Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, March 14, 2019 10:42 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA
MICHAEL DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting March 14, 2019
Good morning. We are going to get started. We are running a little late. Some might say, what's new. Okay. We can get -- take -- Members will take their seats. And any visitors, please, retire behind the rail. And we will have our invocation. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Minister Mark Dushel, Associate Campus Minister for Retreats at Saint Joe Prep. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Greenlee. I would ask all Members, guests and visitors to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors all rise.)
Teach me to listen. Teach me to listen, oh, God, to those nearest me: My family, my friends, my coworkers and colleagues. Help me to be aware that no matter what words I hear, the message is accept the person I am, listen to me. Teach me to listen, my caring God, to those far from me, the whisper of the hopeless, the plea of the forgotten, the cry of the Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 anguished. Teach me to listen, oh, God, my mother, to myself. Help me to be less afraid to trust the voice inside in the deepest part of me. Teach me to listen, Holy Spirit, for your voice in business and in boredom, in certainty and in doubt, in noise and in silence. Teach me, Lord, to listen. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you, Minister, so much for those inspiring words. Appreciate it. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you. Our next order -- our next order of business is the Approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 7, 2019. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 7, 2019 be approved. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It's been moved and properly second that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 7, 2019 stand approved. All those in favor, indicate by saying aye. (Ayes.)
The ayes have it. And the Journal is approved. Our next order of business -- have a little quiet over there, please. Thank you. Our next order of business is request for Leaves of Absences. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for Leaves of Absences today.
Chair thanks the gentleman. Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for Leave of Absence.
Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business. And I would like to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to come down and witness their government in action. We genuinely appreciate you being here. We hope that your stay here today is a knowledgeable one, but more importantly, a pleasurable one. So much so that you come back again. So again, thank you for being here. At this time, the Chair will recognize Councilman Johnson who will do a presentation on my behalf to Robert "Meek Mill" Williams. Also joining us today is State Senator Sharif Street. Would Meek Mill and those -- pardon me? Oh, wait a minute. You want to do it right now? Let me finish this. Before we bring the members up, I wanted to recognize Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Mr. President. I have to attend business outside of the building. I'd like to be excused and vote "aye" on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The record shall reflect -
-- an "aye" vote on all bills and resolutions. Well, would Meek Mill and those accompanying him, please, join the Councilman at the podium. And Senator Sharif Street, also. And I think we have Meek's family. And joining Councilman Johnson we have Councilwoman Gym, Councilwoman Parker, Councilman Green, Councilwoman Bass and Cecil B. Moore's, the Martin Luther King Rec Center's infamous Eddie Hood. And is that it? You guys ready? We good? And Councilman Squilla and Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez. Good? Okay. Let's rock.
Good morning, everyone. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
Today I am standing Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 here on behalf of Council President Darrell Clarke in partnership with Senator Sharif Street as we sit here and take a moment and honor Robert "Meek Mill" Williams. We want to take a moment to acknowledge him for his work as relates to criminal justice reform, but also being a shining example of a young man who has persevered, stayed strong in the face of adversity and, most importantly, used his platform as a message of positivity to our young people. I, also, would like to acknowledge Mark Rubin of the Philadelphia 76ers. Let's give him a round of applause -- Mike Rubin. (Applause.)
You know, being a young man who grew up in South Philadelphia and recognized the obstacles that we face, the Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 barriers that life put in front of you and being a young man who persevered through juvenile probation and being able to serve as the first African-American Councilperson in the 2nd Councilmanic District, it's truly an honor to get a chance to stand with my colleagues as we recognize Meek Mill for, most importantly, not only his entertainment expertise, but most importantly, how he really has stepped up and taking his advocacy to the next level to make sure that our justice system is just and fair for everyone. And so at this particular time, I am going to also ask for Senator Sharif Street to say a few remarks. And we will present the official citation. SENATOR STREET: Thank you. Good morning. (Morning.) SENATOR STREET: You know, it is a pleasure and an honor to be here to present this congratulatory citation or, I guess, congratulatory resolution from the Senate for my friend, Meek Mill, my neighbor. We are from the same neighborhood. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Some will say accomplishments in entertainment are important. But why is the government doing this? It is because Meek hasn't just accomplished in entertainment. But when he was impacted by the criminal justice system in the way that so many people from North Philly are from our neighborhood, it's not unusual if you are from where we are from to be impacted by the criminal justice system. He decided it wasn't enough for him to deal with his own personal situation, but he turned that into an advocacy and put power behind a movement for criminal justice so people from North Philly, from where we are from and people like our communities not only in this City and in this Commonwealth but across the country would be able to benefit from a reform system. So similarly, he create -- he worked along with Jay-Z and Brother Rubin and others from across the country to put together a reform alliance. And so, we are acknowledging today not just a men who had personal success, but a man who had personal success that never forgot where he came from. And I know because I am Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 from there, too. Came back and gave away bikes and did the things that make people happy. Brought some joy in their life, sneakers, fixed up the school, is helping us with the rec center. But also understood that we need systemic change so that the circumstances and the things he went through, nobody else from North Philly or anybody -- anywhere else should have to continue to go through. So, we congratulate the brother. And I could read all the citations, I don't think today. But we do want to say, he's an example not only to people in North Philly where he came from but to other people in entertainment who have had some success. It's not good enough for you to succeed for yourself. You got to help the next young man or young woman coming up behind you. Congratulations, Meek. MEEK MILL: Thank you. (Applause.)
So, most of you know I'm from South Philly. I'm going to be a little geographical today. We know Meek Mill is from North Philadelphia, but his foundation Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 started in South Philadelphia. Grandmom and the rest of the family. His uncle is a legendary DJ Grandmaster Neil from South Philadelphia. So, we want to share Meek Mill today with North Philadelphia. But in all sincerity, I want to officially start the citation by saying: Honoring and recognizing and congratulating Robert "Meek Mill" Williams for his philanthropic and criminal justice reform endeavors and naming March 15 through March 17 of 2019 in the City of Philadelphia "Meek Mill Weekend." (Applause.)
Whereas, Robert Williams known to the world as Meek Mill is a critically acclaimed multi-platinum hip hop artist, song writer, entrepreneur, actor and criminal justice reform advocate that hails from North Philadelphia. Whereas, Meek Mill evolved from Philadelphia's hottest underground rapper to one of the world's preeminent musical artist. Having released a slew of smash studio albums and singles, his latest studio album Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Championships debuted at No. 1 on Billboards Top 200 albums being his second chart topper following his 2015 album release, Dreams Worth More Than Money. And also, I want to acknowledge that you just went platinum this week with Championships. Let's give him a round of applause for that. (Applause.)
Whereas, Meek Mill is also the CEO of Dream Chasers, his music label imprint that he launched in 2012 and named after his mix tape series; and
Whereas, since 2007, Mill has been entrapped in the criminal justice system and shoveled through the prison system over technical probation violations, all despite maintaining his innocence. His latest incarceration in November 2017 spurred the international #Free Meek Mill movement where artists, athletes and others publicly advocate on his behalf until he was released on bail on April 24, 2018; and Whereas, after his release from prison, Meek Mill has used his public platform to generate awareness around the problems of the Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 criminal justice system including excessive probation regulations, a disproportionate bail system, the lack of rehabilitation programs available and how these problems disproportionately affect people of color; and
Whereas, inspired by Meek Mills ongoing battles with the criminal justice system, business and entertainment leaders such as 76ers owner Michael Rubin, Patriots owner Robert Kraft, Nets co-owner Clara Wu Tsai, hedge fund manager and investor Daniel Loeb, cryptocurrency titan Michael Novogratz, and Vista Equity Partner and founder Robert Smith have all teamed up with renowned rapper Jay-Z and Meek Mill to launch the Reform Alliance in January 2019; and
Whereas, co-chaired by Meek Mill, the Reform Alliance was formed to advance criminal justice reform and eradicate outdated policies that perpetuate injustice in the United States. Their goal is to reduce the number of people affected by parole and probation by 1 million over the next five years; and Whereas, Meek Mill has donated over Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 60,000 bottles of water to the people of Flint, Michigan; given away thousands of backpacks and school supplies to children all across the City of Philadelphia and provided gifts to those in homeless shelters; and
Whereas, this past fall, Meek Mill partnered with the City of Philadelphia and Puma to renovate basketball courts at 33rd and Oxford Street. In December, he teamed up with Puma and GoPuff to host a toy giveaway for over 3,000 children at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, which is located at 22nd and Cecil B. Moore Avenue, giving away video game consoles, bicycles, art sets, sneakers, board games and an array of other toys to kids from schools and organizations across the Philadelphia area; and
Whereas, additionally Meek Mill serves as one of the captains of Puma's newly-launched #Reform platform that enables human ambassadors from the world of sports, music and entertainment to advocate for social justice issues and champion cause to promote positive change. He is specifically spearheading reforms focused on criminal justice Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 reform, and all proceeds from sales of his #Reform-related products will be donated to charities working to reform the criminal justice system; and Whereas, using all platforms available due to his celebrity, Meek Mill has teamed up with Amazon Prime Video and Jay-Z's ROC Nation for a six-part documentary series that will follow his own fight for exoneration while exposing flaws in the criminal justice system.
Now therefore, be it resolved that the Council for the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and recognize and congratulate Robert "Meek Mill" Williams for his philanthropic and criminal justice reform endeavors. And name March 15 through March 17 of 2019 as "Meek Mill Weekend" in the City of Philadelphia. Be it further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Meek Mill as evidence of the true and sincere sentiments of this legislative body. On behalf of Council President Darrell Clarke, Members of Council, we would like to officially present to you this citation on behalf of the City of Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Philadelphia. (Applause.) MEEK MILL: Thank you.
And the Chair recognizes Meek Mill for remarks. MEEK MILL: I would like to say thank you to the City of Philadelphia, my mom, my family, my sister, son, niece and nephew here, ROC Nation, Michael Rubin. As you know, the situation I've been through you, a lot of people didn't know when I came home I would focus on really trying to give young kids like me a fair shot coming up in the system. A lot of people in the beginning thought that it may have just been a part of my situation. But what we had started now, our foundation -- me, Michael Rubin, Robert Kraft, Jay-Z, Mike Novogratz, Clara Tsai -- we started a foundation. And you know, just -- I wanted to do something where I felt important enough to give people like me coming up a fair shot in life. As you see, I got a seven year old son. My son seven years old. He may make mistakes in life. I don't want my son growing up in a world, a Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 place where if he decided to use marijuana one time, he could spend two or three years in a state penitentiary raised by people he don't know. I don't believe young kids, where we come from, minorities like myself, should have a shot like that. And I think we deserve better. And I am trying to fight for the young kids that I actually spend time with and sat in prison with multiple times for not even committing crime. And I want to thank the people here for the support, because the support mattered a lot. I've been in prison a few times for probation and violations. But the one time that my City of Philadelphia showed me support was the one time I came out of prison. And I want to show the support back and do it for the people that actually stood up for me. So you know, that mean a lot. Growing up in Philadelphia was my mom, a single parent home. She working eight hours a day, we actually are growing up in the streets in the wild, on the corner and not really having guidance. So you know, just having the support means a lot. I want to thank everybody who ever Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 supported me to put me in this situation. And I'm not even really here to take credit. It's a part of my life. It's what I've been through. It's what I experienced. And you know, I just think that as a City of Philadelphia, me with a platform as being a musical artist, being known worldwide, I can use my voice to actually, you know, make things better. This is not a call out for people to do crime and not go to jail. It's never been the case. It's a call out to get people who actually come up under different circumstances a fair shot in America. And that's the people I want to speak for. You do wrong, you get wrong. But I think in this life you deserve right if you living the right way. And you deserve a fair shot. And that's what I am here fighting for. I want to shout out to people like Mike Rubin. He witnessed in my case. This is not a case of a wealthy guy, a White -- a wealthy White man seeing his friend go to prison, want to step up just because it's me. No. This turned into a case of him being introduced to something that he never seen personally with his Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 own two eyes of unfairness. And we spend a lot of time on prison visits, me explaining to him that this happens to thousand people on a daily basis. Me, myself, I actually grew up in the early '90s where -- late '80s where crack laws were placed. And it wasn't men in our neighborhood, so you know, it kept the system flowing of young men going in and out of prison. You know, like I said, I got a seven-year-old son. I been in prison probably three or four times and state penitentiaries, country prison with people who got life in prison, murderers, rapists. And been in those situations three or four times without committing crime. I'm employed. I employ people. I do a lot of charity in the City. I don't know. A lot of police officers, you may see me riding around these places.
I try to keep it close and stick close to the place I come from and not really feel like I have to move to a whole different coast of the world. You know, it's not a -- we got a lot of violence we got to fix here where a lot of people who look like me, die on a daily basis. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 If you watch the news, a lot of young men die from gun violence. I still try to stick as close as I can and give my influence and, you know, bring what I can bring to the City of Philadelphia and, you know, make things a better place. I cannot be a perfect person. I'm going to make mistakes. I'm 31 years old. I'm a young man. And you know, I want to be me. Today, I wanted to wear a suit. I wanted to look nice, but you know, I want to look like me. In situations like this, I'm wearing Milano. A young girl from Philadelphia, support her business. ) MEEK MILL: On tour, I wear -- it's a vest. It's not a real bullet proof vest. It's actually a kid from, like, West Philadelphia. He got a clothing line. He does not pay me to wear that. I wear it every tour night. Basically stating, I do it for my City. And I appreciate everybody in here supporting me, whoever have support for me. And I am going to continue to do what I do. And thank you for everything. ) SENATOR STREET: So Meek -
Want to speak? SENATOR STREET: I am not going to read this whole thing because we've already heard enough. But I do want to say, we thank you for not just in Philadelphia, but the laws that you've been trying to pass, you've been working are mostly state laws. So on behalf of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania State Senate, we also acknowledge the work that you've done and the work that you're going to do and all your success. Congratulations, Meek. It's from the State. (Applause.) MEEK MILL: Thank you. I appreciate it.
I just want to thank everybody for being here today. To see the City rally behind Meek is what makes Philadelphia great. I mean, Meek and I talk all the time about how do you take a bad situation and turn it into a positive. And we are all here doing Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 exactly that. A year ago, I just said to Meek, the last time I was here, we were having rallies to get Meek out of prison for a crime he didn't commit. Today the City is standing behind him in the biggest way. And I got to say, I'm so proud of Meek for taking his negative situation and figuring out he we can together help millions of other people. That -- and he said it right. I didn't think this stuff really happened. I didn't believe you can go to prison for not committing a crime. You know, I went to -- I had the, what I thought, was the unfortunate experience but it was really an incredible experience of going to court with him November 6, 2017. And for me, that opened my eyes to a world I didn't believe existed. And you know, I think in reality, Meek has been able to take this situation and say, how do I help millions of other people. So, I am so proud of you. I'm so appreciative of everybody here in Philadelphia standing behind him. And I just want to say thank you. And it's -- we are just getting started, but I look forward to helping millions Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 of people together with Meek and all of our other partners and Desiree and ROC Nation. So, exciting times ahead. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Okay. Thank you all. Quite an exciting moment. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker who will present a resolution congratulating and honoring the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. Would Latifah Fields and those accompanying her, please, join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Approaches podium.)
And joining Councilwoman Parker we have Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilman Taubenberger, Councilwoman Gym and Councilman Green and Councilman Domb, Councilman Johnson and Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez and Councilwoman Bass.
Good morning, Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 everyone. It is indeed an honor -
Councilwoman, hold on one second. Could we have a little quiet, please. Little quiet. Thank you. Go ahead, Councilwoman.
Good morning, everyone. It is indeed an honor and a privilege that we as a Council gather today to congratulate and celebrate the National Coalition of 100 Black Women on the occasion of the 33rd Anniversary of the Madam C.J. Walker Awards Luncheon. I want to just acknowledge for the record that standing to my left is the founder Sylvia Webster. Give her a round of applause. (Applause.)
She is living, walking, breathing history. Sylvia, we thank you for your leadership. And you did it at a time when it wasn't in vogue for Black women to think that it was okay for Black women to get organized to advocate on behalf of their interests. So, we thank you for your vision and are proud to note that you will also be honored Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 this year at the Madam C.J. Walker Awards Luncheon. In addition to that, I want to note that we all know that we lost a sister who contributed in a significant way to the City of Philadelphia. Some of you will remember when she worked here in our City Commissioner's Office. And I am speaking of none other than our Linda Watson. We send our deepest sympathy to her family. And her legacy will continue. We are proud to note that the Coalition maintains strong leadership. It hasn't missed a beat with their new president Latifah Fields. And we want you to know that this Council is here to support you when and how we have to. And finally, this is the 33rd year of the Madam C.J. Walker Awards Luncheon. And they have a mighty chair who is a part of our family. She has energy. And don't you think when you look at her, that she -- oh, she's a sweet softy. Listen, she's a ball of fire. Give it up for our Wilhelmina Moore. (Applause.)
In addition to that, her co-chair is Theresa Lamore Redman. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 And we thank you all for being here. The resolution reads as follows. A resolution congratulating and honoring the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women on the 33rd Anniversary of the Madam C.J. Walker Awards Luncheon and for the organization's commitment to the educational, political and economic empowerment of African-American women throughout the City of Philadelphia.
Whereas, the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Coalition f 100 Black Women was founded in 1981 by this lady Sylvia Webster whose purpose was to serve as a collective voice for progressive women of African-American descent committed to advocating for meaningful sociopolitical change; and
Whereas, the Pennsylvania Chapter of National Coalition of 100 Black Women in 1982 swore in 42 trailblazing leaders of varying professional affiliations including the Honorable Marian B. Tasco, Charisse Lillie-McGill, Audrey R. Johnson-Thornton, the Honorable Augusta A. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Clark, Joanne Bell, Velma Goode, Leslie Kernodle and Dr. Marschal-Neil E. Young; and
Whereas, the organization's leaders quickly sprung into action implementing an aggressive campaign to address the educational, economic, political and physical needs of women throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with a keen focus on urban cities in a array of programmatic and legislative remedies; and
Whereas, the organization boasts several signature programs that exhibit its unwavering mission, most notably the educational mentorship and scholarship awards program designed to support women and girls pursuing a post-secondary education and the Madam C.J. Walker Awards Luncheon; and
Whereas, the Madam C.V. Walker Awards Luncheon -- whereas, named in honor of the nation's first woman to become a self-made millionaire, Madam C.J. Walker Awards Luncheon celebrates local, female entrepreneurs who successfully operate their own companies and demonstrate sound business practices; and Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Whereas, the Madam C.J. Walker Awards Luncheon also provides the Coalition's leaders with the opportunity to publicly acknowledge girls and women deeply invested in their academic, social and political advancement as recipients of its annual scholarship award; and
If you haven't gone to the luncheon, you have no idea the power of women in one room. Whereas, the Madam C.J. Walker Awards Luncheon in its 33rd year is a Coalition staple which continues to be a shining example of the organization's commitment to female economic empowerment by generating over a thousand attendees annually, beautiful attendees, providing a platform for networking, small businesses and strengthening the unbreakable bond of female comradery; and
Whereas, in addition to commemorating this auspicious luncheon, the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women reveal in several noteworthy accomplishments, including receiving the Susan G. Komen Awards -- Women's Champion Award, the Chapter of the Year Award from the National Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Coalition of 100 Black Women, the rededication of the Iris V. Henderson Cancer Center at Mercy Hospital in memorium of a Coalition sister, and the leveraging of local resources alongside national leadership to successfully influence the confirmation of the first African-American female U.S. Attorney General Ms. Loretta Lynch; and
And whereas, as a member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women since 1996, I am just honored to be here with you all. What an awesome group of women. Whereas, in honor of Women's History Month and in the closing of Black History Month, the women of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women continue to be lauded, and deservingly so as local leaders invested in the economic, educational and political advancement of our communities; Now therefore, be it
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that hereby honors and recognizes the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women on the 33rd Anniversary of the Madam C.J. Walker Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Luncheon, and for the organization's commitment to empowering African-American women throughout the City of Philadelphia;
Further resolve that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Pennsylvania Chapter as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Congratulations. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Ms. Fields for remarks.
On behalf of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Incorporated Pennsylvania Chapter, we thank you once, twice and three times. As the ladies and gentleman said, if you did not receive your ticket, you are missing out. But don't fret, we do it again. So, save the date for March 20, 2020. And be -- just follow us on social media and follow what we are doing. But we stand on the shoulders, we stand on the strong shoulders of such giants as Sylvia Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 G. Webster. And we will continue to lead the charge here in the City of Philadelphia as the progressive Black Women's organization we are. Thank you. (Applause.)
So, congratulations. And Council, we have another speaker.
Good morning. I have very little to say. I am just happy that this organization is still functioning and still viable after thirty six years.
Thank you and congratulations. Council be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you and congratulations. Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla who will present a resolution recognizing Larry Freedman. Would Mr. Freedman and those accompanying him, please, join the Councilman at the podium. You want the -- Matt and all the -- come on guys. The Northern Liberties crew, come on Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 up. (Group approaches podium.)
Thank you, Mr. President. And as somebody with the -- who shares a district in Northern Liberties with President Clarke and other Members of Council, understanding how important it is to have great community leaders. And the reason why we always save the best for last is that the community is so important here in Philadelphia to make government work. We can't do it by ourselves. And we need to do it with the help from our community leaders. And Larry Freedman is one of those. So, today we are honoring and recognizing Larry Freedman for his tireless dedication to the City of Philadelphia and especially the Northern Liberties neighborhood. Whereas, in 1986, Larry Freedman and his partner Natalie Wieters established a residence and sound studio and art business on North 2nd Street, Northern Liberties. Larry quickly became an active member of the Northern Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Liberties Community, which was at that time seeing the first signs of rebirth after decades of population loss and disinvestment; and
Whereas, in 1987, Larry joined the Northern Liberties Neighbor Association Zoning Committee. And in the early 1990s, became its chair, a position he still holds today helping to oversee community input into a staggering volume of new development and helping to shape that development while preserving the community's fabric; and
Whereas, Larry served on -- excuse me. Whereas, Larry served on the NLNA Board of Directors for many years and co-founded the Northern Liberties Community Development Corporation, which redeveloped an historic building into the Garden Looms Affordable Housing Project; and Whereas, Larry was a prime mover in a multi-year effort to secure a permanent home for the NLNA, the Northern Liberties Community Center. And in helping, raised approximately 1 million in donations, grants and financing to complete the renovation of a group of abandoned, Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 blighted properties into a community gathering space with tax paying residential and commercial uses; and
Whereas, Larry secured donations enabling the NLNA to begin and sustain weekly sidewalk sweeping in the community; and Whereas, over the last three decades, Larry has devoted tens of thousands of daytime, evening and weekend hours to help residents and business owners with problems, to mediate disagreements and to mentor fellow NLNA board members and other community volunteers; and
Whereas, Larry has become the Dean of the City's RCO zoning chairs and a preeminent citizen authority on the City's zoning and building codes looked to and trusted by Members of City Council, zoning and land use attorneys, developers, business owners and residents alike; and
Whereas, Larry is unfailingly fair, friendly, good humored, diligent and he and Natalie are devoted, loving parents to their son Jessie. And whereas, Larry is a model citizen who has poured his heart, mind, hands and Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 financial resources into our City as a resident, business owner civic leader, and whom all Philadelphians can be proud. Now therefore, be it resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we honor and recognize Larry Freedman for his tireless dedication to making the City of Philadelphia a better place to live, work and play. Further resolve, that this engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Larry Freedman as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Congratulations. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Mr. Freedman for remarks.
I was prepared to kind of aim my remarks that way, but everybody is here now. So, I am just going -- can I just turn around? (No.)
I am exhausted. That's Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 all I have to say. Sean asked me to say nothing inappropriate, so I -- all I have is thank you. (Laughter.)
This is about volunteering, obviously. And I -- after all these years, I still don't know why anybody does it but -- because there's a lot of abuse, and that about sums it up. Maybe that's what the common denominator is. But all the people that I worked with, all the boards, all the projects, all the committees and all the neighbors really who have come into zoning over the years, we have kind of figured it out together. And no offense to the other neighborhoods, but Northern Liberties is the best neighborhood in the City. (Applause and hoots.)
Yeah, right. Okay. What do I got to lose? I've been trying to get fired for 20 years, and Matt won't accept my resignation. And that's because the neighborhood is full of hard working people, dedicated people, talented people, tolerant people, fun loving people and so on and so forth. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 And it's been an honor to be part of that. And to -- specially since in 1987, when I joined the Zoning Committee, holy cow, it took us two or three years. Joe, you can bear me out, we didn't have an applicant. I don't know what we were doing for three years. We were just meeting. It seemed like the right thing to do. So obviously, everybody here behind me, thank you. There is a couple people in particular. First of all, this didn't mention -- I don't want to be picayune, but it didn't mention the music festivals, which maybe I am the most proud of. So, I would like to thank Don Phillips. Don and I started the street festivals in the late '80s and early '90s that turned into Welcome America, which turned into the music festivals at Liberty Lands. And June 29, we have a music festival. So please, put that on your calendar. Ira Upin, one of my best friends, has been a co-chair with me. And we had to get through the crazy era of Northern Liberties in the 2000s when we had ten to twelve applicants Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 per month. And I would say, Ira, can you do this. And he would -- he would do it beyond -he would do it on steroids to the point where I couldn't even listen back to what he brought me. But thank you, Ira, because that was great. Matt Rubin who we got off to a rocky start -- that's right. But Matt and I decided to work together, and I think we have done some good things. So, thank you, Matt. In 1987 when I joined the Zoning Committee in April, which is next month, that would be 32 years. I met Joe Maculiak. And Joe has been a dedicated, dependable, wonderful person, great friend. Over all these years, we still serve 32 years later. And I say this, Joe, with respect. Usually after a zoning meeting, attorneys will call me and say, thanks Larry. And by the way, who is that tall, skinny guy with the beard and glasses. He's kind of annoying. (Laughter.)
And then I would say, yeah, that may be, but he's our annoying. He's "my" annoying, and that's what we love about Joe. And thank you, Joe, for being annoying. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 (Thank you.)
So with that, my goodness gracious, I dedicate this to Natalie my wife, partner. Well, we became -(Applause.)
Thank you. And the reason for that is, I have to say for, I don't know, 20 years, the immortal words I would hear two or three times a day as I was leaving to do something, Natalie would either open up the window or shout somewhere, "where you going now"? And I said, "I got to do this thing. So, thank you, Natalie. I am going to give this to her right now. Get it over with. That's good. And I just want to say thank you everybody here. And I am glad you are up here, because I was going to invite you up so we can take a picture together.
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Okay. Going to, hopefully, get through our regular session of Council. Okay. Thank you and Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 congratulations to all of our honorees today. Our next order of business is Communications. And the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, do you have it? Will you, please, read those messages.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia. I am pleased to advise you that on March 13, 2019, I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session of March 7, 2019, Bill No. 190006. And I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body, a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Pennsport urban renewal area identified by the house number and street address as 1218 South Second Street. And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the model Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 cities urban renewal area identified by house number and street address as 2337 through 2345 West Berk Street. And a resolution confirming Council's agreement with a proposed budget for expenditures from the non-recording fees subfund of the Housing Trust Fund relating to affordable housing. And an ordinance adding a new chapter 12-3400 of The Philadelphia code, entitled "Use of an Automated Speed Enforcement System to Improve Safety on Roosevelt Boulevard," to provide for the use of automated cameras to determine speeding violations on Roosevelt Boulevard and to establish a system of enforcement and administration, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional communications?
Thank you very much. And our next order of business is Introduction of Bills and Resolutions. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 And the Chair recognizes, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
A privileged resolution recognizing JP Morgan Chase and company for its decision to divest from the private prison industry.
And a non-privileged resolution urging the United States Congress to reject President Trump's proposed budget cuts to the United States Department of Education.
And that will be on next week's Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the designation of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 32nd Street, Market Street, 31st Street extended, Chestnut Street, 30th Street and Arch Street extended, excluding all portions of the railyard currently owned by Amtrak.
Referred to committee. Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill and, on your behalf, one resolution.
An ordinance amending Title 10 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finances, Taxes and Collections," to impose Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 liability and provide for the revocation of licenses for certain persons who permit human trafficking and voluntary servitude and related unlawful activity to occur on a property or in connection with a business.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract of The Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the model City's urban renewal area identified by house number and street address as 2337 through 2345 West Berk Street.
Next week's Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson. Council you have anything -
Council President, Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 I have three resolutions and one on your behalf.
Councilman, you have anything on behalf of Councilman Jones? I see he had listed that he had one resolution. You have it, Councilwoman? Okay. Thank you.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committees on Legislative Oversight and Children in Youth to hold hearings to examine issues relating to missing and exploited children and youth in Philadelphia.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing and congratulating Robert "Meek Mill" Williams for his philanthropic and criminal justice reform endeavors, and naming March 15 through March 17, 2019 "Meek Mill Weekend" in the City of Philadelphia.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming Federal Street between 19th Street and 20th Street, Arizona C. Stemmons Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Way.
Next week's Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilman -Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Yes. Council President, I just want to acknowledge the cosponsorship of the street renaming of the 1900 block of Federal Street is also in partnership and on behalf of Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The record shall reflect that. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Council President. I have one bill and three resolutions. And I want to thank the women of Council for joining me this morning as we continue a conversation about domestic workers in the City of Philadelphia. I want to particularly thank Councilwoman Parker for agreeing to host this in Labor and Industry on this Women's Month celebration. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 We want to acknowledge the 16,000 domestic workers who every day take care of our children and our elderly in the City of Philadelphia. Thank you.
An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finance, taxes and collection," and Chapter 19-4100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Tax by -
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold hearings to examine labor standards to domestic workers throughout the City of Philadelphia.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing City Council to hire and retain an independent third party to conduct Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 research and produce a study on the fiscal and economic impact on certain taxes and fees, and authorizing the Committed on Appropriations to conduct hearings to consider such study.
And a non-privileged resolution confirming Council's agreement for a proposed budget for expenditures from the non-recording fees subfund of the Housing Trust Fund relating to affordable housing.
And that will also be on next week's Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. Chair recognizes Councilman Parker.
What a wonderful day, Mr. President. Mr. President, I have one bill that is cosponsored by yourself along with Councilmembers Bass and Sanchez, and one Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 resolution that is also cosponsored by Members Greenlee, Taubenberger, Reynolds Brown, Squilla, Jones and Johnson.
And ordinance adding a new Chapter 12-3400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use of An Automated Speed Enforcement System to Improve Safety on Roosevelt Boulevard," to provide for the use of automated cameras to determine speeding violations on Roosevelt Boulevard and to establish a system of enforcement and administration.
And a privileged resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold hearings regarding parking -- parking workers deserving a living wage.
And that will be on this week's Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Good morning, Council President. No bills or resolutions today. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Thank you.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Good morning, Council President. I have one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution declaring the week of March 17 to March 23, 2019 as National Safe Place Week in the City of Philadelphia.
And a non-privileged resolution urging Governor Wolf to make appointments to the Pennsylvania Charter Appeal Board and calling for a moratorium on its proceeding until all the board members are duly appointed and confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate to serve in a four-year, unexpired terms.
And that will be on next week's Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Taubenberger.
Good afternoon, Council President and colleagues. I have no bills nor resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill on your behalf, and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Bicycle Lanes," by authorizing the Department of Streets as designated bicycle lane and to remove a travel lane on Market Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard all between North 15th Street and North 20th Street. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Pennsport renewal area identified by house number and street address as 1218 South 2nd Street.
Next week's Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution on behalf of Councilmember Jones and one bill. And I'd like to be heard after the title.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Taxes and Rents General," by providing for a temporary tax amnesty program under which delinquent taxpayers may satisfy their past due tax obligations with a forgiveness of all or a Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 portion of accrued interest and penalties.
Thank you, Mr. President. I am honored to offer this bill today to provide much needed relief to those that owe taxes to the City of Philadelphia, even though it's less relief that those with ten-year tax abatements enjoy. And I do want to point out that amnesty would be offered to people who have an inability but a willingness to pay back taxes, versus abatements which allow people to walk away legally from a tax obligation for ten year. This bill will be provide substantial relief and allow an opportunity for folks to get their fiscal affairs in order. And by doing so, it allows them to also get other fiscal matters in order in their lives. I want to thank our cosponsors Councilmembers Oh, Johnson, Sanchez, Taubenberger, Reynolds Brown, Blackwell, Jones and Green. Thank you, Mr. President. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Ron Wilch who has risen to become one of the biggest forces in the Philadelphia fashion industry.
And that will be on this week's Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much, Council President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. That concludes our Introduction of Bills and Resolutions. And our next order of business is Reports from Committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Mr. President. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 The Committee of Public Property and Public Works reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of this Council to the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works to which is referred Bill No. 190062, entitled "An Ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest to all or a portion of a parcel or parcels of land, together with the improvements thereon, in and about the area bounded by Trenton Avenue, East Auburn Street, Tulip Street and East Rush Street;" and Bill No. 190099, entitled "An Ordinance amending Chapter 16-300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Maintenance and Supervision,' by adding a new section requiring that all City buildings and facilities install and maintain life sustaining medical equipment including Automated External Defibrillators and advanced first aid kits; and requiring the installation Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 of Automated External Defibrillators in connection with capital projects." Respectfully, reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended as to permit the first reading of this day Bill Nos. 190026 and 190099. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 190062, 190099. All those in favor say aye. (Ayes.)
Ayes have it. The bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar at our next session of Council. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 That concludes our reports from committee. And our next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from the committee with the suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had their first reading. They will be on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up resolutions and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Mr. President, the following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today. They are numbers 190163, 180830, 190115, 180818 and 190102. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before considering these bills and resolutions, Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you for special Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 consideration. I know we started off with some pretty star struck presence here today in our presentations, which I think is incredible for the City of Philadelphia. But there are a lot of other people who also consider Philadelphia pretty special and have traveled great distances, especially during the time to celebrate and take pride in the Irish Heritage as we approach celebrating St. Patrick's Day on Sunday. And just coming off of an incredible parade where there is 20,000 people plus who participated to showcase their heritage and their proudness of family and faith and religion along Market Street and our great City here. So, it is my privilege and honor as we have foreign dignitaries, people of other countries that come here and show their presence and respect and communicate with us, the economy and other kinds of humanity awards and rights that they want to share with us. And it is my privilege to present to you and recognize a member of Parliament Pearse Doherty. Pearse Doherty has been here for the past several days. He marched in the parade. He has been visiting local AOHs and giving the Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 status and update on the Brexit situation over in Ireland, and the status of the economy, the potential impact it will have on the farmers not just in their field, in their economy, their trade, the visitors and the human rights that they live every day and the national agreements that they have signed in their peace treaties that are at stake. So, it is my pleasure to present to you and recognize and thank Pearse Doherty, member of the Irish Parliament. Pearse Doherty, thank you for your visit here in the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Thank you. Thank you for being here today. We appreciate it. So before considering these bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today, we will have our Public Comment session. If you have an interest in testifying on a bill or resolution that is on a Final Passage Calendar today, if you have not already done so, you may sign up to the table on the left. When your name is called, you will go to Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 the middle of the Council chambers. There is a podium. There is a device on that podium. When the light turns green, will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When the light turns red, we would ask you, please, adhere to our guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will have three minutes to speak. We want to thank you very much for your anticipated cooperation. Mr. Decker, please, call the first name on the list.
Hi. My name is Meena Raval. I'm a Philly resident. No one has paid me to be here this morning. I am here to talk about Bill No. 181063, otherwise known as PGW's public private partnership to develop and operate an L&G facility. I think the public and public private Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 partnership refers to people like me that people like you should be representing. People like me think this project should not be approved. Some of your offices were visited by people like me yesterday. We have heard that our own utility who wants this project so very much, has accused us, of people like me, spreading misinformation about this project. I would like to remind Council that the public advocate hired by the Philadelphia Gas Commission to represent interests of all rate payers also has raised concerns about this project, concerns which have been ignored. Concerns about making this decision based solely on a term sheet without looking at contracts. Concerns about the City being left with the risk. The Minister opening today's session said "teach me to listen." Holding this thought, I would like to refer you all to tomorrow's global school strike for climate at over 1100 locations globally in over 90 countries. (Applause.)
Thank you. Yes, we have a Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 school strike for climate in Philly, too. The striking youth have a list of demands so that they have a future on a liveable planet. One of their demands is to halt all fossil fuel development. This L&G Project is one such project. Another demand is that every government decision at every level is a science-based decision, not just about money or a few jobs made today. Leading the Philadelphia strikes are three high school sophomores. This is what Sweet 16 looks like as these young become aware of their own sexuality, of their ability to reproduce. They are standing up for all of creation. Okaying this project is a decision that affects all our residents inversely, meaning, in a bad way. I trust Council will consider my voice and the voices of the youth tomorrow in their deliberations. Thank you. (Applause.)
Mitch Chanin? Mitch Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Chanin? (No approach.)
Good morning -- oh, afternoon. My name is Lynn Robinson. I'm a union member, voter, teacher, PGW customer, creative sole who is not sometimes diplomatic enough but actually means well, director of Neighbors Against the Gas Plants and member of the new Pass On Gas Philly Alliance or POGPA. Thank you for your kind attention to my message today. Here is the rub. Let's reduce PGW's current debt down to a rounded-off figure of $1 billion. An L&G plant, even if it brings in the unlikely projected maximum of 4 million a year will pay off PGW's debt in 250 years. If the revenue is closer to the guaranteed amount of $1.3 million a year, it will take 769 years. The price of delaying a just transition to renewable energy is just not worth it. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 Let's be clear about Bill 180 -- I'm sorry, 181063. A new L&G at Passyunk would guarantee more outdoor air pollution and disease for those living near the refinery. A new L&G would encourage an influx of more methane burning electrical generation plants. Like SEPTA's in Nicetown within City limits and result in a delay on renewable alternatives. An increase of onsite electrical generation using methane would mean more asthma, cancer, brain damage especially in children and elders, less productivity, lower academic achievement levels and continuance of Philadelphia's non-attainment status for ozone. Selling gas to other locations encourages the same mess for them and will push the planet's warming trend. Too many of Philadelphia's incumbents have come under the influence of Marcellus Shale and conveniently remain blind to climate science. Natural gas with its unavoidable methane leaks is no better for the climate than coal or any other fossil fuel. Open your eyes. According to the EPA, methane leaking into the air has 84 to 87 times Stated Meeting March 14, 2019 the potency of carbon dioxide in the air for the first 20 years. PGW must redefine its mission now. And I challenge Councilmember Green to step up to the plate and champion that cause. There is no amendment to 181063 that can justify adding additional methane gas infrastructure to this City. That thought is blind to science. It needs a no vote based on the facts. What the City needs now is a Philadelphia style, green new deal so that we joint the worldwide effort to address the climate crisis by 2030. A Philadelphia green new deal would provide plenty of living wage and union jobs to City residents. The people's question is, will Philadelphia City Council and Mayor continue to been Trump's left hand, or will you allow the necessary shift away from fossil fuels. I also have a comment on 180729, which is a resolution for a new -- may I make a very one paragraph comment on this resolution for a new breed of law enforcement officers to direct City traffic? It's a charter change. I just have a couple of questions. What -- Stated Meeting March 14, 2019
You can leave -- ma'am, you can leave your testimony. It will be read into the record. Thank you.
Oh, I'm sorry. Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. Due to Council business up in the district, I would like to be recorded on the record voting aye on all bills and resolutions with the exception of voting no for Bill No. 180830. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. Let the record reflect, Councilman shall be excused. Stated Meeting March 14, 2019