COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING City Hall, Room 400 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, September 11, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE-RICHARDSON COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN BRIAN O'NEILL ELIZABETH MCCOLLUM, Chief Clerk P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning, everyone. Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. This city Council is now coming to order. I'm asking all members to please take your seats. All visitors, please retire to their seats outside the rails, and please take all sidebar conversations out of the Council chambers. I am going to ask anyone who has a cell phone to please put it on silent or vibrate. Welcome back members of City Council. Welcome back members of the public. Exciting day-to-day as we kick off our fall session of City Council. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Father Joseph Zaleski, pastor of the St. Katherine of Siena Parish. He's here today as guest of Councilmember Mark Squilla. I'll ask all members and guests to please rise.
Today being the 9/11 anniversary and all that that has happened in our country in the last few months, I thought that the peace prayer St. Francis of Assisi was most appropriate. Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me so love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. And where there is sadness, joy. Oh, divine master grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand. To be loved as to love. For it is giving that we receive. And it is in pardoning that we are pardoned. And it is dying that we are all born to eternal life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks the Pastor for the invocation. Council will be at ease. The next order of business is the approval of the journal of the meeting of Thursday, June the 12th, 2025. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Deputy Whip, Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 12th, 2025 be approved.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the journal of the meeting of Thursday, June the 12th, 2025 stand approved. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. COUNCILMEMBERS: Aye.
Those opposed? The ayes have it and the journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absence. And the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you so much, Council President. On the behalf of the minority, there's one request for a leave of absence today, on the behalf of Minority Whip Nicholas O'Rourke.
Thank you very much. The Chair thanks the Councilmember and leave is granted. The Chair now recognized Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of counsel that were not listed on the calendar circulated prior to today's counsel session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters. Resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill veto by or recall from the mayor, amendments to bills recall from the mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the calendar, and a motion placing a bill or resolution on, or returning a bill or resolution from the suspension calendar that is not listed on today's calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by counsel that arose too late to be included on the calendar that was published prior to today's session.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matter stated by Majority Leader Katherine 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 will signify by saying aye. COUNCILMEMBERS: Aye.
Those opposed? 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 Council, we welcome you and appreciate you taking your time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city and we certainly invite you to come again. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'm here today to want to welcome a guest. We have an exchange student here from Italy, Jacopo Di Vicentis, who's here as -- a political science major, visiting Philadelphia through the exchange program of Dr. Nestico, who is here with Filitalia, where they work to exchange people from Philadelphia over to Italy, and from then from our country there and from -- there over to here. And I like him to stand up and please give them a warm welcome from Philadelphia. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you. Thank you, Council President. Today I rise to recognize a special guest that we're hosting today in my office, Blake Toliver, who is a second-year law student at the University of Pennsylvania law school, Penn Carey Law. He's currently involved with the Black Law Student Association at Penn, where he serves as the vice president and his interests include law, public policy, and regulatory compliance. We welcome Blake Tolliver to Philadelphia City Council today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. It's great to be back. I just want to quickly recognize It Takes Philly, which is an organization founded by Dr. Ala Stanford, intended to expose young people to opportunities as well as credible adults who can make a difference in their lives and experiences. It Takes Philly organization is here today. If we all can -- the Board and some of its members and volunteers, if they all could be stand -- if they all could stand to be recognized. It Takes Philly is in the house. You all will be hearing from Dr. Ala Stanford momentarily about the work of It Takes Philly. She also happens to be a member of my church, Salem Baptist Church. All right. God bless.
Thank you very much. We welcome all of you to City Council. Let's give them all another round of applause, please. I also want to take a moment to acknowledge a young lady who plays a pivotal role in making sure that the work that we are doing in terms of working on behalf of the residents and the citizens here in the city of Philadelphia from a communication standpoint. Rather, that's coming out to community events and doing coverage, or coming to our round table discussions that we're having in City Council and making sure that information is promoted to the wider public. Today is her last day as the visual communications intern, and she worked very, very hard on our behalf. Let's give Ms. Ta'Liyah Thomas a real big round of applause. Student at Temple University, when you-all doing those newsletters and getting your pictures on your -- on your website, and TikTok, and Instagram, and Facebook, and all of that good stuff that we like to do to communicate our message, this young lady has worked very diligently and hard on our behalf. At this moment, I want to ask, can everyone rise for a second in chambers as we memorialize and recognize the 24th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks. City Council will pause to honor the lives lost, the families forever changed, and the brave firefighters and first responders who ran toward dangers to save others. Nearly a quarter century later, we carry the memories of nearly 3,000 souls taken from us, and we recommit ourselves to ensuring that their legacy is never forgotten. May we never forget the lessons of that day, that even in our darkest hours, resilience, compassion, and unity can light the way forward. We will now take a moment of silence for the lives lost on September 11th of 2021. There being no presentations today, Council will be at ease. Mr. Phillips, would you like to acknowledge the head of the Black Doctors?
Your consortium here in the city of Philadelphia, who we work very diligently with. They pretty much saved the city of Philadelphia when we were on the brink of catastrophe, when we had to address the issue of COVID, led by our Majority Leader Councilman Katherine Gilmore Richardson. Member Phillips?
Yes, absolutely. And also want to quickly announce that Judge Craig Washington as a volunteer here. He with It Takes Philly, he's here as well too a member of Salem Baptist Church. But I also want to say, yes, we have the esteemed, incredible servant Dr. Ala Stanford is here today, founder of It Takes Philadelphia. She doesn't come to Philadelphia City Council often, but all of Philadelphia knows the incredible work she did to save our lives during a very incredible crisis in our world -- in our world. And she started off a huge initiative to make sure that we were tested and we were, and we were also received the vaccine. And she does a lot of great work with young people. We wanted to recognize her. Everyone, City of Philadelphia, Dr. Ala Stanford. Philadelphia, you'll be hearing from her momentarily during public comment. Thank you so much.
Thank you, sir. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant at Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will the Chief Clerk please 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'm pleased to advise you that on June 13th, 2025, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on June 5th, 2025. Bill No. 250001, 250371, 250433, 250434, 250440, 250485, 250486, 250487. And that on June 13th, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on June 12th, 2025. Bill No. 241024, 250103, 250174, 250195, 250196, 250197, 250198, 250199, 250200, 250201, 250202, 250210, 250211, 250212, 250291, 250332, 250432, 250523, 250524, 250525, 250528, 250529, 250566, 250567, 250568, and 250571. And then on June 18th, 2025, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at session on June 12th, 2025. Bill No. 250437, 240666, 250175, 250372, 250378, 250426, 250435, 250438, 250441. And that on June 26th, 2025, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at a session on June 12th, 2025: 241082, 250293, 250328, 250334, 250379, 250384, 250425, 250427, 250430, 250431, 250439, 250483, 250484-A, 250488, 250489, 250490, 250494, 250532, 250535, 250536, 250538, 250569, and 250570. And that on June 26th, 2025, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on June 5th, 2025. Bill No. 250492. And on June 26th, 2025, I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at a session on June 12th, 2025: 250537. And that on July 1st, I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on June 12th, 2025: 250436-A. And that on July 16th, 2025, I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on June 12th, 2025. Bill No. 250526. And that on September 3rd, 2025, I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on June 12th, 2025. Bill No. 250044-A, 250045. And that on September 8th, 2025, I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on June 12th, 2025: 241057. And then on September 10th, 2025, I signed the -- signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on June 12th, 2025: 240671. And on September 10th, Bill No. 250041, 250043, 250213-A, 250273, and Bill No. 250292 and Bill No. 250331 were returned to Council unsigned. Pursuant to sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills. Bill No. 250606, 45 days, 250608, 250648, and 250652. And I'm submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body the following proposed ordinance. An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3400 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled, Use of an Automated Speed Enforcement System, to improve safety by providing for the use, administration, and enforcement of automated speed cameras on designated state routes under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia to construct, own, and maintain various right of way encroachments under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance amending 12-900 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled Parking Regulations and Penalties, to confirm regulations adopted by the Department of Streets that establish and revised time limited, and other rules restricting parking, stopping and standing including the establishment of a time restricted loading zones in the center city area bound by Spring Garden Street, the Schuylkill River, Bainbridge Street, and the Delaware River, and to reauthorize 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. And a resolution approving the reappointment of McCullough Williams III to the Philadelphia Water, Sewer, and Storm Board Water Rate Board.
And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1316 and 1318 South Cleveland Street, 2714 and 2716 Oakford Street, 1225 South 17th Street, located in the Second 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 4200, 4202, 4204 Viola Street, and 4205 Leidy Avenue, located in the 3rd 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 5417 to 5425 Florence Avenue, located in the 3rd 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 1610 South 56th Street, located in the 3rd 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 2002 North 20th Street, 2007 Norris Street, located in the 5th 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 2230 North 3rd Street located in the 7th 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 2323 through 31 North 5th Street, 2322, 2324, 2326, 2328, 2330, and 2332 North Orkney Street, located in the 7th 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 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. And 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. Council President, there are no further communications in my possession.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution honoring It Takes Philly, and then also one bill. Thank you.
Thank you very much. Will Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolution?
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bound by Grange Avenue, Park Avenue, Chew Avenue, and Broad Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the work of It Takes Philly, encouraging and empowering our children to aim high for inspiring Philadelphia's youth to pursue their full potential.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader, Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you. Thank you, Council President. Today I offer three bills. One on your behalf, two bills on my behalf, co-sponsored with Council Members Young and Councilmember O'Neill. I also offer six resolutions: two privileged resolutions on my behalf, four non-privileged resolutions on your behalf, Council President. Thank you.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolutions?
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-4400 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled Development Impact Tax, to clarify the exemption for rental housing projects, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending Sub-Code A, the Philadelphia Administrative Code of Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code, the Building Construction and Occupancy Code, to revise penalties associated with stop work and cease operations orders under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending section 9-4403 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled Enforcement, to provide for the continuation of nuisance business enforcement following a change in business under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1316 and 1318 South Cleveland Street, 2714 and 2716 Oakford Street, 201225 South 17th Street, located in the 2nd 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 in our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution renaming the 2300 block of Snyder Avenue, James Darrell Robinson Jr. Way, in honor of James Little Darrell Robinson Jr., recognizing his contributions to Yesha Ministries, and his community through his musical genius and artistic talents.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution renaming the 1900 block of South Street, Dr. Beverly Wylie Way, in honor of Reverend Dr. Beverly Wylie, and recognition of her steadfast commitment to her church and dedicated service to the South Philadelphia community.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution renaming the 2000 block of Snyder Avenue, Anton K. Moore Way, in honor of Anton K. Moore's commitment to giving back to his community and empowering the youth of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of the Honorable Frederica Massiah-Jackson, the first African-American President Judge in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the first African-American woman to preside over civil trials in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in the next session of Council. This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings concerning the sale of unregulated substances such as Delta-8 and Kraton in the city of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman -Council will be at ease. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, Council president. Today I have four bills and three non-privileged resolutions for introduction.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolutions?
An ordinance amending Section 3 of an ordinance Bill No. 23033-230033 approved April 12th, 2023, entitled, an Ordinance Authorizing the Vacating of Sloan Street From Ogden Street, to its terminus northwardly therefrom, and reserving and plotting upon City Plan No. 106, 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 said right of way under certain terms and conditions by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Preston Street between Spring Garden Haverford all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And 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.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And 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.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 4200-4202, and 4204 Viola Street, and 4205 Leidy Avenue, 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.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 5417 and 5425 Florence Avenue, 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 in the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1610 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 a final passage calendar for consideration in the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good morning, Council -- good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Good morning to the listening public. Today, I offer two privileged resolutions: One, being co-introduced with Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolutions?
A privileged resolution recognizing September 14th through the 19th as National Arts Education Week in the city of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing, congratulating, and celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Pope Francis' historic visit to Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families in 2015, honoring the individuals whose exceptional service made it possible, and commemorating the lasting legacy of this transformative event -transformative event.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. Council will be at ease. Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer three bills and three resolutions. Two of them non-privileged.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolutions?
An ordinance establishing a parking 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; Gorges Lane between Ridge Avenue and Lawnton Street; Martin Street between Ridge Avenue and Mitchell Street; Levering Street between Crescent Street to Silverwood Street; Lemont Street between Pechin Street and Ridge Avenue; Dupont Street between Fleming Street and Boone Street to a dead end; Monastery Avenue between Mitchell Street and Ridge Avenue; Palisade Drive between Capitol View Drive and Heritage Drive; and Merrick Road.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Hobart Street between Thompson Street and Master Street; Lancaster Avenue between Jefferson Street and North 54th Street; North 59th Street between Malvern Avenue and Woodcrest Avenue; and Bambrey Street between Willard Street and Allegheny Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance Bill No. 230438 approved July 5th, 2023, entitled, An Ordinance Authorizing The Revision of Lines and Grades on a portion of City Plan Numbers 230 and 289 by placing on the city plan two irregularly shaped areas: one located along the northeasterly side of Ridge Avenue and extending from a point northwest of the Wissahickon Creek to a point approximately 424 feet further northwesterly from, and other located along the south westerly side of Ridge Avenue, extending from a point northwest of the Wissahickon Creek northwesterly to the southwesterly side of Main Street, thereby widening said Ridge Avenue and authorizing the opening of the portions of the said widened Ridge Avenue, extending through the 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 stated therein.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the joint committees on Public Safety and Public Health and Human Services to examine the causes and impacts of the uptick in pharmacy closures across Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing honoring Bernie Prazenica on the occasion of his retirement after 17 years of distinguished service as President and General Manager of WPVI-TV/6ABC.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing Councilmember Jones's appeal on behalf of and as a representative of City Council of the decision of the Zoning Board of Adjustment with respect to 5052 through 56 City Avenue.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Good morning, Council President. Welcome back, everybody. I have one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution today. Thank you.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing September 10th, 2025, as Suicide Prevention Day in the city of Philadelphia, and affirming the need for suicide prevention awareness and robust mental health services.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution condemning congressional Republicans and the Trump administration for their dramatic, ill-advised, and harmful cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Good morning. Thank you, Council President. Today I offer four privileged resolutions and one bill.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolutions?
An ordinance renaming and designating the property commonly referred to as Wissinoming Park, located at 5801 Frankford Avenue as Margaret Tartaglione Park in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on -this bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring world master percussionist Pablo Batista for his distinguished contributions to music, culture, and education, and celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing September 15th through October 15th, as Hispanic Heritage Month in the city of Philadelphia, and honoring the history, culture, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities to our city and nation.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the month of September as National Literacy Month, and strengthening the city of Philadelphia's commitment to promoting literacy and digital literacy for all residents.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring distinguished Latino leaders and community advocates in the city of Philadelphia during Hispanic Heritage Month.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey J. Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offered two bills, one of which is on your behalf, and one privileged resolution and four non-privileged resolutions. But I just want to mention that one non-privileged resolution, we are repealing a street renaming for technical reasons and then introducing that same resolution again. Thank you.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolutions?
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-900 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, 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, the Schuylkill River, Bainbridge Street, and the Delaware River, and to reauthorize 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.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Wilt Street, Grand Street, Montgomery Avenue, and 19th Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the African American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware for being named Chamber of the Year at the 2025 U.S. Black Chambers National Conference.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution repealing Resolution Number 250587, adopted May 29th, 2025, which also named Jefferson Street between Broad Street and 13th Street as Donald Ducky' Birts Way.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming Jefferson Street between Broad Street and 13th Street as Ducky -- Donald Ducky Birt's Way.
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 2002 North 20th Street to 2007 Norris Street, located in the 5th 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.
A non-privileged resolution also naming North 9th Street between Clearfield Street and Indiana Avenue as LGBTQ Way, and also naming the 900 block of West Clearfield Street as Voice of the Youth.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution?
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on People with Disabilities and Special Needs to hold a hearing on the city's progress preparing to accommodate individuals with disabilities for the historic programming taking place in 2026 in the city of Philadelphia.
That's good. This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll. I don't know what I'm doing. COUNCILMEMBER Harrity: I got the flag. I got the flag.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution today.
Thank you, my friend. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution?
A privileged resolution recognizing September as National Recovery Month and honoring the strength of those impacted by addiction.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Good morning, Mr. President. I have one bill and one non-privileged resolution for today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolution, please?
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-2800 of the Philadelphia Code. Chapter 10-2800: Vehicular Mobile Service Providers to add new prohibitions on where mobile medical service providers may operate and providing for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming the 3300 block of Tilton Street, Czerw Way, to honor the life and legacy of John Czerw.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Brian O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer three bills: One co-sponsored by Councilman Driscoll, one co-sponsored by all members present today, and the third bill just on my own, and a non-privileged resolution after those. Thank you.
Thank you very much, Member O'Neill, for the tri-partisanship introduction of --
-- resolutions. Thank you, sir. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolutions?
An ordinance amending Section 14-500 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, Overlay Zoning Districts, by amending Section 14-515 entitled, Northeast Overlay District, and making related changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance adding a new Chapter 21-3500 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled Public Utility Meters, to prohibit provision of a second utility meter by a public utility at a residential property without evidence of a valid housing rental license for the property, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the revisions 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.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming the 800 block of Rhawn Street, Hugh Joseph McIntyre Way, in recognition of his sacrifice during the 1975 Gulf Oil Refinery Fire.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills?
An ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 1000 through 52 Frankfort Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19125, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 1313 through 17 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer three privileged resolutions and one bill.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolutions, please?
An ordinance amending Title 16 of the Philadelphia Code by adding a new chapter requiring that all cityowned vehicles carry a basic first aid kit, and overdose prevention medication, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution, honoring and celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Danny Rumph Classic and recognizing its ongoing commitment to heart health awareness, community empowerment, and Philadelphia's rich basketball legacy.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and commending Philadelphia Anti-Drug, Anti-Violence Network, PAAN, for its proactive efforts to ensure the safety of youth and families in the 8th Councilmanic District's recreation centers, and celebrating their success in maintaining violence-free zones through the implementation of the Playing It Safe in the 8th initiative.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring We On a Mission and the 2025 Philadelphia Midnight Run, as a reminder that movement, when powered by purpose, can transform lives and cities alike.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
I thank you, Council President. I'm introducing one privileged resolution today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution?
A privileged resolution recognizing Tuesday, September 16th, 2025, as National Voter Registration Day.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate -- this resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
I just thank you, Council President. I wanted to recognize Chairman Omar Sabir who will be speaking later. But I thank you for being here and pushing this issue.
You're doing my job? Like, can I do my job? I saw him, like -- let me get a chance appropriately to, you know -
Just because he's going to speak on this particular --
I got it. Just having fun, you-all. I'm having fun. The Chair recognizes Commissioner Omar Sabir. He's the guest of Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad. And so that was appropriate. I'm just having fun. It's the first day back, you-all.
Absolutely. And while I'm at it, I'd like to acknowledge the head of the Labor District Council 332, Business Manager, my good friend, thank you for joining us, Sam Staton, Jr. The next order of business is the consideration of the calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine 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: Numbers 250214, 250656, 250658, 250661, 250663, 250668, 250333, and 250530-A. The following bills and resolutions on the calendar are being held: 250303 and 250373. 250214 is on the suspension calendar.
Thank you very much, Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson. Before considering these 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. 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. Hassen 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 signup sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters will each have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session-to-session. Today's time limit will be three minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the three-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on a podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow, which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once three 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've not done so or so -- if you've not done so already. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.
May we have Chairman Omar Sabir come to the podium. May Dr. Alice Stanford, Jose Raywood, Edward Bonia and Manuel Mejia also make their way to the podium.
Thank you for having me. As always, it's always an honor to walk into this illustrious chamber. The architecture is beautiful, second to none. I always like to give honor to my Councilwoman, Jamie Gauthier. I live in her district. I grew up in Councilman Curtis Jones' district my whole life. But, I'm here with the Councilwoman, so, recognize her. And, Dr. Nina Ahmad, you know, every time she calls me, the answer is always, “Yes.” And she's very passionate about doing this work. So a national voter registration day, that's an honor for us to reengage with our constituents, our loved ones and our families. Research shows that if we talk to our constituents and ask them at least six times per election cycle, and the ask could be a phone call, an email, a text, that all count in it, there's a 70 percent chance that they're going to vote. So I'm asking not just the members of council but all citizens of Philadelphia to reach out and remind our family and friends about how critical this upcoming Tuesday, November, the 4th election is. You can get registered and you can actually vote on that same day now. You don't have to wait Tuesday, November the 5th. Make some noise for that you-all. We have 10 beautiful satellite locations located all across the city of Philadelphia. One in each councilmanic district. And that was thanks to you for the historic appropriation. So we look to work to get the vote out. Now is the time and our time is now. Thank you, Council President.
Okay. Thank you. First, on this solemn day, we remember those who lost their lives on September 11th. We honor their memory, their families, and we recommit to never forgetting their sacrifice and the bravery of the women and men and first responders who ran towards danger. Today is also personal. My family is here and I must begin with them. My husband, my mom, my dad, my motherin-law, my stepmother, grandmother, brother, and my pastor were my first team, my unpaid staff. They helped lift this work off the ground before anyone knew what It Takes Philly would become. And to my mother, if you could stand up, who was born on September 11th, happy birthday, mommy. Yeah. All right. Come on. I got three minutes. Okay. Thank you for showing me what faith and perseverance and love of community looks like. Councilmember Anthony Phillips, thank you for recognizing our work. And I want to honor my colleagues and staff and volunteers, stand up you-all, who stood shoulder to shoulder with me when there was no roadmap. So we are humbled by this proclamation, a representation of us stepping out on faith. It was 14 years ago, and most of you know me from COVID, but it was 14 years ago. So can Deacon Washington and Mrs. Washington please stand up. They're wearing the original It Takes Philly shirts. And what our hope was is that if we expose young people to opportunities behind -beyond their neighborhoods, they could dream bigger, reach higher, and believe in themselves. So we took Philadelphia middle school students from the courthouse, we were in your courthouse, judge, to the White House. We were standing, and then we were standing in church basements, street corners, parking lots, test swabs and vaccines for the most vulnerable. And all of these folks that started with me when all we had was a dream to take care of one another, I'm forever grateful to you, and I thank you all for recognizing us. Because we didn't wait for someone else to show up. We ran to danger so others would not have to. And many of you know this story because you lived it. If you've received a test, a vaccine, education information for yourself or your family, raise your hand. This is what it looks like when we collectively come together to take care of one another. And I am grateful for you all giving me the privilege to take care of you and to earn your trust to do that. Because of that service, people know my name. Not because I'm this super special persondoctor. It was from the service, that people know me locally and they know me nationally. And you gave us that opportunity. This true platform. This recognition affirms something that I've known my entire life; when we put people first, when we choose courage over comfort, equity over excuses, we can save lives, build futures, and strengthen communities. We -- I have been leading this city for decades. But let me be clear, we are just getting started. And that is why I will continue to serve because Philadelphia deserves leadership that is fearless, faithful, and focused on you. Thank you.
I just be remiss because I remember them days and we had to scramble as a Council under the leadership of Darrell Clarke -
-- how we were going to do the business here in the city of Philadelphia. But I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge my Majority Leader, Catherine Gilmore Richardson, because I remember when the Black Doctors Consortium came to City Council, seeking support so we can get masks and all those other things, and it wasn't -- I'll just say, my majority leader made sure that when we worked with the previous administration, this was a priority and the process was fair and equitable as relates to the resources here in the city of Philadelphia to support your efforts. So you continue to keep up the good work, but I want to acknowledge our majority leader for leading those efforts. Thank you.
Thank you for that. Thank you for that. I mean, I could name them all because -- Cindy Bass and Dr. Ahmad and Rue Landau and Harrity and Councilman and Cherelle Parker, quite honestly was there. You were all there. And it just -- it's a collective effort when we decide we put us first as a priority. And I yield and I thank you.
We have Jose Raywood, Edward Bonia, Manuel Mejia. McKay Perez, Lynn Landes and Jeremy Blatstein, also make their way to the podium.
Good morning. My name is Jose Luis. I'm a chef. I live in North Philadelphia and I run a food truck.