COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, March 16, 2006 10:15 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, I would ask Deacon Councilman Ramos to please approach the podium.
Good morning. Let us pray. Heavenly Father, on this your day, bless and grace all gathered here for this Council session. Protect our citizens, Heavenly Father. Deter people from committing murder and bring them to your loving care, for you are all loving and all caring, and without your protection, Heavenly Father, we cannot get anywhere. On this day, remember all those that are not as lucky as we are to have all the things that come sometimes too us. Whether it's at the dinner table, whether it's in our community, we know, Heavenly Father, that you're always there for us. In your name we say today, amen.
Amen. Thank you very much. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 9, 2006, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 9, 2006 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 9, 2006 stand approved. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 9, 2006 is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. On the part of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilman Mariano.
Thank you. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence, but I respectfully early from the Council session today to attend the funeral of Inez Crocker's mother that works with me. So I'd appreciate that. At an appropriate time, I'll have to depart. And I'd like to go, if it's okay now, to go on record to vote on all bills and resolutions aye today.
Thank you. Leave will be granted. Thank you. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly, who will present a resolution honoring the 25th anniversary of the Irish Hunger Strike. and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. While they're coming up, I would like to thank Councilman Kenney for the beautiful arrangement of the St. Patty's Day flowers, and, of course, Councilman Kelly for the -- I guess are these the Irish -
Irish potatoes, which I love. Thank you very much. Councilman Kelly is being joined by Councilman Kenney and Councilman Nutter.
Councilman O'Neill is being requested to please join Councilman Kelly.
I would like to ask Shane Coleman to come up here. start, we would like to have a little rendition from an authentic tin whistle.
I'm sorry. If I can't hear you as close as we are, I don't know how anybody else can. The noise level is entirely too loud. I'm going to ask everyone having conversation to do so in the corridor. And if you can't, I'm going to ask you to leave. Please proceed. (Tin whistle being played.) (Applause.)
Thank you very much. Before I begin, I just want to thank Council President Verna and Councilman Rizzo for revising the schedule this morning to enable us to make this presentation, and I also want to acknowledge and thank my colleagues Councilman O'Neill, Councilman Nutter and me in reading this resolution. Resolution honoring the 25th anniversary of the Irish Hunger Strike. Whereas, March 2006 marks the 25th anniversary of one of the most pivotal events in Irish history, the Irish Hunger Strike; and
Whereas, on March 1, 1981, Bobby Sands, an Irish republican prisoner, began the Hunger Strike after four years of the Blanket and Dirty Protests in an attempt to regain status and rights of political prisoners in Ireland; and Whereas, Bobby Sands lived through 66 days of the strike before passing away on May 5, 1981. Nine other prisoners died as a result of the strike before political status was restored by the British government; and Whereas
The Hunger Strike brought worldwide attention to the Philadelphia, thousands marched in support of the prisoners' demands; and Whereas, the Hunger Strike empowered the people of Ireland to begin a process which ultimately through time has led to the current peace process. The deaths of the Hunger Strikers ultimately saved many other lives by transforming armed campaigns to a peaceful political process.
Whereas, the political and moral effects of the 1981 Hunger Strike have inspired generations. The unselfish sacrifice of those ten brave Irishmen: Bobby Sands, Francis Hughes, Raymond McCreesh, Patsy O'Hara, Thomas McElwee, Joe McDonald, Martin Hurson, Kevin Lynch, Kieran Doherty and Mickey Devine, have transformed the Irish political landscape forever and their dream of a united Ireland has become much closer because of them. Now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia honors and commemorates the 25th anniversary of the Irish Hunger Strike. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Paul Doris, National Director of Irish Northern Aid, an organization who supports the peace process in Ireland and works to educate the world on the political process in Ireland. And with that, I would like to present to Paul on behalf of Council President Verna and the City of Philadelphia, we'd like to present this resolution to you. If you would like to say a few words. (Applause.)
I would like to thank Council President Verna, Councilman the resolution and all the City Council people who voted for it, which was unanimous. Ireland has a long history with the occupation by England. We have suffered through famines, wars and been treated as second-class citizens in our own country, but one of our mottos always was, It is better today on one's feet than to live on one's knees, and so be it with the Hunger Strikers. In 1976, by the stroke of one pen, the British government took away a political establishment from the prisoners. Before that, there were political prisoners. The prisoners went on strike. They refused to wear prison uniforms, which resulted in them wearing the only better clothing they had, and that was the blankets from their beds. That was called the Blanket Protest. The protest escalated from that into what was called the Dirty Protest. That's where the prisoners refused to cells, because every time they left their cells for a visit or to get a shower, the prisoner authorities beat them and tortured them and degraded them while they were only wearing these blankets. So they refused to leave their cells for any reason. So you can figure how dirty the cells became. But anyway, to move forward, in 1981, led by Bobby Sands, the prisoners believed that they had only one avenue left open to them, and that was Hunger Strike. And exactly five years to the day on March the 1st, 1981, Bobby Sands began the Hunger Strike, which was followed by several men and finished up in the death of ten of them. At the same time, women prisoners went on Hunger Strike in support of them. Out of all this, Bobby Sands and some of the prisoners ran for political office, and they've done extremely well. As a matter of fact, Bobby Sands was elected to the British ironic that Bobby Sands died on Hunger Strike after 66 days while being a member of the British Parliament. To that success, the political success, Irish republicans seen the opportunity that they had political support and it changed the campaign from a war campaign, an armed campaign, into a political campaign, and that's where we are today. We have had the Good Friday agreement. We have had a peace process, and it works these last eight years, but we still have a lot to do. We were still dealing with the old enemy, Britain, which refuses to give the Irish people equal rights, human rights and justice under the law. But we are all in a peace process. We do not want to see anybody else stand on any site because of a conflict. I'm glad that City Council, who have supported us all during the years, hopefully will continue to support ahead. It's a political process now. We welcome everybody on board. And sooner or later, we will get our ultimate goal, which is a united Ireland, with peace and justice for all. And I want to thank you very much for remembering the Hunger Strikers. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution honoring the career of Charles W. Bowser, Esquire. Will Mr. Bowser and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And I see that the Councilwoman is also being joined by Councilmembers Miller, Nutter, Goode and Kenney and Councilwoman Blackwell. Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, President, this is a great moment for me, because the gentleman this morning we are going to present this resolution to is my ultimate mentor. We began working for him, Charlie Bowser, in 1970 as his secretary. Now, I didn't smoke then, but working for Charlie made me smoke and drink coffee. But it didn't last very long. But we started the independent political movement in Philadelphia in 1968 with the Black Political Forum, but Charlie really showed what independence and politics meant when he ran in 1975, his first attempt for Mayor on the Philadelphia party, and that was a great movement and a great time. We did not win, but we came in No. 2 and beat the other party out, and then he came back again in 1979 to seek the office of Mayor. But he has contributed much to this City, more than we can put into this resolution, beginning with back in the days with Mayor Tate and through the Philadelphia Urban Coalition, but he has worked with so many people in the City of Philadelphia and worked through the Urban Coalition. Many, many community organizations in this City grew and thrived, and he contributed to solving a number of community problems, keeping community organizations vibrant and active and funded, and with the business community, engaging the business community and taking an interest in Philadelphia's neighborhoods. So it is a pleasure for me to be here today, because I stand here because Charlie Bowser was there for me, and I want to say thank you to Charlie Bowser. I think Councilwoman Blackwell has some comments before we read the resolution.
Thank you very much. I, too, would just like to say thank you. Mr. Charles Bowser is a part of the history of our City. Certainly with the late Lucien Blackwell, we worked so hard on his campaign. Every time I see him, I think of Tindley Temple and the meetings and passing the water jug and the Drake Hotel and all those old days and old struggles, when hope was fresh and new. And we say thank you, and thank you, Mr. Bowser, thank you, Charlie, for all that you've been and all that you are to us. (Applause.)
Again, it is a great honor to present this City Council citation honoring the career of Charles W. Bowser, Esquire. Whereas, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to honor Mr. Charles Bowser, Esquire for nearly 50 years of civic and community service to the City of Philadelphia through his outstanding work as an attorney, serving the legal needs of the City residents, residents he aided with the same fervor and dedication, regardless of their background or status; and Whereas, Mr. Bowser earned his credentials as an attorney in 1958, graduating from the Temple University School of Law. Prior to that, he earned a BS in journalism from the same institution. He arrived at Temple just after his graduation from the well-reputed Central High School of Philadelphia in 1948. Once he earned his law degree, Mr. Bowser became partner of his own firm, Hazel and Bowser, until he moved on from the practice in order to pursue a position as Executive Director of the Philadelphia Anti-Poverty Action Committee, where he remained through the late '60s; and
Whereas, following his work at the Anti-Poverty Action Committee, his craft gave him the ability to make the leap to serving in the distinguished capacity of Deputy Mayor of Philadelphia from 1967 to 1969. Thereafter, he worked as Executive Director of the esteemed Philadelphia Urban Coalition between 1968 and 1975. The combination of his work at the Coalition, coupled with his stellar professional reputation are surely elements that won him the endorsement as Democratic Primary Candidate for Mayor in 1979, while he was working as Senior Partner at Pechner, Dorfman, Wolffe, Rounick & Cabot; and
Whereas, Mr. Bowser smoothly made the transition from the campaign path back to the war path, fighting as staunchly as ever for his clients upon his return to Pechner, Dorfman, where he remained until the late 1980's. After spending a few years working for other firms, Mr. Bowser returned in 1990 to his professional beginnings, again establishing his own firm, Bowser & Weaver, PC, where he served as President, and in June 2004, added to his impressive list of professional accomplishments by opening the Bowser Law Center in Center City, an institution dedicated to fighting for equality, civil rights and overall justice and empowerment for all Philadelphians; and
Whereas, throughout an impressive and ever-changing career, many prominent figures in Mr. Bowser's field have taken notice of the quality, variety and level of commitment in his work, and have recognized him through honors and appointments, including appointment as Special Counsel to Drafting Chairman of Platform Committee of the 1988 Democratic National Convention; as Advisory Committee on Appellate Court Rules of Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, by appointment of Chief Justice Robert N.C. 1995; and as Special Counsel to the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus from 1988 to 2000; and
Whereas, some of Mr. Bowser's awards include, but are not limited to, the Barristers' Association of Philadelphia's Austin Norris Leadership Award, the Philadelphia NAACP's Exceptional Civil Rights Award and the Lincoln University Alumni Community Leadership Award.
And whereas, our fair City is, no doubt, greatly and knowingly privileged to hold within its borders the bright and enduring light of this vibrant leader, groundbreaker, public servant and devotee to justice and empowerment for all of Philadelphia's people. Now, therefore
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize and congratulate Mr. Charles Bowser, 50 years of civic and community service to the City of Philadelphia through his outstanding work as an attorney, serving the legal needs of the City's residents, regardless of their background or status. And further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Mr. Charles Bowser, Esquire, as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 16th day of February 2006, signed by President Verna, introduced by everybody up here and supported by all members of City Council. We thank you, Charlie, and we love you. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, Madam Chairman. This is a great honor for me. I've spent so many hours in this room over the years that it's always good to come back one more time. But I am deeply appreciative, and there's no question in my mind that the greatest thing that ever happened to me was, I was born in Philadelphia, because really Philadelphia was the place to be born. And I'm very, very, very proud to receive this honor from the Philadelphia City Council. I can remember when the only thing we did in Philadelphia City Council was picket. We'd picket the City Council. We'd come here with signs. I see some people out there with signs today. We came here with signs. But whatever the activity was, we stuck together. It helped our City. Our City is better than it was back then, and it's growing and getting better every day. And I thank you very much, and I love you all. (Applause.)
I'd just like to make this announcement, that there will be a tribute to Charles Bowser Monday, March 27th at the Hyatt Regency at Penn's Landing from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and for information, you can contact my office or Sandra Mills at 215-735-1300. That's 1199-C. Henry Nicholas and his organization are spearheading this tribute to Charles Bowser. We certainly hope that you will come out to say thank you to Charles Bowser for all the wonderful work he has done. There are so many things in this City that has his footprint and handprint on it that you could never begin to list. Again, thank you, Charlie, and we love you, too. (Applause.)
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 March 16, 2006, I signed all the bills that were passed by Council at its session on March 2, 2006; and I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to extend the term of a lease agreement between the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority as landlord and the City of Philadelphia as tenant for office space at 1234 Market Street; and Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located at 140-54 North Christopher Columbus Boulevard; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located at 8011 Frankford Avenue.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, to welcome to City Council today students from the Community Education Partner School, its Allegheny Campus, and its Vice-Principal, Tim Griffith. If they can stand so we can acknowledge them, please. (Applause.)
Welcome. We certainly welcome you. Thank you. Councilman O'Neill.
Yes. Madam President, I'd like to be excused from this session at this time. I will try to get back, but if I don't, I'd like to be recorded as voting aye on all bills and resolutions. Thank you.
Thank you. Leave will be granted. Can I see you at side-bar for a moment, please.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended in order to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill and resolution on your behalf and one on my own that was signed by every member of Council, one resolution.
That is on your behalf. One bill and one resolution that are yours.
Thank you. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire fee simple title to some or all of certain real estate parcels in Tinicum Township, Delaware County.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution marking the 40th anniversary of Ms. Edie Huggins' television broadcasting career and honoring Ms. Huggins for more than 40 years of accurate news reporting and community service by declaring Thursday, March 30, 2006 as Edie Huggins Day.
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 please say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution adopting findings of fact and conclusions of law with respect to certain appeals filed in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas regarding Council's decision disapproving applications to sell malt and brewed beverages for consumption off premises.
The Chair again 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 please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located at 8011 Frankford Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 45th and 56th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have two resolutions for introduction.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 11th and 13th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing Coach John Cheney for his retirement for 24 seasons at Temple University.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring the 175th Jubilee of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring St. Joseph's University Hand in Hand Program on the occasion of its 30th anniversary.
Thank you, Madam President. I should have mentioned that resolution is being co-sponsored by Councilman O'Neill and signed by all members. I move the adoption of that resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution, co-sponsored by Councilmembers Jim Kenney, Donna Reed Miller and Frank DiCicco.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Streets and Services to hold hearings regarding recycling, the low rate of recycling in the City currently and potential methods to increase the recycling division rate.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Streets and Services. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring the National Community Reinvestment Coalition on the occasion of its 2006 Annual Conference entitled Economic Injustice - the Ongoing Hurricane.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one privileged resolution.
A resolution honoring Teen Writers Guild of Frankford High School who published the first book entitled "What We Want to Tell You," comprised of 16 students' authored poems, short stories, essays, musical lyrics.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer three bills and one resolution. The resolution is co-sponsored by my colleagues Councilman Rizzo and Kenney.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by adding a new section, entitled "Off-Street Parking Control District."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located at 140 to 54 North Christopher Columbus Boulevard.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to extend the term of lease agreement between the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority as landlord and the City of Philadelphia as tenant for office space at 1234 Market Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation for its commitment and excellence in preserving, protecting and promoting Chinatown as a viable ethnic residential and business community on the occasion of its 40th anniversary 2006.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Madam President, point of order.
Yes. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: The bill that was read into the record, I failed to mention that you were the co-sponsor, on the parking bill.
That's fine. Thank you. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Clarke.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 15th, 18th and 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Very well. Does anyone else have any bills or resolutions to offer? I think I was told by one of the Councilmembers that had to leave that -- Councilwoman Miller, do you have -
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of Councilman Frank Rizzo, I offer one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating our Mother of Consolation Parish for promoting spiritual and academic growth in a Catholic Christian environment on the occasion of its 150th anniversary 2006.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Rules. Councilman Clarke, I believe you have a report for the Committee of Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, Committee on Rules reports seven bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 060043, entitled "An ordinance approving the fourth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the 45th and Sansom Urban Area; and Bill No. 060044, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by I-95, the Expressway, Island Avenue and the Philadelphia International Airport; and Bill No. 060054, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-1624 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "North Delaware Avenue Special District Controls"; and Bill No. 060055, entitled "An ordinance amending Bill No. 040369, which became law June 21, 2004, as amended, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 14-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Miscellaneous,' by adding a new section prohibiting the demolition of buildings or other structures by further extending an expiration date"; and Bill No. 060107, entitled "An ordinance approving the first amendment of the West Fairhill/East Tioga/Hunting Park Urban Renewal Area; and Bill No. 060116, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-1610 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Old City Residential Area Special District Controls"; and Bill No. 060117, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Bustleton Avenue, Fulmer Street, a railroad and Grant Avenue," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Madam President, I move that the rules of as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 060044, 060054, 060055, 060107 and Bill No. 060117. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 060044, 060054, 060055, 060110 -I'm sorry; 060107 and 060117. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Bill Nos. 060043 and 060116 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. At this time, the Chair a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Law and Government reports one bill and one resolution with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 060092, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled 'Referenda Approval by the Voters,' by adding a new section calling on the City to fight crime and violence through the use of surveillance"; and Resolution No. 060101, entitled "A resolution proposing an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled 'Referenda Approval by the Voters,' by adding a new section calling on the City to fight crime and violence through the use of video surveillance which will be implemented in a manner that protects civil liberties and legitimate privacy interests," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached resolution and bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
I move the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 060092. 3/16/06 - STATED - 1ST READING (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 060092. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution No. 060101 will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the bills on our First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 060044, 3/16/06 - STATED - 1ST READING an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by I-95, the Expressway, Island Avenue and the Philadelphia International Airport.
And Bill No. 060054, an ordinance amending Section 14-1624 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "North Delaware Avenue Special District Controls."
And Bill No. 060055, an ordinance amending Bill No. 040369, which became law June 21, 2004, as amended, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 14-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Miscellaneous,' by further extending its expiration date."
The 3/16/06 - STATED - 1ST READING Chair agrees.
And Bill No. 060107, an ordinance approving the first amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the West Fairhill/East Tioga/Hunting Park Urban Renewal Area.
And Bill No. 060117, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Bustleton Avenue and Grant Avenue.
And Bill No. 060092, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled "Referenda Approval by the Voters," by adding a new section calling on the City 3/16/06 - STATED - 2ND READING to fight crime and violence through the use of video surveillance.
The Chair agrees. And that completes the First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today on we will hear Bill No. 051144-A and on Bill Nos. 060011, 050744 and, finally, on the last page, Bill No. 060139. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 051144-A.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by 3/16/06 - STATED - 2ND READING amending Section 14-104, entitled "Non-Conforming Structures and Uses," by amending provisions relating to the reconstruction of non-conforming structures, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060011.
An ordinance amending Bill No. 050792, entitled "An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2006 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works by approving a Revised Capital Budget for Fiscal Year 2006 and by extending the time line related to line item transfers."
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 050744.
An ordinance naming and designating Lehigh Avenue Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia, located at 601 West Lehigh Avenue, as the Lillian Marrero Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia.
This 3/16/06 - STATED - 2ND READING bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The last bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 060139.
An ordinance 3/16/06 - STATED - 2ND READING amending Chapter 21-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Community Development," by extending the applicability period.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That completes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the Minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Madam President, I would just on behalf of the Irish of Philadelphia to wish everyone a very happy St. Patrick's Day.
And Happy St. Patty's Day to you. Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the Minority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. First, let me Kenney and certainly Councilman Kelly for remembering us in such a wonderful way for St. Patrick's Day, and I will say like Lou used to always say, I've been there for those who haven't. But I rise on my own to note that this week they've been covering dogs legislation on TV at night on Fox 29, and I note that back on March 1st, 3/1/01, we had Resolution 010135 and on November 15th of that year we heard Bill No. 010665. Councilwoman Miller may remember. Those she introduced. And on my own, I introduced the same year 010257. We introduced that on November 26, '01, and also a resolution, 010735, on December 13. So what we will do on behalf of this Council, I believe it is from Wilmington, is to submit recommendations. We had so much of a debate. Many of you will remember that the SPCA got very angry when we couldn't pass breed-specific legislation, which is what through, and certainly we will try to give them the benefit of our experience and all our hearings on these four pieces of legislation that we dealt with in a detailed manner back in '01. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. A few minutes ago we approved the naming of a library at 6th and Lehigh Avenue to be named after a very distinguished person who passed away a couple years ago named Lillian -- or last year, Lillian Marrero. On behalf of Councilman Mariano, I want to share these few words about Lillian Marrero. Lillian was a much loved and extremely effective librarian who passed away in 2005. During her 14-year career with the library, she reached innumerable Philadelphia, became a beacon of service and commitment. This will be the first time that a branch will be named for a librarian, and I can think of no one more deserving of this honor. Lillian also believed in the importance of the outward appearance of the library. She headed a $25,000 renovation to the branch and planted a garden of azaleas and trees at 6th and Lehigh Avenue. She could often be seen outside sweeping the sidewalk and picking up litter to ensure that the library presented an attractive facade to the community. Her commitment and impact prompted the Governor's Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs to confer on her one of their first Pride Awards. The residents of the area around 6th and Lehigh are going to be very, very proud when her name goes up there, because we all have very vivid memories of her. Again, on behalf of Councilman Mariano and myself, we want to thank the you, my dear colleagues, for putting this name of a great woman at the library at 6th and Lehigh. Thank you.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. Last year we presented a citation to a young man for his children's book My Family Plays Music. His name is Elbrite Brown. He stopped by my office to give us an invitation to an exhibit that is going to be held at the African-American Museum at 701 Arch Street from March 17th until December 24th. It's called Silent Voices - Loud Echoes, and his work will be on display at that time. He asked me to invite the Council and again thank you for his recognition last year. Thank you.
Thank you. speeches on the part of the Majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam Chair, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, March 23rd at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, March the 23rd at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Thank you. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on March 16, 2006, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)