause)
Thank you. Council be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much. And again, congratulations. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla who will present a Resolution honoring the Neumann-Goretti High School Girls Varsity Basketball Team. Would Letty Santarelli and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining Councilman Squilla we have Councilman Johnson, Councilman Kenney, Councilwoman Bass, Councilwoman Tasco, Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Reynolds Brown. And Councilman -
This is a great honor for me today obviously having two championship teams. And I promise not to mess up the name of this one because I went to the school here. And I said Mastbaum last time instead of Masterman. And Masterman was the winner at the last Resolution. But this is a great story. And to have a Resolution honoring the Neumann-Goretti girls being able to really turn a program around that wasn't doing too well in a matter of a year or so, turned into a championship team. So, today we are honoring the Neumann-Goretti High School Girls Varsity Basketball Team for winning the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship, the PIAA District 12 AA City Championship and reaching PIAA State Championship game while finishing a season with an overall record of 29-1.
And whereas, on Monday, February 24, 2014 at the world-famous Palestra, the Neumann-Goretti Saints defeated the Archbishop Wood Lady Vikings by a score of 55-46, securing Neumann-Goretti's first Philadelphia League Championship since 1978. The Saints blitzed through the Catholic League finishing 12-0. The Neumann-Goretti Boys Varsity Team would defeat Roman Catholic High School later that same night to sweep the Varsity Basketball Championships for their school; and.
Whereas, on Saturday, March 1, 2014, the Saints took down the Panthers of Imhotep Charter School, 79-34 to win the PIAA District 12 AA City Championship and earning a top seed in the State Tournament. And whereas, the Saints continued on in the State Tournament defeating the Camp Hill Lions 74-36, the Minersville Battling Miners 60-42, St. Basil's Academy 64-29, and the Dunmore Bucks 55-30 to reach the Championship game against the Seton LaSalle Rebels from Pittsburgh; and
And whereas, the Saints put on a gritty performance in their battle with Seton-LaSalle, but foul trouble eventually did them in as they fell 58-50 to the Rebels. The Saints finished their unprecedented season with a nearly perfect 29-1; and
Whereas, special accolades should be given to five Neumann-Goretti players named as All-Catholic selections. First team: Ciani Cryor; Second Team: Sianni Martin and AJ Timer; Third Team: Ella Awobajo and Tanesha Sutton. And whereas, Neumann-Goretti was led by Head Coach Letty Santarelli, a former star player at Immaculata University who was the Division II NCAA First Team All American in 1986. Coach Santarelli has also coached at St. Richard's Catholic School in South Philadelphia and now the Philadelphia Belles AAU (Amateur Athletic Union). Santarelli also helped found the "Philly Girls Got Game" basketball development program which serves young women throughout the region; and
Whereas, the Saints bid a fond farewell to their seniors Ella Awobajo, Stephanie Brown, Tanesha Sutton and Marlena Arrigale and have a wonderfully promising future next year with returning players Sianni Martin, Alisha Kebbe, Ciani Cryor, Kaschae Harris, Melanie Schoolfield, Erica Brown, Kamiah Smalls, AJ Timber, Jada Russell, Felicia Aiyeotan and Christina Aborowa; now, therefore, be it
Be resolved by Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Council does hereby honor and commend the Neumann-Goretti High School Girls Varsity Basketball Team for winning the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship, the PIAA District 12 AA City Championship and reaching the PIAA State Championship game while finishing the season with an overall record of 29-1. Further resolved, an engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Head Coach Letty Santarelli and the members of the Neumann-Goretti Girls Basketball Team along with President John Murawski as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Thank you. (Applause)
Chair recognizes Ms. Santarelli for remarks. Recognizes the President.
My name is John Murawski, Jr. And I'm the proud President of St. John Neumann Maria Goretti Catholic High School. I can hear my students laughing behind me because I start all of my speeches that way as the "proud President." And even though I start all of my speeches that way, I still can't say it enough. How proud I am of the success of these students not only on the court but also off the court. Our motto at Neumann-Goretti is Success Starts Here. And we are so proud of the successes that these young men and women have achieved in their years here at Neumann-Goretti High School. What's more impressive than their success on the court is the fact that these seniors will be leaving us and attending the following universities: Boston College, Miami University, Syracuse, Ursinus, Widener, Duquesne, Saint Francis, Campbell University. I think that deserves a huge round of applause. (Applause)
And I stand here as President having done nothing for the success of these students on the basketball court, so I think it's important that we recognize Coach Letty Santarelli, Coach Allie, Coach Carl Arrigale, Coach Pat and the academic adviser Mr. Bill Stewart. (Applause)
I'd like to thank Council for recognizing us today. Thank you.
Thank you so much and congratulations. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much. At this time, the Chair again recognizes Councilman Squilla who will present a Resolution congratulating the Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti 2013-2014 Boys Basketball Team. Would Carl Arrigale and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining the Councilman we have Councilman Johnson, Councilman Kenney and Councilman Greenlee and Councilman O'Neil.
Thank you very much. I'd like to say, again, as being a Neumann-Goretti graduate, it's a great honor to have two champions here in the same year. And during the bet we have here on Council is that if a Neumann team wins, the Prep guys got to come up and help read the Resolution here. So, we have some Prep guys here that will be honoring Neumann-Goretti. And we also have Councilman Johnson, my South Philly cohort here from Bache. This is a great day to have the Prep guys help -- help the Neumann guys read the Resolution. Hopefully, they won't make any mistakes during the process. (Laughter)
I'd like to congratulate the Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti 2013-2014 Boys Basketball Team on winning the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship District XII Class AAA City Title and the PIAA Division AAA State Championship.
Whereas, the Neumann-Goretti Basketball Team led by Coach Carl Arrigale had an outstanding season, finishing 27-4. Whereas, the Saints defeated Roman Catholic 53-48 to capture their six straight Catholic League Title. They then went on to win their sixth straight District 12 Class AAA City Title by defeating P.E.T. by a score of 69-55. Their season culminated with a win over Susquehanna Township from Western Pennsylvania by the score of 64-57 in overtime sending the Saints to their fourth PIAA Division AAA Title in the last five years.
And whereas, Senior Ja'Quan Newton was named PIAA State Player of the Year, First Team All Catholic MVP, Markward Club City Player of the Year and Catholic League career leader in points with 1,972. Ja'Quan is also the only player in City history to start on four consecutive championship teams; and
Whereas, along with his teammates, Senior Troy Harper, PIAA Third Team All State and First Team All Catholic; Senior Tony Toplyn named Third Team All Catholic; Senior Jamal Custis received an Honorable Mention All Catholic and Junior Lamar Kimble named Second Team All State and First Team All Catholic. And whereas, Seniors Ja'Quan Newton, Troy Harper, Tony Toplyn and Jamal Custis have been a part of four consecutive Catholic League Titles, four District 12 AAA Titles and three State Titles have been a part of the most successful six-year run in league history with a 100-2 record; and
Whereas, this senior group has compiled a 105 wins and won 11 out of a possible 12 titles, four Catholic League, four District 12 AAA and three State AAA Championships. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby congratulate Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti 2013-14 Boys Basketball Team on winning the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship District 12 Class AAA City Title and the PIAA Division AAA State Championship.
Further resolve that this engrossed copy of the Resolution be presented to Saint John Neumann Maria Goretti 2013-2014 Boys Basketball Team, evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Congratulations. (Applause)
Hello. I am Carl Arrigale. I am the proud basketball coach of the Neumann-Goretti Boys Basketball Team. These guys have been terrific. They've been great group of guys to be around. They deserve all the accolades. They're a together group, that's the reason why we perform so well. And all the credit goes to them. And again, I would like to thank City Council for having us. You know, it's when I get to come here, I kind of feel important when I get to hang up here with these Prep guys, especially Kenney. You know, he does it with a smile, but I know it's killing him inside. (Laughter) Again, thank everybody for having us. It's a pleasure to be here. And I wish all these guys the best behind me. They're a great group of kids. (Applause)
Thank you and congratulations. And Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much. And again, congratulations. The next order of business is communications. And the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. (Messages delivered.)
Thank you. Mr. Decker, would you please read those messages.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 14, 2014 I signed all the bills that were passed by Council at its session on May 1, 2014. And that I signed the following bills that were passed by Council at its session on May 8 of 2014, Bill No. 140205 and Bill No. 140206.
And I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the conveyance of certain property from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to the City of Philadelphia which are located in the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area identified by house number and street addresses 2800 through 2850 West Dauphin Street; And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewable portion of the West Fairhill, East Tioga, Hunting Park urban renewal area identified by house number and street addresses 4052 North 6th Street; And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Point Breeze urban renewal area identified by house number and street address as 2025 Federal Street; And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of a New Kensington/Fishtown urban renewal area identified by house number and street addresses 2208 Trenton Avenue; And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the New Kensington/Fishtown urban renewal area identified by house numbers and street addresses as 2103 East Cumberland Street, 2107 East Cumberland Street and 2105 Amber Street; And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the New Kensington/Fishtown urban renewal area identified by house numbers and street addresses as 2423 East Dauphin Street and 2425 through 27 East Dauphin Street; And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the New Kensington/Fishtown urban renewal area identified by house number and street addresses 2235 Coral Street; And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing on behalf of the City to file applications of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant; And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a parcel of land generally situated at 669 Hutchinson Street for further conveyance; And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of the Department of Public Property to acquire title from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to insert a tract of land at the southeast corner of North 16th Street and 1315 North 16th Street, and amending Chapter 15-200 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Fairmount Park," to make the parcels part of the Fairmount Park system; And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation and the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into an agreement to lease to Temple University an interior portion of the East Park Canoe House located on Kelly Drive; And an ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer to enter into an amendment agreement with Wells Fargo Bank for provision of payroll banking services to the City; And an ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner to enter into an agreement with Bicycle Transit Systems for the delivery of a bicycle sharing system; And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to establish a Free Library Programs and Facilities Fund in which revenue generated from competitively awarded agreements for the use of our areas or facilities in the Free Library System may be deposited for use to pay expenses for programs and facilities in the Free Library System, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. You have any additional communications?
Thank you so much. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill and one privileged resolution.
And ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Zoning and Planning," by revising certain use regulations relating to the residential uses allowed in industrial districts and making technical changes.
And a privileged resolution celebrating the impactful, accomplished and joyful life of Philadelphia Human Rights Leader Lawyer, Professor and Mentor David M. Rosenblum who's sudden -- who's sudden and tragic passing at the age of 47 has spun his family, friends and has left a hole in the hearts of the Philadelphia LGBTQ communities.
And that resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I have three bills and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing designation of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 50th Street, Spruce Street, 45th Street and Market Street.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Powelton Avenue, Lancaster Avenue, 37th Street, Warren Street, 36th Street, Filbert Street and 38th Street.
And an ordinance to amend the institutional special purpose district master plan of Drexel university in the vicinity of 33rd Street and Chestnut Street for the construction of a new hotel with retail space.
And that bill will also be referred to committee.
And a non-privilege resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situated in the 6th, 51st and 60th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
And that resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer six bills, four of which are on your behalf.
An ordinance to amend Section 14-502 of the Zoning Code entitled, "CTR, Center City Overlay," and to amend section 14-602 of the Zoning Code entitled, "Used Tables."
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to acquire from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to a certain tract of land at the southeast corner of North 16th Street and Saber Street known as 1312 North 16th Street and 1314 North 16th Street.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 12-2800 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "The Administrative Adjudication of Parking Violations," by providing further regarding procedures for appealing adjudications of parking violations.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by John F. Kennedy Boulevard, 23rd Street, Cherry Street and the Schuylkill River.
And an ordinance amending Section 10-1001 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Fees of Commissioner of Records," to raise the fee for recording documents.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Spring Garden Street, 5th Street, Girard Avenue, 2nd Street, Brown Street and 3rd Street.
Referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, councilman. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
An ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer on behalf of the City to enter into an amendment agreement with Wells Fargo Bank for provision of payroll banking services to the City.
And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing on behalf of the City to file applications with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a community development block grant.
And that will be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Thank you, Councilman. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two non-privileged resolutions and two bills.
And ordinance legalizing an existing fence and flag poles and approval to construct and maintain a new fence and flag pole encroaching on the public right-of-way at 4300 Tacony Street.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Map by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Frankford Creek, Kensington Avenue, Adams Avenue, Griscom Street, Wakeling Street and the Northeast Corridor Railroad right-of-way.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situated in the 7th, 19th, 31st and 33rd Wards in the City of Philadelphia.
That will on next week's Final Passing Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Fairhill, East Tioga, Hunting Park urban renewal area identified by number and street addresses 4052 North 6th Street.
And that resolution will also be on next week's Final Passage Calender. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill on your behalf.
An ordinance amending Title 19 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Finance, Taxes and Collections," biding a new Chapter 19-4000 entitled, "Income and Equality Initiative: Earned Income Tax Credit," providing for the implementation of a policy and procedure to enable all Philadelphia residents who are eligible for the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit to apply for and receive the maximum credit to which they are entitled.
That bill will be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
An ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner on behalf of the City to enter into an agreement with Bicycle Transit Systems for the delivery of a bicycle sharing system.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the dedication and commitment of Philadelphia School teachers who continue to fight every day to improve the lives and educational outcomes of young people throughout our City.
And that resolution -- Mr. Decker, what was that? That will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.
On the last resolution I failed to mention, because it is important, that that resolution was co-sponsored by Chair of the Committee, Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Bass. Thank you.
The record shall reflect that. Thank you, Councilwoman. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two bills, one on your behalf signed by the vast majority of Councilmembers and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation and Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into an agreement to lease to Temple University an interior portion of the East Park Canoe House located on Kelly Drive.
And that bill will be on -- be referred to committee.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2700 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Sales and Use Tax and Hotel Occupancy Tax," by providing for additional sales and use tax and for the manner in which the tax revenues shall be used.
And that bill will also be referred to committed.
And a non-privilege resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situated in the 38th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be on next weeks' Final Passage Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill co-sponsored by Councilman O'Neill and Councilman Henon, and four non-privileged resolutions.
An ordinance amending Title 6 of the Philadelphia Code known as the Health Code by amending Section 6-103 entitled, "Penalties and Cease Operations Orders," biding a new chapter 6-1100 entitled, "Nuisance and Health Establishments," by amending Section 19-2602 entitled, "Licenses," providing for identification and closure of nuisance health establishments.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the New Kensington/Fishtown urban renewal area identified by house number and street addresses 2208 Trenton Avenue.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the New Kensington/Fishtown urban renewal area identified by house number and street addresses as 2103 East Cumberland Street, 2107 East Cumberland Street and 2105 Amber Street.
That will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar, also.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal portion of the New Kensington/Fishtown urban renewal area identified by house numbers and street addresses as 2423 East Dauphin Street and 2425 through 27 East Dauphin Street.
That will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal portion of the New Kensington/Fishtown urban renewal area identified by house number and street address as 2235 Coral Street.
And that will also be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. And the chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance Bill No. 090839, approved June 30, 2010 as amended entitled, "An Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 242 by striking from the City Plan and making portions of the beds of Old York Road and a certain cutback area at the southerly side of 66th Avenue between Old York Road and Broad Street; thereby, reducing the width of Old York Road."
And an ordinance granting permission to ABEER, Limited Partnership, owner of the property Oak Lane Diner of 6528 North Broad Street to legalize a one-story concrete masonry construction.
That bill will be referred to committee. A lot of history with that particular legislation. Thank you. Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you so much, Councilman. And that concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions. And we will now have reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules which has referred Bill No. 140076, 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 Parkside Avenue, Girard Avenue and Belmont Avenue"; And Bill No. 140341 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 Tacony Street, Comly Street extended, the Delaware River, Frankford Creek and Bridge Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. And the Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended as to prevent first reading this day of Bill Nos. 140076 and 140341. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit reading this day of Bills No. 140076 and 140341. All those in favor say aye. (Chorus of Ayes)
Those opposed? (No response.) Ayes have it. And those bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Henon with a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Mr. Chair -Mr. President. Committee of Public Works and Public Property reports three bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which is referred, Bill No. 140340 entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to (A) acquire by lease or by deed land in the area bounded by the Delaware River, the former Frankford Creek, Bridge Street, Tacony Street and Darkrun Lane (extended to the Delaware River); And (B) conveyed by lease or by deed land in the area bounded by the Delaware River, former Frankford Creek, Bridge Street, Tacony Street and Darkrun Lane (extended to the Delaware River) to the Philadelphia Authority for industrial development for further conveyance; and (C) acquired by deed land located at 3101 East Orthodox Street; and (D) acquire by lease or by deed land in the area bounded by the Delaware River, Disston Street (extended to the Delaware River), Milnor Street and Princeton Avenue (extended to the Delaware River) all for nominal consideration"; And Bill No. 140344 entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation and the Commissioner of Public Property to execute a deed to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, and to accept a deed from PAID to execute -- and to execute all of the necessary documents the for purpose of exchanging and approximately one and one-tenths acre parcel of City-owned land, the K&T parcel, that is part of a larger parcel commonly called the Kensington & Tacony Trail, (the "K&T Trail") running between Tacony Street and the Frankford Creek for an approximately one and one-tenths acre parcel of land of equal or greater value owned by PAID located at 3101 East Orthodox Street"; And Bill No. 140350 entitled, "An ordinance approving a lease amendment between the Philadelphia Gas Works by Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation, solely in its capacity as operator and manager of the City-owned Philadelphia Gas Works, and Girard Square A NY for certain premises located at 1137 Chestnut Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. And the Chair again recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day Bill No. 140340, 140344 and 140350. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended this day so as to permit first reading of Bills No. 140340, 140344 and 140350. All those in favor say aye. (Chorus of Ayes.)
The Ayes have it. These bills will be placed on our First Meeting Calendar today. Chair now recognizes Councilman Squilla for report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports seven bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Streets and Services, to which is referred Bill No. 130849 entitled, "An ordinance repealing an ordinance, (Bill No. 130449) entitled, 'An ordinance authorizing Atul Amin, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the southeast corner of 17th and JFK Boulevard to construct, use and maintain conduits in, under and across the southeast corner of 17th and JFK Boulevard and authorizing Atul Amin, the owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of 17th and JFK Boulevard to construct, use and maintain conduits in, under and across the northwest corner of 17th and JFK Boulevard"; And Bill No. 140347 entitled, "An ordinance legalizing an existing architectural planter encroaching on the public right-of-way at 1700 South Broad Street"; And Bill No. 140349 entitled, "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Farmer's Markets," by adding West Allegheny Avenue between Bambrey and 26th Streets as a permissible location"; And Bill No. 140351 entitled, "An ordinance authorizing Sanjay Patel, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the southeast corner of 13th and Filbert Streets to construct, use and maintain conduits in, under and across the southeast corner of 13th and Filbert Streets; " And Bill No. 140352 entitled, "An ordinance authorizing Moonshine Philly to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1825 East Moyamensing Street"; And Bill No. 140353 entitled, "An ordinance authorizing Narottam Parmar, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the north side of Washington Avenue from 821 Washington Avenue to 801 Washington Avenue to construct, use and maintain conduits in, under and across the north side of Washington Avenue from 821 Washington Avenue to 801 Washington Avenue"; And Bill No. 140378 entitled, "An ordinance authorizing Wishbone Restaurant to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 4034 Walnut Street, all under certain terms and conditions," respectful reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Chair again recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the Rules of Council be suspended so to permit the first reading this day of the seven bills that were just read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended this day to allow the reading of the seven bills just reported from committee. All those in favor say aye. (Chorus of Ayes)
Ayes have it. And those bills will be on our first reading of today. Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez for a report from the Committee of License and Inspection.
Thank you, Mr. Chair -- Mr. President. The Committee on Licenses and Inspection reports three bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Licenses and Inspection, to which is referred Bill No. 140052 entitled, "An ordinance amending Title 10 of the Philadelphia Code entitled 'Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity,' by allowing the granting of permanent licenses for guide dogs for the blind, handicap persons or government-owned dogs used for law enforcement"; And Bill No. 140080 entitled, "An ordinance amending Title 10 of the Philadelphia Code entitled 'Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity,' by amending Chapter 10-100 entitled, 'Animals,' by providing further for the proper care and treatment of certain animals"; And Bill No. 140223 entitled, "An ordinance amending Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, 'Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions,' to modify an exception to the expediter's license requirement, all under certain terms an conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. And the Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 140052, 140080 and 140223. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to the first reading this day of Bills No. 140052, 140080 and 140223. All those in favor say aye. (Chorus of Ayes)
Ayes have it. And these bills will be on our First Reading Calendar today. And that concludes our reports from Committee. And the next order of business is consideration of the calendar. And I note that the bills just reported from committee have been deemed with suspension, have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on our Second and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling out bills and resolutions on our Second and Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up from Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today Nos. 140418, 140419, 140421, 140422, 140314, 140207, 140180 and 140224. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before calling up these bills for a vote, we will have our Public Comment Session. The Public Comment Session goes as follows. I have to say it anyway. Apparently, there's no one to testify, but I have to say it anyway. It goes as follows: If there is anyone here interested in testifying on a bill or resolution on a Final Passage Calendar today, I would ask that you -- if you haven't already done so, please sign up to the table to my left. When you are called to testify, you will have three minutes to testify. You'll go to the podium in the middle of the Council. There is a device that has a light. When the light turns green, it is your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. And when the light turns red, we would ask that you please conclude your remarks. Mr. decker, please read the first name.
There are no speakers on the Public Comment list today, Mr. President.
All right. Thank you very much. At this time, we will deal with our calendar. Mr. Decker, I would ask that you please read the title of 140418.
A resolution supporting President Barack Obama in his condemnation of the terrorist organization Boka Haram and further supporting the President's efforts to assure the safe return of the kidnapped Nigerian school girls.
And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Chorus of Ayes)
Ayes have it. And Resolution 140418 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140419.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situated in the 29th and 47th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Chorus of Ayes.)
Ayes have it. And Resolution 140419 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140421.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 1507 Catharine Street and 1515 Catharine Street.
Mr. President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Chorus of Ayes)
Ayes have it. And Resolution 140421 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140422.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situated in the 31st Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Chorus of Ayes)
Ayes have it. And the Resolution 140422 is adopted. Mr. Decker, will you please read the title of 140314.
An ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia Department of Public Property to construct, own and maintain an accessible ramp and step encroachment located 1201 North 61st Street.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.
Aye. The Ayes are 16 and the Nays are 0. Majority of Members present voting in the affirmative. The bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 140207.
An ordinance amending Title 12 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Traffic Code," to revise the fee for the use of parking meters.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is, shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. The Ayes are 15, the Nays are 1. Majority of Members present voting in the affirmative. The bill passes. Mr. Decker, 140180.
And ordinance amending an ordinance(Bill No. 877), approved September 16, 1994, by amending an exhibit thereto, in order to increase the limit of the amount of funding any entity may receive in any fiscal year from the Philadelphia Activities Fund.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is, shall it bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. The Ayes are 16, the Nays are 0. The majority of Members present voting in the affirmative. The bill passes. Mr. Decker, 140224.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire title from the Salvation Army to a certain tract of land at the southeast corner of 22nd and Market Streets, known as 2140 Market Street; and amending Chapter 15-200 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Fairmount Park," to make the parcel part of the Fairmount Park System and to make technical changes.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is, shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker call the roll.
Aye. The Ayes are 16, the Nays are 0. Majority of the Members present voting in the affirmative. The bill passes. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional resolutions?
A resolution celebrating the impactful, accomplished and joyful life of Philadelphia Home -- Human Rights Leader, Lawyer, Professor and Mentor David M. Rosenblum who's sudden and tragic passing at the age of 47 has stunned his family, friends and has left a hole in the hearts of the Philadelphia LGBTKQ communities introduced by Councilman Kenney.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Chorus of Ayes)
The ayes have it. And that resolution is adopted.
A resolution recognizing and honoring the dedication and commitment of Philadelphia School teachers who continue to fight every day to improve the lives and educational outcomes of young people throughout our City, introduced by Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Bass.
And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
I move for the adoption, Mr. President. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Chorus of Ayes)
There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. With that I will call for speeches on behalf of the Minority. And the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
On Tuesday Philadelphia voters will have an important ballot question before them regarding the constitutional rights of the most vulnerable among us. The right to counsel is a fundamental, procedural safeguard guaranteed under the Bill of Rights to all persons accused of a crime who are unable to afford a lawyer. In the landmark case Gideon vs. Wainwright, the United States Supreme Court recognized the fundamental role that legal representation plays in a fair criminal justice system. On November 14, 2013, I introduced with co-sponsor Councilman Bill Greenlee a three-piece package of legislation regarding indigent representation, which is not just limited to the criminal counsel but also includes a very large number of complex dependency cases involving children. One of those measures, Bill No. 130851, seeks a change to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter as it relates to specific contracts relating to indigent legal representation. Currently, City Council has no authority to review contracts that the Administration enters into when the length of the contract is for one year or less. I do not believe that every contract should require City Council approval. However, I do strongly believe that any contract dealing with an individual's constitutional rights is important enough to require Council approval. I understand that amending the Home Rule Charter is not an action to be taken lightly, but these contracts are of such importance that an exception to the Charter is not only required but is in the best interest of the City. The right to counsel is a constitutionally protected right. The contract the Administrations eventually plans to issue an RFP for and sign deals directly with this constitutionally protected right. This Charter amendment will not prohibit the Administration from entering into a contract. It will just require a public forum to be able to review the contract and get answers before any contract is signed. Without this legislation, there is zero public input. My proposed narrow amendment to the Charter requires that all contracts for the rendering of services for a year or less that involves the expenditures of more than $100,000 for the purpose of providing legal representation and related services for the indigent may only be made when permitted by ordinance. This provision applies to the contracts renewals and extensions. In order to make the amendment as narrow as possible so as not to open the floodgates of Council approval for every contract, I did the following. Put a monetary threshold of over $100,000; two, specifically state that this amendment only applies to contracts dealing with the legal representation of the indigent. The monetary amount is necessary to make sure that only large contracts are considered. As a result, this excludes individual private attorneys who are currently providing legal representation to the indigent by being court appointed conflict counsel. However, the monetary amount includes the Philadelphia Defender's Office, Child Support Center and Community Legal Services because these organizations have been successfully contracting with the City for many years. They are exempt from the review requirement unless Council provides an ordinance to the contrary. I urge Philadelphia voters to answer "yes" to the proposed charter change Question No. 3 when they go to the voting booth on Tuesday. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman. And the chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. On Tuesday, voters will go to the polls and vote in the races for Governor, Congress and the State Legislature. There's also a big push for Ballot Question No. 1 that will confirm our ability to extend our living wage and benefit standard to subcontractors. In 2005, I introduced a Philadelphia 21st Century minimum wage standard bill, a living wage ordinance that requires City-supported employers to pay at least 150 percent of the minimum wage to its employees. That wage standard was already required in Philadelphia to get a job creation tax credit requiring a minimum hourly wage of $7.72 an hour rather than just $5.15. For the record, some are being paid only $5.15 an hour in 2005 even if they worked 40 hours per week and worked all 52 weeks in the year. Earned less than $11,000. Obviously, the purpose of legislation was to assure that as many employees as possible within the City of Philadelphia earn a new wage and enables them to live with more dignity and increase economic self-sufficiency. The City contracts with businesses to provide goods and services and provides financial assistance to developers of economic development and job growth. Such public expenditures should also be invested in a better community economic standard. It is an investment in those that are most vulnerable economically. Since my original law was enacted in 2005, we raised the wage standard from $5.15 to $7.72 to $10.88 per hour. And now we aim even higher because we are still the poorest big city in America. That's real help for real people, in fact, the people that need it the most. I was glad to stand with the Mayor last week to create a new higher standard of $12 per hour through his Executive Order. I look forward to soon introducing a new bill that lifts wages permanently. But we must also pass this ballot question to make the necessary changes permanent. So on Tuesday, May 28, vote "Yes" on 1. To make it easier, vote "yes" on all questions. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
I, too, have a ballot question to talk about, Ballot Question No. 2. " The question voters have to ask themselves is, is it more important to keep an ineffective law in place or to change it so we can solve critical, longstanding problems? "Resign To Run" is an ineffective law in terms of making politicians more ethical. It does, however, make politicians in Philadelphia less effective. Each year the public schools need hundreds of millions of dollars from the City, money they will not get from our General Fund because our already too high taxes are not high enough to cover the lack of funding that comes from the State. This year the public schools are asking the City to provide 195 million of $440 million request, and that's just to maintain the schools and have slight improvements. Philadelphia does not have this money. Therefore, we are looking at two tax increases: 1 percent sales tax and a cigarette tax. But any money that we provide to the schools also means less money for important City functions such as public safety, pension debt, tax reduction, social services, parks and recreation and so forth. This will happen next year and the year after and so on unless we as a City take action to change this paradigm. In order to do so, we must think outside the box, identify the key obstacles that prevent us from solving the problems and remove them. The thing we cannot do is do nothing and expect the problem to solve itself. " That limitation only applies to Philadelphia City-elected officials. None of the other 2,500 cities and towns in Pennsylvania have this restriction. As a result, they have their full team of local, state and federal elected officials advocating for them. Because of this restriction of more than 60 years, Philadelphia's 24 City-elected officials including our Mayor, DA, Controller and Councilmembers are perceived outside of Philadelphia as non-combatants in the political fight to help Philadelphia and its schools. Emissaries, yes; combatants, no. In other words, politicians outside of Philadelphia are convinced that our City-elected officials are not going to quit their jobs to run for Governor, Lieutenant Governor or Attorney General, Treasurer or Auditor General. If they do quit, the likelihood of being a serious candidate against an elected official from outside of Philadelphia since they do not have to quit is considered slim. It also takes a long time for someone to resign and mount up a campaign. As a result, Philadelphians do not have the kind of political clout that we should for a city of our stature and size. Regardless of whether Philadelphia's elected officials win or not, the mere act of running can dramatically change the outcome of a statewide race. That is of great concern to decision makers across the State, and that's important if we are going to have our ideas heard and solutions presented seriously for Harrisburg's consent. Right now Philadelphia is not fully at the table in a political sense. While other school district cities and towns flex their political muscles and present a coordinated effort which includes municipal expertise, Philadelphia's State delegation does not have the horsepower that comes from adding 24 City-elected officials that can bring more expertise and advocacy to Philadelphia's cause. It's time Philadelphia unshackled it's City-elected officials to do what politicians are supposed to do for their communities, and that is to engage in politics to the fullest to fight for the people of this City. Harrisburg will not solve our problems on its own. Each member of the legislature represents their own school district, city and town. It's up to us here to come up with a plan to fund and improve our schools and City. It has to make sense to legislators in Harrisburg and to their constituents. I suggest that we focus on generating more and keeping more of our own revenue since we provide more revenues than any other city or county in this state.
Philadelphia is responsible for producing one-third of the State's GDP. We give more than we get. If we rise, the State rises. If we fall, the State falls. There is only one instance that I can think of in a major sense where that statement is not true. There is a subsection of the amount that we give and get. And that is schools. We have the largest School District with the most complicated issues. Our School District does not have taxing authority, so 55 percent of our City's property tax goes to schools. That provides only 26 percent of the City's total contribution, which is 42 percent of the school's budget. The State provides 55 percent of our school budget, the rest coming to Federal Government. In order to be able to reach an agreement with the State regarding how we can adequately fund our schools and transition back local control, we need to harness all of our City's expertise to present a great plan and use all of our political power to close a deal. Amending "Resign To Run" takes 24 of our elected officials off the bench and puts them in the game. Right now we need this for our schools and our City's future. So, I urge voters to vote "yes" to amend this outdated and harmful restriction. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Mr. President, I just want to thank you on behalf of all of us here for your leadership in carrying our water, "if you would," up to Harrisburg and doing what you've done consistently over the last three years being our voice up in the halls of Harrisburg, putting our agenda before our co -- co-allies in the House and in the Senate. The best compromise probably is the one that everybody dislikes a little, but also gets what they need in the end. Not necessarily what they want, but what they need. And I just want to say that it has been a privilege to watch you move quietly at times but effectively all the time up in those hallways. And I just want to express my thank you for that.
Thank you so much, Councilman. But I am, again, a true believer of any one individual is only as strong as the team. And again, I say this is the best team that I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Thank you so much. There being no other speeches, Chair recognizes Councilman Brown for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stands adjourned until Thursday, May 22, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
Been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Chorus of Ayes)
Ayes have it. m. Thank you all very much. ) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I, hereby certify that the proceedings and evidence noted are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me in the foregoing matter, and that this is a correct transcript of the same.
leader 19:21 light 55:10,11,12 making 27:17 members 2:4,10 24:4,11,19 25:3 27:22 67:18 55:13 42:8 75:17 2:12 15:21 40:11,20 41:6 leadership 80:14 lightly 71:3 Management 22:19 43:16 41:16 league 13:2,10,12 likelihood 77:14 47:6 61:13 63:11 KENYATTA 15:15 19:1,9,20 limit 63:17 manager 47:7 65:10 67:12 1:13 20:9,12,15,21 limitation 76:21 Mandel 6:18 8:8 men 16:17 mention 20:4 moved 4:24 44:19 never 11:12 NY 47:8 81:21 37:12 47:23 51:6 new 10:16 24:3,10 oppression 3:24 Mentor 27:23 53:13 56:13 24:18 25:2 29:9 O order 4:13 5:9 6:1 67:19 57:12 58:10 33:22 35:23 O 83:2 22:11 27:5 54:1 mere 77:23 59:9 68:5 69:1 39:24 40:11,20 Oak 42:17 63:16 72:1 mess 12:14 81:17 41:5,15 74:2,19 Obama 56:2 74:20 76:14 messages 22:13 Moyamensing 74:21 obstacle 76:20 79:21 22:15,18 50:5 newspaper 11:3 obstacles 76:15 Orders 39:24 meters 61:20 municipal 78:9 newsstand 49:2,6 obviously 12:13 ordinance 25:6,11 Miami 16:22 Murawski 15:23 49:22 50:8 73:23 25:16 26:1,7,11 MICHAEL 1:20 16:6,6 17:3,11 Newton 19:18 Occupancy 38:13 26:15 27:13 middle 55:9 muscles 78:8 20:7 Odyssey 6:17 28:14,21 29:5 million 76:2,2 MVP 19:19 Nigerian 56:5 7:16,18,22 8:6 30:7,13,22 31:6 millions 75:21 night 13:15 8:10,13,18 9:4,9 31:14,20 32:17 Milnor 46:9 N Njiru 8:4 9:16,22 10:11 32:23 33:20 mind 6:17 7:16,18 N 83:2 noise 7:7 offer 27:9 30:3 34:3 35:21 7:23 8:6,10,14 name 3:16 12:14 nominal 46:10 32:10 35:18 36:16 38:3,11 8:18 9:4,9,17,22 16:6 55:16 non-combatants 36:13 37:22 39:21 42:3,4,5 10:11,17 named 14:12 77:6 43:1 42:15 43:19,24 Miners 13:24 19:18 20:3,5 non-privilege Office 72:15 45:17 46:12 Minersville 13:24 Narottam 50:7 29:12 38:19 official 77:15 47:3 48:23,23 minimum 73:13 narrow 71:17 non-privileged officials 76:22 48:24 49:11,15 73:15,18 72:1 28:11 33:16 77:2,4,11,23 49:20 50:2,6,14 minorities 3:2 nations 9:7 34:12,23 37:24 78:11,15 80:3 52:6,12,18 Minority 5:20 Navid 8:2 39:18 40:7,16 oh 1:15 3:5 5:18 59:18 61:17 69:14 Nays 61:12 63:10 41:2,12 5:19 42:23,24 63:14 65:13 minutes 55:8 65:9 67:11 north 23:16 25:20 60:23,24 62:21 71:23 72:20 mistakes 18:17 NCAA 14:19 25:21 30:17,18 62:22 64:20,21 73:14 Model 23:7 nearly 14:9 30:19 35:5 66:22,23 75:5,6 ordinance(Bill modify 52:21 necessarily 80:22 42:17 50:8,11 75:9 63:15 Monday 13:6 necessary 46:18 59:21 Old 42:8,10,12 organization 56:3 monetary 72:4,8 72:8 74:23 Northeast 34:8 once 11:11 organizations 72:14 need 74:16 75:20 northwest 49:7,9 one-story 42:18 72:17 money 75:21 76:5 79:24 80:5,21 Nos 44:16 54:17 one-tenths 46:19 orientation 3:3 76:8,9 80:22 Notary 83:12 46:24 original 74:11 Moonshine 50:3 Neumann 16:8 note 54:2 one-third 79:5 Orthodox 46:6 morning 2:2,7,13 17:22 18:10,16 noted 83:5 open 72:2 47:2 12:10,11 36:11 18:23 20:19 notes 83:7 open-air 50:4,16 outcome 77:24 motion 81:10 21:2 November 70:8 Operations 39:24 outcomes 37:3 motto 16:15 Neumann-Gore... nuisance 40:1,4 operator 47:7 68:17 mount 77:18 12:1,19,24 13:8 number 23:9,16 49:1,6,21 50:7 outdated 80:7 move 4:20 44:14 13:13 14:11,16 23:22 24:5 25:4 opportunity 2:14 outside 7:24 47:18 51:1 53:8 15:13,21 16:15 35:4 40:12,21 opposed 5:5 44:24 10:15 11:7 56:11 57:10 16:18 18:7,13 41:17 70:13 48:5 51:12 76:15 77:6,9,15 58:6 59:5 68:2 19:5 21:11 numbers 24:12,20 53:19 56:17 outstanding 19:6 68:22 80:24 Neumann-Gore... T 19:11 reason 21:15 24:16,17,17,24 65:7,8,22 67:9 69:2 81:18 Rebels 14:3,8 25:1,1,19 29:15 67:10,24 68:5,9 property 23:5 Q receive 36:5 63:18 30:16 34:15,24 68:11,20,23 25:12,17 26:3 question 59:24 received 20:4 35:1,2 38:22 69:1,5,7,11,12 29:14 30:14 61:22 63:21 recognize 9:16 40:8,9,10,17,18 69:18,19 72:24 34:14 38:5,21 65:23 69:22 17:6 40:19 41:3,4,5 73:1,5 75:3,7,8 42:17 45:6,10 72:22 73:9 recognized 70:5 41:13,14,15 80:9,12 81:3,13 45:16,18 46:14 74:23 75:10,10 recognizes 2:8 56:24 57:22,23 81:17,21,23 56:23 58:19 75:13 4:16 5:11,18 57:23 58:20 President's 56:4 59:19 65:14 questions 75:1 6:13 10:5 11:23 reducing 42:11 prevent 44:15 79:15 quietly 80:24 16:3,5 17:20 reduction 76:10 76:16 proposed 71:17 Quinones-Sanc...