COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania February 20, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK
I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. I am asking all members please take your seats. All visitors please retire to the seats outside the rails. Before proceeding, I will ask all those present to please set your cell phones to silent and/or vibrate. And I'm asking for all sidebar conversations to be taken out of the Council chambers. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Archbishop Mary Palmer, Presiding Prelate of the Philadelphia Council of Clergy. She is here today as the guest of Majority Councilwoman Jamie Gauthier. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. She's the illustrious Zeta Phi Beta, Inc. (Councilmembers, visitors and guests rise.) ARCHBISHOP FLOYD PALMER: Thank you, Council President, and thank you, Councilwoman Gauthier. The head attire that I'm wearing today was made by an 83-year-old Nigerian woman who gifted it to me. And she said, Wear your crown brightly, which is why she used gold. And she said, black means that even if you are lamenting, you are looking for hope. This is particularly emotional for me because today my late father would have been 90, and he did many a prayer in this chamber. So I do so in his honor. It is because of your mercies, God, that we are not consumed. Your compassions fail every morning. Great is your faithfulness for this day destined by you for us to come together into this chamber where we conduct business for all people. We say thank you. We thank you for our rising for safe travel to this place. But even in this moment, God, we thank you for each and every Councilmember who has chosen to serve your people, who give them the vision and the guidance to do what is right, not just for the part, but for the whole, for the least, the last and the lost, those that are in need and those that bring service. So we thank you, God, for each one for their lives, for their willingness to do the right thing even in tough times. We ask continued protection, God, on all them by blood or law, that no hurt, harm or danger shall befall them, that you will continue to be the voice of reason, mercy and justice as they deliberate and make decisions and cast votes that will impact us all, including themselves. So, God, for this moment we thank you for the Black History Month. We thank you for our heritage. We thank you for our forefathers and those that have laid the foundation upon whose shoulders we stand in every genre of society, faith, politics, education, corporate, marketing. Whatever the genre, we thank you for those trailblazers. Now, guide us even now. May your sweet spirit continue to fall in this place. Help us to do so decently and in order and so will not only get the glory, but those in attendance will be empowered and edified. And if I may say Satan will be horrified, but that you will be glorified. And we ask it all in the name that I call my Savior Jesus the Christ in whom I live, move and have my being. Amen, amen and amen. God bless you. (Amen.)
Council will now be at ease. The Chair thanks the Archbishop for the invocation. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 13th, 2025. The Chair recognizes Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 13, 2025 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 13th, 2025 stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leaves of recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
While Council is at ease, (inaudible). The next order of business is request for leaves of absence and the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Harrity.
The Chair thanks the will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.
Good morning, Council President. On behalf of the Minority, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the Councilmember. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.
Thank you, I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session of Council, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in 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 great city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson who will present a resolution honoring and celebrating the Philadelphia Tribune, an advocate and trailblazer for the African American community on the 140th year anniversary as the oldest continuously published newspaper, owned and operated by African Americans. Will Mr. Bob Bogle and those accompanying him please join the Councilmember on my behalf at the podium. Joining Majority Leader Richardson are the following: Councilmember Phillips, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Brooks, Councilmember Lozada, Councilmember Squilla, Councilmember O'Rourke, Councilmember Landau, Councilmember Gauthier and Councilmember Bass. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
All right. Thank you so much, Council President. It is certainly my humble honor and resolution on your behalf, Council President. As we know, the home of the Philadelphia Tribune certainly started in your District. So we thank you so very much on the occasion of this Black History Month to be honored to present this resolution to you, Bob Bogle here in Philadelphia City Council. So today we are honoring and celebrating the Philadelphia Tribune, an advocate and trailblazer for the African American community on the occasion of its 140th year anniversary -(Applause.)
-- as the oldest, continuously published newspaper owned and operated by African Americans. (Applause.)
This is a wonderful day in Council. The Tribune has been amazing to all of us in Philadelphia, especially the African American community. So to start, Whereas, Christopher James Perry, Sr., founder of The Tribune, was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1856. Upon graduating from high school, relocated to Philadelphia. Although Perry's father wanted him to study law, Perry refused stating, For my people to make progress, they must have a newspaper through which they can speak against injustice; and
Whereas, after 11 years of reporting for a local daily newspaper while attending night school Perry's dream of establishing a newspaper came to The Tribune; and Whereas, at the age of 28, Perry published the first edition of a one-page, one man operation titled Tribune Weekly at 725 Sansom Street; and
Whereas, during the PostReconstruction migration, The Tribune committed itself to improving the standard of living for African Americans in Philadelphia by covering job openings, civic affairs, social events and church news; and
Whereas, from his inception until his death Perry wrote about the challenges faced by African Americans, particularly those in Philadelphia, and worked to give them a platform to address the daily lives; and
Whereas, today the Philadelphia Tribune stands as America's oldest continuously published newspaper, owned and operated by African Americans; and
Whereas, over the years The Tribune has championed issues such as desegregation, equality, equal access to city employment and contracting opportunities and increasing the representation of African American judges appointed to Philadelphia Municipal Court; and
Whereas, The Tribune has grown from a one-page, one-man operation 140 years ago to a newspaper that is now published five days a week and In addition to the newspaper, the company publishes Tribune Magazine; Now, an arts entertainment review; Sojourner, an African American visitor's guide to Philadelphia; and the Learning Key, an educational supplement directed to students, parents and teachers; and
Whereas, Robert W. Bogle, the current publisher of The Philadelphia Tribune, continues to lead the organization and its legacy of excellence, upholding its mission of serving the African American community with integrity and commitment; and Whereas, in celebrating this historic milestone we recognize the invaluable contributions of The Tribune staff, editors, writers and all those who maintain the newspaper's legacy of excellence in journalism and service to the African American community; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and celebrate The Philadelphia Tribune, an advocate and trailblazer for the African American community on the occasion of its 140th year anniversary as the oldest, continuously published newspaper, owned and operated by African Americans. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Mr. President, members of Council. The staff of the Philadelphia Tribune, many of which, our senior staff is here today. I wish you would acknowledge them because they're the people who make it work. (Applause.)
140 years sounds like a long time, and I've been accused of being here for 140, but I promise you I haven't. What I can say is that we are enormously grateful for this honor. Thank you once again.
Let's give The Tribune and Mr. Bogle and his team another (Applause.)
Thank you, Mr. Bogle, for being the voice of the African American community. It's only fitting during Black History Month that we honor you. It's also great you reside in the 2nd Councilmanic District. The next order of business at this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas, who will present a resolution honoring and congratulating the School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington for being recognized as Superintendent of the Year by the District Administration Leadership Institute. (Applause.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: That's a national recognition. Would Dr. Watlington and those accompanying him please join Councilmember Thomas, who's the Chair of Education, and also bring up Councilman Phillips who is the Vice-Chair of Education. Joining Chairman Thomas will be Majority Gilmore Richardson, Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Brooks, Councilmember Bass, Councilmember Lozada, Councilmember Landau, Councilmember O'Rourke, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier and -- Mr. Squilla isn't here. And so, Councilmember Jones. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Thank you, Council President, for your leadership. It's an honor to stand here on your behalf as the Education Chair as well as the person who's looking to really work with my colleagues to move the needle forward as it relates to public education in the city of Philadelphia. We couldn't be more honored to stand here today with our leader, the person who's been a visionary for the last couple years. As it relates to the School District of Philadelphia, if I can paraphrase correctly, Dr. Watlington came in with the idea of moving the needle specifically around academic achievement. His agenda, and guardrails, has put us in a position not just for him to be recognized as one of the most amazing superintendents in the entire country, but for us as a city to be recognized as it relates to the academic progress that our young people have made coming out the pandemic. So with that being said, it's an honor to stand here with Dr. Watlington and his entire team, all of the principals, the teachers, the operational and climate staff, the parents, everybody who makes our School District go. While we honor Dr. Watlington, we want you to understand that on behalf of this legislative body we very much appreciate you as well too. said, I hereby say that honoring and congratulating the School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington for being recognized as a Superintendent of the Year by the District Administration Leadership Institute. (Applause.)
Again, I want to echo the sentiments of my colleague, our Chair of Education Councilmember Thomas, and thanking Dr. Watlington for coming into the District and running full steam ahead. As a proud School District of Philadelphia mom of two elementary school students and a recent School District of Philadelphia graduate who is now a college freshman at your alma mater, Dr. Watlington, Mom, we are proud to be here with you. So whereas, Dr. Tony Watlington, Sr., Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, has been named the 2025 Superintendent of the Year by the District Administration Leadership Institute; and
Echoing everything my colleague said; and Whereas, the District Administration Leadership Institute is the leading national PreK-12 organization that provides leadership, development opportunities for superintendents, district leaders and senior staff across the United States; and
Whereas, Dr. Watlington graduated as a first generation student at with a Bachelor's of Science in history education. He later earned a Master's Degree in American Political History from Ohio State, a Master's Degree in School Administration and Educational Leadership from the University of North Carolina, and a Doctorate in Education from the University of North Carolina; and
Whereas, Dr. Watlington became Superintendent of the Philadelphia School District in June 2022 of the Philadelphia School District, the eighth largest school district in the country, serving more than 100,000 students; and Whereas, under his leadership Philadelphia's public schools have achieved the highest enrollment and graduation rates in decade, improved standardized test scores and reduced student dropout rates by more than 1400 students; and
Whereas, Dr. Robinson and his team recognized the District's learning networks, launched a two-way communication and feedback platform and revamped the District's curriculum through the five-year strategic plan Accelerate Philly; and
All right. Whereas, research done by Harvard University's Center for Educational Policy Research and the Educational Opportunity Project at Stanford University have shown that the Philadelphia School District outpaces other large urban districts nationwide and similar districts in Pennsylvania; and
This proud public school parent also congratulates you of being Superintendent of the year. Whereas, Amy Dujon, Vice-President of Education, Media and Summits with the District Administration Leadership Institute, praised Watlington saying, Tony Watlington has exemplified what it means to lead with integrity, vision and impact, thank you; and
Whereas, the people of Philadelphia are lucky to have this exemplary example of a Black man, Dr. Watlington at the helm of the School District, ensuring a brighter future for the students of our great city; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, honors and congratulates School District of Philadelphia Superintendent, Dr. Tony Watlington, for being recognized as Superintendent of the Year by the District Administration Leadership Institute.
And further resolved, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Dr. Tony Watlington as a token of sincere admiration of this legislative body. Congratulations. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Dr. Watlington for remarks.
Thank you, Mr. President, Majority Leader Richardson, members of Council, Education Chair Thomas. Thank you the opportunity to be in this very fine and hallowed hall this morning. I count it an honor and a privilege to serve the children and families of the School District of Philadelphia. I love living in the nation's sixth largest city, working in the eighth largest school district. I'm so proud of our students and their families, their parents and guardians. They're doing the hard, heavy lifting. I want to thank Council for your support, financial and otherwise, for the School District. Thank you very much as well as our Board of Education, our staff, I'm joined by our Legislative Director, Laurel Grbach. Let's give her a big round of applause. (Applause.)
And Deputy Chief of Government Community Relations, Edwin Santana. (Applause.)
Finally, Mr. President, I want you to know that I'm excited on June 16th. I will kick off Year 4 as your Superintendent and we are going to continue, as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said and as President Obama would often say, We are going to continue to work with a fierce sense of urgency to do what is right, do what is right by all of our children. Thank you so much. Good Morning. (Applause.)
The next order of Chair requests that the Sergeantat-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your Honorable body a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 623 Rear North 55th Street located in the 4th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia code; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1124 South 56th Street located in the 3rd Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. There are no further communications in my possession, Council President.
Thank you very much. The messages will be presented -- will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. I have one resolution, a privileged resolution on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution commending and recognizing NFL Hall of Famer Merrill Reese for his nearly fiftyyear career as the voice of the Philadelphia Eagles and his exceptional contributions to broadcasting in sports.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. Nothing today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jamie Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. Today I have three non-privileged resolutions and one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged and non-privileged resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 4701 Sansom Street located in the 3rd Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed for consideration on the Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on the Environment to conduct a hearing to evaluate progress on the implementation of the Philly Tree Plan, determine how to expedite progress and what, if any, additional policies might promote the City's sustainable greening goals.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution can -- excuse me. The next two are not privileged. And a non-privileged resolution condemning President Donald J. Trump for moving our nation closer to a constitutional crisis by likening himself to and acting like a king. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1124 South 56th Street located in the 3rd Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution -- that's it. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas.
Morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Nothing today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.
Good morning. I offer one non-privileged resolution today.
Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 623 Rear North 55th Street located in the 4th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes the birthday Councilmember Rue Landau.
That's awesome. Thank you, Council President. (Applause.)
You're welcome. Will the Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution please.
A privileged resolution recognizing February 20th, 2025 as World Day of Social Justice in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. Good morning, everyone. I have no bills and resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young.
Good morning, Mr. President. Today I offer one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of legendary jazz host Bob Perkins.
Thank you very much. This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged seven -- one non-privileged and seven privileged resolutions to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the titles of the privileged and non-privileged resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution condemning the unconstitutional actions taken by the Department of Government Efficiency to dismantle the federal government.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and celebrating Queen Judith Robinson for her tireless advocacy, insistence on being heard, and for her work to amplify voices of communities in North Philadelphia for the benefit of the entire City of Philadelphia, on the occasion of Black History Month. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar.
A resolution celebrating and commending Martha Williams for her commitment to her communities, family and people across Philadelphia, and for her insistence on seeing the humanity of people who are incarcerated, on the occasion of Black History Month.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Patricia "Mama Patt" Vickers for her work to love and care for people across Philadelphia, her commitment to justice and her resolve to reduce the suffering of incarcerated people, on the occasion of Black History Month. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution celebrating and recognizing Sandra "Nan" Hill for her relentless work to improve the lives of people around her, and to recognize the dignity of every person, particularly people who are incarcerated, on the occasion of Black History Month. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Yvonne Newkirk as a pillar of her community for her relentless work to improve the lives and protect the dignity of people who are incarcerated across Pennsylvania, on the occasion of Black History Month. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating the life of Brenda Harris, one of the Founding Members of the Coalition to Abolish Death By Incarceration, CADBI, and a Black woman whose profound love for her communities improved the lives of her neighbors and people across Philadelphia, on the occasion of Black History Month. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
Celebrating and honoring Lorraine "Mrs. Dee Dee" Haw for her constant pursuit of justice, her ability to speak truth to power across Philadelphia and Pennsylvania, and for her infinite love for the people and communities around her, on the occasion of Black History Month. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.
Thank you, Council President -thank you, Council President. I have one privileged and one non-privileged resolution to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the titles of the privileged and non-privileged resolution please.
A non-privileged resolution calling on immigration and customs enforcement to immediately release Sereyrath "One" Van from Moshannon Valley Processing Center, and calling on Philadelphia's members of the United States Congress to champion welcoming immigration policies in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and to recognize Philadelphia as a city of second chances, especially for formerly incarcerated non-citizens. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage -this resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a privileged resolution honoring the public service at the local, state and federal level who made the unforgettable Eagles Super Bowl Parade possible, and recognizing all public servants for their dedication to communities they serve. (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Councilmember Gauthier, you did have four resolutions. One was stuck to the other so I'll read your privileged resolution.
That was my fault. I apologize. And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on the Environment to conduct a hearing to evaluate -- I thought I -- the progress on the implementation of the Philly Tree Plan to determine how to expedite progress and what, if any, additional policies might promote the City's sustainable greening goals.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from the Northeast, my good friend Councilman Mike Driscoll.
Morning, Mr. President. I have one privileged resolution for today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the Tesla Science Foundation, TSF, by declaring February 24th, 2025 "Tesla Science Foundation Day" in the City of Philadelphia, celebrating the work of TSF in cultivating scientific innovation and advancing the legacy of Nikola Tesla in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution on your behalf, signed by all members of Council.
Thank you very much, sir. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
And a privileged resolution calling for the preservation of the University of the Arts' Hamilton Hall and Furness Hall as vital spaces for the arts in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill.
And an ordinance amending Section 6-503 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Licenses and Permits," to provide for the suspension of licenses for businesses not in compliance with applicable state regulations and/or whose physical layout significantly differs from the originally approved floor plan, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. Today I have one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
And a privileged resolution recognizing Friday, February 21, 2025 as International Mother Language Day, to honor the brave souls who, on this day in 1952, sacrificed their lives to retain the right to use their mother language Bangla also known as Bengali.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. I also want to take a moment of special privilege to just say we also had in our presence today on behalf of Councilmember Cindy Bass the Gratz Bulldogs, correct?
I'm sure they can hear you. Let's give our young men a round of applause. (Applause.)
Oh, they're coming down? Okay. They'll be down to join us for a second. I just want to make sure we acknowledge our young people. We'll see them shortly.
Mr. President, I just wanted to thank you for recognizing and bringing that to light. And they are here today for winning the 2024 Public League Championship.
Okay. I was told they'll be down here shortly, but we definitely want to acknowledge the Gratz Bulldogs. Nicetown, okay.
That's what's up. 8th District. What you got to say, Coach Thomas?
They're doing an amazing job. And we're even -- they have inspired us to do our part to help improve that Gratz field, so we know that that's an issue. We're talking about it. And when they have success even under those conditions, it inspires us to do a little bit more. So congratulations, North Philly. Congratulations, Zip and all of the amazing people over at Simon Gratz. You guys -COUNCIL PRESIDENT 2ND READING JOHNSON: Thank you, Coach Thomas. (Applause.)
There being no reports from committees today, the next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. Council will be at ease -- matter of fact, bring them on the floor for a second. Let's give these young men a round of applause, y'all. (Applause.)
Give them a round of applause. (Applause.) 2ND READING
Let's give them a big round of applause, y'all. These young members represent the best our city has to offer. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
One last round of applause for our young men. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
I felt compelled to acknowledge our young men and put Council at ease because often times the media portrays a very different light, particularly African American young men, more than any other culture to target a certain type of stereotype. And so, when we have the opportunity to uplift young men who are in the right 2ND READING place doing the right things for the right reasons, that's what it's all about. And so, congratulations again, Gratz Bulldogs. (Applause.)
The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 241097. The following bills and resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 240427, 240304-A and 240665.
Thank you. Before considering the bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. Your public comment must be germane to the bills and resolutions that are on the Calendar. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters each will have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session-to-session. The time limit today will be two minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the two-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When you have 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once the two minutes have passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not already done so. I also reserve the right, pursuant to our rules of Council, to limit repetitious comments on the same manner. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.
Coach Jade Roane, Head Coach Gene Faust. Kate Perez and Dana Lomax-Biker also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached Witness table.)
Good morning. My name is Jade Roane. I'm the Athletic Director at Simon Gratz High School. Thank you guys for the opportunity to come out and speak on behalf of our 3A football champions. Special shout-out to Councilwoman Bass who made all this possible. This season has been a daunting one because of the conditions that we've been working under, but our young people have truly put the hard work in and the dedication and now they sit today as champions. We definitely want to recognize their families, our schools, their coaches who, you know. With all the stuff that we've been through with our field conditions over at Marcus Foster Stadium, hopefully we can get some of those things resolved and being able to play on our field next year and actually practice, and we can continue to do more things. So again, thank you very much, Councilwoman Bass and City Councilmembers at large. Thank you. (Applause.)
We have Kate Perez, Dana Lomax-Biker. And may Sean Damon and Saleem Holbrook also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached Witness table.)
Good morning. My name is Dana Lomax Ayler, A-y-l-e-r. Okay. That's my name. But I just wanted to congratulate some of the honorees, which was Mama Patt, Patricia Marshall Vikers. I wanted to congratulate Ms. Yvonne Newkirk, Ms. Nan Hill and Ms. Martha Brown. And also, how can I forget Mama Dee Dee. I want to congratulate these ladies because the work that they do. As I say, they're boots are on the ground. They're really about that life, you know. Their advocacy going above and beyond for those who are behind the walls, which a lot of people overlook, right, and judge -- not even knowing their story or their history. So I just want to congratulate these ladies. I'm proud of them. I love them. And y'all keep doing it, boots on the ground. (Applause.)
Ms. Perez, Ms. Perez. So -- and I understand you come down, I've been more than generous discretion-wise. Is your topic on the actual legislation put before us? And the legislation put before us is about conformities, which is a zoning matter. Has nothing to do with Israel. Has nothing to do with Palestine. Has nothing to do with the selling of ammunition from any Philadelphia-based company. So if you want to speak on the resolution that's put before you that you actually signed up for, then please stick to the topic. Other than that, you will not be speaking today.
It was written as non-conforming businesses. And these businesses that continue to sell to the occupation are not conforming with international standards and -
That does not conform to the actual legislation, ma'am. And so, you're more than welcome to speak on any topic that's germane to the actual resolution. And I am advised that what you're speaking on does not conform to this particular zoning matter.
Okay. I guess I'll just let you know that the Israeli occupation raided the school yesterday -- I mean, sorry -
Ms. Perez -- can we have the next speaker please come on and speak on the actual topic that is germane to what we're working on in City Council today. Will the Chief Clerk please call the next speaker please.
We have Sean Damon. We have Saleem Holbrook. May Nathanial Grimes and Shakaboona Marshall also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached Witness table.)
Saleem Holbrook. Morning, Council President. Good morning, Council.
I'm here to honor the late and great Ms. Brenda Harris, Mama Dee Dee from my neighborhood 20G, 20th and Green, 18th and Wallace, Martha Williams, Sandra Hill, Mama Patt, Ms. Patricia Vickers and Yvonne Newkirk. You know, today politicians are in a political climate where people are used to punching down on people, whether it's unhoused people, whether it's drug addicts, whether it's people suffering from mental health disabilities, lack of access to health care, people who are suffering the daily trauma of living poor or working class in the United States. These women here are people who punch up to power. These are the ones who are fighting for people who are imprisoned. As someone who went to Catholic school but didn't learn much, there's a verse that I learned and it says, For when I was hungry, you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger and you invited me in. I needed clothes and you clothed me. I was sick and you looked after me. I was in prison and you came to visit me. These women live up to that more than I've seen in this country, right. We have people who masquerade as Christians, as politicians who abuse people, who neglect people. These women, these mamas, are fighters. You know, I'm standing here free as a result of them as many of us in this room who are standing free, and they're still fighting and continuing. So I really wanted to stand here and honor them because they represent the fighting spirit of Philadelphia. They're the real underdogs right there. So I want to from the bottom of my heart extend my appreciation to y'all. And you know that people all over this city who are unhoused, who are suffering from police abuse, who have loved ones incarcerated, they appreciate your work too as well as the men and women on their side. So thank you. (Applause.)
Sean Damon. I'm here to speak on behalf of Lorraine Hall, known as Ms. Dee Dee, Patricia Vickers known to us as Mama Patt, Sandra Hill also known as Nan Hill, Yvonne Newkirk, Martha Williams and the late Brenda Harris. For decades these women have struggled against the odds to bring their incarcerated loved ones home. They have honed their abilities. Sandra likes to remind us when we go into an important meeting that we're like the Navy SEALs, each with our own specialty. Ms. Dee Dee is a powerful public speaker. Patricia Vickers is a powerful convener, facilitating meetings week after week and keeping us on point. Martha Williams, a committed community organizer. Sandra Hill, herself a powerful writer. In fact, you all should have a booklet on your desks that are some of her sayings and her poetry. Yvonne Newkirk, a tireless volunteer for important organizations like the PA Prison Society, where she serves as a lifeline for incarcerated people and also their families and so many more. While they all have their own unique abilities, they have one super power in common, and that's their love. They really lead with love in this work, and that draws people to them, draws people like myself to them, to struggle alongside them in this work. And they have built organizations like the Coalition Abolished Death By Incarceration, the Human Rights Coalition. And it's important to say that they have touched the hearts of powerful people with this love. They've met with governors, district attorneys, and of course members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly as well as members of Philadelphia City Council. One story I would tell is that when a man named John Fetterman was running to be the Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, they met with him prior to his election to tell him about the Board of Pardons. Later when he was elected he became a champion of second chances at the Board and dozens of people came home. So these women touch the powerful with their love and that changed the course of history. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)
Good morning, City Councilmembers. Special good morning to Kendra Brooks and Happy Black History Month. My name is Shakaboona Marshall, the Executive Director of Human Rights Coalition. And I'd like to honor the women of Human Rights Coalition as well as the Coalition to Abolish Death By Incarceration, also known by the acronym of CADBI. I'd like to applaud them for all the work they have been doing for over 25 years in this criminal justice reform movement. They are the mothers of the movement. And that's what I like to call them, but everyone calls them that. And they do -- they have done terrific work within this city and within the state overall. They have brought attention to the inhumane treatment and conditions of solitary confinement for people who are confined in our Philadelphia county jails as well as our Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. They have helped out when we had the COVID epidemic within this country. They helped out with incarcerated people and got the Governor to start releasing people who were nonviolent and who needed to be out. And they also brought attention to the Prison Oversight -- independent Prison Oversight Board that we're going to try to elect coming up soon. And we also help with voter registration for formerly incarcerated and justice-impacted people. And so, with that, I'd like to applaud my mothers. Thank you. (Applause.)
And most importantly, I'd like to applaud -I'd like to give honor and respect to my mother, my biological mother, Mama Pat, Patricia Marshall Vickers, for all the terrific work that she's done. (Applause.)
She's a human rights activist. She's a human rights organizer known within the city, within the state and across the country. And I thank you. Peace. God bless y'all. (Applause.)
May we have Nathaniel Grimes, Abul Fazal and Abul Fazez also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached Witness table.)
Morning. Pleasure to be here, especially to honor all these women but in particular Mama Patt. I work with the Human Rights Coalition. And in my role working on a local archive, which houses letters going back for decades in and out of prisons. Mama Patt's influence is unmistakable in all of that, not only in the countless letters that she's written and answered and responded to but equally in her less visible coordination of so many campaigns, events and eventual victories for incarcerated people and their families. And more personally, I found my way to Mama Patt and the Human Rights Coalition during a time of extreme turbulence. And as people said, the love and community that she embodied helped me feel at home, helped encourage me to use my skills constructively and allowed me to connect with people and causes that have become foundational for my life, so thank you. Thanks to all of you. (Applause.)
We have Abul Fazal, Abul Fazez. May Lynn Landes, Jeremy Blatstein and Ashley Redfern also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached Witness table.)
Good morning, Council President, esteemed members of the Philadelphia City Council and all our honorable elected officials, leaders and respected guests, greetings and congratulations from the Bangladesh American community and the people of Bangladesh. My name is Abdul Hafiz Choudhury, member of the Board of Directors Bangladeshi American Community Forum of Pennsylvania and also a proud Bangladeshi American. I am truly grateful for this opportunity to testify in support of the resolution introduced by Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad. This resolution recognizing Friday, February 21, 2025 as International Mother Language Day, a day to honor the memory of Salam, Barkat, Rafiq, Jabbar who on this day in 1952 sacrificed their lives to protect the right to use their mother language, Bangla, also known as Bengali. The declaration Rashtra Bhasha Bangla Chai, we demand Bangla as our state language. In November 1999, UNESCO recognized the significance of the diversity by declaring February 21st as International Mother Language Day, celebrating all mother tongues around the world with deep respect for all languages. I would like to highlight that a special survey as remarked Bengali as one of the sweetest languages in the world. The mother tongue plays a circular role of accurate communication and exchange to ideas and cultural identify. Thank you for your time, attention and support. We are proud to stand with all of you today. Thank you. (Applause.)
We have Lynn Landes. Then Jeremy Blatstein, Ashley Redfern and then David Alexander Jenkins. (Witnesses approached Witness table.)
My name is Lynn Landes of Safestreetsphilly.org. I support Resolution 240665, restricting where mobile service providers can park in the 7th District, but it doesn't go far enough. There is an old saying, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, and it certainly applies in this case. Mobile services can park themselves in any neighborhood for anyone to use is doing more harm than good and should be banned throughout the city, not just in certain locations in Kensington. If people need mobile services and they should make an appointment and a mobile service provider can come to their residence such as with Meals on Wheels. I also wanted to take this moment, and I believe it does agree with the Sunshine Act, that this is something of concern that there was in the light of the numerous aircraft accidents, it was an aircraft incident at Jefferson Hills Port, which is a block from where my husband and I live. He is a former airline pilot and military pilot and served as a safety officer. He -
Hey, Ms. Lynn Landes. How are you doing today? And I know you're well-versed in public comment -
You know what I'm doing. I'm following the Sunshine Act which is not what you are doing. When you restrict comments to the agenda items only -
Can you stay focused on the mobile services bill, ma'am?
Yes, ma'am. Could you stay focused on the mobile services bill.
I'll leave but what you're doing is censoring people, and that's not allowed at the -
Hello, City Council and Council President Johnson. How are you guys doing today? I'm going to start this off as BTA, BTA, BTA, the parade resolution -- all right.
Jeremy, are we talking about the non-conformities bill put before us?
No, I'm talking about the resolution that actually got put up for the parade. I'm talking about the parade, the parade. I bleed for this city. Nothing is impossible when we work together. Mayor Parker received a text message. Did you send a text message? Who sent the text message? The text message said that Councilmanic prerogative was getting ended. One of you sent it. I want to know who sent the text message. I did not send it. Mayor Parker said that one of you -- but the last thing I will say it's related to the literacy project. My father created the -
Jeremy, we talking about the legislation celebrating the Philadelphia Eagles today that was put forth -