COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 1, 2008 10:00 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 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. Council will 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 Mrs. Vilma Diaz. Mrs. Diaz has recently retired from the office of Councilwoman Sanchez. She has been a dedicated City employee for more than 24 years. We certainly thank her for her commitment to the citizens of Philadelphia. Mrs. Diaz is also the Worship Leader of the Lighthouse Family Community Church. She is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Sanchez. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Second Corinthians 9:8 says, And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. I would ask you that you would bow as I pray. I will intone in Spanish and then I will say it in English. (Mrs. Diaz singing.)
Help me to see with your eyes, oh, Lord. I want to feel like your heart feels. I don't want to continue being insensitive, because there's so much need, oh, Jesus. I ask you for peace for my city, Philadelphia. I ask you for forgiveness for my city, Philadelphia. And now I humble myself and seek your face. To whom shall I go if not to you? Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Mrs. Diaz for her invocation, and we certainly wish you continued health and happiness during Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 17, 2008, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 17th stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 17, 2008 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The 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, a request for leave of absence is made for Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller.
Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco, who will present a resolution congratulating Settlement Music School on its 100th anniversary. Will Mr. Robert Capanna and Mr. Joe Waz and those accompanying them please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilman DiCicco is being joined by Councilmembers Jones, Kenney and O'Neill. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President, and good morning, everyone. I have a resolution honoring and congratulating the Settlement Music School on its 100th anniversary and recognizing and commending its directors, officers, faculty, staff and students, both past and present, for making the Settlement Music School an institution known worldwide for its excellence. Whereas, Settlement Music School originated in 1908 at the College Settlement House in the Southwark section of South Philadelphia where Jeanette Selig Frank and Blanche Wolf Kohn, two volunteers, offered piano lessons to the immigrant community for five cents per lesson;
Whereas, the school has grown steadily and today has six branches throughout the Philadelphia region, serving 16,000 students annually and 300,000 students over the hundred years of service through on-site and special programs; Whereas, Settlement's mission is to provide children and adults in the Philadelphia region with high-quality instruction and activity in music and related arts, and serve the broadest constituency, regardless of race, age, gender, color or creed, national origin, physical disability and ability to pay; Whereas, Settlement distributes two million in financial aid annually to families in need;
Whereas, Settlement Music School's core program provides individual and class instruction in all instruments, voice and theory, Suzuki, Music Workshop, Fundamentals of Music and ensembles and dance. The school also offers special programs for senior adults, students with disabilities, outreach programs with area preschools, daycare centers, charter and independent schools, and summer programs; Whereas, the school developed the nationally recognized Kaleidoscope Preschool Arts Enrichment Program, an arts-based pre-kindergarten program for underserved, inner-city children offered virtually tuition free, and the Teacher Arts, which shares Kaleidoscope's effective practices with a broader public and preschool, elementary school and arts teachers of young children;
Whereas, Settlement Music School's faculty of over 250 is the largest employer of musicians in the Commonwealth and consists of experienced, credentialed and highly regarded performers and teachers; Whereas, the school can be proud of its service to the Philadelphia community, proud of its many students who have gone on to professional careers in music and the related arts, and proud of the thousands of students whose lives have been enriched through its cultural offerings; now therefore COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, to honor and congratulate Settlement Music School on its 100th anniversary and to recognize and commend directors, officers, faculty, staff and students, both past and present, for making Settlement Music School an institution known worldwide for its excellence. And resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to its Executive Director, Robert Capanna, as evidence of the sincere gratitude and sentiment of this legislative body. Introduced by myself, co-introduced by Councilmembers Curtis Jones, Donna Reed Miller and Councilmember Brian O'Neill, co-sponsored by all members of City Council. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. It's a great pleasure and honor to be before City Council on such a happy occasion as the hundredth anniversary of Settlement Music School. When I hear the we do, I always get tired, but energized. With me today is Joe Waz, Chairman of our Board of Trustees. Our Board is a wonderful group of individuals who are supportive and helpful in all that we do. And with me also is Cheyley Veronica Smith, who really needs no introduction, because she is a radio star. She's the roving reporter on NPR's From the Top and has been studying at Settlement Music School since she was 6 years old. And she has a very brief Paganini "Caprice" to play for you. (Ms. Smith played violin.) (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill, who will present a resolution recognizing May 2nd through May 9th as the Annual Remembrance of the Six Million Jewish Gocial and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilman O'Neill is being joined by Councilwoman Brown. Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. This is a resolution in solemn recognition during the week of May 2 through May 9, 2008 as the Annual Remembrance of the Six Million Jewish Martyrs who perished during the Holocaust. Whereas, over half a century ago, six million Jews were murdered in the Nazi Holocaust as part of a systematic program of genocide, and millions of other people suffered as victims of Nazism; and
Whereas, the people of the City of Philadelphia should continually rededicate themselves to the principle of equal justice for all people; and Whereas, the people of the City of Philadelphia should remain eternally vigilant against all tyranny and recognize that bigotry provides a breeding ground for tyranny to flourish; and Whereas, the Memorial Committee for the six million Jewish martyrs has chosen as the theme for this year's memorial, "As the Branches of This Tree, So the Branches of Our People: Remember the Children." We applaud the Committee for the honor they have bestowed on the memory of those who perished and on those who survived to build and strengthen life in Philadelphia and other communities; now therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that by virtue of this citation, we hereby recognize the week of May 2 through May 9, 2008 as the Annual Remembrance of the Six Million Jewish resolved, we recognize the horror of the Holocaust and extend to the Memorial Committee the respect and admiration of this legislative body. A true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 27th day of March 2008. Signed by the President of City Council, Anna C. Verna, and co-sponsored by every Councilmember. (Applause.)
Good morning. On behalf of the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Federation of Greater Philadelphia, I am pleased to be here today to receive the City Council resolution recognizing Sunday, May 4th as the day of remembrance for the six million martyrs of the Holocaust. We thank Council President Anna Verna, members of City Council for this recognition. This year's memorial will focus on the one and a half million innocent children massacred at the hands of the Nazis. Their stories, perhaps more than any others, tug at our hearts. Yet in the midst of turmoil and deprivation, there were those who rose to a higher level. There was such a person in Theresienstadt, the model camp built by the Nazis. At its peak, over 53,000 persons were crowded into a very small area. Due to the overcrowding, absence of sanitation and malnutrition, disease spread so quickly that the death rate was over 50 percent in 1942, and yet in this living hell, there were moments of great strength and courage. Irma Lauscher was a school teacher who was determined to teach the children of Theresienstadt the meaning of sedaka. Irma told the children that sedaka means righteousness, and on the Trees, TuBishvat, 1942, they would understand what this really meant. Mrs. Lauscher enlisted the help of a friendly guard to bring her a tree seedling. The next day the guard presented her with a seedling about four inches high. The children and Mrs. Lauscher planted the tree in the children's quarters. She told them that this tree seedling needed water and sun to grow. She asked each of the children to give up a portion of their water each day so the living plant could be nourished and thrive. Can you imagine asking children to give up a portion of their daily water when their ration was so small? But they did. When Irma died, she was buried beneath her tree, which stood 30 feet tall. The tree in Theresienstadt was dying when cuttings were taken from it and brought to the United States. Sunday, May 4th, the City of Philadelphia will be the recipient of one of the these cuttings, one of only ten cities in the United States to be so honored. When the seedling is large enough, it will be planted at the site of the Holocaust Memorial as a symbol of humanity and reverence for life. It is our hope that future generations will continue the work that Irma Lauscher began 66 years ago. We very much appreciate the City of Philadelphia for continuing to support our efforts. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution congratulating the AARP for 50 years of service. and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Councilwoman Blackwell is being joined by Councilmembers Greenlee and Green. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Resolution congratulating and recognizing the AARP for 50 years of service to our community and our nation, and for its efforts to help everyone make the most of life as they age, today and for generations to come. Whereas, AARP is a voluntary, non-profit, non-partisan membership organization with a 50-year history of leading positive social change by harnessing the individual and collective power of its members to make life better for all as they age; and Whereas, AARP has since being 1958 by retired educator Ethel Percy Andrus adopted as its motto "To serve, not to be served,"; and Whereas, AARP and its nearly 40 million members use the "power to make it better" to advocate for a wide range of issues, including affordable, quality health and lifetime financial security; and
Whereas, AARP has fostered proactive efforts to help people achieve the quality of life and peace of mind they desire and deserve; and Whereas, AARP helps people make informed decisions through timely news and information; and Whereas, AARP continues to champion changes in its communities designed to enable people to live in safety and comfort, with affordable and appropriate housing, a range of mobility options, and features and services that promote independent and dignified living; Whereas, AARP has created extensive volunteer opportunities and developed what its founder termed as "an Army of useful citizens" to strengthen civic engagement through volunteer service and charitable efforts; and
Whereas, AARP continues to promote a business climate and employer attitudes that support and promote the loyalty, reliability and flexibility of mature workers; and Whereas, AARP works to advance a society in which everyone ages with dignity and purpose and which Americans aged 50 plus have the opportunity to pursue and achieve their dreams, hopes and aspirations; Now therefore, be it resolved, that the Philadelphia City Council hereby congratulates AARP for 50 years of service to our community and our nation, and for its efforts to help everyone make as they age, today and for generations to come. And further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the AARP as a sincere expression of City Council's appreciation and gratitude. This is a true and correct copy of this resolution. Signed by Council President Anna Verna, introduced by Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilman Green and supported by all members of City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning. On behalf of more than 1.9 million members in Pennsylvania of AARP, I want to thank you all for this great honor. Today kicks off our 50th anniversary celebration in this City. There are a great number of events that there will be a "Celebrate Age" expo in partnership with CASA at Harrah's Casino. On Monday, May 5th, we're going to have a reception to honor certain dignitaries, et cetera, at the Westin Hotel. On Tuesday, May 6th, we have a Legacy Award School Recognition Program, and that will be given at Central High School. They are the recipient of that award. On Wednesday, May 7th, we have an innovation award for a school recognition, and that will be given to Norristown High School. On Thursday, May 8th, we will participate in Day of Service with Rebuilding Together Philadelphia. We'll have a lot of our volunteers participating in that event. On Friday, May 9th is Washington Week and we will present and work at a taping with Gwen Ifill at the University of Penn. 13th and on May 20th, we have celebrations of centenarian birthday party with CASA and a professional aging conference, also in partnership with them, at the Drexelbook Country Club. At this time, I would like to recognize two of our national Board members who are with me here today, Mr. Dick Johnson and Mr. Bob Romasco. (Applause.)
Thank you, Estelle, and thank you to the Council for this great honor. As Co-Chair of the 50th anniversary celebration, I'd just like to reiterate what Estelle has said, all of the awards that we are going to be giving to the people in high schools here in Philadelphia. It might be interesting to learn that these awards are being given to seven major cities throughout the United States for the legacy and our contribution -- for their contribution to learning. Within all 53 states and territories, AARP will also be recognizing high schools in each of those states with a $10,000 Legacy Award. Just as a brief history of AARP, as was mentioned by your Councilman, it was founded by Ethel Percy Andrus in 1958, but the story begins 11 years earlier than that. Ethel Percy Andrus was one of the first, if not the first, high school principal in Los Angeles, and as she retired, she joined the California Teachers Association to try to help the teachers of that state. She found that one of her past teachers was living in a chicken coop, and that inspired her to begin the National Retired Teachers Association, where they strived to improve the pensions and the healthcare benefits of all retired teachers. She approached 42 insurance companies, because they were loath to insure seniors at that point, and finally she achieved insurance capabilities for 11 years, in 1958, other people were aware of what the benefits were for this National Teachers Association, so Ethel Percy Andrus formed AARP, which at that time was called the American Association of Retired Persons. We now go just by AARP because almost 50 percent of our members are still working. Ethel Percy Andrus founded AARP on the basis of achieving proper income and proper healthcare for their members and all of the other things that were commented by the Councilmembers. We feel that "to serve and not to be served" is an adequate motto for the AARP. (Applause.)
And let me add my congratulations and thanks to the Council and all who are here in the City of Philadelphia. As a recent resident of Pennsylvania, it is a thrill to be part of this organization. I just want to leave you with people think of AARP as that organization that sends you that silly little letter when you turn 50. There are 40 million of us. The landscape is changing, and we are dedicated to providing intergenerational equity for all Americans. The issue of affordable, accessible healthcare and financial security is not an issue for mature Americans but for all Americans, and we're dedicated to providing a vibrant, just society for everyone. Thank you again. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that 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 pleased to advise you that on April 21 and April 28, 2008, I signed all of the remaining bills that passed Council on April 10th and all of the bills that passed Council on April the 17th; and I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance approving the thirty-seventh amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to transfer to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development 3548 Germantown Avenue; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and Leithgow Street south of Reno Street; and An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 051234, approved February 16, 2006, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 266," by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 350 in an area northeast of Susquehanna Road and northwest of Verree Road; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 109 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Mellon Street from 35th Street westward; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and of City Plan No. 129 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of 23rd Street from Allegheny Avenue northwardly; and An ordinance authorizing the paving of Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Orthodox Street; and An ordinance authorizing the paving of the relocated Harlan Street from 19th Street to 20th Street; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Clifton Street southward from Irving Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to execute a Mutual Aid Agreement by and between the City of Philadelphia and the State of New Jersey, under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions, one on my behalf and Councilman DiCicco and the other on my behalf, Councilwoman Tasco and Councilwoman Miller.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors on the occasion of celebrating their 100th anniversary.
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 say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Safety to hold public hearings to investigate the relationship between crime and street lighting in the City of Philadelphia.
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 say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and two resolutions, one of the resolutions co-sponsored by Councilman Jones.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 2 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City-County Consolidation," by adding a new Chapter providing that prior to the recording of any deed, a check of record ownership be conducted by the Department of Records, appropriate documentation be submitted to the Department with certain deeds and requirements for the delivery of deeds to the Department of Records be met.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution calling on Council's Committee on Public Safety to hold a hearing on the renewal by the Philadelphia Prisons System of its contract with Aramark Correctional Services to provide food service at the Philadelphia Prisons System facilities.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a motion.
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 will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proclaiming June 21, 2008 "Screen Actors Guild Founders Day."
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and 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 Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I have two bills and one bill sponsored by Councilwoman Miller and myself.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to execute a Mutual Aid Agreement by and between the City of Philadelphia and the State of New Jersey, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the paving of Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Orthodox Street, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 15-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fairmount Park," by removing 5100 Pennypack Street from the areas under the care and jurisdiction of the Fairmount Park Commission.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer one resolution on my behalf, one bill on your behalf, one resolution and one bill on behalf of Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bills.
An ordinance granting permission to Longacre Holdings, owner of the property 1509 Mifflin Street, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the northwest corner of Mifflin and Hicks Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 129 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of 23rd Street from Allegheny Avenue northwardly to its terminus at the southwesterly right-of-way.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 11th Ward of 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.)
And a resolution honoring the Centennial Celebration of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and declaring May 22, 2008 as "Alpha Kappa Alpha Day" in the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to note that that resolution is also co-sponsored by Councilwoman Brown. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
One bill on behalf of the Administration, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 051234, approved February 16, 2006, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 266 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Jefferson Street," by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer three resolutions.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
I move for the adoption, Madam President. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing May 8, 2008 as Raymond W. Holman, Sr. Caregivers Recognition Day.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution requesting the Mayor to dedicate any payments received as a result of the sale or lease of real property currently known as Camp William Penn in trust for the purpose of providing similar camping opportunities to the children of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Clifton Street southward from Irving Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 1st, 25th and 45th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
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 Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 350 in the area northeast of Susquehanna Road and northwest of Verree Road.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have five bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," by amending Section 9-610, entitled "Massage Businesses," by amending the requirements for operation of a massage business, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Leithgow Street south of Reno Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to transfer to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development known as 3548 Germantown Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the paving of the relocated Harlan Street from 19th Street to 20th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance approving the thirty-seventh amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution recognizing April as Community College Month in Philadelphia.
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 Kelly.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, in caucus I indicated that I had no bills or resolutions today, but I do have one that was asked to be submitted by Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller and myself. So I pass that one on. Okay?
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing May 5 through May 9, 2008 as Correctional Employees Week.
I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Rules Committee.
Thank you, Madam President. The Rules Committee reports one bill out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 080077, entitled "An ordinance continuing a neighborhood improvement district beyond the date of termination of such district in an area that generally includes both sides of Ridge Avenue from Main Street to 7220 Ridge Avenue and certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Ridge Avenue and which is known as the Roxborough District, all in accordance with the provisions of the Community and Economic Improvement Act and 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. 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING The bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. As there are no bills on the First Reading Calendar, we will now consider bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill Nos. 080253-A, 080302, 080303, 080304, 080305, 080306, 080307, 080308, 080309, 080310, 080311, 080312, 080313, 080314, 315, 316, 317, Resolution 080336, Bill 080320 are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for today. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080253-A.
An ordinance to 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING 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, 2nd Street and Pine Street.
Yes, Madam President. As I stated at our last session when we amended this bill on first reading, I have to abstain on this legislation, as my law firm is representing the party of interest.
Councilman O'Neill abstaining. 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Aye. The ayes are 15 and one abstention from Councilman O'Neill. All members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080302.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Water Fund from the Water Department to the Department of Public Property. 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080303.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Community Development Fund from the Mayor to the Law 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.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080304.
An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the Department of Public Health - Office of Behavioral Health, all under certain 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING 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.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080305.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Hotel Room Rental Tax Fund from the City Representative to the Managing Director.
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080306.
An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the Department of Human Services in the 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget, 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.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080307.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund to the Mayor's Office of Information Service.
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080308.
An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against the authorization made to 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING the Board of Pensions and Retirement in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget, 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.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the next bill, 080309.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund to the Managing Director.
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080310.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 to the Director of 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Finance - Fringe Benefits.
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080311.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 to the Law 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.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080312.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Council to the Department of Human Service and the Auditing 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING 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.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080313.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Managing Director and the Department of Public Health to the Department of Recreation - Fairmount Park.
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080314.
An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING charge against the authorization made to the Board of Pensions and Retirement in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget, 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.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080315.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Department of Revenue to the Director of Finance.
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080316.
An ordinance 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Aviation Fund to the Director of Finance.
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080317.
An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to charge against appropriations made to the District Attorney in the Fiscal Year 2008 Operating Budget, 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.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Resolution No. 080336.
A resolution 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to civil service regulations to provide that, when eligible lists for appointments and promotions are established, those persons who have maintained a bona fide residence in Philadelphia for at least one year prior to the date of the examination shall prevail over all others who receive the identical test score.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode for a motion on Resolution No. 080336.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. Since Resolution No. 080336 is a Charter change to the Home Rule Charter, it requires a two-thirds majority. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please call the roll. 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this resolution passes. We will now consider Bill No. 5/1/08 - STATED - 2ND READING 080320.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to civil service regulations and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election.
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 zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That completes our Calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, April 10th Council session, my colleagues Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez and Councilman Darrell Clarke and I held our resolution urging Independence Blue Cross to reach agreements with Hahnemann University Hospital and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children to pay market competitive rates for services provided to Independence Blue Cross members and seeking a 30-day extension on contract negotiations. I am pleased to note that yesterday Independence Blue Cross and Hahnemann University Hospital and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children have broken the impasse in their contract negotiations. They have reached an agreement in principle and extend their current contract, which would have expired yesterday, April 30th, while they work out the details. The target effective date for the new contract is July 1, 2008. are pleased with the progress this agreement makes in reducing the inequities in medical reimbursement rates that they have historically experienced despite the high-quality service they provide to Philadelphians. I know that Councilman Quinones-Sanchez and Councilman Clarke and I are pleased because of what this means to our constituents and their children. Now tens of thousands of Independence Blue Cross members who are patients at Hahnemann University Hospital and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children will not be negatively impacted with additional costs for non-emergency services had those hospitals become out-of-network healthcare providers on the expiration of the Independence Blue Cross contract. We are pleased that we have played a constructive role in this difficult negotiation process. Thank you.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I want to recognize the work that was done by this Council, this body, to pass the original moratorium on sheriff's sales, which has evolved to mean a diversion of sheriff's sales and people impacted by predatory lending and the economy and victims of that. I want to say that this was a piece of good work, but our work is not done. As we travel throughout the City and we realize that our constituents have $3.60 on average to pay in gas, as bread $2 a loaf, as we start to look at the price of cereal, milk and eggs and other things that are touched by the high price of oil, everything from asphalt to fix our streets and derivatives of gas that fix our eyeglasses, that we are making decisions in this Council that do not necessarily impact the cost of gasoline, do not necessarily impact the cost of bread, but what we have done, the good work we have done; for example, the benefits bill, the minimum wage bill, are being signed into law today. That's a product of Wilson Goode's introduction, but this body's good work. So we cannot affect the price of gasoline, but we can ease the suffering of some of our constituents, particularly those who find themselves under the poverty guidelines, and I want to acknowledge for the record the good work that was done by this body. I think as we look forward, our work isn't done. We need to save the need to continue to support that effort, as we look at inflation rates that range, depending on what economist you look to, anywhere from four percent to as much as 11 percent. You may not call it a recession. Some people don't even call a depression, but the people that I come in contact with consider themselves going through some very, very difficult times, and I want to commend this body for the work it's doing. Thank you.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council Thursday, May 8, 2008, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 8th. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:15 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 May 1, 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.)