Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 20, 2020 10:46 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
Good morning. We're going to get started. If members will take their seats, and any visitors, I'd ask that you please retire behind the rail. Just before we get started, I'd ask that if anyone has a cell phone or any other electronic device that makes any noise, please turn it off or turn it on airplane mode or vibration. We appreciate your cooperation. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Brian Grant of Germantown Christian Assembly Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Bass. I would ask all guests, visitors, and members to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests, and visitors rise.)
It's a pleasure Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 here this morning, and I want to thank President Clarke and each Councilmember for the invitation and especially to Councilwoman Bass, to who extended the invitation on your behalf. Let me just say one thing before I give you a brief prayer. I'm not going to be longwinded, but, you know, a man was walking on the beach one morning, and as he walked on the beach, he noticed that every time the tide came in, it left hundreds of starfish on the beach. He decided he's going to do something. So he picked up one of the starfish and he threw it back into the water, because the starfish were laying in the sun dying. And one by one, he started throwing more starfish back into the water. A man passed by him and he said, what are you doing? He said, I'm saving the starfish. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 said, there's hundreds of starfish out here. The few that you are saving really isn't making any difference. You're really not making any impact. The man didn't say anything. He picked up one more starfish. He threw it into the water. He said, it sure made a difference to that one. And, you know, sometimes I'm sure in the work you do, sometimes you might become discouraged. You're trying to save the City. And sometimes you're discouraged that all that you hope to see happen has not happened, but my God encourage you that every life you touch, every life you have impacted, you have sure made a difference to that starfish. And so I just want to let you know that you are making a difference, and may God bless you as you continue to serve our city. Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we come to you Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 heart, for despite the efforts of this Council, despite the efforts of so many officials in our land, our nation is filled with division and violence. Lord, in this time of challenge, keep us reminded of the words of Solomon, that righteousness makes a nation great, but that sin will destroy any people. We, therefore, pray that you will turn the hearts of our nation towards you and that you will give us a desire to seek after righteousness. And, Lord, in this age of rage, may each of us pursue peace. As our master said, Lord, help us to even love our enemies. May we be challenged by the words of Saint Francis of Assisi when he said, 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 Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy. Oh, grant that we may not seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to be understood, to be loved as to love, for it is in giving that we receive. It is in pardoning that we are pardoned. It is in dying that we are born again to eternal life. Heavenly Father, I ask that you bless each member of this City Council in a special way. Meet their needs as only you can. Endue them with wisdom and guide them to discern your will. We pray in the name of Christ, our savior. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor, for those inspiring words. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.) Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
Thank you. And, again, thank you, Pastor, for those inspiring words. Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 13, 2020, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal for the meeting of Thursday, February 13, 2020 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 13, 2020 stand approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 it, and that Journal is approved. Our next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of members of Council, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentle lady. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to come to witness their government in action. We hope your stay here today is a knowledgeable one but, more importantly, a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. So, again, thank you so much for being here. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones, who will present a resolution recognizing living Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Massiah-Jackson and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Thank you, Mr. President. While everyone is moving forward, I just wanted to note for the record that if you look to my right, you will see that there are a bunch of ladies in pink and green sitting here. These are the ladies of the Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. They are here to support their sorer and our history-making judge, Frederica Massiah-Jackson, and they will also, Councilman Johnson, be staying for the special hearing this afternoon on gun violence, because it's an issue that they've worked on.
And thank you so much, ladies, for being here today. Thank you for your service. Joining the Councilman, we have Councilwoman Bass, Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson, Councilman Johnson, Councilwoman Parker, Councilwoman Gauthier, and Councilman Johnson.
Councilman, hold on one second. Councilman, before we start, I'd like a chance to recognize a very special person to all of us. Councilwoman Blackwell, you didn't think you were going to sneak in here without being noticed? Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, how you doing? (Applause.)
Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Proceed, Councilman, sir.
Thank you, Mr. President. History is not the story if only others tell it. It is his story. The living legends recognition is made because sometimes people are so busy making history, that they don't take the time to look up and smell the roses and see the accomplishments and things that they have done. What we want to do is recognize those individuals annually that are really making a difference. A life is only measured by the impact it has on other lives, said Jackie Robinson. And that's a true statement then; it's a true statement now. And the living legends that we're going to recognize today live by that. It doesn't matter their field of endeavor. Whether it is in education, whether it is in music, whether it is in the halls of justice in City Hall, they are making a Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 lives every single day. Give them a round of applause. (Applause.)
So today we are going to recognize Georgio Cojulun. I always just called him Georgio. Dr. Naomi Johnson-Booker, the Honorable Frederica Massiah-Jackson in the halls of city justice. Give her a round of applause too. (Applause.)
And Constance Clayton. All of these individuals who are living legends have made a difference in the lives of others and are continuing to do that. So, therefore...
Whereas, Lynette Brown-Sow, point of personal privilege, lady of Delta Sigma Theta Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Sorority, Incorporated, Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter. With that being said, Lynette Brown-Sow is a well-known leader in the education and behavioral health communities in Philadelphia. In her role as the Vice President of Marketing and Government Relations with the Community College of Philadelphia, Ms. Brown-Sow worked diligently at both local and national levels to ensure education for all. She worked with the American Association of Community Colleges, as well as the White House, to support tuition-free programs at community colleges and maintenance of funding for Federal Pell Grants. Ms. Brown-Sow also served as the Chair of the Board of Directors for The Consortium, a behavioral healthcare organization that pioneered the strategy of balancing the input of community leaders and medical experts to expand access to patient-centered behavioral healthcare Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 After 22 years with Community College of Philadelphia, Ms. Brown-Sow returned to her path of entrepreneurship as manager of L.M. Brown Management Group, a consultant firm she founded in 1980 that provides a range of professional services; and
As the son of a retired Philadelphia school teacher and as a parent of a son who has only been educated in the School District of Philadelphia, it gives me great pride and joy to read the next honoree. Whereas, Dr. Constance Clayton has been recognized on numerous occasions for her contributions to Philadelphia's education system. She began her career in 1955 as an elementary school teacher with the School District of Philadelphia at the former William H. Harrison School. In 1973, she became the first Director and then Associate Superintendent of the Early Childhood Program for the School Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 1982, she was the first African American person to serve as the Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia. Her work as Superintendent was characterized by her reputation for tackling the District's most difficult budgetary crises without cutting, without cutting student services, and for partnering with the businesses to secure resources and center the community around education. Dr. Clayton has been awarded numerous honors for her service to the education system, including becoming the first African American woman to have a professorship named for her at an Ivy League institution when the University of Pennsylvania established the Constance E. Clayton Professorship in Urban Education in 1992; and
Before I read the passage of Greg Pac Cojulun, I just want to say that I've had the benefit of knowing Mr. Greg for many years. He's a change-maker and a leader Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 District, and we've all been made better by his efforts. Whereas, Gregorio Pac Cojulun has served his community for over 30 years, first as a block captain for the 5000 block of Osage Avenue, and then as President of the Friends of Malcolm X Park organization. As the President of the organization since 1997, Mr. Cojulun spearheaded the transformation of Malcolm X Park, formerly Black Oak Park. Mr. Cojulun has worked tirelessly to make the park a point of pride for the community through initiatives like the Annual Jazz Heritage Series, where the park hosts free concerts featuring local jazz artists on evenings throughout the summer, as well as the biannual Love Your Park Day. He was also awarded the annual Governor's Award for Outstanding Citizen in Crime Prevention for his stewardship of the park. Mr. Cojulun continues to serve as a community anchor in West Philadelphia, as well as the City Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 at-large; and
And I'd also like to take a point of personal privilege to thank Councilmember Jones for allowing me to read the whereas clause in honor of the daughter of my esteemed triumphant sorer of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Audrey Johnson-Thornton, who is President Emeritus of Belmont Mansion, and we thank her for her service and we miss her. Whereas, Dr. Naomi Johnson-Booker is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Global Leadership Academy Charter School and has worked for more than 40 years in the field of public education. Dr. Naomi Johnson-Booker started her career in education as a teacher with the School District of Philadelphia. She then went on to become a principal and an area superintendent, before retiring from the District in 2004. Dr. Johnson-Booker went on to become the Regional Vice Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Alliance for Public Charter Schools, where she served until she formed the Global Leadership Academy in 2007. Dr. Johnson-Booker has received numerous awards and honors for her work in education, including an honor by the White House Initiative for Education Excellence in 2014, as well as Philadelphia Martin Luther King, Jr. Association for Non-Violence Salute to Greatness Educational Award in 2015; and
And whereas, the Honorable Frederica A. Massiah-Jackson is a remarkable and accomplished jurist who has spent her career serving the people of Philadelphia in numerous ways. Judge Massiah-Jackson obtained her Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Pennsylvania at only 23 years old and went on to clerk for Justice Robert N.C. Nix on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court from 1974 until 1976. In 1983, she was elected to the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 7 years at the Philadelphia firm Blank Rome. From 2001 to 2006, she sat as the President Judge of the Court of Common Pleas. And in addition to her judicial service, Judge Massiah-Jackson has also served as an educator, teaching legal studies and business law at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania; and now, therefore
And just taking a moment of personal privilege, I just want to acknowledge some individuals who helped me become the person who I am today. I remember when I first wanted to run for public office, I remember sitting down and talking to the Honorable Frederica Massiah-Jackson, and I want to just personally thank you for your words of encouragement. And I remember as a young man attending Childs Elementary School and Barrett Junior High School, and that was under the leadership of Constance Clayton. And I remember when Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 up, the teachers would show up at your house when you weren't behaving, because they cared. I remember if there was a snowstorm, you were still coming to school to learn. That was in the leadership and caring compassion of Constance Clayton, one of the best superintendents in the history of Philadelphia. And most of you may or may not know, under the leadership of my former, I like to say, the late, great Hardy Williams and his political organization, I had a mentor who was the field general who taught me the art of political organizing in the field, and if you ever see me out on the street and wonder why I'm always going door to door and talking to the neighbors, it was under her leadership and she was the enforcer to make sure that I had my ward book together, made sure I knew my committee people and my block captains and, most importantly, made sure I knew the people, and as a result, I am 5 and 0 Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 elections in terms of me being a State Representative and the first African American representing the Second District in City Council, and that's my mentor, Lynette Brown-Sow. And so I just want to take a moment to acknowledge them for their dedication in helping me become the person who I am today. And I will be remiss if I didn't acknowledge Dr. Naomi Johnson-Booker for just her hard work and dedication to make sure all young people, all young people receive a quality education regardless of their neighborhood and/or their zip code. Be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and celebrate Philadelphia's Living Legends: Lynette Brown-Sow, Dr. Constance Clayton, also I call him Mr. Greg because he runs Malcolm X Park. He's always out there on the ground making sure that the people in that part of West Philadelphia are supported. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Johnson-Booker, and the Honorable Frederica Massiah-Jackson, who are leaders in Philadelphia in their respective fields of behavioral health, education, art, music and the justice system as part of the commemoration of Black History Month. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to these Living Legends as further evidence of the sincere respect of this legislative body. And we say congratulations. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes the Honorable Frederica Massiah-Jackson for remarks. JUDGE MASSIAH-JACKSON: Well, good morning, Council President Darrell Clarke, Councilman Curtis Jones, and to all the Councilmembers who introduced this resolution, to all those who sponsored this resolution, and to all those who supported this amazing Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 resolution, we hope it was unanimous. I extend on behalf of all five living legends of the year 2020, I extend our sincere thanks and appreciation on behalf of Lynette Brown-Sow, Dr. Constance Clayton, Mr. Gregory, Dr. Naomi Johnson-Booker, and myself. We are so proud and delighted to be here this morning surrounded by family and so many friends in this City Council Chambers. And a special shout-out to all the pink and green friends who are here today. (Applause.) JUDGE MASSIAH-JACKSON: We are here today to celebrate Black History Month and to acknowledge our Philadelphia communities. This City Council has demonstrated leadership under the auspices of President Clarke, and we applaud you. Each of us as living legends work in the communities of Philadelphia in education or in the arts Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 courts or a combination of these. We believe in this city. We believe in the people of Philadelphia all 12 months of the year. And, again, thank you on behalf of all of us. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you and, again, congratulations. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass, who will present a resolution recognizing the Reverend Robert H. Paul and the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19. Would Reverend Paul and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilwoman Bass, we have Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Squilla, Councilman Oh, Councilman Henon, Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson, Councilwoman Gauthier, Councilman Jones. You guys coming up? And Councilmen Green and Johnson.
It's really just such an honor for me to be here with Reverend Paul, who is not just a minister, not just a strong supporter and member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union, but who has been a friend and who has been a pastor or been "the" pastor at the Piney Grove Baptist Church in my district, in the Eighth District, for a long time now. We want to thank Pastor Paul. We want to recognize him. And he spent so much time lifting us up in the Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 our neighbors and our friends and the whole entire City of Philadelphia, that we thought it was time that we did something to recognize him for all of the outstanding work that he does on our behalf. I know that when I need just a little more Jesus, that's who I call. I call Pastor Paul. Because in this job, in this business, when we're out here, we need to be prayed up. I believe in the power of prayer. And so I am just honored to have Pastor Paul here with us today. And so the resolution reads: Recognizing and honoring the Reverend Robert H. Paul and the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19 for over 15 years of commitment and dedication to the Piney Grove Baptist Church Tutorial Program and their commitment to the surrounding community. Whereas, Reverend Robert H. Paul for the past 32 years has been a Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Grove Baptist Church known as "The Lighthouse of Logan"; and
I also want to take a moment to acknowledge Gary Masino and his team from the Sheet Metal Workers Union for their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Again, we're the number one big city when it comes to poverty, and so in order for us to move forward, it's going to take for all of us to focus and make a commitment to diversity and inclusion so everyone can participate in the great growth in this City of Philadelphia. Whereas, Reverend Robert H. Paul is a servant indeed by serving on the Logan Improvement Association, Evening Baptist Ministers Conference of Philadelphia and Vicinity, Missionary Baptist Pastor's Conference, The Black Clergy of Philadelphia, The Philadelphia Council of Clergy, The Greater Philadelphia Baptist Association and the Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 United States of America; and Whereas, in 1973, Reverend Robert H. Paul was first employed with the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19. Within four years, Reverend Robert H. Paul received the Apprentice of the Year Award and was awarded a two-year scholarship to sketching school; and
Whereas, with the help of former Presidents, Mr. Tom Kelley, Mr. Joe Sellers, and current President, Mr. Gary Masino, Reverend Robert H. Paul has led the Piney Grove Tutorial Program; and Whereas, the Piney Grove Tutorial Program is a 12-week training program that prepares its students to take the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) Test. After passing this test, an interview is granted, then an opportunity is extended to that student an apprenticeship into the Union; and Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
Whereas, the Piney Grove Baptist Church Tutorial Program is open to all men and women regardless of ethnic background or education levels or having had past incarcerations; and Whereas, the Piney Grove Baptist Church Tutorial Program's success over the years has been 60 percent minority and 20 percent female acceptance into the apprentice program; and
And whereas, the Piney Grove Baptist Church Tutorial Program and the leadership of President Mr. Gary Masino, the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19 are the second best -recount -- second best minority participation union in Philadelphia; and
Whereas, Reverend Robert Paul and the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19 have continued to give back to the Logan community including the homeless, seniors, sick and shut in, Logan Elementary School, Piney Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Care, the 35th Police District and Firefighters from Ogontz and Champlost Avenue Firehouse by sponsoring the Annual Thanksgiving Dinner and Christmas baskets; and
Whereas, for the past 5 years, Reverend Robert H. Paul and the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19 have contributed backpacks filled with school supplies to the Logan Elementary School, Piney Grove Day Care, school students, children of the church and neighborhoods; and
Whereas, to recognize the Reverend Robert H. Paul's contribution to the Union, the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19 elected him a Trustee in 2000 and in 2005 was elected to the Executive Board. He has worked as a part-time Recruitment Officer and now a full-time Recruitment Officer. This afforded him the opportunity to participate in Job Fairs in public and parochial schools, churches, community Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 in Philadelphia and surrounding the tri-state areas as well as establishing a satellite program; and
And having almost 30 years in the building trades myself, I bore witness of the Reverend doing all the work of the good angels in the community with Sheet Metal's leadership going back a few terms and most recently with Gary Masino, whom I grew up in the business with, where everybody in the eyes of Reverend Paul is a starship -- starfish. I ruined it. Everybody is a starfish. Because he truly gives back and has an impact not just on the Sheet Metal Workers and building trades, but the communities that he serves. So whereas, after 46 years of being a part of the Sheet Metal Union Local 19, the passion and the commitment continues with him now and will in the future; now, therefore be it Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize and honor Reverend Robert H. Paul and the Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 for over 15 years of commitment and dedication to Piney Grove Baptist Church Tutorial Program and their commitment to the surrounding communities and the tri-state area. (Applause.)
I just wanted to say again just to reiterate that Pastor Paul has been a direct link to the African American community into the building trades, into the Sheet Metal Workers Union, and I thank him so much, because there is so much of a need in our communities for these sorts of opportunities. And we also want to thank the Sheet Metal Workers Union for being so open and so much a part of what we do. And thank you so much, Gary, for all of the work that you do, because we want to Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 recognize -- we beat up on you pretty bad when folks don't recognize the importance and need of inclusion and the diversity in the building trades, and when somebody gets it right, we want to recognize them. So thank you so much for getting it right. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. And with that, the Chair recognizes the Reverend Paul for remarks.
We give honor and glory to our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ, and certainly we're thankful to God with all that has transpired today. I'm honored to be here. We're certainly thankful to God for all of the councilmanic members, especially our dear sister, Sister Bass. We're thankful to Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 President, Brother Gary Masino, and all those members that are standing here with me that make up the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19. I'm honored to be here representing the members and the people of our dear city. We recognize that we are all part of the village, that it's all part of us. We're all in this together. No one man can make a difference. No one man or one person can make a difference, but together we stand united. We can make a difference in our country, in our city, and in the lives of everyday people. I'm honored. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, one and all, for what you've done. You don't have to recognize nobody at all, but I'm so grateful to God. I must give honor also to my church, Piney Grove Baptist Church, and the family that makes up the church, but I am indeed grateful also to have my Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 52 years. She's here with me. (Applause.)
I'm thankful to God for her loyal-ship, because many hours that I'm away, she's there by herself per se.
Holding it down. Thank you. But then I'm also grateful to a dear brother by the name of Gary Masino. Right now it's just an honor to have him here, because he had a death in his family. And, Gary, I'm honored to have you here, brother. I think if anybody needs to be here as well along with me, Gary, you need to come and say something as well, man. I love you dearly, brother, because you're just that kind of a man. (Applause.)
It's an honor to Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 you know Reverend Bobby Paul like I do or we do here, the man is just a man of love. He gives everything he's got. He changes people's lives every day. I mean, he takes inner city kids and gives them hope. He gives them an opportunity, with sustainable wages and benefits, things they don't feel they're entitled to or have opportunities to get. And for our Local 19 to partner with Bobby Paul many years ago, like Bobby, we want to give back as much as we can to this community, and I am proud to stand here today with Reverend Bobby Paul, my union officials. And some of the people that Bobby Paul helped are here today, some women and some gentlemen who can actually attest to the fact that if it wasn't for Bobby, they wouldn't be standing here today. (Applause.)
Bobby is truly the gentleman of all gentlemen, and I am proud to say he's my friend and my Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 you, Bobby. Thank you, Councilwoman. (Applause.)
Thank you. And, Reverend, again, congratulations. Our next order of business is communications, and the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. And, Mr. Decker, would you please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance amending Chapter 9-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Landlord and Tenant," to clarify and Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 amend applicable procedures pertaining to the Fair Housing Commission, and to provide for the adoption of regulations, all under certain terms and conditions.
Mr. Decker, do you have any additional communications?
Thank you very much. And our next order of business is introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 bill on your behalf and two privileged resolutions. Thank you.
An ordinance authorizing Alterra Properties to construct, own, and maintain a proposed exterior building ramp and steps at 1401 through 15 Arch Street.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on the Environment and the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold hearings to examine the impact of the sale of the Philadelphia Energy Solutions.
And a privileged resolution recognizing February as Career and Technical Education Awareness Month in Philadelphia. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
Today's Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Thank you very much, Mr. President, Council President. I have one bill on behalf of the Administration.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Landlord and Tenant," to clarify and amend applicable procedures pertaining to the Fair Housing Commission, and to provide for the adoption of regulations.
Referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. I offer one resolution today co-sponsored by you Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 yourself, Council President, and other members of Council.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the winningest coach in Philadelphia basketball history William "Speedy" Morris on the occasion of his retirement.
Today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two bills, one privileged resolution on my behalf, and one privileged resolution on your behalf.
An ordinance amending Section 14-203 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Definitions," by adding a definition for Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 "Site Clearing," further amending Section 14-704, entitled "Open Space and Natural Resources," by making technical changes to regulations regarding development on steep slopes.
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 Main Street, Ridge Avenue, Wissahickon Creek, the Schuylkill River, and Osborn Street.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Phoebe A. Haddon for her appointment as Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.
And a privileged Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Public Safety and Committee on Education to hold hearings to examine the problem with gun violence occurring near Philadelphia schools and to consider enhancing and establishing video surveillance cameras near schools as school safe corridor zones for students, school personnel and residents.
And that will be on today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
A privileged resolution recognizing Victim/Witness Services of South Philadelphia for 30 years of service to victims of violent crime in South Philadelphia.
Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Council President. I have two privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Chris Kirchner on the occasion of her retirement as Executive Director at the Philadelphia Children's Alliance.
And a privileged resolution declaring March 1 through 7, 2020 as Women in Construction Week in the City of Philadelphia.
Also on today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Good Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 morning, Council President. I have two privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Harold T. Epps on the occasion of his departure as Director of Commerce for the City of Philadelphia, for his decades of service to greater Philadelphia's business community.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the Police Athletic League of Philadelphia and welcoming the 50th annual PAL Day at City Hall.
And that will also be on today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brooks.
Good morning, Council President. I have no Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 bills or resolutions, but I would like to be recognized to speak.
Yes. Today's students from Paul Robeson High School are sitting in our City Council session, and I would like to ask these students to stand with their teachers to be recognized. (Applause.)
These students have been learning about Council for the past few days in their social science classes, and with their teacher, Hanako Franz, after the session is over, I will be answering their questions here in Council Chambers. I would like to invite any of my fellow Councilmembers who are free after session to stay and speak with the young people. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 And welcome. Welcome. Thank you for coming today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Good morning, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thanks, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Thomas.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Designation of Bicycle Lanes," to authorize a buffered bicycle lane on Spruce Street, from 2nd Street to 22nd Street and on Pine Street, from Front Street to 18th Street.
And that will be on today's Calendar -- oh, that's an ordinance. That will be referred to committee. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
And a non-privileged resolution also naming East Passyunk Avenue between South Street and Bainbridge Street, as "Avenue of the Roots."
Thank you. That will be on next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
An ordinance establishing no truck parking regulations on Belfield Avenue between North 20th Street and Wister Street, and Ogontz Avenue between West Somerville Avenue and Lindley Avenue.
Referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
Thank you very much, Council President. I offer one privileged resolution, one non-privileged resolution. I'd like to be heard after the title of the resolutions are read.
A privileged resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Global Opportunities and the Creative/Innovative Economy to hold hearings regarding the Music Industry Task Force Report and Recommendations.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the creation of the Philadelphia Fashion and Garment Industry Task Force.
And that will be on next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
Thank you very much. I failed to mention that the resolutions were co-sponsored by Councilmembers Green, Gilmore Richardson, and Henon. I did have a third privileged resolution that I did not introduce because the gentleman that I was going to introduce it on behalf of, he is a member of Triumph Baptist Church where two of our Councilmembers, Councilmembers Kendra Brooks and Isaiah Thomas, are also members, and so we'll introduce that jointly next week. But I wanted to just say that I was at his viewing this morning. His funeral is today. He is a combat veteran of the Vietnam War, having served in the First Calvary Division. His name is James Abram. He goes by the nickname Pointman, because he was a pointman, and our veterans here knows what that means. He is a founder of Pointman Soldier Heart Ministry, which has done a Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 lot of work, and I just wanted to recognize him today. And also I wanted to recognize that in the audience, we're joined by Benjamin Berry, who is a World War II veteran having served and fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and I'd ask him to stand today. (Standing ovation.)
Council President, if I could just request that we give a moment of silence in memory of James "Pointman" Abram.
Certainly. Please stand, members. (All Councilmembers standing.) (Moment of silence.)
Thank you. And that concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 Councilwoman Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. I also wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the students here from Paul Robeson High, because Paul Robeson High is a wonderful public school in the Third District. In particular, I wanted to thank the students who took the time to write to me, Kaleese, Siana, Takyia, Nashyia, Lyric, Jaylon, and Muniera. You wrote to me about abortion access, about helping single moms, about your concerns on gun violence, our affordable housing crisis, and raising the minimum wage. And I just want to say that those are really big issues that I'm thinking about and working on as well, but hearing from young people like you gives me the inspiration to keep going. So thank you so very much.
Thank you. (Applause.) Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
Our future leaders. Thank you. Our next order of business is reports from committee, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Green for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Council President. The Committee on Finance reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 200016, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-1508 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Refunds and Forgiveness for Poverty Income,' to revise the tax rate"; and Bill No. 200117, entitled "An Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 of the Fiscal Year 2020 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works (including the supplying of funds in connection therewith) subject to certain constraints and conditions, and acknowledging the receipt of the Revised Forecast of Capital Budgets for Fiscal Years 2021 through 2025, as amended," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 200016 and 200117. (Duly seconded.)
Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day to permit first reading of Bills No. 200016 and 200117. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now again recognizes Councilwoman Parker for a report from the Committee on Labor and Civil Service.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Labor and Civil Service reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that Stated Meeting February 20, 2020
The Committee on Labor and Civil Service, to which was referred Bill No. 200007, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 20-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Civil Service Preferences,' to provide for a civil service preference for qualified graduates of Career Technical Education Programs in the School District of Philadelphia, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 200007. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 200007. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and this bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. That concludes our reports from committee, and our next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with a favorable report have been deemed to have had their first reading. These bills will all be placed on our Second Reading and Final Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 2ND READING Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. Today there are no additional bills on our First Reading Calendar, so the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on our Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: No. 200154.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Before we act on the bills and resolutions on our Final Passage Calendar today, we will have our public comment session. It will go as follows: If you are interested in testifying on a bill or a resolution that is on the Final Passage Calendar today, if you have not already done so, you may sign up at the table to my left. Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 When your name is called, you will go to the middle of the Chamber. There's a podium, and on that podium there's a device. When the light turns green on that device, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When the light turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to our guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes. Thank you very much for your anticipated cooperation. Mr. Decker, please call the first name.
Joe Danihel, commenting on 200154. (Witness approached podium.)
This is an official decree of the people in writ of mandamus quo warranto and, as such, Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 requires immediate action and remedy. Every week, Council, Mayor, Governor, and others transfer private property to the government, probably unlawfully. Martin Luther King knew a threat to one man's liberty is a threat to all. Martin Luther King gave his all so that all people would have secure houses, persons, and effects. Even the most diverse City Council ever, corruption and oath violating appears even worse than ever. This Cain versus Abel form of brotherly love and sisterly affection steals homes, sends children to dangerous schools, fails to secure the houses, persons, and effects of the people. This difficult plague of corruption requires prosecution. Laws are like Bibles. Unless they are followed, nothing changes. The constitutions require immediate remedy of this breach of law, Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 breach of close, breach of fiduciary duty. Your oath of office requires you to act or face prison. 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1987; 18 USC 241, 242, 2381, 2384; PA Constitution, Article I, Sections 1 through 28; 26 PA CSA 703, 705, 708, 709, 711, 712, 713, 716, 902, and other laws listed in SCOTUS 15-8965, 14-1330, 14-4056 appear violated. I call on the federal and Commonwealth governments to perform their constitutional obligations to investigate and prosecute all involved in the theft and illegal deed transfer of my home, 1038 West Wyoming Avenue. The denial of God-given 42 USC 1982 property rights for 26 years is egregious, extraordinary, oath-violating, and requires immediate remedy. A just government must obey the rule of law. This color of law government must have its Charter to govern revoked until a constitutionally Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 compliant government is installed. Public servants cannot refuse their sworn duty to act any more than a fireman can refuse to fight a fire. The sovereign people require oath, Constitution, and law be enforced, and jail is required for all who violate oath, Constitution or law. I remind Council, it takes a lot of cooperation to create and allow all of this monumental corruption.
David Pearl, commenting on 200040 and 200006. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning still. I made it by three minutes. My name is David Pearl. I am here as a representative from the State of Pennsylvania to the National Legislative Council in Washington, DC for the VFW. I Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 am one of two in the State of Pennsylvania that has this appointment. I answer only to our commander of the VFW, Doc Schmitz, and our VFW legislative office in Washington, DC. The VFW has over 1.6 million members, with over 72,000 of them from the State of Pennsylvania. This would mean and translate to close to 60,000 veterans that are in Philadelphia. We have most of them as members of our VFW. I want to give you some more numbers. In the U.S., 7.5 of the population are veterans. That's one out of every 15. In the State of Pennsylvania, 10 percent are veterans, one out of every ten. In PA counties all over throughout the state, 10 percent are veterans, but in Philadelphia, it's only 4 percent. That's four out of 100 are veterans. I've also been told that of the City workers, only 1.8 of them are veterans. That's two out of 100. And Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 out of the veterans that applied for City jobs, only 1.5 of them out of 100. My mission today comes from, as I said, my boss, the commander of the VFW, Doc Schmitz. It is a simple one and, that is, first to support our veterans in any way that is possible. Second is to listen to what happens here and to report. And the last is, two weeks I will be storming the Hill and talking to all our national level Congressmen and Senators, and this information will certainly come up, what transpires here in Philadelphia. So don't think the world is not listening, at least our world. Our mission as Legislative Council members is to talk with our members, get their input on what they think is important, and to protect the rights of veterans throughout the country. We don't only work for VFW members. We work for all veterans. Lastly, I would be remiss if I Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 didn't recognize my World War II comrade. You're the man, buddy. He even took a selfie with me. (Applause.)
I want to thank everybody for letting me speak here today, and I'll take whatever happens here and take it down to our commander. Thank you, sir.
Obdulio Soto, commenting on 200006. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 gentlemen and ladies. Hello. My name is Obdulio Soto, III. I want to thank you all for the opportunity to speak today. I'm a Hispanic veteran, a veteran, and I'm opposed to extending the extra civil service points to anyone who has not sacrificed for our greater good. My opposition to the change in the Charter of the extra points isn't intended out of malice, but rather out of respect for our brothers and sisters, our fallen brothers and sisters; that is, people like my cousin, Detective Lisa Rosato of the NYPD, who ultimately paid for our safety with her life at just 51 years old. My cousin Lisa passed away almost a year ago due to complications related to her risk being a first responder on 9/11. Her family has local roots in the City, much like many of our veterans. They didn't ask for these extra points, but as a civilized society, I feel that we owe it to them and to them Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 2/20/20 - STATED - 2ND READING alone. Thank you. (Applause.)
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. We will now move to our Calendar. And, Mr. Decker, can you please read the title of 200154.
A resolution approving the agreement of sale of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Delaware Redevelopment Area, identified by house number and street address as 10 Wolf Street; and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the agreement of sale with W/W 2400 Weccacoe Owner VIII Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 2/20/20 - STATED - 2ND READING and to take such action as may be necessary to effectuate the agreement of sale.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 200154 has been adopted. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional resolutions?
A resolution authorizing the Committee on the Environment and the Committee on Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 2/20/20 - STATED - 2ND READING Transportation and Public Utilities to hold hearings to examine the impact of the sale of the Philadelphia Energy Solutions, introduced by Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And a resolution recognizing February as Career and Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 2/20/20 - STATED - 2ND READING Technical Education Awareness Month in Philadelphia, introduced by Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
Come on, guys. All those in favor say eye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And a resolution Stated Meeting February 20, 2020 2/20/20 - STATED - 2ND READING honoring and recognizing the winningest coach in Philadelphia basketball history William "Speedy" Morris on the occasion of his retirement, introduced by Councilman Henon.