COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 26, 2004 10:05 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats behind the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes the Reverend John H. Roberts, Pastor of the Garden of Prayer Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Kenney. All members and guests will please rise.
Let us bow our heads. Our Father and our God, we take time now to thank you, first of all, for waking us up this morning. And not only did you wake us up, but you helped us to get up. And you've given us a portion of strength to allow us to be able to bathe ourselves and to come here for this mornings meetings. We pray for the President of City Council Verna and all of the pray for the leaders of this City. We ask your divine presence even now on the decisions that must be made. Give wisdom to these great leaders of this City. Continue to bless us, for we've come together, now bring us together in the spirit of oneness. Bless us on this day and make us a blessing today. We ask this in the most precious name that we know, Jesus Christ, our lord. We ask us to remember our children in school with your divine protection while they're in school and coming home from school. We ask this again in thy name. Now, God if there is any here sick among us that may not be feeling well in their body we pray that you would touch them, for one of your names is Jehovah Rafa, the Lord thy good healer. We pray for a healing for those not well in their bodies. When we leave this place, let us leave as the three wise men, they went home another way. Help us to leave this praise and to go home another way. For the Bible says that when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked have rule, the people mourn. We've mourned long enough. Let us leave today with rejoicing in our spirits. We ask this in thy name and sakes we pray, and as always, Lord, we thank you for listening. Amen. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 19, 2004. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 19, 2004, stand approved.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 19, 2004, stand approved. All in favor will signify by saying (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 19, 2004, is approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absence. And, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today, there are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the Majority.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all Members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney who will present a resolution honoring St. Joseph's Prep football team. Will Mr. Brooks and those accompanying him, please join the Councilman at the podium?
Madam President, if I may, I would like to request that Councilman O'Neill accompany me at the podium, and if Councilman Nutter comes in, to also send him up.
Thank you, Madam President. This is a resolution congratulating the varsity football team of St. Joseph's Preparatory School for winning the 2003 Philadelphia Catholic League Red Division Championship. Whereas, in a thrilling finale to an unforgettable season, the St. Joe's Prep Varsity Football Team handily defeated a stubborn Cardinal O'Hara Team 45 to 7 in a classic match-up while an energetic and vigorous hoard of hawks fans looked on; and Whereas, this overwhelming victory is particularly gratifying because it is the 14th title in school history and the third consecutive Catholic League Red title in as many years; Whereas, Prep Varsity Football was undefeated in the Catholic League for a second straight year under the leadership and Gill Brooks;
Whereas, this win extended the Prep's football team unbeaten streak to an unprecedented 35 games, a Catholic League and City of Philadelphia best; and Whereas, this victory marked a mile stone for head coach Gil Brooks in that it was his 105th victory as head coach of St. Joe's Prep Varsity Football Team in 12 years; now, therefore
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor the St. Joseph's Prep Varsity Football Team for winning the 2003 Philadelphia Catholic League Red Division Championship. And I'd just like to say as a graduate of school, along with Councilman O'Neill, how proud we are that this team has done so well, not only locally, but nationally. It's a nationally recognized, nationally ranked team. I believe they were second in the country. And also understand athletes. All these people have a very rigorous academic schedule and academic requirements to get through the school, so not only are they great athletes, but they're great scholars and students too. So we congratulate them all. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, Council President. I would just like to thank City Council for having us here today. We're very proud to be here. We're proud of the St. Joe's Prep Football Team, but we're also very proud of that fact that we represent the City of Philadelphia. We went to New York this year and played the best team in New York, Brooklyn Prep; we beat them. We went down to Baltimore and played the best team in the Baltimore area at Gilman School; we beat them. And at all times we represented the City of Philadelphia in that regard. So we're proud of being St. Joe's Prep, but we're also very proud of being in the City of Philadelphia and we have a little something here for the Councilmembers. That's your very own Prep game jersey, a little token of our appreciation for having us here today. Hopefully, they fit and they're a number you wanted to wear. Thank you very much on behalf of everybody at St. Joe's Prep. (Applause.)
At this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco who will present a resolution recognizing Philadelphia's first Anti-Predatory Lending Billboard Campaign. Will Ms. Lewis and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, ongoing battle against predatory lending, we're pleased this morning to bring in a group of people who have lent their support and lending their support to this fight. Some have been involved in this battle since 1999 and will continue. So I am just pleased to present this resolution recognizing, commending, and supporting Steen Outdoor, Keystone Outdoor, Clear Channel Outdoor, and the Philadelphia Predatory Lending Task Force for joining forces to develop and promote Philadelphia first Anti-Predatory Lending Billboard and Education Campaign. Whereas, Resolution No. 00479, introduced on June 15, 2000, request that the Committee Council Committee on Finance to conduct an investigation of the extent of predatory lending practices in Philadelphia and the legislative remedies to address this serious problem; and Whereas, this Council has previously recognized that numerous studies have shown that the scourge of predatory lending which of a community is not limited to certain neighborhoods in Philadelphia but the entire City and has been afflicting vulnerable groups of homeowners throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and across this nation; and Whereas, it is the duty of this Council to protect the citizens and neighborhoods of Philadelphia, and this body has already gone on record through identifying the predatory lending epidemic that has plagued this City when they passed unanimously Bill No. 000715A on February 5, 2001; and Whereas, there is a need to educate the citizens of Philadelphia regarding the perils and problems caused by predatory lending; and Whereas, Steen Outdoor, Keystone Outdoor, and Clear Channel Outdoor have been long-term promoters of public service advertising campaigns that support various local and national organizations as well as interests that are beneficial to the City; and whereas Task Force has acted as a clearing house for information related to predatory lending and has worked to develop solutions, including the development of consumer education, to end the problem of predatory lending in our City;. Now, therefore resolved that the Council of the City of Philadelphia recognize, commend, and support Steen Outdoor, Keystone Outdoor, Clear Channel Outdoor, and the Philadelphia Predatory Lending Task Force for joining forces to develop and promote Philadelphia's first Anti-predatory Billboard and Education Campaign. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of the resolution be presented to representatives of Steen Outdoor, Keystone Outdoor, and Clear Channel Outdoor, and the Philadelphia Predatory Lending Task Force as an expression of the appreciation of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution to be adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the 26th day of February 2004, signed by President Anna Verna and introduced and supported by Marian B. Tasco. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Thank you, Council President. And I'd like to thank Councilwoman Tasco for her undying efforts not only support the task fourth but support the efforts way before the task force was even formed. I'd like to make sure that I recognize the other task force members. If there are any other task force members that are still seated, would you please come forward, including Councilman Goode and Councilwoman Blackwell who are both members of the Task Force. I'd like to recognize the Co-Chair of the Task Force Cleo Walker of the Housing Association of Delaware Valley, representative Dwight Evans' office, Senator Specter's office is here somewhere. But anyway, I'd like to thank all of the Task Force members. I'd also like who will be going with us on the education campaign the, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Milton Pratt from HUD and Wanda Nieves, the Director of the Fair Housing Division at HUD. Also our lending partners Wachovia Bank, Bruce Johnson and Citizens and PNC Bank. Without further ado, I'd like to present to you the other members who have made this possible. These are our partners who have been able to put together something to publicize this effort all over the City of Philadelphia. I'd like to introduce to you Barbara Bridge from Clear Channel Outdoor. (Applause.)
Thank you. President Verna, Councilwoman Tasco, Councilmembers, we'd like to thank you for recognizing our partnership Clear Channel with the Predatory Task Force, Steen and Keystone Outdoor in our efforts in our task to educate the people in Philadelphia as to the dangers of predatory lending. a list of the tentative locations where we intend to put the billboards: 5835 Woodland Avenue; 61st Street north of Passyunk; Washington at 25th Street; Lancaster and 52nd Street; Woodland east of Cobbs Creek; Erie east of 21st Street; 18th and Windram Avenue; Diamond at 27th Street; Allegheny east of Ridge Avenue; 79th and Ogontz Avenue. We are, pleased to provide this service to the members of the Philadelphia community because we are part of the Philadelphia community. And we sincerely hope to work with other Councilmembers in the future. Just give us a call. Thank you. (Applause.)
With that, I'd like to introduce the other two members of Clear Channel, the President of Clear Channel, Mr. George J. Caulker and Randy Brownly, our Senior Sales Executive, without whom I could not have done this program. Thank you. (Applause.)
I'd also like to make and not forget the participation of the other two Outdoor companies, Keystone and Steen. Thank you. (Applause.)
Seeing none, Council be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms -
I'm sorry. Point of order. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I have some guests I'd like to recognize at this time.
For the second week in a row, I'm honored to introduce a number of young people who are part of the City Year Program. They are here today with Mr. Christopher Simons. He's the senior project manager. They represent the Kensington High School and Mastbaum High School of my district. And I would ask that they stand to be recognized.
Thank you. 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. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor. THE
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body a proposed resolution entitled, a resolution confirming the appointment of Pedro A. Ramos as City Solicitor; And a resolution approving the authorization for the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to use NTI bond proceeds to acquire certain properties, under certain terms and conditions; And a resolution agreeing to participate in the 436 Walnut Tax Increment Financing District;. And an ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2004 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works for fiscal years 2005 through 2009; And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to extend the term of a lease agreement for portions of the building and parking lot located at 4700 Wissahickon Avenue; And an ordinance creating the 437 Walnut Tax Increment Financing District, being the area generally bounded by Walnut Street on the north, Fourth Street on the east, Fifth Street on the west and Spruce Street on the south.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession. THE
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning I introduce two bills on your behalf, one resolution on your behalf, and one other resolution.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
An ordinance granting permission to Carmen Polutro and Joseph Polutro, owners the property 2650 South 15th Street to operate and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe on the northwest corner of South 15th Street and Oregon Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled, Sidewalk Vendors in Center City, by exempting sidewalk sales by owners and tenants of 1523 and 1529 Spruce Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 30th, 36th, 39th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the next resolution. THE
A resolution confirming the appointment of Pedro A. Ramos as City Solicitor.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions, the one with respect to honoring the group that fighting for continuation of the moratorium on death penalty, is cosponsored by Councilwoman Donna Miller who is the author of the original resolution several years ago and by Councilman Goode and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds. Each resolution has 12 members in support of it, but not necessarily the same 12.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the first resolution. THE
A resolution calling upon Albertsons, the owner of the Acme Markets to settle the more than 100-day-old lock-out of its workers in Southern California in a way that maintains their health benefits and further urging Albertsons and its CEO Larry Johnston to not try these benefit-destroying tactics in Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Clerk will please read the next resolution. THE
A resolution declaring the week of February 27 to March 4, 2004 Death Penalty Moratorium Week in Philadelphia, renewing City Council's call for a death penalty moratorium and in commending the staff and community of Pennsylvania Abolitionists United the Death Penalty for the dedicated efforts to advance the cause of a State-wide moratorium.
Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance establishing a no stopping anytime regulation on the east side of State Street between Ashburner Street and Linden Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 38th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 19th and 43rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance approving Fiscal Year 2004 Capital Budget providing for the expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions.
The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Public Safety to hold public hearings to investigate the safety of Philadelphia's public libraries in order to determine the most cost effective and least intrusive means to maintain an open atmosphere while assuring the safety for the users and employees.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Public Safety. The Clerk please read the title of the second resolution. THE
A resolution approving an amendment of the Redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of an additional portion of the Tioga Urban Renewal Area.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter, if he's available.
Sorry, Madam President. Madam President, I offer one bill and one resolution. I wish to speak on the resolution.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill, please. THE
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to extend the term of a lease agreement for portions of the building and parking lot located at 4700 Wissahickon Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution recognized February 25, 2004 as Reparations Awareness Day and urging the US Congress to pass HR 40 and the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to pass House Bill 765, both entitled The Commission to Study Reparation Proposals For African Americans Act.
Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution, and I wish to be heard on it. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, we have with us today representatives of the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Coalition of Blacks for reparations in America. The two representatives are across the room, Ms. Ron Johnson and Ms. Mamie Young and I just wanted to recognize them for their efforts.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions. The second resolution, cosponsored by my colleagues Councilmembers Goode, Nutter, and Tasco.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Commerce and Economic Development and Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings regarding the report developed by the Philadelphia Food Marketing Task Force as a result of the hearings on April 16, 2002.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the Committees on Commerce and Economic Development and also Public Health and Human Services. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE
A resolution declaring the final weekend in March, March 26th through March 28th, as Generation Next Weekend.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council proposing amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the election of the Council President by the voters at-large and reducing the number of other at-large Councilmembers from seven to six, the filling of vacancies in the offices of Mayor and Council President specifying the Council President's powers and duties and permitting Councilmembers and an acting Mayor to be candidates for certain other City offices without first resigning their position fixing the date of a special election for such purposes.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the election of Council President by the voters at-large and reducing the number of other at-large Councilmembers from seven to six, the filling of vacancies in the offices of Mayor and Council President specifying the Council Presidents powers and duties and permitting Councilmembers and an acting Mayor to be candidates for certain other City offices.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Labor and Civil Services to hold public hearings to examine and investigate the high number of unemployed people in Philadelphia and the effects this has on their families, the viability of business commerce in the City's declining population base.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Labor and Civil Service. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" by adding a new chapter providing for the creation of Neighborhood Conservation Districts providing for the adoption of design guidelines for properties within such districts.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance creating the 436 Walnut Tax Increment Financing District.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 2nd and 31st Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill, one resolution.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 020740, approved January 23, 2003, entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 58 by striking from the City plan and vacating Olive Street from Percy Street to 10th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 16th, 20th and 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution honoring, commending and thanking John Bonjove and Craig A. Spencer, Co-Chairman and majority owners and Ron Jawarski, Team President for their pride, confidence and commitment in bringing the Philadelphia Soul Area Football Team to the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. I believe you want to introduce a resolution?
Yes, Madam President, I do want to introduce a resolution. We just got it.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution recognizing, commending, and supporting Steen Outdoor, Keystone Outdoor, Clear Channel Outdoor, and the Philadelphia Predatory Lending Task Force for joining forces to develop and promote Philadelphia's first Anti-Predatory Lending Billboard and Education Campaign.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. As there are no reports from committees today, we will continue with the consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the 02/26/04 - STATED - 1ST READING bills on the First Reading Calendar. THE
Bill No. 040033, an ordinance authorizing 111 South 15th Street Associates to construct and maintain a marquis, raised planters and rigid awnings on and over the public footways on Chestnut Street, 15th Street and Sansom Street, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 040061, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved January 3, 1992, Bill No. 1205AA by providing that all permitted vending locations on both sides of 11th Street between Arch Street and Chestnut Street shall be assigned only to vendors licensed to sell prepared food.
And Bill No. 040062, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved January 3, 1992, by providing that all permitted vending locations on both sides 02/26/04 - STATED - 2ND READING of Eighth Street and Ninth Street between Arch and Market Street shall be assigned only to vendors licensed to sell prepared food.
And Bill No. 040063, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved January 3, 1992, by providing that all permitted vending locations on both sides of 12th Street between Arch and Chestnut shall be assigned only to vendors licensed to sell prepared food.
The Chair agrees. That completes the First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage to be considered.
Thank you, Madam President. Today, Bill Nos. 040034, 040006, 040025, 040026, 040027, 040058, 040065, and 02/26/04 - STATED - 2ND READING 040067 are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 040034. THE
An ordinance requiring the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to enter into a certain agreement with the City regarding authority transactions involving non-City government agencies as a condition Council approval of future Authority transactions -
I would just ask the Clerk to please slow down a little bit in reading so that I can follow the text.
An ordinance requiring the Philadelphia Authority 02/26/04 - STATED - 2ND READING Industrial Development to enter into a certain agreement with the City regarding Authority transactions involving non-City government agencies as a condition of Council approval of future authority transactions, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration Bill No. 040006. THE
An ordinance amending Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code by amending section 9-205, "Sidewalk Sides," by prohibiting vending on certain portions of Chester Avenue Kingsessing Avenue, 53rd Street and 54th Street, under certain terms and conditions real.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 040025. THE
An ordinance granting permission to Nahal Desai and Raju Desai, owners of the newsstand at the corner 02/26/04 - STATED - 2ND READING of 13th and Market Streets, for the purpose of supplying electrical service and telephone service to the newsstand, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 040026. THE
An ordinance amending 1(a) and (c) of an ordinance, Bill No. 030344, approved July 31, 2003, entitled an ordinance granting permission to Ride the Ducks International, LLC, to remove an existing wood and metal newsstand located on the west sidewalk of South Independence Mall by enlarging the ticket booth Kiosk with the conditions stated therein.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 040027 THE
An ordinance granting permission to Robert Bitros, owner of the property 931-933 North Second Street to 02/26/04 - STATED - 2ND READING operate and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe on the east sidewalk of North Second Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 040058. THE
An ordinance establishing a no trucking parking regulation on the 2800 block of East Allegheny Avenue, both sides.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Councilwoman 02/26/04 - STATED - 2ND READING Reynolds Brown.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 040065. THE
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 58 of an area bounded by 9th Street, 10th Street Callowhill Street and Noble Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. 02/26/04 - STATED - 2ND READING The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The last bill being called for 02/26/04 - STATED - 2ND READING consideration is Bill No. 040067. THE
An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," by prohibiting sidewalk sales on portions of Franklintown Boulevard.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That concludes the Calendar for today. Are speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I'd just like to say thank you and congratulations to my colleague Councilman Michael Nutter as we see the movements around MCP. There's an effort to keep them here, keep them open for a while and patients can find some way to resolve their issues. But also, I think through the discussion in this Council about the nature of the closing and all the facts that were brought out about Tenet and its motives or lack thereof that a resolution was -- some form of a resolution was brought forth. And in addition, we can see that their lack of sensitivity caused the head of the organization to be fired. I think it's very important that we bring issues before this City Council to discuss them so that it brings a light to what's going on. We are responsible to our voters, people who put us in office, to have the debate and have the discussion. And I just want to thank him for making -- while it was tedious for some and unpleasant for others, it certainly brought to light what was going on with MCP and helped us bring to some resolution that issue, and I want to thank you.
Thank you, Madam President. My colleague Councilwoman Tasco caught me completely off guard, but I do thank her for her remarks. We do have a long way to go, but I think some serious progress has been made. And I had actually in slightly more privately way had today wanted to talk with our colleague Councilman Goode who is the Chair of the Committee on commerce and Economic Development for his tremendous support and cooperation in terms of -- it's not the norm that we would have literally three hearings on very serious matters three weeks in a row. And it takes a lot of time. Every hearing was about four to five hours over a three week period. And I think the Councilman and his staff deserves a tremendous amount of acknowledgment for working with us to make that happen and create the kind of environment that, as Councilwoman Tasco said, could bring focus to this issue. In addition, naturally, Members of Council, Members of the Committee, and people who were not on the Committee were diligent in coming to these hearings. And again, as Councilwoman Tasco said, brought out a lot of information. We had, I think, six or eight State Representatives and a State Senator, a US Congressman, Congressman Fattah, and a United States Senator and Senator Specter come to the first of the three hearings. I think Tenet Healthcare started to take those hearings very seriously. And then with the double pressure coming from Governor Rendell from the other side, they finally realized that not only had they made a serious mistake, but that also maybe they should pay more attention to what's going on here in Philadelphia and try to turn this situation around. So I am cautiously optimistic based on the agreement that Tenet Healthcare reached with Governor Rendell and the Department of Health. But we do have a lot of work to do between now and June 30th with the extension. But I think Councilwoman Tasco some that there is very serious work to be done here in this City Council, and whether it's through ordinance or bill but also our resolution process gives us an opportunity to either bring information out or give people a voice and a forum in which they can talk about the things that they care about. The patient testimony, the employees, all of the participants in this process, I think, helped to galvanize, not only around this issue, but to bring attention to the larger issue of what's going on in healthcare, not just in Philadelphia, not just in Pennsylvania, but across the United States of America. So as Congressman Fattah said, this is a national problem, but we're dealing with a very local issue, and what is the company prepared to do. So the talks and conversations will continue. I'm sure, if necessary, I'll call on the Councilman again. The Committee certainly reserves the right to reconvene if things are not going in the right direction. good conversations are taking place right now, and I appreciate all the support from my colleagues. It is a win for all of us. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Madam President, first, I had I would like to make up for an error I made earlier when introducing the cosponsors on the abolition front on supporting the creation of a week to celebrate the anti death penalty. I forgot to mention that Councilman Ramos was also one of the three chief cosponsors with Councilwoman Miller and Councilwoman Brown. I would also like to take this opportunity to have the Chair recognize three representatives of the Food and Commercial Workers of America who are valiantly carrying on the fight that we talked about in the first Acme Markets and the Albertsons Company, John Meyerson and two of colleagues and would request that the Chair ask them to stand and be recognizes.
If they would stand, we would certainly like to recognize you. (Applause.)
The Food and Commercial Workers are not only a very large local union, but they are a union which always has responded whenever workers were endangered in any area of work. So they really deserve a very special thanks. Thank you very much, Madam Chair.
You're welcome, sir. Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? (No response.) Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand 4, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, March 4th. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Thank you very much. (Council adjourned at 11:08 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of February 26, 2004, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. RE: STATED MEETING _________________________ Lisa C. Bradley, RPR