COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 15, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK
I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this City Council is present. I'm asking for all members to take their seats, asking all visitors to please retire outside the rails and I'm asking for all sidebar conversations please be taken outside the Council chambers. I'm asking all those present to please set your cell phone to silent and/or vibrate. Giving our invocation this morning is the Honorable Reverend Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke. I'm asking all guests and members to please stand. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors rise.)
In the name of the Lord, the Psalmist writes, it is a strong tower, the righteous run in and they are saved as we rise this morning with breath in our bodies, that you gave us activity in our limbs, that you gave us clarity of mind and precision of speech, that you gave us ability to do anything that we venture to do. Today that you gave us we invoke and we invite your presence into these proceedings. This, the people's work, that through it we might be reminded of the thread that brings us together, of the tie that actually binds us and makes us one. We confess that in this post-modern day and society in which we live, we have mostly rejected any sense of the common good, of a good and a great tradition upon which to base a common humanity. And so, we suffer. We repeat, almost addictively, the same patterns that produce and reproduce violence and suffering and emotional immaturity and low self-esteem and far too many premature deaths in our city. So inspiring us today, a remembrance of that great Christian proclamation of which this season bears witness, Christos Anesti, Christ is risen and the need for healing and resurrection is great, and it is needed in every aspect of our living that we might be what our Mayor wishes us to be, what you wish us to be, one Philly, a united city. May it be so in the name, in the nature of the priestess, we pray and everybody said Amen, Amen and Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you. The next order of business is the Approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 8, 2025. The Chair recognizes Councilmember and Deputy Majority Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 8, 2025 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal Thursday, May 8, 2025 stand approved. All those 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 the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips, Councilmember Lozada.
The Chair thanks the Majority Leader. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. There are no requests for leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Councilmember. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar, and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate you taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our great city. We certainly invite you to come again. In the balcony we have students from the Revolution School civics class with their teacher, Joel Dankoff, located in the 2nd Councilmanic District. Can we have students? Please stand. Let's give them a round of applause. (Applause.)
They are here today witnessing democracy in action. I also want to acknowledge former member of City Council, the Honorable Jannie Blackwell, who's joining us today as well. (Applause.)
It's always a pleasure to see you. And as always, you are more than welcome back home into these chambers. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. I want to recognize some special guests in the chamber. young women, Sari Hudson and Abini Johnson from West Philadelphia. They have received straight A's throughout their whole high school career and we want to recognize them for their accomplishments. Can you please stand? Can they stand? They're somewhere in here. (Applause.)
Oh, they're being shy. And they are here with Tyree Williams, Dominic Walton, Amir Barber and Tone Barr from the Brotherhood Foundation. And these are men in our community who are changing the narrative, supporting young people and bringing a lot of positivity. Would you please stand as well? COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Let's give them a around of applause. (Applause.)
You're welcome. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau, who will present a resolution honoring and recognizing and congratulating the Reinvestment Fund, a mission-driven Community Development Financial Institution committed to making communities work for all people on the occasion of its 40th anniversary. Would the President and CEO Don Hinkle-Brown and those accompanying him please join the Councilmember at the podium. Joining Councilmember Landau will be the following City Councilmembers: Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson; Majority Whip Thomas; Minority Whip Brooks; Councilmember Jamie Gauthier; Deputy Majority Whip Cindy Bass and Councilmember Mark Squilla and Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors approached podium.)
Good morning, everyone. I'm proud today to recognize the Reinvestment Fund on their 40th anniversary. As a former tenant attorney and lifelong housing and civil rights advocate, I'm extremely honored to be the one presenting the Reinvestment Fund with an honorary resolution today. Since 1985, 40 years ago, the Reinvestment Fund has been a national leader in building stronger, more equitable and data-driven research. These efforts support the crucial needs that all communities need in order to prosper. Their work, investing in targeted and transformational projects, has helped millions of people across the country access critical services, stable housing, fresh food and live healthier, more prosperous and more successful lives. I've seen the ripple effect that disinvestment and redlining can have on low-income and minority communities throughout my career, but the work that the Reinvestment Fund does with local partnerships, building coalitions, studying the data and targeted financing solutions, these things aren't just a band-aid. This is in our city and make a lasting effect to create a better Philadelphia. Reinvestment Fund has transformed the landscape of affordable housing in Philly, having created, rehabilitated and preserved over 1000 homes. As a former housing attorney, I'm especially amazed at the work they've done in this sector. Beyond housing, they've also combated predatory lending, created access to healthy food and supported education equity from early childhood all the way up to higher education. The Reinvestment Fund was founded by visionary leaders, some of whom are here today, who are motivated by a deep love for Philadelphia and the kind of creative thinking that brings a new into our city and turning the tide. I think those of us who are elected to City Council share these values with Reinvestment Fund. Over four decades, Reinvestment Fund has invested billions into our neighborhoods and positively impacted millions of lives. They have been a partner to City Council and to the administration over many years, and the research and leadership has further developed our understanding of the city we are serving. We commend the Reinvestment Fund for the transformational leadership and tireless efforts to make communities work for all of us. Congrats on 40 years and here's to 40 more of your incredible work. (Applause.)
read -- with my colleagues, we're going to read the resolution. So I'm going to get started, and it's right here. Whereas, Reinvestment Fund was founded in 1985 in Philadelphia by civic leaders and community organizers including Eva Gladstein, Pat Smith and Joyce Wilkerson and other dedicated and active community members and organizations such as the Bread & Roses Community Fund, Ann Dooley, Reverend Dick Fernandez, Andy Lamas and Juhudi (Rudy) Tolbert, who recognized the power of people to make change; and
And whereas, originally named the Delaware Valley Community Reinvestment Fund and rebranded as the Reinvestment Fund TRF in 1999 and as 2015, Reinvestment Fund has created economic opportunities for 40 years through strategic investment and data-driven research to support the essential needs that all communities need to thrive; and
Whereas, Jeremy Nowak was appointed as the first President CEO where he served from 1985 to 2011. Jeremy championed a mission that united school teachers and executives, a mission that also united with the faith-based organizations, philanthropy, banks and government to invest in communities; and
Whereas, over the last 12 years, with the leadership of Donald Hinkle-Brown, President and CEO, Reinvestment Fund has Directed 500 million in financing and grants, 1.2 billion in projects supporting Philadelphia's needs for affordable housing, commercial real estate, community facilities, energy efficiency and food access; and
Whereas, Reinvestment Fund has been actively involved in funding affordable housing in Philadelphia, with 1050 housing units created, rehabilitated, acquired or preserved from 2013 to 2025. Reinvestment Fund has played a key role in exposing and protecting low-income and minority homeowners, tenants and communities from predatory lending practices, such as supporting the creation of the Appraisal Bias Task Force in 2021, the Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion program in 2008, serving as a key player in where housing inequities have disproportionately affected low-income and minority communities, leading the creation of the City of Philadelphia's market value analysis assessment of fair housing and supporting analysis of the City's property tax freeze for low-income homeowners; and
Whereas, Reinvestment Fund has prioritized food justice, recognizing that equitable access to fresh and healthy food is vital for community health and supported the creation of 32 healthy food retail establishments in Philadelphia; and
Whereas, Reinvestment has partnered with the City of Philadelphia to early years through higher education, supporting the expansion of highquality early childhood education (ECE) opportunities through initiatives like the Fund for Quality (FFQ) and Early Childhood Education Loan Fund, assisting providers of high-quality education in creating or preserving over 39,500 childcare seats, 9,000 K-12 seats and 2500 higher education seats across Philadelphia; and
Whereas, over 40 years of investment in Philadelphia, the region and across the country, Reinvestment Fund has made transformational contributions to equity and community development. Reinvestment Fund has invested over $3 billion into neighborhoods creating affordable homes, good children, access to healthy food for families and thriving businesses, created more than 18,000 jobs alone between 2013 and 2025 and positively impacted more than 4.4 million people; now, therefore, be it;
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that it, hereby honors, and recognizes and congratulates Reinvestment Fund on the occasion of its 40th anniversary for its partnership and investment to improve the City of Philadelphia. Further resolved, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Reinvestment Fund as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Congratulations, guys. (Applause.)
The floor is yours, sir. Mr. Brown, CEO of the Reinvestment Fund.
Thank you all so much. Founded in 1985, the Delaware Valley Community Reinvestment Fund could not have known just how important our relationship with Philadelphia would be in our development, growth, building expertise and impact. We were founded and grew through six mayoral administrations and dozens of Councilpersons' terms of Service. Thank you, Councilperson Rue Landau, for your thoughtfulness in this resolution. And thank you to all the Councilmembers who have voted in support of this resolution to will let the resolution speak for the scale of our mutual impacts where they are indeed not solo accomplishments. I would like to thank the City, the Mayor and the Council for the longlived, trusted relationship that we have forged over those years. It was here in Philadelphia that we learned that we could be an effective instrument of public policy, affordable housing, community, arts, education, sustainability, were each areas that we learned here in the City of Brotherly Love. We collaborated with policymakers here and we implemented investment strategies to further the community's political will. We took that idea that we could be an instrument of policy, and we took it to Harrisburg and we created the Fresh Food Financing Initiative. We took it to Trenton to create innovative affordable housing programs across New Jersey, and then we took it to Washington, D.C. where the Obamas asked us how to solve food access nationwide. Thank you for your continued support and especially for your inclusion of Reinvestment Fund in your trusted relationships as you grapple with policy issues, the need for greater justice and to deliver positive change for every Philadelphian. I'd like to introduce our Board Chair as well who has a word from our Board.
Thank you, Don. And good morning, everyone. Behar and I have the privilege of serving as Board Chair at Reinvestment Fund. On behalf of the Board, and we're joined here today by one of our board members Phyllis Kader in the back, we want to thank Councilmember Landau and the other members of City Council for this resolution. We really appreciate the recognition and support. I want to thank in particular Eva and Joyce and Pat and all the other founders who were instrumental in the creation of Reinvestment Fund. I want to thank in particular and pay honor to the memory of Jeremy Nowak, whose vision was instrumental and essential to the creation and growth of the organization. And I just want to close by saying that as proud as we are our work over the past 40 years and we know that much work remains to be done, so we are equally focused and energized on what we'll be doing over the next 40 years in terms of creating partnerships and supporting and investing in the work of this city and beyond. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who will present a resolution honoring Philadelphia Police Inspector Verdell Johnson for his retirement and years of service. Would Inspector Verdell him please join the Councilmember at the podium. Let's give Philadelphia's finest a round of applause, y'all. (Applause.)
Joining Councilmember Jamie Gauthier will be Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Rue Landau and Councilmember O'Neill. And this presentation is done on my behalf for Mr. Verdell Johnson, who I've known for many years for his hard work and dedication to keep not only the City of Philadelphia safe, but also the cadets who become Philadelphia police officers. He's done a great job in training and making sure they are more than qualified to (Councilmembers, visitors and guests approached podium.)
Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, the floor is yours.
Honoring Inspector Verdell Johnson for his retirement and years of service from the Philadelphia Police Department.
Whereas, Inspector Johnson, a lifelong resident of Southwest Philadelphia received an Associate's Degree in Nursing from Community College of Philadelphia and a Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences from West Chester University; and
Whereas, following his education, the United States Marine Corps, receiving an honorable discharge after rising through the ranks to a sergeant; and
Whereas, after completing the police academy in 1989, Inspector Johnson worked extensively throughout Philadelphia, holding several progressively responsible leadership positions in the Philadelphia Police Department; and
Whereas, during his impressive career Inspector Johnson has worked for the Philadelphia Police Department in various leadership roles, most recently as the commanding officer of the recruitment background investigation divisions since January 2023 after serving as the and Education Service Division from March 2017 to January 2023; and
Whereas, Inspector Johnson's current role is his third command since being promoted in November 2012, with his first being the Commander of Southwest Police Division; and
Whereas, in 2003 Philadelphia Police Department recognized Inspector Johnson for heroic actions by awarding him the Medal of Valor, the Department's most prestigious medal for an active officer. You don't get better than that. Whereas, Inspector Johnson -- if you've ever been in this man's company, he's the real deal. Whereas, Inspector Johnson services, service at its highest level, inspiring Philadelphia's future leaders in law enforcement; now, therefore, be it;
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, and West Chester University grads everywhere, honors Inspector Verdell Johnson for his retirement and years of service for the Philadelphia Police Department. Let's give him a round of applause. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Inspector Verdell Johnson for remarks. INSPECTOR JOHNSON: Wow, I even get to say some words. I want to thank you, Council President. I want to thank you, Councilmembers, on this gracious honor. I never would have thought in 1988 this little skinny kid from Southwest Philadelphia would be standing before you today. So I want to thank God for bringing me to this point. I also want, since I'm in front of City Council, to thank you all because the last two years in recruitment, everyone knows there's a shortage of cops throughout the country. So in our last two years, with the help of City Council, they gave us some money, so money helps, money helps. So the first time in the history of the police department we now have a marketing firm that's helping us recruit officers. Last year we hired 369 police officers. (Applause.) JOHNSON: And that's the most amount of officers we hired since 2017. So we're going to help the Mayor with her goal of making this a cleaner, greener, safer city because we're going to continue to recruit. This year we anticipate hiring over 400 officers, so we're going to -- they're going to keep working. I laid the foundation and they're going to keep -- it's going to keep building that house. We're going to get this city, this city will be much safer. Trust me we're going to work hard at that. When they told me about this recognition, I had a choice between May 15th and May 29th. I chose May 15th because most of you don't know this, but this is Police Week. This is Police Week. So on today in Washington, D.C., on the they will call every officer who was killed in the line of duty last year. They will call their names. Often times the President will speak. Sadly, we had one officer, Sergeant Jamie Roman, that was killed in the 25th District last year. His name will be called. What I hope for moving forward, City Council, is somewhere around doing this Police Week y'all bring in some Philadelphia police officers -- I pray that it be decades before we have to put another Philadelphia police officer on that wall -- and just bring them in on police weekend. Just say thank you. So if you see a cop, just say thank you, thank you. Thank you because this is Police Week. It's a very hard job we do, and we do it well, and as we continue to partner with City Council. I know the city will be much safer. Part of when they read my bio, they talked about when I was in Southwest Police Division. And during that time, I had Councilwoman Blackwell, she was out there with me, and we had great numbers. For us we had 49 homicides. We're always judged by our numbers. That year, 2014, was the least amount of homicides in the city of Philadelphia in over 40 years. But guess what? This year we're topping those year's numbers. We're topping those numbers this year. So let's keep working together, City Council. And before I close, I just want to have a moment of silence, like I said, for all those officers that lost their lives last year. Thank you.
Members, stand please. Everyone stand. (Standing moment of silence.) INSPECTOR JOHNSON: Just thank you so much. And don't forget it's Police Day so thank an officer. Thank you. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson who will present a resolution on my behalf honoring the 50th anniversary of Odunde Day, the largest African American Street States and its impact on African American heritage, culture and community. Will Bumi Fernandez-West and those accompanying her please join Councilmember Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson at the podium. And -- y'all can clap. Somebody was getting ready to clap. (Applause.)
And joining Majority Gilmore Richardson is Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Harrity and Councilmember Jamie Gauthier. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors approached the podium.)
Well, greetings and good morning. It's certainly our to present this resolution to the Bumi Fernandez-West for her continued hard work on the largest African American Street Festival in the United States of America. Let's give that a round of applause. (Applause.)
And we are honored to have here with us on this 50th anniversary not only Bumi Fernandez-West, but we have her husband and children here with us this morning. (Applause.)
So today on behalf of Council President Kenyatta Johnson, we present a resolution honoring the 50th anniversary of Odunde Day, the largest African American Street Festival in the United States of on African and African American heritage, culture and community.
And as somebody as a huge fan of Odunde Day and tries to go every year; Whereas, since the first Odunde organized in 1975 by Lois Fernandez and Ruth Arthur, the festival has become the largest and most influential African American festival in the United States, taking place in a 16-block area with two stages of live entertainment; and
Whereas, Odunde Day plays a pivotal role in celebrating African culture, fostering pride in African heritage and promoting cultural exchange through performances, music, food and arts; and
Whereas, the festival started as a small neighborhood event and now brings hundreds of thousands of individuals, including international participants from African nations, the Caribbean and Brazil to share in the presentation, which has become a national model for cultural street festivals in the United States; and
Whereas, Odunde Day serves as a platform to bring together many internationally known performers, dignitaries, folk artists and cultural leaders and significantly contributes to the economic and cultural development of our region; and
Whereas, Odunde Day has made significant contributions to initiatives, community empowerment and the preservation of African and African American history, inspiring individuals of all ages and backgrounds to embrace and celebrate the coming of another year; and
Whereas, the 50th anniversary of Odunde Day marks an extraordinary milestone in its history, reflecting its enduring legacy of celebration, unity and cultural pride; now, therefore, be it; Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor the 50th Anniversary of Odunde Day, the largest African American Street Festival in the United States and its impact on African and African American heritage, culture and community.
The Chair recognizes CEO of Odunde, Ms. Bumi Fernandez-West. (Applause.)
First of all, I want to give thanks to God and all the riches and ancestors who allowed me to be here today as we celebrate 50 years. I was strapped to my mother's back at the first Odunde Day. And I remember people laughing at my mom, telling my mom, oh, they'll never let you walk down South Street. They'll never let you have a festival there. And we have survived because of God. That is it. That's it. No, there's no one single person. There's not one single entity. And only God is the reason why Odunde has survived 50 years. Let that sit, in a half a any other African American street festival in the city of Philadelphia that has lasted that long? We have a $28 million economic impact on the City of Philadelphia, a $30 million economic impact on the state of Pennsylvania. We generate over $700,000 in tax revenue in a 10-hour period. No other cultural festival has those numbers. You can call Steve Mullin of Econsult Solutions, and he can confirm everything I'm saying to you right now. I want to give a special thank you to Mayor Parker. I want to give a special thank you to Council President Kenyatta Johnson. We are in his District. My mother came to me in a dream. She said, Bumi, it's ten -- he's ten toes Kenyatta Johnson it is because behind closed doors, Bumi, he is fighting for you. It's very easy to go on this microphone and say how much you love Bumi, how much you love Odunde Day. But if you're not helping us financially to keep my mother's legacy alive and if I stand here today with my son, who's the new COO of Odunde Day at 20 years old. (Applause.)
Okay. Yes. This is legacy here. This is legacy here. I need you to understand this. This is legacy. This is not Bumi. It's not no ego. This is legacy. I thank my husband because these last couple weeks is hard. I get on his last nerve. Thank you, Anthony. Thank you to my five them to see it because they see all the hours I put in. And I want them to see what hard work looks like. My daughter, I want her to see what it looks like. Her and my son, they lost their mother and father. My best friend died three years ago said, Bumi, please take care of my children. I work hard because every day they get up and they put a smile on their face, they put their uniform on when they go to school. They will never see their mother and father again. So I need you to understand what look what it looks like. I love you, Cianna. I love you, Adrian. Thank you. This is Biu and Anthony. There's always a team here. I thank the City Council. I thank you for Day, all of you. Thank you to everyone who comes to the tents at Odunde Day. We survive because of you. Thank you, Council President. Thank You, City Council. Thank You. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeantat-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Would the Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 14, 2025, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on May 1, 2025: 250207, 250242, 250243 and 250244. E. L. 1449, Section 4, as amended, to prevent and eliminate blight; authorizing the Director of Planning and of Commerce to file applications to obtain other grants from the Commonwealth; authorizing the Director of Commerce to use the Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program; and authorizing the Director of Planning and Development and the Director of Commerce to enter into all understandings and assurances contained in such applications and take all necessary action to accept the grants; all under certain terms and conditions. There are no further communications in my possession, Council President.
Thank you. The messages from the Mayor will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Today I offer three bills on your behalf. One bill on behalf of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada and two resolutions on your behalf; one privileged and one non-privileged.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
Just one second. An ordinance renaming the Wissinoming Recreation Center to the "Margaret Tartaglione Recreation Center" to honor the life and legacy of Margaret "Marge" Tartaglione, a pioneering public servant and leader in Philadelphia's politics.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance calling for the creation of a Special Committee on Early Childhood Development to evaluate, support, and strengthen Philadelphia's early childhood care and education systems, with the goal of improving outcomes for children from birth through age five and addressing the broader issues of poverty, equity, and economic opportunity.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works, including the supplying of funds in connection therewith, and acknowledging receipt of the Revised Forecast of Capital Budgets for Fiscal Years 2027 through 2031, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance approving the amendment of Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works, including the supplying of funds in connection therewith, subject to certain constraints and conditions, and acknowledging the receipt of the Revised Forecast of Capital Budgets for Fiscal Years 2026 through 2030, as amended.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing an increase in the non-electoral indebtedness of the City within the Pennsylvania constitutional limit; authorizing the Bond Committee to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale, to provide funds toward various capital municipal purposes; providing for appropriations to the Sinking Fund Commission for the payment of such bonds; and authorizing agreements to provide credit or payment or liquidity sources for the bonds in connection with issuance of the bonds, and certain other actions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution confirming the appointment of Ryan McAdams to serve on the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, Council President. Today I have three bills on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bills.
An ordinance amending Section 14-802 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Motor Vehicle Parking Ratios," by removing residential parking ratio minimums for the CMX-4 and CMX-5 Zoning Districts, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning, for the creation of a new zoning district entitled "RTA2, Residential Two-Family Attached", all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Good morning to the listening public. Today I have one bill and one resolution. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolution.
An ordinance amending Section 9-4103 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to "Promoting Healthy Families and Workplaces," to provide that employees covered by a bona fide collective bargaining agreement are eligible for paid and unpaid leave, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia City Council Committee on Education to hold hearings to investigate challenges and make recommendations for a strategic plan for the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Good morning, Council President, colleagues and the public today. I have four privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution declaring May 21, 2025, as Frank Kameny Day in the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you very much. This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing May 28, 2025, as LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day in the City of Philadelphia to shed light on domestic, family, and intimate partner violence in LGBTQ+ communities.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution declaring May 16, 2025, as National Honor Our LGBTQ+ Elders Day in the City of Philadelphia, a day to recognize and celebrate the contributions of LGBTQ+ elders who have been pivotal in the fight for justice, equity, and rights for every member of the LGBTQ+ community.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution declaring 2025 as Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two privileged resolutions, one of which is on your behalf, two non-privileged resolutions and two bills.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers' Markets" by changing the boundaries of a permissible location on North 22nd Street, all under certain terms and conditions
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance Amending Section 10-810 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Weapons and Dangerous Devices," by revising and clarifying unlawful weapons and dangerous devices and unlawful conduct, and making technical changes; all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of Qidere Johnson, known professionally at LGP Qua - a Philadelphia Rapper who used his platform to speak out against gun violence and became widely recognized as the Voice of the Youth.
Can we have a standing moment of silence. This was a young man known for the voice of the youth. Life was tragically taken. Honoring his life and memory. (Standing moment of silence.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the month of May 2025 as National Foster Care Month in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming the 1900 block of North Judson Street as "Sister Mary Scullion Way."
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming Firth Street between 15th Street and Sydenham Street as "Earl Young Way."
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution and one non-privileged.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged and non-privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing May as Lupus Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution calling on the federal government to maintain its anti-trust litigation that would break up Meta's social media monopoly.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I do have one privileged resolution to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring the election of Pope Leo XVII as the 276th Pope, and celebrating his connections to the Philadelphia area -- XIV. I'm sorry. I'd be in trouble if it was the XVII Pope Leo. The XIV. Sorry.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Will the Chief Clerk please read the next resolution.
Morning, Mr. President. I have one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolution.
An ordinance continuing the Mayfair Business Improvement District ("District") beyond its termination date in an area that generally includes both sides of Frankford Avenue from the north side of Harbison Avenue to the south side of Sheffield Street and certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Frankford Avenue; approving a change of the boundaries of the District to include 6700 Rowland Avenue to the service area; approving a change of boundaries of the District to remove from the service area 4014 through 4034 Robbins Street as well as 3501 through 3539 Ryan Avenue; continuing the Mayfair Business Improvement District, Inc., a Pennsylvania non-profit corporation, as the neighborhood improvement district management association for the District; approving a plan for and report concerning the District; authorizing the Director of Commerce, on behalf of the City, to execute an agreement with the Mayfair Business Improvement District, Inc. relating to the District; and reauthorizing the Mayfair Business Improvement District, Inc. to assess property owners within the District a special property assessment fee to be used in accordance with the approved plan; all in accordance with the provisions of the Community and Economic Improvement Act, and under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged proclaiming May 2025 as Dual Asian American Pacific Islander and Jewish American Heritage Month in Philadelphia to pay tribute to the rich history and significant contributions made by generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and Jewish Americans to our Country, Commonwealth, and City.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution initiating action to continue the Mayfair Business Improvement District beyond its termination date in an area that generally includes both sides of Frankford Avenue from the north side of Harbison Avenue to the south side of Sheffield Street and certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Frankford Avenue; and for which Mayfair Business Improvement District, Inc., a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation, serves as the Neighborhood Improvement District Management Association; approving a preliminary plan for and report concerning the District; and authorizing and directing the Committee on Rules and the Clerk of Council to take all actions that are required by the Community and Economic Improvement Act, prior to enactment of an ordinance that would formally establish the District.
This resolution will be placed on the Final --
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," to add provisions related to vehicle parking in front of a fire hydrant, to provide for the removal or immobilization of such vehicles and for other penalties, and to make related technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. I apologize. I want to acknowledge Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Oh, I have nothing today, Council President. Thank you, my brother. I just figured you knew I didn't have anything.
You're welcome, sir. Just want to make sure I'm acknowledging you. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and one non-privileged.
Thank you very much. Well the Chief Clerk read the titles of the bill and resolution.
An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 762 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming 7th Street between Bigler Street and the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) as "SEYAA Way" to honor the Southeast Youth Athletic Association.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two bills and two non-privileged resolutions, one of which is co-authored with my colleague Dr. Nina Ahmad. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest in and to all or a portion of the properties known as 4368, 4370, 4372, 4374 Germantown Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions.
That 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 acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest in and to all or a portion of the properties known as 1911, 1913, 1915, 1917, 1919, 1921, 1923, 1925 and 1927 Cayuga Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to hold a hearing to explore strategies for incorporating youth voices in Parks and Recreation advisory councils and decision-making processes.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Special Committee on Child Separation and the Committee on Health and Human Services to hold a joint hearing to investigate the recent provisional licensing status of the Philadelphia Department of Human Services and the Philadelphia Juvenile Justice Services Center, and to examine the implications of alleged misconduct, breaches of confidential information, and overall child safety within Philadelphia's juvenile detention and child welfare systems.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing and celebrating the 2025 Philippine Independence Week Celebration in Philadelphia, taking place from June 7th to June 21st.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business is reports -- Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you, sir. Mr. Parliamentarian kind of makes sure we're operating smoothly. You got me, Kathy?
On our parliamentarian procedures. The next order of business is reports from committee. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports out five resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the report.
Committee of Whole to which were referred the following resolutions: Resolution No. 250403, resolution appointing Chris Collum to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. Resolution 250404, a resolution appointing Allan Domb to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. Resolution 250405, a resolution appointing Jim Pearlstein to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. Resolution No. 250406, a resolution reappointing Carol Watson to the Board of Directors of District; and Resolution 250407, a resolution reappointing Tina Byles Williams to the Board of Directors of the Center City District, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further resolutions to report out from the Committee of the Whole, Council President.
Thank you. These resolutions will be placed in the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports out 11 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the report. That's 11 bills with a favorable recommendation; that's correct, sir?
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes the Chief Clerk.
The Committee on Streets and Services to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 250273, 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," to revise procedures for operation of an automated vehicle noise enforcement system and creating Section 12-1138, entitled "Automated Vehicle Noise Enforcement". Bill No. 250327, an ordinance authorizing an encroachment in the nature of a staircase in the vicinity of 5313 Haverford Avenue Philadelphia PA, 19139, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250367, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an Ordinance (Bill No. 180560), approved July 10, 2018, entitled "An Ordinance Authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 250 by striking from the City Plan and portion of Montour Street from Adams Avenue to Foulkrod Street, under certain terms and conditions" by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein. Bill No. 250368, an ordinance authorizing an encroachment in the nature of planters and benches in the vicinity of 2300 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250369, an ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 2700 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250370, an ordinance authorizing an encroachment in the nature of a of 1855 Gladstone Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250377, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 306 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Brill Street from Richmond Street to Salmon Street, striking from the City Plan and vacating Salmon Street from Brill Street to the northeasterly required right-of-way line of Bridge Street, and reserving and placing on the City Plan rights-of-way for various public utility purposes and authorizing acceptance of the grant to the City of the said public utility rights-of-way, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250381, an in the nature of pedestrian lights in the vicinity of 416-38 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250382, an ordinance establishing parking regulations on the 1000 block of Ludlow street between 10th Street and 11th Street, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. Bill No. 250325, an ordinance amending subsection 9-203 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Street Vendors," by permitting vendors licensed to operate on certain City streets from certain otherwise prohibited conduct; all conditions; and Bill No. 250374, an ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 115 E Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Streets and Services, Council President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading on this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so that to permit the consideration of these bills just read by the Chief Clerk of today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. And these bills 2ND READING will be placed in our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just read from the committees with the suspicion of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading Calendar and Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Majority Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Mr. President. 2ND READING The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 250461, 250504, 250507, 250509 and 250510. The following bills and resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 250303, 250444, 250505, 250266 and 250267.
Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action in today's council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in an order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters will each have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session-to-session. Today the time limit will be three minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the three-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow, which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once three minutes have passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not done so already. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. I'm going to ask first for the mother of LGP Qua, Qidere Johnson, Ms. Tamara Davis, to please come on up, the aunt Ms. Keisha Washington, and Philadelphia's own Freeway to please come on up to the microphone and any other family members who are speaking on the resolution honoring the life and legacy of the Voice of the Youth, LGP Qua, Mr. Qidere Johnson. (Witnesses approached podium.)
And please state your name for the record before you give your testimony.
My name is Tamara Davis. I'm the mother of my only son, Qidere Johnson. So I just want to thank all y'all for having me here and everything. I just want to say that -- so I want to talk to myself but I know -- I just want to say my son was so loved by just his kids and myself, his family and friends. I just want to say that it's so hard for me because I speak on a lot of this and I, like, I love animals and I, like, one of them type of people, I always gave back and stuff, me and my son. And it's hard because I know my son he had a charisma that would have lit this room up, you know, his personality and stuff. When he came, he was, like, his heart was big. He was my world. And my son always told me -- I'm glad before actually this the bond of me and him. So you always gave me like before, all of this like mine, you know, I'm giving you my flowers here, you know, before anything. And everyone that know how it's always been me and my son, and I took great honor in that and also, my son did that too, respect, you know, first and foremost, God first. So it's hard for me. I just want to say I love my son. You know, thank ya'll. (Applause.)
Good morning, Council. Good morning Council President. Y'all know me. I've been here a lot of times, but this time is not a happy time for me. Like, we really got to do better in our city, man. This senseless violence is getting out of control. Qua was a good young bull. He had a good message, a positive message. He should be protected. He shouldn't have to go through those things in the city. We really have to do better. And as y'all know, and maybe some of y'all don't know, I lost my son in 2020 to these streets. And it's hard to talk about. I talk about my daughter. I lost my daughter to cancer. That's something that everybody can relate to. That's something that can happen to anybody, but I barely talk about what happened to my son. And I lost my son to these streets because he had an addiction. And we was fighting, fighting trying to get him in a better place and he was in a better place. And then one day he just went left, and it was nothing we could do about it. No one is exempt from this. I'm a celebrity. I lost my son to these same streets that she lost her son to. And we got to do better. Whatever we got to do we got to come together and do better because this doesn't make any sense. People are losing their children every day to these streets, and it's rough. And that's one of the reasons why I started Freedom Thinkers Academy to help young people do better and get off the streets. And I'm just one person trying. So if I can try, each and every one of us can try. We got to come together. This is the City of Brotherly Love. We got to show that. We got to come together and we got to do better. I'm so sorry you lost your son. I'm so sorry you. Got to put God first and stay strong. May God be in your corner. We in this together.
Thank you. (Applause.) UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: I'm not going to be up here long. Good morning, everybody. I'm Qua's mom's first cousin. It's just a sad time for everybody. Like we said, everybody, y'all got to put these guns down. Nobody should die from gun violence. Whether they're in the streets, not in the streets, whatever the case may be like, just put the guns down. And it's a shame that my cousin had to lose his life over the stuff that he rapped about every day on a daily basis. So rap about this stuff, read this stuff, this is all he talked about was the youth, the youth. You can read my shirt, read my cousin's shirt, he was the voice of the youth. He was the youth. And there's so many people that looked up to him, so many people that respected him and is going to continue even when he's not here. Once we put him in the ground and everything is said and done, I need y'all to still support, please support, not just for her, other mothers that lost their children. Like Freeway just said, it's going to be more murders and more and more. We can't stop it, but we can try to do something. We can try to keep his name alive. And he has two children. His mother, this is our only child.
And I was my dad's only child. UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: But I just thank y'all. Like I said, once everything is said and done just don't forget about her, don't forget about the other mothers that's out here that have to go through this. And this jewelry is material. Like the point is even if y'all took this man's chain, what were y'all going to do with it? Everybody in the world -well, not world, but everybody knows who that is. You can't put it on, you can't take a selfie with it, you can't go sell it. You couldn't do any of these things with that man's chain.