A privileged resolution honoring and remembering the life and legacy of Vincent "Mr. Vince" Termini, Sr., the beloved owner of Termini Bros. Bakery.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution to introduce that I'm excited to introduce today.
This resolution will be placed -- will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of the acclaimed musician D'Angelo, who chose his truth over any accolades or accomplishment, therefore achieving a success that leaves him with few peers.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Morning, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.
Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Neill. No bills or resolutions?
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilmember O'Neill, no bills or resolutions.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla. ACTING
Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions, sir.
Thank you very much. I want to go back to Councilmember O'Rourke. Just say for the record, no bills and resolutions for Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Just say no bills and resolutions for Councilmember -
No bills and resolutions for Councilmember O'Rour -- Brooks today.
Thank you, sir. Appreciate it. Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass. ACTING
Good morning, Mr. President. We only got two resolutions to share.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.
An ordinance amending Section 10-503 of The Philadelphia Code to prohibit the unlawful trading, theft and trafficking of catalytic converters and motor vehicle parts containing precious metals, and to increase penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
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 North Sydenham Street, Venango Street, North Smedley Street and West Tioga Street.
It's the cupcakes distracting me, but this bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Come on, Member Phillips.
It's lonely up here. I'm just joking. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad. ACTING
Thank you, Mr. President. I am introducing one privileged revolution(sic) with -co-introduced with Councilmember Phillips.
Thank you very much. read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing October as Children's Health Month in the City of Philadelphia, and affirming the City's commitment to children's overall well-being.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business is reports from Committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla for a report from the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 250654, an ordinance amending Chapter 17-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Economic Opportunity Plans" to add two additional business community members to the Economic Opportunity Review Committee, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. And Bill No. 250646, an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Profession" by adding a new chapter, entitled "Minimum Training for Security Officers," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, Council President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the two bills read into the record be approved with a suspension under the rules to be read at the next SPEAKER: (Inaudible).
Thank you very much. Is there a second? (Duly seconded.)
Just for the record, we move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by Member Squilla, correct?
Thank you. Is there a second? (Duly seconded.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the consideration of these bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. ACTING
The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committees 2ND READING with suspension of rules have been deemed to have a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Okay. Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today. 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)
Nos. 240872, 250575, 250576, 250652, 250653, 250706, 250710, 250711, 250712, 250713, 250714, 250715, 250716, 250719, 250723, 250724, 250725, 250771 and 250772. (Duly seconded.) ACTING
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bills just read by Council just read by Councilmember Gilmore 2ND READING Richardson. All in favor please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) ACTING
The ayes have -- have it. Sorry. The motion carries and we will consider the Bill Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up any additional 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. 250853, 250864, 250869, 250870, 250879, 250882, 250493, 250718, 250770 and 250774. The following bills and resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 250303 and 250721. 250493 and 250718 are being amended.
Thank you, Majority Leader. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will now 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. 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 having your name given 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. Today's time limit will be one minute. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithful to the one-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow, which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once the one minute has 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 done so already. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments. The purpose of one minute today is because we have significant repetitious comments. I will also now ask for the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker. And the first speaker from my understanding is our Senator Art Haywood. Thank you for joining us today, sir. ) SENATOR HAYWOOD: Good morning. Good morning, Council President, all members, all people who are gathered here. I am so glad to join you for Dignity Month. It has already been shared, whether you're Black, Brown or White, rich or poor, urban, suburban. However you might identify, we all have dignity. And yesterday was International Dignity Day throughout the entire world and folks celebrated dignity across our globe. Desmond Tutu, Muhammad Ali, singer Peter Gabriel, they were some of the first signers on to Dignity Day. And the core of dignity is a African standard. It is I Am Because We Are. That is the core of the dignity principle. And we have such great representation in our City Council, showing that there's diverse face and background and that all the worth of everyone is represented here in this chamber. Over 100 countries have recognized dignity. Germany has dignity in their Constitution to protect it as a result of the Holocaust. South Africa after apartheid put dignity in their Constitution. I have a Dignity Constitutional amendment that I am proposing for Pennsylvania. I know that we are short on time and I don't want to really go over, but I do want to say a few more things. We in this city and in this state can overcome some of the gross dignity violations that are in our community: The dignity violation of starvation in Gaza, the dignity violation of paying people $11, $12 an hour, the dignity violations of not fully funding our schools, but we can overcome it. And this is all what Dignity Day and Dignity Month is about, bringing to our attention how we treat each other. There's a couple of events happening that I do want to share. Tonight at Woodmeter(ph) Theater a fantastic presentation is going to be made by Professor Stacy Hawkins on the topic of diversity and dignity. We've seen some tensions there. Later this month at Arcadia University we're going to have a conversation about free speech and dignity.
We've seen some tensions there. So I want to thank my colleagues, all who are here. Special thanks to Councilman Phillips. Special thanks to you, Council President. And to all who are gathered here today, please take a moment to appreciate each other. Please take a moment to recognize even though there may be differences, and there are going to be, we can still speak to each other with dignity. Thank you so much. )
May we have Dr. Alycia Marshall, Jerrett Johnson, Ashley Gilmore, Jeremy Blatstein and William Tung also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is Dr. Alycia Marshall and I am the Interim President at the Community College of Philadelphia. The last time I was here about five months ago I was asking you all for money, so I'm happy to be here on a more positive note today not asking for anything, but celebrating what I think is an important day, Legislator for the Day with so many of our students here from the Community College of Philadelphia. If I could just have all the students stand that are here today. Just please stand, our Community College of Philadelphia students. (Applause.)
It is truly an honor to join our Community College of Philadelphia students, faculty and staff for this important occasion. Legislator for a Day offers our students a first-hand look at how City Council serves the people of Philadelphia and it reinforces the value of civic engagement and education. Today 34 of our students are participating, 17 of whom will be shadowing City Councilmembers that you've seen, and 17 who will serve as CCP votes Student Ambassadors. Their involvement reflects what CCP stands for, learning through experience, leadership through service, and growth through opportunity. Experiences like this empower our students to understand how policy shapes community and how their voices can truly make a difference. I thank everyone from our faculty and staff to our City Council partners for making this day possible. This year as CCP celebrates our 60th anniversary, we reflect with pride on six decades of changing lives and expanding opportunity for Philadelphians. We remain committed to keeping our doors open to all who seek to learn, advance and contribute to this city's future. Today's engagement with City Council reminds us that education is not only about what happens in the classroom, it is about preparing our students to participate, to lead and to serve. On behalf of the entire Community College of Philadelphia community, I extend sincere thank you to Councilmember Jeffrey Young, Council President and the entire Philadelphia City Council for honoring our 60th anniversary and for supporting our Legislator for a Day program. Together we affirm our shared belief that investing in education is investing in Philadelphia's future. Thank you so much. (Applause.) UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: Thank you, Council President. 60 seconds is nowhere near enough time to talk about the impact that Jenaye has made on Philly City Council and me, but I'm going to try. I've genuinely never met somebody so thoughtful and intentional, and y'all already know this from her work across the city, and I know this as her Deputy. But today I want to talk about my friend. I started here when I was 20 almost seven years ago, and I feel blessed to have been assigned tasks to support her work because that chance meeting changed my life. It gave me a true role model, a selfless mentor and a big sister. And there is so much to learn from Jenaye, the kindness that she shows every individual she comes across, the patience she showcases listening to my rambling thoughts and rants, the consideration of staying invested in every minute detail of my life, I can decidedly say that I'm better for being guided by her hand. She's taught me how to be a better public servant, friend and community member and I feel incredibly lucky to be in her classroom and on her team. This is obviously bittersweet for me, but I know and I hope she knows that she is just a phone call away. Jenaye, I love you and I wish you the best. (Applause.)
Good morning, Council President Johnson and members of the City Council. My name is Jerrett Johnson. I serve as lead transit organizer for 5th Square Advocacy speaking in support of Bill No. 250770 regarding speed cameras on Erie Avenue, Allegheny Avenue and Columbus Boulevard. These corridors are among our deadliest stretches in Philadelphia and are also critical step towards saving lives and changing dangerous behaviors toward drivers. Studies have proved that it will benefit not only drivers, but will also benefit pedestrians. Their true value is measured in lives saved, not (inaudible) collected. I have friends and colleagues, which some of them are here today, who ride their bikes along one of these intersections and always think about their safety every single day. These cameras will provide consistent, unbiased enforcement that will give officers relief and focus on other duties. In conclusion I thank you, City Council, for taking the time to consider -- for taking this bill seriously to authorize this bill for final improvement. Thank you for your time and bringing this bill into consideration. (Applause.)
We have Jeremy Blatstein. Then William Tung. May Benjamin Geffen, Kate Perez, Elisa Yousey and Jenny Boccarbo also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
My name is Jeremy Blatstein. Two-minute speeches today. That's actually longer than October 2025 Philadelphia Land Bank meeting held last Tuesday. I'm here not on behalf of big bike, but in my personal capacity as a concerned Philadelphia transit advocate. I'm here to speak in support of the Land Bank bills, Bill No. 250712 and Bill No. 250718, two of the 19 bills, as you highlighted, Council President, that were passed out of the Streets Committee last meeting. But let's be clear, it should have been 20. Councilmember Jay Young held the bill at the hearing for the City Hall bike lane, even though the lane is already mostly built. Safety over everything, safety over everything. I want to commend Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for Bill No. 250712 on parking regulations in the 3rd District. She made safety a priority. I also support Bill No. 250718, which creates parking regulations and loading zone on Pine and Spruce streets. This bill is critical. We need to pass it quickly. Groups like Friends of Pine and Spruce are wasting resources fighting commonsense safety improvements. My concern is with the amendment that narrowed the bill to only Pine and Spruce. This adds more red tape for every future parking and loading zone change by OTIS and Streets Department. Let's not make safety harder. Let's make it easier. Let's make it faster. Grow Philly to 2 milli. Raise your hand if you know what happened at the last Philadelphia Land Bank meeting. Probably not, unless you follow me on Twitter or Instagram, NextPhillyMayor. But two members of the Land Bank Board are no longer on the board and they did not have quorum to hold an October 2025 Land Bank meeting. Hopefully, this is the first step in improving the Land Bank Board to carry out Mayor Parker's vision of 30,000 homes and move more than 8000 lots held to build more housing to help grow Philly to 2 milli. And of course, we're talking about SEPTA. Only 46 of the 225 Silverliner cars had been inspected and we need to force Harrisburg to get more funding. Ride the ride. Fund SEPTA. Thank you.
Hey, Mr. Blatstein. Just for the record also, that Pine and Spruce bill has been amended to the cover a wider area in the second and the first. And then also, we have a hearing coming up regarding SEPTA and the rail cars so we're on the job. Thank you, sir.
Hello. Good morning. My name is Will Tung. I'm a resident of Southwest Philly and here as a husband and father raising a child in this city. I am here in support of Bill 250712, which will enable the city to regulate parking and loading on 47th Street in my neighborhood. This bill is part of a larger plan that reconfigured 47th Street to be far safer and I am proud of Councilmember Gauthier for prioritizing safety here. 47th Street is on the High Injury Network and it's among the most dangerous streets in our city. The reconfiguration of 47th has had a tangible and direct daily benefit to me and my family. My daughter has to cross 47th Street on her way to 7th grade. My wife needs to cross it to get to work and her gym. And since the reconfiguration, the cars here drive slower, calmer and it's noticeably less stressful for all of us. I am sympathetic to folks who are skeptical of this bill because they are losing the convenience of parking where they're used to and maybe driving more quickly down the street. And I hope they see things from my perspective where the old layout encouraged reckless driving. For the 45 crashes on this corridor and four serious injuries in the past five years, the status quo has failed them. For my family who is struck by a car in this neighborhood, the status quo has failed my family. I want to thank Councilmember Gauthier for prioritizing safety here on 47th Street and throughout the entire 3rd District. Let's wipe 47th Street off our High Injury Network map. Let's pass this bill. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hello. My name is Benjamin Geffen. I'm here to speak in support of Bill 250718 as amended. I'm for over 15 years a homeowner, a car owner and a bicycle owner in the Center City section of Philadelphia. And by passing the loading zones bill, this city will improve life for homeowners, car owners and bicycle owners all over the city, especially in Center City. I want to just respond very briefly to two things that I've heard opponents of this ordinance say. One is that there's no opportunity for public input. There has been ample opportunity for public input. The public has come and testified at lots of hearings, communicated with lots of members and city officials. And what the public has said is we don't want more process, we want loading zones and we want protected bike lanes, we don't want to wait anymore. The other thing I want to respond to is the comment that there's no evidence of problems. I'm evidence of a problem. Last year I was biking home from work. On the 1500 block of Spruce, an Uber pulled into the bike lane, a driver, and the passenger on the back right flung the door open, knocked me into the pavement. I'm here testifying instead of being a grease spot on Spruce Street today. Because I was lucky enough, there was no truck coming up behind me. But there are lots of people with stories like mine, lots of evidence to the need. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
I'm Kate Perez talking about dignity, and it only took the Occupation one day to violate the ceasefire, killing seven Palestinians who were inspecting their home in East Gaza with warplanes and quadcopters covering all of Gaza, drone strikes and -
Ms. Perez, can we do it on the bill? Work with me today.
We can't help but remember that Israel's primary arms dealer is sitting comfortably in Member Young's district, wondering if those bombs left our ports. As the beacon of human rights, it's on Philadelphia to value the lives and rights of Palestinians who are being crushed with weapons made in our city, especially as we continue our sister-city relationship, diminishing our global reputation by excusing, ignoring and enabling this live stream genocide. The Occupation went back on their agreement -
Ms. Perez, can we focus on Affordable Cost of Living Task Force?
-- to open the wrong evacuations or humanitarian aid to enter in defiance of international law in the binding ICJ ruling. Activists who tried to bridge the siege were thrown in prison and tortured. Something more than 10,000 -
-Palestinians died in the street last night from the cold, and those with flu will not find medication, as they still maintain the blockade. Where is their dignity? Where is ours? Arms embargo now. (Applause.)
-Boccarbo. I'm sorry. Can Joanna Otero Cruz, Christine Cox, Ed McCauley and Caleb Holtmeyer also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
My name is Eliza. I am a District 1 resident. I am here in support of Bill No. 250718. I drive and I bike. I use Spruce and Pine to get to work. I wiped out on my bike going around a car parked in the loading zone on Spruce Street. Loading zones make sense as part of the overall design of the street. They give drivers a safe and legal space to stop temporarily. These spots are clearly needed. It is smart and practical to give the Streets Department authority to make these types of decisions and to make these loading zones formally legal. So that's why I support this bill. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning, Council President Johnson and City Councilmembers. My name is Jenny Boccarbo Dube, and I live in Center City with my family, District 2. I'm here to testify in support of Bill 250718. Riding a bike in Center City is a privilege I enjoy daily and I am deeply grateful for all the bike lanes throughout the city. Many of you are aware of the horrible crash where Barbara Friedes was killed at 18th and Spruce last summer. Had there been protected bike lanes, Barbara would be alive today. I was walking by at that moment and saw her body lying in the street. That moment will always stay with me and I would like to believe that she did not die in vain. Bike lanes were created for bikes, not cars. If a vehicle parks in a bike lane, they are jeopardizing the lives of bikers. With loading zones, these dangers can be avoided and people can have better and, most importantly, safer places to unload. Additionally, loading zones become parking spaces at night. As a city that has experienced tragedies due to unsafe bike lanes, we should realize that patience is not worth a human life. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning. Buenos dias. My name is Joanna Otero Cruz and I'm the Executive Director and President of Women Against Abuse. On behalf of Women Against Abuse and all of our valued partners who are here with us today, I'd like to thank Councilmembers Quetcy Lozada and Kendra Brooks as well as all the distinguished City Council for recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month here in Philadelphia. Domestic violence impacts in women and in men. Each of us knows someone affected by domestic violence, a mother, a sister, friend, colleague or neighbor. Everyday survivors in the city of Philadelphia make the courageous choice to seek safety. They reach out to our hotline, arrive at our shelters and look to advocates for help. But right now the resources we rely on are at risk. Women Against Abuse serves more than 10,000 individuals each year. For over 50 years, we provide a safe place and a refuge and we must continue to stick together, to fight together, and we stand in solidarity with all of you and we are so grateful for your ongoing support, not just today but year round and we look forward to continuing to work with you. (Applause.)
Hello. My name is Christine Cox. I'm the co-founder, artistic and Executive Director of BalletX, Philadelphia's premier contemporary ballet. I want to thank Councilmember Rue Landau for this recognition of this milestone moment for my company. I'm a born and raised West Philadelphia girl. I danced in the Pennsylvania Valley for 13 years. At the age of 10, I started dancing and fell in love with movement. I'm completely blessed to have had a lifetime doing something I love. Love what you do. Love your life. My company employs over 30 people and I really believe that, yes, we are a Philadelphia sports town, but we are an arts town and the arts really make this city so special. They invite people to move to Philadelphia and create a life here. I have dancers and choreographers coming from all over the world to Philadelphia and I represent this city. In 20 years, we built a dance education program that's in six Philadelphia public schools inspiring kids to dance. We're the resident dance company of the Mann Center for the Performing Arts and we donate tickets to Philadelphians all over our great city. Thank you so much to the Councilmembers for your work and your service. Thank you, President. (Applause.)
We have Ed McCauley, Caleb Holtmeyer. May Bonnie Halad, Susan Burt, Steve Bergquist, Marie Fleming and Rochie Weisberg also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.) MR. McCAULEY: Good morning. My name is Ed McCauley and I'm Director of Real Estate Development for Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia. I would like to thank Councilmember Jeffrey Young for his sponsorship of Bill No. 250719 and for his ongoing support of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia. Thank you also to the Planning Commission for its support of this bill. Bill No. 250719 seeks to amend the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 19th Street, Wilt Street, Gratz Street and Montgomery Avenue. The proposed zoning designations will be amended from RSA-5 to RM-1 and CMX-2. Zoning designations such remapping of these parcels owned for many years by Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia will allow habitat to fulfill its mission, to create new affordable housing and homeownership opportunities as well as develop long vacant, underutilized lots. Habitat envisions providing affordable residential dwelling units as well as commercial space that will allow Habitat to expand its offices to better serve the community and the residents through programs and educational workshops. The development proposes approximately 20 new affordable housing units, strengthening the fabric of the community as well as office space, which will include a larger meeting room that may accommodate community meetings and various programs, including owner-occupied home repair and affordable homeownership. In conclusion, Habitat respectfully requests that Council approve passage of this bill to allow this important and vital development project to move forward. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hello. My name is Caleb Holtmeyer. I'm here today speaking on behalf of Philly Bike Action. And I got to say I hear a story like Ben's all the time. A lot of people reach out to me and email me about their near misses on our streets in Philadelphia, of almost being hit by a car or being a hit and injured. So this is a frequent problem. I want to speak in favor of Bill 250718. I want to thank City Council for raising this loading zone legislation, improve safety and accessibility of our streets. I understand there was concern that the previous version of the bill only focused on Spruce and Pine Streets. I appreciate that the amended version brought it into scope. So thank you, City Council, for doing that. When the loading zones were introduced, Spruce and Pine Streets were made safer overnight, is used as a bike lane, no longer to swerve into traffic as frequently to avoid parked cars. I wanted to answer past rhetoric that bike lane parking is not dangerous. That may be a convenient position to take if one's perspective is behind the steering wheel at their front door and in the bike lane. It only takes a little empathy to see the danger posed to our biking neighbors with various levels of ability. For example, if you have a glaucoma condition that reduces peripheral vision, you may not see the car passing of your shoulder. If you have hearing loss, you may not hear the vehicle about to speed past you. You can only imagine the hazard to parents teaching kids to bike as they carefully navigate around parked cars. I urge City Council to pass this legislation to legalize loading zones in Center City. Most Philadelphians just want a place to park without endangering their neighbors. No mothers want to see the headline another Philadelphian killed on Spruce Street. (Applause.)
Good morning. Thank you to Council for giving me the opportunity to testify today. My name is Bonnie Halad. I live in Society Hill and I support Bill 250758 and its amendments. I've lived in Society Hill for over 35 years. I previously served on the Society Hill Civic Association in a variety of roles, one most recently as the Chair of the Communications Committee. We always strove to engage our community and get their opinions before making actions. But that's not happening anymore. I no longer serve on the board. The current board recently voted to give $25,000 to the law firm that's engaged by the Friends of Pine and Spruce to fight the city over these types of laws, such as no stopping and the loading zones. I am here because I want my voice to be heard. I'm here because I want my voice to be heard in support of this bill. I'm here because five years ago a wife of a good friend of mine was struck and killed by a motorist while she was riding her bike. I'm here because I believe this bill is a positive step to enhance safety for bicyclists, while providing for the convenience for loading zones, for residents, contractors and delivery people. Please don't listen to the angry voices. Please listen to those of us that are not being represented and those of us who want to see a progressive, vibrant city. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning or afternoon. My name is Susan -- sorry. My name is Susan Burke Collins and I live at 5th and Pine. I was formerly President of the Society Hill Civic Association, and I am speaking to give you folks some insight into how things have transpired such that we have given $25,000 to the group that is suing the City of Philadelphia and costing you a great deal of money and time fussing about this. The fact is our community desperately wants a compromise. We have tried. And last year as President, I put together a task force to find that compromise. There have been numerous meetings and Councilmember Squilla and others have been present at those meetings and have heard there are two sides. There are lots of people in our community who are not being heard by the Board of the Civic Association who want to find a compromise where we have bike safety so people like me, an old lady, can happily ride my bike safely as I get from place to place And also young children can ride and learn how to ride a bike safely on our streets, but also accommodate somebody who may need to get a handicapped person into their home briefly. We have a compromise. I even have the compromise that this group put together. There were two sides and I'm glad to distribute it. Thank you very much for giving me time to speak. (Applause.)
I'm John Steven Bergquist here speaking in favor of Bills 250712 and 250718, creating loading zones in West Philadelphia and Center City. I'm a cycle commuter and proud resident of my adopted home of Southwest Philadelphia, but I originally come from Minneapolis, a city famous for its impressive urban cycling infrastructure. There are useful protected bike lanes and separated paths crossing the entire city. They can take you from residential neighborhoods in both the wealthy and non-wealthy parts of town to the bustling university campuses right to the downtown business district. Where I come from it is completely normal to see children, elders and young professionals of all social classes sharing any of the many protected bike routes at their own pace to get to their destination safely. They might be on a carbon fiber road bike. They might be on a hand-me-down kids bike with training wheels. They might be on an electric wheelchair, because good bike lanes aren't just for bikes. I have seen firsthand the many benefits that safe, predictable and useful micro mobility infrastructure brings to people of all ages, incomes and abilities. Like any cyclist in Philadelphia, I do ride on Spruce and Pine in Center City sometimes. But I personally ride on Fairmount Avenue every day to get to work. Almost every day someone is blocking the bike lane because there's no place to park for deliveries, picking someone up, whatever. I see families and kids forced into traffic at least once a week just in my few minutes a day on the corridor. This is a dangerous situation for everyone who lives, works and travels on Fairmount Avenue. Loading zones would help all these road users get to their destination safely. My fully support legalizing loading zones anywhere in greater Center City and University City. Thank you. (Applause.)
We have Marie Fleming, Rochie Weisberg. May David Alexander Jenkins, Stanley Horwitz, Nico Meyering, Albert Meinster and Linnea Bond also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
My name is Rochie Weisberg. I'm here to speak in support of Bill No. 250712. I want to thank Councilmember Gauthier for her leadership on this issue. I live at the corner of 47th and Hazel so I'm directly affected by the bike lane each and every day. My office faces that corner and I actually had to close my blinds recently because I would just watch cars blow those stop signs all day. I even watched a car run into a stop sign and it caused the street to be closed for a day. I actually have no idea what happened to that person, but it's pretty crazy. And so, I just want to say for me as a cyclist, as a driver, the bike lane has been a huge improvement for my life. I actually also now work and I hear kids biking on the bike lane because they feel safe to do so, which is just how we should be living in a city. And I think it's good to have loading zones so that we have places for the cars to go, because it's now one way. And if they double park, it would just be a disaster. So thank you so much. (Applause.)
I'm here in support of -- my name is Marie Fleming. I'm here in support of Dr. Beverly Wylie. Declaration of Independence, second paragraph: We hold these truths to be selfevident that all men are created equal, and that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights, Amendment 4 protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures shall not be violated. And no warrant shall issue but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. Amendment 9, other rights kept by the people. The enumeration in the Constitution of certain rights shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. The UN Convention Against Torture of -
Can we connect this to the Beverly Wylie resolution, ma'am?
-- 1984 prohibits torture under all circumstances, no exception. Countries must investigate and -
Can we connect this to the Beverly Wylie resolution, ma'am? Thank you. (Applause.)
Mr. President, members and guests here, Alexander Jenkins and I rise in support of Resolution 250879. Not simply as a policy measure, but also as a moral declaration that our city must reorder its priorities, that we must move from a survival of dignity to a neglect and restoration we gather in Philadelphia that has become a study of contradictions, if you will, a city of billion dollar skylines and boarded-up homes, of expanding universities and evaporating opportunity, of corporate prosperity that often feeds on human despair. Beneath the glimmer of development lies a truth that we can no longer disguise. Our people, our brothers and sisters are living through a crises of affordability, of access and of belonging. Every day thousands of our neighbors face eviction, hunger, homelessness, not because they lack discipline or faith, but because our systems have forgotten that they exist. We have allowed the machinery of a progress to run on the blocks of those and on the backs of those who can least bear its weight. More than pretty language, pen to paper, Member O'Rourke's resolution is a mirror held up to the conscious of the city. It asks us whether we still believe that governance is an act of care. It demands that we look beyond the metrics of profit toward the measure of human worth. You and I know that the soul of Philadelphia is not found in its skyline. It lives in the people, in the grandmother keeping heat on her grandchildren, the neighbors searching for work, the young mother choosing between rent and medicine. Our crisis, as much as it is economic, is moral. It is a slow corrosion that occurs when the measure of human life is left to the market logic. But today we can reclaim the heart of Philadelphia, one that lifts from the ground up. Resolution 250879, champions of Philadelphia, which is deserved of more than survival. It champions of Philadelphia, a city defined by love. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Stan Horwitz. I'm a 64-year-old Fairmount resident and bicycle commuter. I'm here to express support for Bill 250718 and urge every City Councilmember to pass it without limiting its scope only to Spruce and Pine Streets so us bicyclists can ride safely in Center City. Spruce and Pine definitely need to be made more safer, but ideally the Department of Streets should have the same authorities included in this bill citywide. As a bicycle commuter who rides throughout Center City, limiting the scope of this bill only to Spruce and Pine would limit the city's commitment to Vision Zero. Thank you. (Applause.)
Excuse me, Stan Horwitz. Stan, just for the record the bill has been amended beyond the scope of Spruce and Pine. Just want to let you know that for the record. (Applause.)
Hi, everyone. My name is Nico Meyering. And I want to thank Councilmember Landau for congratulating my organization Young Involved Philadelphia on 25 years. And I welcome everybody here today. It's a real honor to be here with all of you. And I want to talk a little bit about our organization. Young Involve Philadelphia served as a dynamic idea for a big, dynamic city. And that idea is that civic engagement is something we can all do every day. 25 years later we are active every day, not just on Election day, but on park cleanup day, City Council hearing day and even on random Tuesdays when you have to help your neighbor. Our board, some of my friends here behind me today, started this year as colleagues, but by now they are, just as I said, my friends. And so, my friends, I want to thank you for being our subject matter experts. You keep our lights on. You raised over $15,000 for us and you helped us create over 60 new board members to our board prep program. Thank you so much, Councilmember Landau. Go find us at whyiphilly.org. And thank you to our incredible board, the real heroes. Thanks, folks. (Applause.)
Thank you, Council President and Councilmembers, for giving me a moment to speak with you. My name is Albert Meinster. I'm an 82-year-old everyday bicyclist. And if I have trouble speaking to you today because I can't locate specific words or I lose my train of thought, it's because I'm a survivor. 40 years ago I was struck down by a truck while riding my bicycle and every day I'm reminded of that disability. And I'm here to plead with you to end this, to end the threats that are given to the vulnerable folks on bicycles. You know the John, I don't have to repeat the reasons. But I'd also like to say to you in defense of my fellow Society Hill residents, those on the other side of this issue who have brought a suit against the City, many feel that they are uncaring and unknowing and not very nice people. But on the contrary, they are, they just don't know. They don't know how difficult and how dangerous it is for us on the street. So please, for God's sake, pass the ordinance that gives us the protection that we need while we're on our bicycles. Thanks for listening. (Applause.)
We have Linnea Bond. May Rishaun Hall, Theresa Feo, Isabel Melvin and Raymond King also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good afternoon. My name is Linnea Bond. I am here today speaking for myself as a District 5 resident as well as on behalf of Physicians for Social Responsibility Pennsylvania. Philadelphia medical professionals are deeply concerned about the financial, environmental and health costs of data centers proliferating across PJM's service area. With limited time, I'll highlight just three concerns: First, when data centers are built, electric costs skyrocket. According to a Bloomberg analysis, wholesale electricity costs as much as 267% more than it did five years ago in areas near data centers. Proposed data centers in Bucks and Luzerne are already likely to increase costs for significantly energy-burdened Philadelphians. Our gas rates will rise November 28th. Our electric rates went up 10% this past January and again in June. Second, a single data center can consume the amount of energy of a city. If this Council truly cares about children's health beyond the month of October, including our near and long-term futures, put your action where your resolutions are. The only thing that will prevent increasing wildfires, floods and worsening heat is deep energy reduction simultaneous with renewable energy conversion. Data centers drive energy, escalating energy consumption and specifically fossil fuels as new dirty gas and coal generators are added to power the grid and also built as generators for individual data centers. Third, these generators pollute the air with nitrous oxides, PM 2.5, carbon dioxide, VOCs and constant noise. Data centers are part of a massive financial bet paid by tech giants who now desperately need us to take on the cost of that investment. But our community's health cannot afford data center proliferation. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Rishaun Hall. First, I would just at the top like to thank Council President Kenyatta Johnson and Councilwoman Rue Landau for introducing this resolution to this councilmanic body. It is an honor to stand here not just as Rishaun Hall, but on behalf of Young Involved Philadelphia, an organization that has spent 25 years asking the fundamental question of our city's rising generation will they or won't they. For a quarter century, YIP's answer has been simple: They will if we invite them. YIP has been founded 25 years ago to serve one goal, to create a space where young people such as myself can engage with Philadelphia's civic ecosystem, participate in government, such as this gathering today, and be an advocate for those who want to get involved but don't know where to start. Fast-forward to present day, our generation has amassed over 6000 members and our flagship program Board Prep has graduated over 1000 participants that serve on boards throughout Philadelphia and the region. Young people are doing the work. And now, our task has been to turn from will they or won't they to they've already done. Our latest product, the State of Young Philadelphia Report serves as YIP's first research product aiming to inform policymakers, civic leaders and the public about the realities and trends facing young adults in Philadelphia. If you are under the sound of my voice, I cordially invite you to our Annual State of Young Philadelphia convening this Saturday, October 18th from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. On behalf of YIP, I thank you for believing in the power of young people and to make this city better and for helping to make sure that when Philadelphia asks will they or won't they, we can proudly answer we already did. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, Councilmembers. My name is Theresa Feo and I'm here to testify in opposition to bills 250712 and 250718. We are opposed to granting the Streets Department blanket authority to revise, alter or eliminate parking or loading zones on not only 47th Street, but any Philadelphia Street using only their broad discretion without community input. Their recent decisions demonstrate that their discretion is flawed and often exercised without regard for context-specific design principles, input from local residents or best practices in traffic engineering. The reconfiguration of 47th Street installed in tandem with the 48th Street bike lane last year illustrates this failure. Over the past two and a half years, OTIS has said the following: We didn't know that Star Harbor was a busy senior center. We didn't know that EMT and fire trucks wouldn't be able to fit down the road after our installation of the bike lane. We didn't know that the ADA ramp for seniors was on the 47th Street west side. We didn't know that St. Francis' dismissal was mostly on Springfield Avenue and we still don't have speed bumps after two months. We didn't know that SEPTA is a -- our road is a bus detour so we were going to make the road too narrow and a turning radius wouldn't fit. We didn't know that the 47th and 48th Street weren't on the High Injury Network at all. We didn't know that SEPTA's bus stop prevents a wheelchair-bound resident -- a 62 foot by 16 foot blocked off bollard station on 48th street blocks a wheelchair bound resident from even getting out of her house. There's no CCT van that can get to her. We didn't know that there were EV car owners on the east side of the road. We didn't know that the businesses were consulted. We didn't know the initial meetings of 500 surveys were mostly bike lobby advocates who didn't live in the neighborhood and that the initial meetings weren't inclusive of anybody in the Kingsessing and Grays Ferry neighborhood who are really upset about all the additional traffic. And when a child dies as a result of these changes, what will you say then? We didn't know. (Applause.)
We have Isabel Melvin. Then Raymond King. May Dan Becker, Ogbonna Hagins, Laquisha Anthony and Zachary Mackey also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good afternoon. Isabel Melvin. Council President Johnson, members of City Council, thank you for what you do for the city of Philadelphia. I support loading zones Bill 250718, Bill 7250712. These bills will make me feel safer as I walk and bike on Spruce and Pine. And when I ride through my old neighborhood in West Philly on 47th Street, thank you for making me feel even safer with the amendment to Bill 250718. I'm hopeful that this amendment for the loading zones gives the city authority to cover all of Center City. The pedestrian safety, bicycle and accessibility infrastructure has improved so much over the years. Thank you for listening. I also want to feel safer walking and riding near City Hall. Please pass City Hall's bike lane bill. Thank you. (Applause.)
My name is Raymond King and I'm here to speak about Bill 250718, and urge passage of that bill, because as other people have said, it will create a safer space for bicyclers and motor vehicles. Because when you have to block bike lanes for loading, it creates a danger. I mean, a bike has to go out into traffic or it's just a dangerous condition and I urge the passage of this bill. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Zachary Mackey and I'm the Manager of Community Engagement at Lutheran Settlement House. And I want to thank and support Councilmembers Brooks and Lozada for their bill on domestic violence. I want to speak in support of it because I'm a survivor of a school shooting, Oakland Elementary in Greenwood, South Carolina. It's not often spoke about or heard of. And I know you're wondering what does the school shooting have to do with domestic violence. Upon further research into the shooter's history, he witnessed his mother be abused by his father. So I work and the work that I do and the work that we do in the city, the domestic violence organizations, is very important, because I dream of a world where no one else has to be a survivor of not only domestic violence, but could be affected from it and then end up being a survivor of a school shooting. So thank you, Councilmembers and the City of Philadelphia, for your work and bills on domestic violence. The work we do is important and it matters, because programs like ours, students talking about relationships prevents teens on becoming victims of domestic violence. We teach them about healthy and unhealthy relationships. We work to make it possible for survivors to walk through any door and be believed and know how to be referred to resources from their barbershop to city hall to the grocery store. We're working so people can walk through those doors and get referred to resources like ours. Thank you. (Applause.)
We have Ogbonna Hagins, Laquisha Anthony, Hannah Kahler, Muti Ajamu-Osagboro, Jordan Teicher and Corey Jackson also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Ogbonna Hagins, fourth generation chattel slavery survivor. As we discuss this resolution on the cost of living, we must begin with truth. We must first examine the cost of living of the American Freedmen. There can be no genuine conversation about global opportunities when the American Freedmen have not been positioned properly. We will not be positioned properly until we have an office of Freedmen Affairs, an agency to protect their rights and ensure justice under the 13th and 14th Amendments. For generations, the badges, vestiges and incidents of slavery have shaped the cost of living for our people through home devaluations, employment discrimination and structural racism and exclusion from wealthbuilding opportunities. This Saturday at 12:00 noon, the Philadelphia Reparations Coalition for American Freedmen, we're having a political wellness checkup at the Lutheran Seminary, 7301 Germantown Avenue. And next Sunday, October 26th at LOVE Park here in Philadelphia, we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Million Man March. The goal then was atonement. And now, we will raise the estate of the American Freedman. Ogbonna Hagins. Over and out. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Laquisha Anthony. I'm the Senior Manager of Advocacy at WOAR, Philadelphia's center against sexual violence. It is both an honor and a privilege to represent WOAR and to stand in solidarity with women against abuse as we recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Thank you to Councilmembers Brooks and Lozada and full City Council for recognizing DV Awareness Month. WOAR's mission is to eliminate all forms of sexual violence through specialized treatment services, comprehensive prevention education programs and advocacy and for the rights of victims of sexual assault. Domestic violence is a persuasive and often hidden issue that affects individuals from every corner of our community. It transcends age, gender, race and social economic status. It impacts our neighborhoods, our friends, our coworkers and often times our families. Yet for too long it remains silence. This month is a time for us to lift the silence and to break the cycle of isolation and remind those affected that they are not alone. It is a time to raise awareness, but also reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all survivors have support they need to heal. The relationship between domestic violence and sexual violence is deeply intertwined and often two forms of violence that coexist abusive relationships. While they are distinct in terms of their specific behaviors, they share many common elements, including power and control dynamics, manipulation and the use of fear and domination of a victim. The recognition of this month is also a step in raising awareness, enhancing local enforcement efforts and expanding victim services. And I thank you to all of those who are here today to support why and we thank them for leading the charge in the DV space. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hello. My name is Hannah Kahler and I'm an intern with the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and Families for Safe Streets. Families for Safe Streets is a group comprised of family members who have lost loved ones in traffic crashes throughout the Greater Philadelphia area. Thank you, Council President, for this time. The Bicycle Coalition supports Bill No. 250718 about loading zones in Center City because it affirms that the City has the authority to manage all parking and loading regulations in Center City. Updating loading zones and parking is important for adapting roads to meet the needs of today. Good curb management can help alleviate congestion, reduce crashes and help us all share the road more safely. I'm also here as a West Philadelphia resident to speak in support of Bill No. 250712, introduced by my Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, authorizing loading zones to support 47th Street bike lane. It's a huge improvement over how the road used to be. Also here to speak in support of Bill 250770, authorizing automated speed cameras on three additional corridors. And finally, we urge Councilmembers to bring Bill No. 250649 up for a vote to authorize a city a bike lane around City Hall. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)
Hotep after Huy(ph). My name is General Muti. General is my title. Muti Ajamu-Osagboro is my name. I want to launch on 250303. It was presented by Councilmember Thomas, and my views are in no way a slight to Member Thomas. The brother, just didn't understand. First and foremost, I want to talk about maybe decades ago I reached out to you, Mr. President, and you supported then and I know you support now, ending the sentence of death by imprisonment for children. You was the first one to come aboard. For a long time, you was the only one, until other folks -- until we convinced other folks who before wouldn't touch it with a 10-foot pole -
A House bill in 1999 I introduced as a State Representative, if members want clarity.
Providing individuals who are serving a life sentence the opportunity to come home for parole before it was the actual popular criminal justice reform thing to do. Go ahead, sir.
Indeed. All right. So now, the resolution I oppose vehemently simply because it sets out to reward some of them same judges who the bill that you supported to end death by imprisonment for children, these are some of the same judges, now we want to turn around and reward them. They don't need to be reward. They needed to be excoriated because they made Philadelphia the scourge of the world. Literally no hyperbole. The United States was the number one nation in the world, led the world in sentencing children to death by imprisonment. Pennsylvania led America and Philadelphia led Pennsylvania. And then you stood against it and I pray that you still stand with it. And I never want to reward the judges for doing what's wrong. They made Philadelphia the scourge of the world. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Cory Jackson. I'm here to propose the street renaming of 5100 block of Master Street to Dr. Damone B. Jones Way. Dr. Damone B. Jones is a native of West Philadelphia and has dedicated his life to the betterment of the city of Philadelphia, particularly the youth, incarcerated individuals, marginalized communities. His commitment to service, leadership and faith has profoundly impacted the lives of countless individuals. Dr. Jones has served on numerous boards and commissions appointed by local and state leaders, including the Philadelphia Board of Ethics and the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Review Committee. His leadership as a Commissioner for the Review Committee -- I mean, his leadership as a Commissioner for the Upper Darby Township Civil Service Commission and the Mayor's Commission on African American Males highlights his unwavering commitment to public service. Dr. Jones is a true community leader who has dedicated his life to improving the lives of others. The renaming of the 5100 block of Master Street to Dr. Damone B. Jones Way would be a lasting tribute to his tireless efforts to uplift his community. It would also serve as a reminder to the current and future generations that individuals from the various streets of Philadelphia can make a profound impact on society through dedication, faith and service. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)
We have Dan Becker and Corey Jackson. Jordan Teicher. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Jordan Teicher. I live in West Philly at 50th in Larchwood. I'm here to speak in support of Bill No. 250712, regarding parking and loading on 47th Street. 47th Street's protected bike lane has been lifechanging for me and my family. I ride my 2-year-old son to daycare at 42nd and Spruce every weekday and I use the 47th Street lane when riding him back home. Riding a bike is the fastest and cheapest way for us to get to and from daycare, but it is not always the safest. Almost every time we're riding on a street without a protected lane, a car will speed past us, often mere inches away from us. The only time I know me and my son are truly safe on the road is when we are in a protected lane. I want to thank Councilmember Gauthier for giving me and so many others in the neighborhood more opportunities to travel safely in our community. There's so much more to do to make all of our streets safe for everyone. So let's bring the 47th Street lane over the finish line. Let's get loading zones needed throughout the city and let's build the bike lane around City Hall so Philadelphians can safely get here and participate in our democracy. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council President, there are no further names for public comment.
That concludes public comments. Thank you. We will now consider today's bills on the Consent Agenda. I will ask the Clerk to please read the titles of all the bills on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the bill on the Consent Agenda or bills on the Consent Agenda. Upon such an debate, the bill or bills will be immediately removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on our regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. The Clerk will now read the titles of the bills on the Consent Agenda.
Bill No. 240872, an ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 6618 Castor Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19149, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250575, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Gorgas Lane between Ridge Avenue and Lawnton Street, under certain terms and conditions. 250576, an ordinance the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 426-28 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19123, under certain terms and conditions. 250652, an ordinance authorizing a dumpster enclosure encroachment at 782-84 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, under certain terms and conditions. 250653, an ordinance authorizing a streetery in the right-of-way adjacent to 782-84 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250706, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Grange Avenue, Park Avenue, Chew Avenue and Broad Street. 250710, an ordinance amending Section 3 of an Ordinance (Bill No. 230033), approved April 12, 2023, entitled "An Ordinance Authorizing the vacating of Sloan Street from Ogden Street to its terminus northwardly therefrom and the reserving and plotting upon City Plan No. 106 of a right-of-way for sewer and drainage purposes and public utility purposes within the lines of said Sloan Street being vacated and authorizing acceptance of the grant to the City of the said right of way, under certain terms and conditions," by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein. 250711, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Preston Garden and Haverford, all under certain terms and conditions. 250712, an ordinance authorizing the Streets Department to establish parking and stopping regulations on both sides of 47th Street between Chestnut Street and Kingsessing Street, under certain terms and conditions. 250713, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on South 62nd Street between Chestnut Street and Walnut Street; Kingsessing Avenue between South 52nd Street and South 53rd Street; Sansom Street between South 62nd Street and South 63rd Street; Powelton Avenue between North 42nd Street and North 43rd Street; Powelton Avenue between 43rd Street and Holden Street. 250714, an ordinance regulation on Fountain Street between Ridge Avenue and Hazelwood Lane; Lauriston Street between Roxborough Avenue and Monastery Avenue; Overlook Road between Matthias Street and Shalkop Street; Gorgas Lane between Ridge Avenue and Lawnton Street; Martin Street between Ridge Avenue and Mitchell Street; Levering Street between Cresson Street to Silverwood Street; Lemonte Street between Pechin Street and Ridge Avenue; Dupont Street between Flemming Street and Boone Street to Dead End; Monastery Avenue between Mitchell Street and Ridge Avenue; Palisades Drive between Capital View Drive and Heritage Drive and Merrick Road. 250715, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation between Thompson Street and Master Street; Lancaster Avenue between Jefferson Street and North 54th Street; North 59th Street between Malvern Avenue and Woodcrest Avenue; Bambrey Street between Willard Street and Allegheny Avenue. 250716, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an Ordinance (Bill No.
230438), approved July 5, 2023, entitled "An Ordinance Authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 230 and 289 by placing on the City Plan two irregularlyshaped areas, one located along the northeasterly side of Ridge Avenue and extending from a point northwest of the Wissahickon Creek to a point approximately fourhundred twenty-four feet further northwestwardly therefrom and the the southwesterly side of Ridge Avenue extending from a point northwest of the Wissahickon Creek northwestwardly to the southwestwardly side of Main Street, thereby widening said Ridge Avenue, and authorizing the opening of the portions of the said widened Ridge Avenue extending through property owned by the City, under certain terms and conditions, including the dedication to the City of the additions to the beds of Ridge Avenue and Main Street being placed on the City Plan," by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions therein. 250719, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located bounded by Wilt Street, Gratz Street, Montgomery Avenue and 19th Street. 250723, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 370, by striking from the City Plan Southampton Road from Bustleton Avenue to its terminus southeastwardly therefrom, under certain terms and conditions. 250724, an ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 1000-52 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19125, under certain terms and conditions. 250725, ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 1313-17 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia PA, 19147, under certain terms and conditions. 250771, an ordinance authorizing 3419 Kensington Partners or subsequent owner to install, own and maintain an encroachment at 3423 Kensington Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19134, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250772, an ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 3423 Kensington Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19134, under certain terms and conditions.
These bills having been read on two different days, the question for each bill now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk should call the roll. And upon being called, each Councilmember shall vote aye on each of the bills. Nay on each of the bills or indicate those the member is voting aye and those bills for which the member is voting nay. Would the Chief Clerk please call the roll.
Aye on all bills. 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Majority of all the members having voted in the affirmative for each of the bills, the bills on the Consent Agenda are passed. (Applause.)
We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250853.
A resolution renaming the 1900 block of South 20th Street "Dr. Beverly Wylie Way" in honor of Rev. Dr. Beverly Wylie, in recognition of her steadfast commitment to her church and dedicated service to the South Philadelphia community.
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250853.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250853 be adopted. All those in favor, the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING read Resolution No. 250868.
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2208 East Norris Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250868.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250868 be adopted. 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250869.
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2323-31 North 5th Street, 2322 2324, 2326, 2328 2330, 2332 North Orkney Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250869.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250869 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250870.
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2407, 2409, 2411, 2413, 2415, 2439, 2441, 2443, 2445 and 2447 North 6th Street, located in the 7th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250870.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250870 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250879.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Global Opportunities 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING and the Creative Innovative Economy to create a cost of Living Task Force and to hold hearings on the cost of living in Philadelphia in order to study conditions and advance recommendations that ensure Philadelphia is a city where all residents can afford to live and thrive.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250879.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250879 be adopted. 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250882.
A resolution renaming the intersection at 21st Street and Godfrey Avenue to "Rev. C.L. Pryor Way" in honor of Reverend C.L. Pryor, a visionary leader, community servant and long-time pastor of Corinthian Baptist Church of Germantown. 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
Chair recognizes my Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250882.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250882 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 250493.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within area bounded by Roosevelt Boulevard, 9th Street, Erie Avenue and Broad Street.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 250493. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council. I move for the adoption of the amendment. 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment to Bill No. 250493 be adopted. All in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bill has been amended. This bill will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 250718.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-900 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING "Parking Regulations and Penalties" to confirm regulations adopted by the Department of Streets that establish and revise time-limited and other rules restricting parking, stopping and standing, including the establishment of time-restricted loading zones in the Center City area bounded by Spring Garden Street, Schuylkill River, Bainbridge Street and the Delaware River; and to re-authorize changes and additions to such parking rules in the Center City area by the Department of Streets on an ongoing basis, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I would 10/16/25 - STATED - 2ND READING like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 250718. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council. I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment to Bill No. 250718 be adopted. All in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)