COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, March 6, 2008 10:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER 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. 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 outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Pastor Willie Singletary of the City of Refuge Church. Pastor Singletary is also one of our City's distinguished Traffic Court judges. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Blackwell. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Everyone rises.)
Let us bow as we look to the Lord. Most gracious and eternal wise God, we come today to say thank you. We thank you for another opportunity to awaken this morning. realize, God, as City Council begins their Stated Meeting today, that you will bless them, that you will encourage them. We pray now that they will be the bridge of unity in our City, that they will be examples to our people. We thank you. In your son Jesus Christ's name, we pray. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Pastor Singletary for his inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 28, 2008, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 28th stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 28, 2008 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
Madam President, at this point the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence. I'll get back to you. I'm not totally sure about Councilman Kelly at the moment.
Thank you. 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 Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution honoring Women's History Month. Arlene Olshan and those accompanying her to please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Tasco is being joined by Councilwoman Brown, Councilwoman Miller and Councilman Green. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. We're all pleased here this morning to present this resolution honoring Women's History Month, the 99th anniversary of International Women's Day and declaring March 8, 2008 as International Women's Day in Philadelphia.
Whereas, the month of March is nationally recognized in the United States as Women's History Month; and Whereas, March 8th was first designated as International Women's Day in 1909, 99 years ago, it has been officially observed and promoted by the 1975 and in many countries as a national holiday;
Whereas, in 2008, women make up half the world population, and the continuing struggle for women's rights and gender equality is not limited to the United States, but its goals and ideas are influencing the women's rights movement worldwide; and Whereas, in 2008, women still suffer from many inequalities in education, healthcare, employment, economic security, as well as gender-based violence; and
Whereas, the number of women elected to government offices in leadership positions has steadily increased, there is still plenty of work to be done to this issue; and Whereas, the theme for 2008 International Women's Day is "Financing Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment"; and
Resolved, of Philadelphia declares and recognizes March 8, 2008 as International Women's Day in the City of Philadelphia; and Further resolved, that the City Council of Philadelphia recognized the efforts of the Coalition of Labor Union Women, the National Organization of Women, YWCA of Philadelphia and AFSCME District Council 47 - Local 2187 in organizing the International Women's Day activities in our City, which will focus local and worldwide attention on women's struggle for equality and economic empowerment in conjunction with the celebration of Women's History Month; and Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution will be presented to the Philadelphia International Women's Day Committee Chair as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Certification, that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 14th day of February 2008. Signed by President Verna and supported by all members of City Council. Congratulations and thank you for your good work. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Arlene Olshan. Along with Sherrie Cohen, Shiefa Malik and Soda Nobuhle, we initiated the plan for International Women's Day Philadelphia 2008. It is a pleasure to be here today witnessing City Council honoring Women's History Month and officially declaring March 8, 2008 as International Women's Day in Philadelphia. Thank you, City Council, and in particular, Councilwoman Marian B. Tasco and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, for introducing this resolution. time, I would like to introduce Soda Nobuhle, one of our initiators and a member of The Womyn's Village.
Thank you, Arlene. The Philadelphia International Women's Day Coalition is comprised of women of all ages, from all sectors, unions, churches, the Peace Movement, youth groups, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, Grannies for Peace and various service providers, to name a few. The multi-cultural population of Philadelphia will be represented with African-American, Latina, Asian and women from the various European backgrounds. In these months of networking, we created and continue to build an agenda that focuses on gender equality, safety from violence and financial equality and stability. We recognize the gains that have been made in the past 100 years and the many needs that are still how the war is affecting the basic survival for women, girls and all families in the city of our nation. Education, healthcare, employment, housing and a variety of social services are suffering in this time. These are among the many issues that we hope to address and find resources for improvement. Now I'd like to announce Alisha Rivera.
Good morning. International Women's Day Philadelphia March 8, 2008 will include a rally at City Hall at 10:30 a.m., a march beginning at 11:30 a.m. to celebrate the milestones of women accomplishments, with entertainment along the way to the union hall Unite Here. Beginning at 12:30, women will have an opportunity to speak out, share their stories, and then the group will have break-out sessions, workshops to be able to talk to one another. Cultural into the afternoon sessions. Sponsoring organizations will be sharing resources on information tables. Everyone is welcome. The sponsoring agencies include AFL-CIO; AFSCME DC 47 and Local 2187; Asian Americans United; Coalition of Labor Union Women; Code Pink; CHOICE; Community Leadership Institute; Congreso; Delaware Valley Voter Registration Education Project; Family Readiness Group; First Financial MassMutual; Granny Peace Brigade; Hot Flashes Dances; Linda Katz, CLU, ChFC; National Women's Fightback Network/International Action Center; Philadelphia League of Women's Voters; Philadelphia NOW; Philadelphia Chapter National Association of Hispanic Nurses; Progressive Women PA; Women's Way; LGBT Community Center; Women Against Abuse; Women in Transition; Women's Community Revitalization Project; Women's International Democratic Federation; Peace and Freedom; Women's Medical Fund; The Womyn's Village; and the YWCA of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
In addition to this day of celebration, one of the many goals that still remain is to work with Mayor Nutter in reactivating the Mayor's Commission on Women. Thank you, one and all. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present a resolution encouraging Major League Soccer to bring its 16th team to Philadelphia. Will Mr. Nick Sakiewicz and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium.
Thank you, Madam President. This is actually an updated resolution, because when we passed the resolution, a week later Major League Soccer authorized the team for Philadelphia. So we're very powerful in international soccer circuits. Actually, I will change it from encouraging to welcoming. This is a resolution welcoming Major League Soccer and its 16th team to Philadelphia. Whereas, the 16th Major League Soccer team in Philadelphia and the accompanying multi-use stadium are part of a larger redevelopment project along the Chester waterfront. If Philadelphia is granted a team, the construction of a $115 million, 20,000 seat stadium will act as a spark to kick start and accelerate the Buccini/Pollin Group's $500 million mixed-use residential, development; and Whereas, Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell, Senator Dominic Pileggi and other political leaders announced a $47 million state funding package in support of the Chester waterfront development project and praised the effort for its potential to rejuvenate one of Pennsylvania's most historic cities; Whereas, in addition to Major League Soccer and high-profile international games, the stadium will host other sporting events, concerts, festivals and numerous community gatherings; Whereas, the development along the Chester waterfront will occur in several phases. Phase 1, expected to begin this fall, will include the stadium, 186 townhomes, 25 apartment residences, 335,000 square feet of office space in three structures, a convention approximately 20,000 square feet, 22,215 square feet of retail space and structured parking; Whereas, an economic impact study recently measured the potential benefits related to the construction and ongoing operation of the mixed-use development. The study concluded the combined elements of the project will have a significant impact at the city, regional and state levels. In addition to supporting the creation of 2,600 jobs during construction and then 800 net new jobs annually, the project will generate over 1.7 billion in total economic activity, 670 million in personal earnings and 335 million in tax revenue; and Whereas, a strong ownership group is in place comprised of CEO and Managing Partner Nick Sakiewicz; Robert and Christopher Buccini, founding partners of the Buccini/Pollin Group; Chief Executive of iStar Financial Jay Sugarman; Swarthmore Group Chairman Jim Nevels; and Philadelphia attorney William Doran; Whereas, Philadelphia is the largest market in which Major League Soccer is not present, and several organizations and thousands of soccer fans have come together to voice their support for bringing a team to the region. And let me just say that this stadium will be built in Chester, but it is going to be a major regional development for Philadelphia and the surrounding region. The international guests that are coming to watch these events, these soccer games, will be staying in Philadelphia hotels, eating in restaurants in Philadelphia, and this is a great regional opportunity for all of us. So we applaud Chester for its good luck and we applaud the people who are investing their money in this, but Philadelphia will be a major beneficiary resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council does hereby encourage and now we welcome bringing the 16th Major League Soccer team to Philadelphia, thereby revitalizing our neighboring City of Chester for a $500 million redevelopment project. We welcome you and thank you for your investment here in our region. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Wow. Thank you, Councilman Kenney, and thank you to all of the Councilmembers. I truly now realize the power of resolutions from this Council. One week after it was passed, we were awarded the 16th franchise. So we'll have to be coming back when we're ready to win a much. We couldn't be more delighted to be in this City. We've been trying to bring a team here for the 13-year history of Major League Soccer and we're finally here, and we couldn't be happier. And not only we're coming to Philadelphia and Chester, but we're coming in a great scenario to create jobs, to create a $500 million waterfront redevelopment and really bring some great things to the City of Chester, which desperately needs it. We couldn't be more delighted. Last Thursday, we announced that Major League Soccer will officially be the 16th team in Philadelphia, and the world turned its eyes to Philadelphia. Soccer is the most popular sport in the world and it is one of the most popular sports in the Delaware Valley. A week after we announced the coming of Major League Soccer, we now have over 2,000 season ticket holders, a called, interestingly enough, the Sons of Ben after Ben Franklin that are over 2,000 strong, and this market in one week's time -- we're only one week old -- has proven that there are a lot of soccer fans in this marketplace, and we couldn't be more delighted to come here and be part of the City of Brotherly Love, which I've seen nothing but for the last several months. So we are very excited the world's game is coming to Philadelphia, and this is going to be great for the City, great for Chester and great for economic development. We couldn't be more delighted. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Congratulations. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is communications. the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving submission of a Sewage Facilities Planning Module to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regarding disposal of sewage from properties located along River Road; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Tioga Urban Renewal Area; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and of City Plan No. 120 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Harlan Street and Sharswood Street; and An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by adopting a new Section 14-1635, entitled "River Road District Controls"; 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 County Line, a Railroad ROW, Shawmont Avenue and the Schuylkill River, and approving a master plan of development; and An ordinance authorizing the paving of River Road from the existing northwesterly terminus of Nixon Street; and An ordinance authorizing the construction of sanitary sewers and appurtenant work in a portion of River County Line to Port Royal Avenue; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 240 and 296 by placing on the City Plan River Road from the existing northwesterly terminus of Nixon Street.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you very much. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. On your behalf, I offer one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing the Anita Carboni Athletic Association on its many contributions to the children of our community.
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 Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing PECO Energy's Worker Safety Program that averted a tragedy on February 27, 2008 when two linemen were rescued atop a 130-foot pole tower.
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 Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution declaring March 31st to April 4th as National Youth Violence Prevention Week and commending the Pennsylvania Department of Health's PIRIS Project.
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 Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have one resolution.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman, and the Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a 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 Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution that is co-introduced by my colleagues Jones, Blackwell, Reynolds Brown, Miller, Goode, Tasco and Green.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Council Committee on Education to hold hearings to investigate the present state of secondary education in Philadelphia public schools, and explore ways to improve educational achievement in compliance with the federal No Child Left Behind Act.
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 will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings to inquire and investigate the missions, agreements, funding, policies, structure, business plans, operating and capital budgets, coordination efforts and effectiveness of various economic development departments, authorities and agencies operating in the City of Philadelphia.
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 will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Licenses and Inspections to hold hearings to investigate the causes of the large number of false burglar alarm activations in Philadelphia, to examine the fiscal impact of these false activations and to propose solutions to reduce the number of false activations and their negative impact on the City's financial resources and policy capabilities.
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 will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer seven bills and one resolution this morning.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-2700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Permit Parking Districts," by restoring the permit parking and renewal fees within certain permit parking districts to their pre-2007 levels.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance naming and designating the "Robin Hood Dell East" located at Ridge Avenue and Huntingdon Drive as the "Georgie Woods Entertainment Center."
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 240 and 296 by placing on the City Plan River Road.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the construction of sanitary sewers and appurtenant work in portions of River Road and Nixon Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the paving of River Road from the existing northwesterly terminus of Nixon Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by the County Line, a Railroad ROW, Shawmont Avenue and the Schuylkill River.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by adopting a new 14-1635, entitled "River Road District Controls," under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution approving submission of a Sewage Facilities Planning Module to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regarding disposal of sewage properties located along River Road.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution. I would like to speak on the resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings on the study of lending disparities recently released by the City Treasurer.
Thank you, Madam President. On Tuesday, the City Treasurer released the latest comprehensive study on lending disparities, the fourth in a series, and all four reports are available on the City's website. Two studies for 2003 and 2004 were conducted by the National Community Reinvestment Coalition. The other two for 2005 and 2006 were conducted by Econsult. The latest study for 2006 is a key report on fair lending and community reinvestment performance, because 2006 was the first year of strategic plans now required for City depositories. In terms of small business lending in 2006, one-third of small business lending was done in minority census tracts, and minority businesses comprise about one-third of all Philadelphia businesses. And about 55 percent of all small business lending was done in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, up from only 39 percent in 1998 and 2001. In 2002, we began to require community reinvestment goals from our depository banks. The majority of small business lending has been done in lowand moderate-income neighborhoods in every year since: 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006. In 2006, PNC ranked No. 1 in fair lending and community reinvestment performance in both small business lending and home loans. PNC made 64 percent of its home loans in minority census tracts and 81 percent in low- and moderate-income census tracts. Those numbers include all home loans, mortgages, refinance and improvement loans. But in the area of just home mortgages, guess who ranked No. 1 in terms of fair lending and community reinvestment performance? Wachovia Bank. In the first year of our required strategic plans and in the first year that it was threatened to be dropped from the list of City depositories, Wachovia made 66.7 percent of its home mortgages in minority census tracts and almost 85 percent in low- and moderate-income census tracts. In fact, Wachovia offered 40 percent of its home mortgages to African-Americans in 2006, up from only 18 percent in 2003. Not so coincidentally, in 2006 I received a National Achievement Award for my policy and legislative work in this area. I dedicated the award at that time to my colleagues in City Council. Of course, it's in my house now, but I still share it with all of you. And 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, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution co-sponsored by Council colleagues Goode, Kenney, DiCicco and Jones.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution calling on the Committee of Environment and the Committee of Commerce and Economic Development to hold joint hearings on adopting a Green Job Corps to help Philadelphia create a qualified, trained workforce to support local green businesses and contractors.
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 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer three bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 97 by relocating the easterly curb line of Broad Street approximately nine feet six inches eastwardly, from a point approximately 77 feet one inch south of the south curb line of Fitzwater Street to a point approximately 112 feet two inches south of the south curb line of Fitzwater Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Front Street, Lombard Street, Second Street and Pine Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a neighborhood improvement district in an area that generally includes the east and west sides of Aramingo Avenue starting at 2700 Aramingo Avenue to 3995 Aramingo Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution initiating action to establish a neighborhood improvement district in an area that generally includes the east and west sides of Aramingo Avenue starting at 2700 Aramingo Avenue to 3995 Aramingo Avenue and the following blocks of streets: 2345 to 2363 East Allegheny Avenue, 3300 to 3700 Gaul Street, 3300 to 3700 East Tulip Street, 3300 to 3400 Memphis Street, 2201 to 2270 East Butler Street, 2230 to 2701 Castor Avenue, 2500 East Ontario Street, 3701 to 3801 Sepviva Street, 3740 East Thompson Street, 2400 to 2627 East Tioga Street, 2335 to 2501 East Westmoreland Street, 2415 to 2651 Wheatsheaf Lane, to be known as the Aramingo Area Shopping District.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: 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 say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of -Councilman Clarke, three bills or one resolution?
Okay. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 120 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Harlan Street and Sharswood Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Institutional Development District Master Plan of the Community College of Philadelphia by allowing for the construction of a new building to be used for additional classroom space, dining and educational space at the College.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Institutional Development District Master Plan of Community College of Philadelphia by allowing for the construction of an addition to an already existing building to be used for additional classroom and educational space at the College.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Finance reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 080136, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Free Library of Philadelphia, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to accept a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education for renovations to the Central Library Branch of the Free Library at 1901 Vine Street, pursuant to terms and conditions Commonwealth," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from the committee.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski for a report from the Committee on Appropriations.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Appropriations reports four bills out with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred Bill No. 080150, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Grants of Finance to the Law Department and the Board of Trustees of the Free Library of Philadelphia"; and Bill No. 080151, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 from the General Fund to the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions"; and Bill No. 080152, entitled an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Aviation Fund from the Managing Director - Office of Fleet Management to the Managing Director Office of Fleet Management"; and Bill No. 080153, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Water Fund from the Managing Director - Office of Fleet Management to the Managing Director - Office of Fleet Management," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report on the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports eight bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 080019, entitled "An ordinance amending Bill No. 070263 authorizing Northern Star Developments, owner of the 1617 North Second Street, to construct, own and maintain multi-level bays and balconies as part of the Oxford Mews residential development project"; and Bill No. 080030, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of St. Thomas Drive"; and Bill No. 080031, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of Cates Way"; and Bill No. 080081, entitled "An ordinance granting permission to Shailesh Tilvawala, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northeast corner of 8th and Market Streets, for the purpose of supplying electrical service and telephone service to said newsstand"; and Bill No. 080086, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code by prohibiting street and sidewalk vending on certain portions of 17th Street"; and 080131, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 305 and 306 by placing on the City Plan Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Buckius Street; authorizing the opening of said Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Buckius Street"; and Bill No. 080132, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 387 and 402 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the westerly 32 feet wide and variable width portion of Island Avenue for drainage purposes, water main purposes and gas main purposes"; and Bill No. 080133, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 361 and 367 by placing on the City Plan a 15 feet wide right-of-way for drainage purposes side of Bustleton Avenue," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the eight bills that have just been read into the record. (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 the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode for a report from the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Commerce and Economic Development reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, to which was referred Bill No. 080023, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Annual Goals,' by requiring certain additional information to be included in the Finance Director's required annual report, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 080023. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by 3/6/08 - STATED - 1ST READING saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 080136, an ordinance authorizing the Free Library of Philadelphia, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to accept a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education for renovations to the Central Library Branch of the Free Library.
And Bill No. 3/6/08 - STATED - 1ST READING 080019, an ordinance amending Bill No. 070263, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Northern Star Development to construct, own and maintain multi-level bays and balconies as part of the Oxford Mews residential development project."
And Bill No. 080030, an ordinance authorizing the paving of St. Thomas Drive.
And Bill No. 080031, an ordinance authorizing the paving of Cates Way.
And Bill No. 080081, an ordinance granting permission to Shailesh Tilvawala, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northeast corner of 8th and Market Streets, for the purpose of supplying electrical service 3/6/08 - STATED - 1ST READING and telephone service to said newsstand.
And Bill No. 080086, an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code by prohibiting street and sidewalk vending on certain portions of 17th Street.
And Bill No. 080131, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 305 and 306 by placing on the City Plan Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Buckius Street.
And Bill No. 080132, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 387 and 402 by striking from the City Plan 3/6/08 - STATED - 1ST READING and vacating the westerly 32 feet wide variable width portion of Island Avenue.
And Bill No. 080133, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 361 and 367 by placing on the City Plan a 15 feet wide right-of-way for drainage purposes.
And Bill No. 080023, an ordinance amending Chapter 17-1500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Annual Disparity Study and Participation Goals," by requiring certain additional information to be included in the Finance Director's required annual report, under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING That completes our First Reading Calendar for today, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill Nos. 080084, 080005, 080076, Resolution 080041, 080006, Resolution 080040 and 080008 are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for today. Bill No. 080024 is being held.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080084.
An ordinance authorizing the President of the Fairmount Park Commission, the Executive Director of Fairmount Park and the Public Property Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease with the Philadelphia Authority for 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Industrial Development to lease City-owned land south of Shelmire Avenue adjacent to the campus of the Fox Chase Cancer Center.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, this is the lease agreement that will finalize the City's efforts to transfer a portion of Burholme Park to the Fox Chase Cancer Center in a very long-term lease to enable the Cancer Center to stay at its present location and expand. The record, I think, is pretty clear that we've developed -- but I know this case is going to be argued in Orphans' Court. This is a challenge in Orphans' Court whether or not this transfer violates the will of Mr. Ryerrs, who granted this land to the City years ago. So I've just broken down my remarks into two parts. One is the reasons that the Cancer Center should be permitted to 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING expand its existing campus and then, secondly, why other land cannot be substituted or swapped. Fox Chase has been at its current site since 1949. I know that's approximately 58 years ago. And has invested millions of dollars in improvements to that site and, while extremely tight on space, has gone to great lengths to maintain a pleasant, attractive and campus-like setting. Fox Chase Cancer has been a terrific neighbor to the surrounding communities. For the last several years, at its own expense, Fox Chase has performed various landscaping and other work to help maintain and improve Burholme Park. And I think, most importantly, Fox Chase requires a single campus to optimize and maximize its efforts to both treat and eventually try to cure cancer. Many critics have said, Why don't you just stay there, there's other 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING sites you could build on, and have two campuses. They've made it clear at the Cancer Center that that's just not how a cancer center functions, that you have to integrate the clinical and the research personnel, the faculty, use the patient care process to intermingle with the research function. So there is absolutely good reasons and compelling reasons why the existing campus has to be expanded or else Fox Chase would have to pull up and try to find some other site. Then we get to the why not just replace 19 acres with 19 acres. If only it were that easy. During the early stage in the negotiations between the City Administration and Fairmount Park and Fox Chase Cancer Center regarding this lease, Fox Chase offered to donate a 13-acre tract of land to the City, which is located near Burholme Park but would actually have been in Montgomery County about a half mile from the campus, and while it's proximate, it's in Cheltenham 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Township, Montgomery County, not in Philadelphia County, and it would have presented some issues regarding its management and maintenance, but primarily it just would not have brought much benefit to the residents of the Fox Chase and Burholme communities, which surround the Fox Chase Cancer Center. I subsequently explored the possibility of Fox Chase acquiring and donating to the City a portion of the campus of the Medical Mission Sisters at 8400 Pine Road in Philadelphia, not too far north above the Cancer Center site and adjacent to Pennypack Park. The Sisters had first resisted the idea. They really have a great use for most of their land on their campus. And then when we tried to reach a price, it was way, way too high, and that just couldn't happen. So, unfortunately, the deal with the Medical Mission nuns could not be reached. And the bill currently before 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Council is the next best thing. It authorizes a transaction whereby a significant portion of the monies being paid by Fox Chase would be designated and used for the acquisition or improvement of public parkland and open space in my district, where Burholme Park is located, and specifically in the Burholme and Fox Chase communities that are impacted by this transfer.
We would not be sitting here, we'd be still talking about why Fox Chase hasn't happened instead of finishing this deal today if it weren't for certain intervening events, one of which was, the traffic in this area is extremely difficult. We're hearing about Center City traffic studies. We know the casino problems down in South Philadelphia. This is an area you can't widen, it's fixed streets, you can't do anything except use traffic engineering know-how to make it happen. We were able to use the knowledge and expertise of 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Mr. Charlie Trainor, our former Dr. Know, head of our Traffic Engineering Division, who had retired and came on as a consultant to really oversee everything and create the model that we now have, a very expensive model, but one that will make the traffic in that area move much, much better because of Charlie's expertise and the hospital's willingness to pay for and agree to all these different improvements. And traffic being the biggest issue that I had to deal with over the last several years, I have to say we got lucky that our Governor was also our Mayor not that long ago and takes a keen interest in Philadelphia, as we all know. He personally got involved. Some of the traffic improvements were very difficult to get through PennDOT, and the Governor personally got involved and made sure, on behalf of the Cancer Center, that all those approvals were done prior to the introduction of these bills. So I really 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING want to thank the Governor. And then I think we also got lucky in that there was a change in Administration. This deal was, as had been well publicized in the media, was abruptly stopped at the end of the last term, and there was a lot of questions about why. I think the questions have all been clarified, that the Cancer Center could not sign the deal that was in front of them, and they made it very clear in a meeting with Mayor Nutter why they could not. But I think we got lucky, because this deal was unraveling. It was a train that was derailing. It was going off the track. And it's hard to get a deal like that back when something has gone on so long and it's just falling apart. I congratulate Mayor Nutter. Even before he took office, he got involved in this issue, first with me and then with others, called a meeting in his first few weeks in office, put everybody in the room until we got this thing 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING worked out, and there were some serious issues that were worked out. So we sit here today. In terms of the deal, it's 800 to a billion dollars over the next 20 to 25 years of construction. There's thousands of construction jobs, but, more importantly, there's thousands of high-paying good jobs that will be created here. And even more importantly, we have a cancer center that's ranked as the best cancer center in Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania and usually ranked around No. 10 in the country. I think we'll be seeing as a result of this expansion -- and this was the vision of Dr. Robert Young, who recently retired, but has stayed on to oversee this project. He was the head of the Cancer Center when this was all put together -- that this will enable the Cancer Center to move up into that top ten, to be able to get a lot more research grants, to do a lot more good 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING work, not just for cancer cure globally, but for cancer cure for Philadelphians and people in the Philadelphia region. So it is a great day I think for the Cancer Center, for Philadelphia and for the region, and I would ask my colleagues first if they would support this, as I believe they will, and also thank them for their patience as the last term was winding down and trusting me that it had to be continued over into the new term. Thank you.
You're welcome. Councilwoman Tasco, your light is on. Did you want to be recognized?
Yes, Madam President. I would report that I have to recuse myself from voting on this bill because I am a member of the Minority Outreach Advisory Board at Fox Chase Cancer Center.
Thank 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Yes, Madam President. I rise only to make it clear that I'm looking forward to voting in favor of this bill and I wish to commend Councilman Brian O'Neill's leadership on this matter, in that more than two and a half years ago he invited me up to the site, took a complete tour of the site, asking me to pay particular attention to the issues that were facing the local community residents around the issue of traffic, and I simply commend the manner in which he has shepherded this enormous project. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14 -- I'm sorry; the ayes are 15 and we have two abstentions. So it would be 15 to nothing. A majority of all Council 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080005.
An ordinance amending Title 13 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Water and Sewer," by adding a new Chapter regarding termination of water and sewer service and prohibiting the termination of such service on certain days, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Thank 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING you. Thank you, Madam President. I'll be brief. I just wanted to go on record as saying as far as this bill goes, I'd love for my own ego to say it's cutting edge and precedent setting, but in reality, it's not. This just brings us where many other cities and states are in banning weekend shut-offs. And I just want to be clear, as I said in the hearing, this is not in any way a method to avoid paying your water bills, but it's a fair and reasonable enforcement policy, and hopefully it will nudge the Water Department and Water Revenue to work better together that will benefit everybody, because right now that system clearly is not working as well as it should, and that's not fair to our constituents. So I respectfully urge all members of Council to vote for this bill. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080076.
An ordinance amending Bill No. 070368, entitled "An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2008 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works."
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Resolution No. 080041. 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to separate and further define the responsibilities of the City Representative and the Commerce Department; and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a motion on Resolution No. 080041.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of that resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Since Resolution No. 080041 is a Charter change to the Home Rule Charter, it requires a two-thirds vote majority. The Chief Clerk will at this time please call the roll. 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING voted in the affirmative, the resolution is adopted. We will now consider Bill No. 080006.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter separating and further defining the responsibilities of the City Representative and the Commerce Department.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman Rizzo, how are you voting on this bill?
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Resolution No. 080040.
A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to allow the Administrative Board to increase the number of deputies exempt from civil service in City departments.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a motion on Resolution No. 080040.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of that resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. Since Resolution No. 080040 is a Charter change to the Home Rule Charter, it requires a two-thirds majority. At this time, I would ask the Chief Clerk to please call the roll. 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are one. A majority of all members having 3/6/08 - STATED - 2ND READING voted in the affirmative, the resolution is adopted. We will now consider Bill No. 080008.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to allow the Administrative Board to increase the number of deputies exempt from civil service in City departments and fixing the date of a special election for such purpose.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are one. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. That completes our Calendar for today. on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
His light is not on. It's not on here. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke. Councilman Clarke, I think you have us all confused. Are you interested in speaking?
Madam Chair, I move that Council be adjourned to next Thursday.
The ayes have it and the motion carries. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:20 a.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on March 6, 2008, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)