COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, November 18, 2010 10:25 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO, JR. COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning, everyone. 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 Reverend William Moore of Tenth Memorial Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Clarke. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us pray. Oh, God, our father, in the name of Jesus, we give thee thanks for this day, and for these members we offer on their behalf gratitude for the privilege to serve the people of this great city. We invite your presence here wisdom for this body as they make decisions on behalf of this city that rests in the cradle of liberty. We ask that as they make decisions, give them the ability and the wisdom to rise above selfishness as they seek wisdom from above for the greater good of the people of this city. We thank thee for insightful minds, for eyes that can see the immediate need around us, but the wisdom to look for the long-term solutions for the challenges that they face as they make decisions. For feet that do not hesitate to walk and courage to fight for the betterment of your people, guide their deliberations today. It is in the name of the one who orders our steps and whose joys our peace we pray. Amen. (Amen.)
The Reverend Moore for his invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of November 4th, 2010. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 4th, 2010 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 4th, 2010 stand approved. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, the republicans request a leave of absence for Councilman Jack Kelly.
Leave will be granted. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I'd like to introduce a friend that has recently transferred from Phoenix, Arizona to Philadelphia with U.S. Airways, Christine Thompson. Christine, would you stand up and say hello.
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a Education Fund on its 25th Anniversary. Would Carol Fixman and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Please come forward, Ms. Fixman. I see that Councilwoman Brown is also being joined by Councilwoman Sanchez and Councilwoman Brown (sic). The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. Our city is fortunate that every single day in our city in addition to the strong leadership we have at the School District, we have public policy WOCs (ph) -- I say that in a kind way -educators who live, breathe and think specific, strategic strategy for improving our city's educational system. And joining me this morning are professionals with the Philadelphia Rick Moses, Diana Campbell, Allie Mulvihill, Brian Armstead, Jennifer Trachtman, Aaron James, Prarthana Jayaram, Carol Fixman, Diane Melley and one of our own favorites, Ken Lawrence. So with that, Madam President, we're going to recognize and congratulate the Philadelphia Education Fund on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary. Whereas, the Philadelphia Education Fund was founded in 1985 with a mission to improve the quality of public education for our city's underserved youth throughout the Philadelphia region; and Whereas, the Philadelphia Education Fund was formed as a merger between two organizations (PATHS/PRISM and the Collaborative) devoted to improving educational opportunities for all of our city's youth;
And whereas, the Fund is an independent its mission through funding provided by private donors, foundations, corporations and public sources; and Whereas, the Fund is a member of the national Public Education Network, an association of 81 local education funds across the country whose mission is to build public demand and mobilize resources for quality public education for all children through a national constituency; and Whereas, the Philadelphia Education Fund has developed a particular expertise in preparing teachers for successful careers in the School District of Philadelphia. Over the last eight years, Fund programs have provided 3,000 teachers with the opportunity to gain teacher certification through alternative routes; and Whereas, the Philadelphia Education Fund continues to be on the forefront of addressing the dropout College Access Program with over 85 percent of students being accepted to college; and Whereas -- this isn't mine.
Whereas, on November 16, 2010, the Philadelphia Education Fund hosted the annual EDDY Awards which recognizes 2010 Stars of Public Education; and Whereas, Philadelphia has benefited tremendously from the countless efforts from the Philadelphia Education Fund over its 25-year history. Now, therefore, be it resolved
That we hereby recognize and congratulate the Philadelphia Education Fund on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the leadership, membership and staff of the Philadelphia Education Fund as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Brown, Blackwell and Sanchez and supported by all the members of the Philadelphia City Council. Let's congratulate them. (Applause.)
Hi. I'm Diane Melley, the Board Chair from IBM. So we really just want to give our sincerest thank-you to the Council for this tremendous recognition of the really significant impact that the Ed Fund has made over its 25-year history in Philadelphia helping our kids to succeed and helping our children to have a brighter future. Thank you. (Applause.)
And I'm Carol Fixman. I'm the Executive Director, and thank you so much. Thank you to the City Council for all of your support in the 25 years. We as an Education Fund hereby pledge that we will continue to support the children of Philadelphia for the next 25 years and beyond with your support. Thank you so much for this recognition. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones, who will present a resolution to the Salvation Army of Greater Philadelphia. It is my understanding that the Salvation Army is opening their center very shortly. Therefore, I would ask that Councilman Jones be joined by Major Andrew Murray and those who are accompanying him. I see that Councilman Jones is being accompanied by Councilman Clarke, Green, Goode and Kenney. Thank you.
Many Philadelphians every year have an opportunity to go to their summer homes, to go on cruises. Some of them even go to Disney World, but many Philadelphians have to exercise and practice a concept called a staycation, means because I don't have the revenues, I will stay and vacation in place. Because of the Kroc Center, an oasis, a beautiful facility, many Philadelphians will experience what others get to experience right in their own neighborhood. The Salvation Army is being recognized today for that contribution of the Kroc Center. Recognizing the Salvation Army of Greater Philadelphia on its opening of the Ray and Joan Kroc Corporation Community Center; and
Whereas, the Salvation Army Kroc Center will its approach of ministering to the whole person; and
Whereas, these programs will address the educational, health, economic, recreational and spiritual needs of the communities it serves;
Whereas, the Salvation Army Kroc Center features an early childhood education center; indoor aquatics center; after-school education center with literacy, math and science emphasis; music and dance studios; a spinning room and state-of-the-art two-story fitness center; worship and performing arts center; family resources center and more; and
Whereas, the Salvation Army Kroc Center will have an organic garden providing healthy produce and opportunities for horticultural education and training next spring; and
Whereas, you can see that we all love Bonnie Whereas, the Salvation Army Kroc Center will serve at least 1,000 people per day; and Whereas, the Center will provide these programs in an inclusive manner without regard to background or ability to pay. Now therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes the Salvation Army of Greater Philadelphia on its opening of the Ray and Joan Kroc Corporation Community Center. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Salvation Army of Greater Philadelphia, Ray and Joan Kroc Corporation Community Center, as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Major Andrew Murray for MURRAY: Friends, I just want to say thank you for all that you've done to make the Ray and Kroc Corps Community Center happen. The Salvation Army has been in this city for a long, long time, and we've always tried to make a difference, and we believe that the Kroc Center will make a difference in where it is, that it will change and help to transform that part of the City. The Salvation Army is never able to do it by ourselves, but what we've become is the ability for people to work together and make a difference together to change our neighborhoods. We believe the Kroc Center will do that. We believe the Kroc Center is already doing that, as it is open now. We couldn't have done this without the gift of the Kroc family, and we certainly couldn't have done this without the help of the City of Philadelphia. what we do. Hold us accountable for the change we make. Because the people that we serve are the people of the City, and we believe that we have a responsibility to help to change lives. Thank you for your help in making this happen.
The Kroc Center is a destination. I have a small story to finish. On Saturday morning at 10 o'clock, I got a phone call from a family in North Philadelphia, actually in Marian Quinones-Sanchez's district, who called me, who were sitting outside the Kroc Center with their granddaughter having a talk and coffee and then going to the aquatic center to talk to Jim Alice, and they say, Well, this have become my destination on Saturday morning. I'm granddaughter. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam Chair. This morning it's my pleasure to ask City Council, folks in the City Council Chambers to join me in welcoming the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and their affiliate groups and members joining us here in Council today.
If they would stand, we would like to recognize you. Welcome. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. friends know that one thing I want to be when I grow up is an author. I have enormous respect for those who take the time to write, and this morning I'm thrilled to introduce former money manager who has now decided to follow his passion and become an author. He has written the book "The Olympian - An American Triumph," and it is the story of the first African American Olympic gold medalist. Please join me in welcoming Craig T. Williams, who is on tour, if you will, with this book, but is first a Philadelphian. Let's welcome Craig T. Williams. (Applause.)
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution to the Barristers' its 60th Anniversary. Would Mr. Sherman Toppin, Esquire, and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Councilwoman.
Thank you, Madam President. It's an honor to present this resolution honoring the Barristers' Association of Philadelphia on its 60th Anniversary. Whereas, in 1950, attorneys Curtis Carson, Thomas Reed, Arthur Thomas, Charles Wright and Robert Williams established the Barristers' Association of Philadelphia, known as the "Barristers," with the purpose of addressing the professional needs and development of black lawyers in the City of Philadelphia through programs such as seminars, cultural events and publications; Whereas, since its origin, the Barristers have recognized the need and obligation to be a proactive advocate against injustice and have demonstrated its advocacy through numerous causes, including participating in the Liacouras Commission, which investigated ways to eliminate racial discrimination in bar admission procedures; filing an action against the Philadelphia Registration Commission, which resulted in 50,000 Philadelphians obtaining the right to vote; and lobbying the Pennsylvania General Assembly for the merit selection of judges; and Whereas, in more recent years, the Barristers have sponsored or participated in activities which promoted youth awareness and career opportunities in the legal profession, increased citizens' awareness of their rights under the law, provided scholarships to minority law students to encourage and support more African Americans to pursue degrees, and organized continuing legal education seminars and political education forums for its members and the general public to facilitate professional development and political awareness; and Whereas, the Barristers encompass a network of approximately 1,000 lawyers and jurists who serve society at the highest positions in both the private and public sectors of the legal profession, and the Barristers are an affiliate of the National Bar Association, an organization of practicing African American lawyers, judges and law students in all 50 states and the District of Columbia; and Whereas, past presidents of the Barristers include some of Philadelphia's greatest lawyers and jurists, including but not limited to, federal judges (A. Leon Higginbotham and Herbert Hutton), Common Pleas judges (Ricardo Jackson, Doris Harris, Kathryn Streeter Lewis, Renee Cardwell Hughes and Brenda Frazier Clemons, Leon Tucker, Elizabeth Jackson), elected officials (State Senator Hardy Williams, City Councilman John C. Anderson) and legal officials (City Solicitor Stephanie Franklin-Suber, Philadelphia Bar Association Chancellor A. Michael Pratt); and Whereas, the Barristers continue to provide a very important and unique role by providing a forum for discussion and public service for its members, people of color and the Greater Philadelphia community. Therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor the Barristers' Association of Philadelphia on its 60th Anniversary. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the Barristers' Association of Philadelphia as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Tasco, signed by President Anna Verna and sponsored by all members of City Council. We congratulate you on an outstanding organization and appreciate your contributions to the City. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Sherman Toppin and I'm the current President of the Barristers' Association of Philadelphia, and I want to -- I'm joined today by members of our Executive Board. They're in the back. To Councilwoman Tasco, Mayor Nutter and members of City Council, I am honored to receive this resolution on behalf of the Barristers' Association. Since 1950, attorneys serving our organization have worked diligently towards the pursuit of justice in the preservation of the rule of law for Philadelphia citizens. Our organization civil rights era and continue to be relevant and valuable to Philadelphians and attorneys of color today. Our 60th Anniversary is a tremendous historical benchmark that our founders of our organization did not live to see. Yet through the decades, we continue to see many accomplishments of our members through the legal channels that were nourished by the fellowship of our organization. We greatly appreciate this recognition for our length of service in the Philadelphia region and we are humbled and thankful for this resolution. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller, who will present a resolution proclaiming 14th, 2010 as "World Diabetes Day." Would Dr. Zinzer and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And I see that Councilwoman Miller is being joined by Councilman Rizzo. Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. A few weeks ago we had "Diabetes Screening Day" here in Philadelphia, and we're not trying to overwhelm you with diabetes, but it is a very important health issue. Proclaiming November 14th, 2010 as "World Diabetes Day" and encouraging all to participate in the "Believe in Blue" Campaign. Whereas, the International Diabetes Federation and World Health Organization, along with the United Nations, recognize diabetes as a non-communicable pandemic disease that systems and emerge as a serious barrier to economic development; and Whereas, the mantra for the World Diabetes Day stands as Diabetes Education and Prevention, with one goal, to have every government implement effective strategies and policies for the prevention and management of diabetes and its devastating complications; and
Whereas, the globally recognized logo for World Diabetes is a blue circle. The color blue symbolizes the sky that unites all nations and signifies the unity of the global diabetes community in response to the diabetes pandemic, and the circle symbolizes life and health; and Whereas, diabetes is a chronic, progressive condition that affects approximately 285 million people worldwide. It's the fourth leading cause of global death by disease, with two people developing diabetes every ten seconds, and in Philadelphia, the diagnosis of diabetes is five percent above the national average; and Whereas, according to the American Diabetes Association, 25 percent of African Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 are diagnosed with diabetes, with one in four African American women over 55 years of age diagnosed with diabetes and, if uncontrolled, can lead to a number of serious and sometimes life-threatening complications, including blindness, kidney disease, heart disease, stroke, nervous damage and the loss of limbs; and
Whereas, more than 60 percent of the non-traumatic lower limb amputations occur in people with diabetes and recognizing that Hispanics and African Americans are at greater risk suffering from lower limb amputations; Whereas, Temple University's School of Podiatric Medicine started and the "Believe in Blue" Campaign in 2008 in collaboration with the need for urgency in the diagnosis, treatment, education and prevention of diabetes of those within the Philadelphia community and the United States to decrease the risk of lower limb amputations and untimely death; Whereas, through the World Diabetes Day and the "Believe in Blue" Campaign, we as a city must unite as brothers and sisters to overcome the preventable complications and devastating outcome of diabetes. Now, therefore
Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that November 14th and forevermore be known in Philadelphia as "World Diabetes Day" and we honor Temple University for their tireless efforts helping those in the Philadelphia community recognize the our city as well as provide individuals effective treatments and better access to diabetic education and prevention strategies through their multidisciplinary approach to diabetes as both a healthcare provider and an educational institution. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine as further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. This is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 4th of November 2010. Signed by Anna C. Verna, President of City Council. Introduced by Donna Reed Miller and co-sponsored by all members of City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning, everyone. On behalf of Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine and Temple University as a whole, as well as the multidisciplinary team that it takes to really look at this epidemic and pandemic of diabetes, I thank you for giving us this honor and this resolution. I'd like to just take a couple of moments to just, one, introduce behind me the team that really has been there to set the ball in motion to have this recognition within Philadelphia. We have the executive student team who is here as the Diabetes Awareness Club at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. We also have Berman's, who does have a lot of supplies, as well as CCS Medical; Temple nursing with Michelle Roake and also the Certified Diabetic Educator, Carol Ott. Jinsup Song, Dr. Song is responsible for Temple University for the NIH grant that actually will be seen over education and prevention. As you can see, diabetes is non-proprietary. Even though this is being recognized and we have the honor of accepting this resolution on behalf of Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, it is something and especially a disease in this city, in Philadelphia, where I state again and again it's non-proprietary. We cannot keep it in silos. We need to address this on a multidisciplinary level. When you look at the blue circle that you have and the band that we were distributing, it is about life and health, and it really is about recognizing diabetes as an epidemic. Not as something that is very, very easy to resolve or control, but something that we need to raise the level of urgency. When I first called the CDC a couple of years back and thought that it would be very difficult to get statistics was in Philadelphia, much to my dismay but also happiness that I could get statistics, they said Philadelphia is not just a small blip on our radar, it's a large blip. At that point, we were three percent above the national average for the statistics. We are now five percent above the national average. Where diabetes is said to be 28 million affected, pre-diabetes is now 58 million. I'm not here to give you all of the statistics. I'm actually here because I see hope in this message, the hope where you see 58 million with pre-diabetes, it is because it is a multidisciplinary action, that we are testing people earlier before they reach us in podiatry, where we see the devastating effects of limb amputation. I can share with you, this is not a disease of people just within their 60's and 70's. We see Type 2 diabetes affect people as early as 15 years old in pediatrics, where it used to be believed that Type 1 diabetes was what was going to affect them. I have a young man -- and, you know, when I stand here, this is personal as well as professional -- he's 24 years old. His hope is to go on and become a lawyer and be part of City Hall. He has two lower limb ulcers, and he is going and facing lower limb amputation because he didn't get the care fast enough. We're here today because we do like the United Nations says, stand under the same sky. The color blue does stand for unity, and this represents us unified from City Council to all of the team members here, from myself and all of us who work towards this epidemic and finding a cure. When you look at the blue sky, know that it means that it's unity. Everybody deserves the dignity of life and health, especially when we're looking at diabetes. And we want to get an acute and an urgency. So the onus is on us to take that on. And I'll leave you with one statistic. When we think diabetes, we don't think it's an urgency. We think it's chronic. We don't think that we need to do as much for that disease.
We see the City colored in pink through breast cancer, cancer, something that I am very passionate about as well. When we think of November and we think of diabetes, you think of the color blue. If you look at the Cancer Institute statistics for mortality over a five-year period of time, if you add up the statistics over five years for prostate cancer, breast cancer and Hodgkin's disease, those three do not add up to that mortality of people who die and lose their lives over a five-year period from a neuropathic diabetic ulcer. This is impactful. This statement is not from the ADA. This is from the Cancer Institute. The onus is the bar and make sure that Philadelphia no longer is on the statistics with the CDC as that percentage increasing, but actually the awareness, the prevention and the education saving limbs and saving lives. And that's what we're here for, and we're proud to stand with this and group together with you. Thank you very much for this opportunity. )
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on November 5 and November 10, 2010, I signed the remaining bills that were passed by Council at its session on October 28, 2010, and that on November 17, 2010, I signed Bill No. 100636, which was passed by Council at its session on November 4, 2010; and I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body three resolutions appointing new members to the Board of Ethics; namely, Sanjuanita Gonzalez, William H. Brown III and Sister Mary Scullion; and I am transmitting an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a license or long-term lease agreement between the City of Philadelphia, as licensor or landlord, and the Center City District, as licensee or tenant, for a certain parcel of land commonly referred to as Dilworth Plaza; and Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No.
080760) approved December 22, 2008, by revising the terms and conditions stated therein and extending the period for compliance therewith; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into lease and sublease agreements with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority for certain land and improvements located on the northwest corner of North 15th Street and Arch Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into an easement agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of General Services allowing the Department of General Services to use portions of 1515 Arch Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to execute and record Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions against a portion of Pennypack Park on the Delaware, in favor of the United States; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development all or part of a parcel of land located on the southwest corner of North Columbus Boulevard and Race Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept from Scattergood Foundation easements in portions of land upon which Friends Hospital is located; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia fee simple title or a lesser property interest in any portion of the real and located south of the South Street Bridge, east of the Schuylkill River; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to accept from CSX Transportation an easement for an at-grade crossing on Race Street between 23rd Street and the Schuylkill River; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 816 North 16th Street, 826 North 12th Street and other properties for fair market value; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 100 North 55th Street, 104 North 58th Street and other properties for fair market value; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 741 South Chadwick Street, 745 South Chadwick Street and other properties for fair market value; the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 413 Mercy Street, 432 Sigel Street and other properties for fair market value; and An ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety and welfare of the people in the area served by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for The Hospitals and Higher Education Facilities Authority of Philadelphia to participate with such institution in construction of a new, 5-story ambulatory care center; and An ordinance authorizing the City Solicitor, on behalf of the City, to enter into a multi-year contract with a provider of codification, editing and marketing services to produce printed and electronic versions of the 10th Edition of The Philadelphia Code and the 2011 reprint of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter; and in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 within the Grants Revenue Fund; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 within the Grants Revenue Fund; and An ordinance authorizing the City to enter into an interagency agreement with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for a period of years for the Commonwealth to add City and School District taxes to the Commonwealth's on-line system for electronic filing and payment of taxes; and An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," by expanding the scope of "Plan '10" and "DC Plan" to cover additional employees, including Fire Department employees; by revising the definition of "Fire employee"; and by making technical
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in his 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. On your behalf, I offer one resolution and I request a standing yes vote.
A resolution mourning the death and honoring the memory of The Honorable Robert C. Donatucci.
All those voting in favor will please stand. (All Councilmembers standing.)
The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill and two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety and welfare of the people in the area served by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Foundation for The Hospitals and Higher Education Facilities Authority of Philadelphia to participate with such institutions in the construction of a new, 5-story ambulatory care center.
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 of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Sixth, Twenty-Fourth and Forty-Sixth Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution calling on the City Council Committee on Education to hold hearings on bullying and violence in the City's schools including the targeting of immigrant students from Asia, Africa and the Caribbean and the targeting of students based on sexual orientation and steps taken by District officials to address bullying and violence when they occur.
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 will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk -- I believe you have three. Do you have three bills, Councilwoman?
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance - Federal Stimulus Funding to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance Provision for Other Grants to the General Fund.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to execute and record a Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions against a portion of Pennypack Park on the Delaware.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On your behalf, I offer four resolutions and three bills, and I have two bills and four resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute from CSX Transportation an easement for an at-grade crossing on Race Street between 23rd Street and the Schuylkill River.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 741 South Chadwick Street, 745 South Chadwick Street and other properties for further conveyance.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia or its successors and assigns, fee simple title or a lesser property interest in any portion of real estate owned by CHOP and located south of the South Street Bridge, east of the Schuylkill River.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," by expanding the scope of "Plan '10" and "DC Plan" to cover additional employees, including Fire Department employees.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the City to enter into an interagency agreement with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for a period of years for the Commonwealth to add City and School District taxes to the Commonwealth's on-line system for the electronic filing and payment of taxes.
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 of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
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 confirming the appointment of William H. Brown III as a member of the Board of Ethics.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco -I'm sorry. This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution confirming the appointment of Sanjuanita Gonzalez as a member of the Board of Ethics.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution confirming the appointment of Sister Mary Scullion as a member of the Board of Ethics.
This bill (sic) will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring State Representative Dwight Evans on his years of service as the Democratic Chairman of the Appropriations Committee of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
I move for the adoption of the resolution, Madam President. (Duly seconded.)
I'd like to speak on the resolution. I could wait until the end. I'll wait until the end.
All those in favor of the adoption of the resolution will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity on its 100th Anniversary.
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 please say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution declaring December 1st as World AIDS Day in 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 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 3 of an ordinance (Bill No. 090840) approved September 1, 2010, entitled "An ordinance granting permission to ABEER, owner of the property Oak Lane Diner, 6528 North Broad Street, to legalize a one-story concrete masonry construction."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I have three bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Commercial Activities on Streets," by amending Section 9-203, entitled "Street Vendors," and Section 9-205, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," by prohibiting street and sidewalk vending on certain portions of Castor Avenue from Oxford Avenue to Rhawn Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Eighth Street, Somerset Street, Seventh Street, and Lehigh Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept from Scattergood Foundation easements in portions of land owned by Scattergood Foundation and upon which Friends Hospital is located.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution calling for hearings to examine the costs associated with the Philadelphia Prison System by discussing alternatives to current policies, which currently contribute to high prison populations.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez for a motion.
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 will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution expressing the gratitude and appreciation of City Council to the Philadelphia Historical Commission for designating the City Council Chamber as an historic interior.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Green for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I worked closely with several Council colleagues on this measure, including Councilman Greenlee and Councilman Rizzo. Many of you co-sponsored this. The Preservation Alliance, led by John Gallery, was instrumental in helping us with this legislation and with the Historical Commission process to get this passed, and Mr. Gallery felt it was only fitting that the first historic interior that the Preservation Alliance nominated for protection was our beautiful City Council Chambers. Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill on behalf of the Administration and two resolutions, one co-sponsored by Councilman Clarke and Councilman Goode, the other co-sponsored by Councilman Green, Tasco, Reynolds Brown, Goode and Sanchez.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 100 North 55th Street, 104 North 58th Street and other properties for fair market value.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution recognizing and honoring Ernest E. Jones on his retirement as President and CEO of the Philadelphia Workforce Development Corporation.
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 authorizing Council's Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold hearings on the feasibility of electric aggregation pooled purchasing and co-op programs for residential customers in light of the expiration of the electric rate caps in at the end of 2010.
Thank you, Madam President. Again, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," by extending the "Special Tax Credit Opportunity for Job Creation."
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions this morning.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 413 Mercy Street, 432 Sigel Street and other properties for fair market value.
The 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 convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, all or part of a parcel of land and any improvements located on the southwest corner of North Christopher Columbus Boulevard and Race Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.