Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 2, 2019 11:02 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 COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting May 2, 2019
We're going to get started, if members will take their seats. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes the Reverend Dr. Kimberlee Johnson of Tasker Street Baptist Church. She is here today as the guest of Councilman Johnson. I would ask all guests, visitors, and members to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests, and visitors rise.)
Good morning, Councilman Clarke. Thank you, Councilman Johnson, for the invitation to come. I bring you greetings on behalf of Tasker Street Missionary Baptist Church. Will you pray with me. Gracious God, we thank you for the gift of life, for this brand new beautiful day, and for all of our blessings. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 ask, God, that you would come into this space and superintend the time. God, we pray that all that would be done here will be done in a way that honors you and gives honor to the people you have created. We thank you for everyone that has the best interest of the residents of the City of Philadelphia in mind. May everything here be done with integrity and honesty and with the greatest and the least among us in mind. We know in that, you will be glorified. We thank you for these and all other blessings. In your name, we pray. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you, Reverend, so much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you again, Reverend, for those Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 25th, 2019, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 25th, 2019 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 25th, 2019 stand approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests of leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Oh.
Good morning. On behalf of the minority, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to come down to 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 Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 back again. So, again, thank you so much for being here. We really appreciate you. At this time, the Chair will recognize Councilman Jones, who will present a resolution recognizing Jim Marino. Would Mr. Marino and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilman Jones, we have Councilman Johnson, Councilwoman Parker, and Councilwoman Blackwell and also Councilwoman Bass.
For many decades, Philadelphia suffered with an inferiority complex to New York and Washington, DC. I had to grow up listening to people bash our city, from its water to its nightlife. But then we started slowly being identified for world-class events. We started being Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 for things that were uniquely Philadelphia, whether it was water plugs, whether it was water ice, whether it was cheese steaks, but also as important was the Broad Street Run. And we want to thank no incidences, always professionally done, every now and then we got a Mayor out there to high five people going in. I don't think any of them ever ran, but maybe in the future we can get somebody to run. So we are here today to recognize Jim Marino for decades of service to the City of Philadelphia and the Recreation Department. Please join me in giving him a round of applause. (Applause.)
So the citation goes: Recognizing and honoring Jim Marino on the occasion of his retirement after decades of dedicated service to the Department of Parks and Rec, and as the Director of the Broad Street Run. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Whereas, Mr. Marino, affectionately known as Jim, is a longtime resident of the Roxborough Neighborhood of Philadelphia, in the Fourth Councilmanic District, where he resides with his wife, Gerri, and his two children, Allison and Christopher; and
Whereas, Marino started his service to the City of Philadelphia in the Summer of 1974, when he served as a Pool Attendant at Veterans Stadium and JFK Stadium, located in the Second Councilmanic District;
Whereas, since then, he has served in various roles on countless projects for the Department of Parks and Recreation in recreation centers across the City, including serving as Assistant Recreation Leader at Scanlon Recreation Center, Recreation Aide at Venice Island Playground, and Recreation Leader at Olney Recreation Center and -- help me out -- Captiolo Recreation Center; Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Whereas, in 1997, Marino became the Director of Philadelphia's Broad Street Run. Under this man's stewardship, the race has grown from 5,600 runners in 1998 -- listen to these figures -- 5,600 runners in 1998 to 40,000 runners in 2018 -- I wish I was one of them. I can't run -- becoming the nation's largest 10-mile race; and Whereas, Marino's elevation of the Broad Street Run did not go unnoticed. In 2005, he was named Assistant Parade Director for Philadelphia's legendary Mummers Parade;
And whereas, in 2006, Mr. Marino was selected as the, quote, "National Race Director of the Year," end of quote, by his peers. Additionally, in 2016, he was named as the Director of the Philadelphia Marathon; and
Whereas, Marino has served on numerous committees and boards on a national and local level, Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Track and Field, an organization which presented him with its Jesse Owens Award for Meritorious Service in 2015, and Back on My Feet Philadelphia, an organization that seeks to combat homelessness through the power of running and community support; and Whereas, Marino serves as an inspiration to all, having battled cancer while still having the strength and courage to be a dedicated leader in our community, touching the lives of Philadelphians with each project he has worked on; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes and honors Jim Marino on the occasion of his retirement after decades of dedicated service to the Department of Parks and Recreation, and as Director of the Broad Street Run.
Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Jim Marino as further evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body. Jim, congratulations. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Mr. Marino for remarks.
First of all, I want to thank my wife, Gerri, and my son, Christopher, for coming today. Chris is a senior at Roman Catholic High School up the street, so he got out for a couple classes, but since he's so close, he's got to go back. My daughter, Allison, was unable to be with us today. She's studying abroad in Rome. She's a junior at Penn State, living the life. So I want to make sure I recognize her. The three of them have sacrificed so much over the years with me doing all these various things that you've just heard about, and without Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 years, none of that would have been possible. So I just want to make sure I publicly acknowledge them for being so supportive. I also want to thank Councilman Jones and Josh Cohen and the rest of their staff, Charlita Davis, who is a wonderful friend of mine who worked on the Marathon for years with me, along with all of City Council for honoring me today with this award. It's so nice to get recognition for being a public servant. Many times they're overlooked. We have public servants throughout the City that I've worked with over the 40-year plus that do a great job day in and day out that go unnoticed, but without them, none of this happens. I am so pleased of the accomplishments that we've achieved as a group in the Parks and Rec Department over the years, not only in our neighborhood communities but also what Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 large scale. It's unheard of for a large-scale event such as the Broad Street Run to happen in most cities sponsored by a city, and we do this -- it's sponsored by the City because we own it. The Broad Street Run is owned by the Parks and Rec Department, but it's not technically sponsored by the City. Independence Blue Cross is a sponsor and there's other sponsors, but the money that's generated through the volunteer efforts and the groups that are participating and the American Cancer Society, who's the beneficiary of the Broad Street Run, we were lucky enough over my years of being in charge, we've raised over $6 million for the American Cancer Society. (Applause.)
And having that go full circle, as you heard, I am a cancer survivor. So the research dollars somewhere along the line helped saved my life. I am a pancreatic cancer survivor. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 (Applause.)
And Councilman Oh and I got to speak at their Purple Strides race a couple years ago on behalf of the Pancreatic Cancer Program. But as you hear lately in the news with Alex Trebek having Stage 4, I was lucky. I was diagnosed early. I was Stage 1. You never hear that about pancreatic cancer. So my promise to the doctors was that I would tell my story, and I do tell my story. If you're getting a CAT scan, get checked. Tell them to take a look at your pancreas, because it's not something that they pre-screen for. That's why it develops into Stage 4. There's no symptoms. I had my cyst for three years and it was never a symptom until it finally went malignant, and then they went and got it, Stage 1. Very lucky, very lucky, very lucky. (Applause.) Stated Meeting May 2, 2019
So spread the word. Tell your people to get checked. It's important. It's important what the City employees do day in and day out. Thank them at your local rec centers. All the people that work at these rec centers work extremely hard to provide activities for all members of the community, young and old, and it's been a proud part of my life to be able to be a public servant, and I take it as a privilege that I know each and every one of the Councilpeople do also, and for that, I am extremely grateful. I've been lucky enough, as you mentioned, about the different mayors being at the race. I've been lucky enough that I've worked under eight mayors. Think about that. How is that for survival? So I've seen the full run of how things operate in this government. And with Councilman Jones's support and the community, him and I are working Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 help improve the Belmont Plateau cross country courses. I'm going to continue to stay involved in that even though I'm retired, but that is one of our diamonds in the rough. Just like yesterday you heard about the Schuylkill River, Belmont Plateau is the same type of situation and we want all your support for that. So thank you once again. I appreciate everybody honoring me today and the Councilpeople for being involved. Josh, it's always a pleasure working with you in Roxborough, and thank you very much, everyone. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you, and congratulations. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker, who will Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Would Patricia Alford and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilwoman Parker, we have Councilman Johnson, Councilman Green, Councilman Taubenberger, Councilman Greenlee, Councilwoman Blackwell, and Councilman Jones and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and Councilman Domb.
As we continue to get assembled here, I want you to know that it is indeed an honor and a privilege that I join with my sorer, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown. Sorer Councilwoman, how many years for you on Delta?
1996. 25 Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 years, this is my 25th anniversary this year. So it is indeed an honor and a privilege that we continue with what is the 16th anniversary of a tradition established by our former colleague and my mentor and teacher, Sorer Councilwoman Marian Tasco, in honoring Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and its Youth Day here in City Council. Let me just say on a personal note that all of our sorors who are here today are women who wholeheartedly believe that intelligence is the torch of wisdom. We are proud to follow in the footsteps of our founders. And for the record, for those of you who may not be familiar, now if you are an American or live anywhere in this world and you don't know Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, there are some challenges, but nevertheless just in case, you need to know of some notable Deltas who have made a traditional impact on our globe: Shirley Chisholm, Ruby Dee, Patricia Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Harris, Dr. Dorothy Height, Shirley Jackson, Elaine Jones, Barbara Jordan, Carrie Meek, Stephanie Tubbs Jones. And my favorite story of all sorors is when Soror Alexis Herman was making history and becoming the Secretary of Labor in our United States of America during the Clinton Administration, and as she was being sworn in, they came outside to take a photo and President Clinton says to our sorer, Who are those women in red? And it was a slew, a sea of red on the steps. And our soror said, Oh, Mr. President, those are my sisters. So it is indeed an honor to be here today. We want to say a special thank you to Sorer Pat Alford from our Quaker City Chapter, who started the organizing of this event and working with Councilwoman Marian Tasco some years ago. The resolution reads as follows: A resolution recognizing and honoring the members of Delta Sigma Theta Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Sorority, Incorporated's Philadelphia Alumnae, Quaker City Alumnae, and Valley Forge Alumnae Chapters on the occasion of Delta Youth Day at Philadelphia City Council.
We would be remiss not to salute the sister of Jannie from Cheyney, Patricia Banton, who is also a member of our distinguished sorority. Whereas, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was founded on the campus of Howard University in 1913 by twenty-two phenomenal and trendsetting collegiate women who saw no limit to their vision for sisterhood, scholarship, and service. Delta's founders stepped out on faith to march with the suffrages and took a stand for social justice as their first public act so black women were a part of that movement. More than 105 years later, they continued their legacy of leadership by following in the footsteps of their founders and remain in Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 as a voice for those in need; Whereas, since its founding, more than 200,000 women have joined this sorority. The organization is a sisterhood of predominantly black college-educated women. The sorority currently has 1,000 collegiate and alumnae chapters located in the United States, England, Japan, Germany, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Republic of Korea, who proudly embraced their 2017-2019 biennial theme of Joy in Our Sisterhood, Power in Our Voice, and Service in Our Heart. And on a final note of personal privilege, my daughter is a legacy, a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, whereby she was President of her chapter at Syracuse University.
And since we're talking about family, both my mother, wife, and sister are members of Delta Sigma Theta, Incorporated. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Whereas, the Philadelphia Quaker City and Valley Forge Alumnae Chapters share much more than a local bond. In fact, they are each members of a robust Pennsylvania statewide network that includes twenty-six collegiate and alumnae chapters in the Mighty Eastern Region. From Philadelphia to York, Allegheny to Erie and many counties in between, these dynamic women of diverse educational and professional backgrounds join together to proudly institute the sorority's Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, which includes a laser focus on Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement through service to their local and national communities; and
Whereas, in 1927, eleven members of the Gamma Chapter, led by Sadie T.M. Alexander, the first national President Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Sorority, formed the nucleus of Xi Sigma. They together stressed the importance of the academic excellence, advocating for progressive and equitable social, political, and educational policies in the 20th Century. The charter members became leaders in the communities in which they lived, and in 1956, the nomenclature of all graduate chapters were changed and Xi Sigma was proudly renamed the Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter; and
The determined members of the Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter humbly celebrate their 2018-2019 accomplishments which include: serving as the host chapter for the Eastern Regional stop of the Sorority's PRIDE IN OUR HERITAGE TOUR, which featured an enlightening dialogue between Sorors Dr. Johnetta B. Cole and Nikki Giovanni; hosting the outstanding Delta GEMS Institute and the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy programs; leading the Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Empowerment Community Conference; prioritizing mental health awareness for African Americans; and addressing the need for worldwide clean water by making contributions to Water for Children throughout the continent of Africa. The Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter are Deltas leading by example; and
Whereas, the Quaker City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was chartered on October 17th, 1976 on the campus of La Salle University. There, twenty-eight enthusiastic young women were dedicated to combining their visions, skills, and energies to establish a new alumnae chapter in the Philadelphia metropolitan area. The goal of the chapter was to enhance the Philadelphia community through its public service endeavors, bringing life to the mantra that Deltas were a Sisterhood called to Serve; and Stated Meeting May 2, 2019
Whereas, the diligent women of the Quaker City Alumnae Chapter humbly celebrate their 2018 to 2019 accomplishments which include: securing a pathway to education by awarding six thousand dollars in scholarships to local students; working with Habitat for Humanity to build quality homes for families in need; lobbying members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly and United States Congress for an equitable investment in education funding, fair housing laws, affordable healthcare, gun control laws, and sentencing reform; as well as fundraising to support breast cancer research and non-profit organizations working to end human trafficking. The Quaker City Alumnae Chapter are Deltas demonstrating leadership and service through their work; and
Not to be outdone, my daughter and my sister-in-law are members of this fine sorority. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Whereas, on February 10th, 1991, the Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter was chartered with an initiation membership of twenty-seven committed women. The Chapter has since grown to a membership of 170 dynamic, energetic, and hard-working women who continue to live in their mission to provide leadership and scholarship to youth in our community, support projects that transform the lives of families participating in charitable events, and serve as social activists; and
Whereas, the dutiful women of the Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter humbly celebrate their 2018 to 2019 accomplishments which include: serving as a lead supporter for the Valley Forge National Historical Park initiative to educate visitors on the contributions of African descendents during periods of war; helping to foster a love of reading among elementary students through participation in the Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 "Read It" program, reaching well over 200 children per month; building classroom libraries through book and financial donations; and supporting the efforts of the American Red Cross via the Sound the Alarm program, the Pillowcase Project, the Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief telethon, blood drives, and volunteer engagement. The Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter are Deltas building a better tomorrow; and
Whereas, the members of each of these respective chapters' Social Action Committees have furthered their commitment to social and political engagement by empowering and encouraging student activism through the, quote, "Election Ambassador Corps," the, quote, "Behind the Ballot," end of quote, Girls Badge, and continued participation in Youth Leadership Day, where students observe Councilmembers in action and are Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 engage with Councilmembers who represent the districts where the students reside; and Whereas, the women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated continue to be magnificent examples of servant leaders with an uncompromising commitment to their community, which is exemplified in today's annual event of the Delta Youth Day at Philadelphia City Council that was created at the behest of the Quaker City Alumnae Chapter; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby proudly recognizes and honors the members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated's Philadelphia Alumnae, Quaker City Alumnae, and Valley Forge Alumnae Chapters on the occasion of Delta Youth Day at Philadelphia City Council. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated's Philadelphia, Quaker City, and Valley Forge Alumnae Chapters as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Ladies and gentlemen, please give the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated a round of applause. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Ms. Alford for remarks.
Good morning. On behalf of my President, Shawn Anthony, and on behalf of our national organization, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, I want to thank you for allowing us to bring the youth here to see how you work. And we always tell the young people that they're not just people sitting there. They're really working in your interest. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 being born and raised in Philadelphia in the University City area, I got a fine education. I lived in a very nice house. We struggled. I hate hamburger and chicken every night for about four or five years after my parents purchased a home, but Delta Sigma Theta, not only are we educated, our job is to educate the people in the community. Our job is to go back and give the community the resources and the things that they need so they can be successful like I was successful or they were successful. We know the City has worked really hard, and we heard that this morning, in developing programs and putting Philadelphia on the map, but I have to remind everybody that nice housing is nice, but when you make $15 an hour, you don't get $32,600 a year. You can't afford the new apartments that are going up, and you have two kids and the apartments are saying that it's $2,800 a Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 to somebody that is able to go to University of Penn Hospital, Temple University, whatnot, to get the resources they have for the illness that they have if you have no healthcare. You cannot figure out whether or not you're going to be represented in the upcoming count for the census. We're going to do everything we possibly can to make sure every citizen in Philadelphia is counted so the money could come to our city so it can help every citizen in the City of Philadelphia. I just want to say, Sorer Reynolds Brown, you have been an inspiration to us. Lord, we will miss you. I just want to let you know that they do have positions on the state and the national level, and if you go there, you will see this red every week, no problem whatsoever. I just want to thank you again Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 to show our youth what it's like in the future, what they have for the future, and we will be meeting in a few minutes. The last thing is, on your table there is a pen and it's a pen light. You pull off the end. Save that. And you push it and it lights up. I want you to make sure that every day you push this pen and be reminded that there's Deltas here behind you. We can work together to make it better for everybody in the City of Philadelphia. Thank you. (Applause.)
Greetings to President Clarke, our other City officials, and our guests here today. My name is Tracey Howard. I'm the President of Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. We thank you for having us here today and for recognizing our contributions that we have done in the community. We can't do it without Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 you, so we do thank you for attending all of our fundraisers, our other events, but those funds help us stay in the community and host programs that help our youth, families, and we also take care of scholarships. Our presence here today for the Delta Youth Day, we're hoping not just the youth but also other citizens that are here, we're hoping that our presence shows you that it's important to stay politically involved. Stay engaged with what is going on in the City. Make an impact by voting. Be a longtime voter. Have an impact on the decisions that are going to affect you, your family, and your community. That's how we're going to start by touching our youth today. We're hoping to have dialogue with them. This social action engagement is, I want to say, what is needed, not just today but we're hoping every day. And, again, welcome. Welcome. Thank you for recognizing us. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 (Applause.)
Good afternoon. I'm Linda Miller and I'm Co-Chair of Social Action Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter, and our President is Dr. Monica Johnson Taylor. I don't have to say much more, but I need to say this: We have work to do in our communities. We have work to do. (Applause.)
And Council should always reach out to Delta at any time when there's work in their community that they need help for, because we are the Red Army, and we're called the Red Army because we know we got work to do and we stay woke. So when you have challenges coming down the road, and we know the next biggest challenge is going to be the census, we're going to be out there making sure and helping you and helping get money to make sure that count is Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 to thank Cherelle Parker, Councilwoman Parker, for inviting us here, Councilwoman Brown for always being there, and Councilman Darrell Clarke for keeping it moving. So I want to thank -- and all the other Councilmembers that are here, keep doing what you're doing, because the Red Army is watching you. So thank you so much. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you and, again, congratulations. 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, please read those Stated Meeting May 2, 2019
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 1, 2019, I signed all of the bills which were passed by Council at its session on April 25, 2019; 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 Germantown Redevelopment Area, identified by house number and street address as 65 West 10th Street; and An ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia Department of Public Health to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Human Services, whereby additional funds could be made available to City Federally Qualified Health Centers; and Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Income and Receipts Taxes," by amending Section 19-2606, entitled "Returns," to revise filing requirements, 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 the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions this morning.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I have two bills.
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 180285) approved June 6, 2018, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania to install, own and maintain various encroachments at 1 Convention Avenue."
And an ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Human Services, whereby additional funds could be made available Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 to City Federally Qualified Health Centers.
Referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer one resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-Second Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Next week's Calendar. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Designation of Bicycle Lanes," to authorize bicycle lanes on Richmond Street, from Lewis Street to Berkshire Street.
Referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Joanne Dahme for her many years of Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 service as the General Manager of the Public Affairs Division for the Philadelphia Water Department.
Today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Council President, I have two bills and one privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," to revise certain provisions of Chapter 14-500, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by creating an overlay district entitled "/WOA, West Oregon Avenue Overlay District."
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land in the area bounded by Passyunk Avenue, Ritner Street, 22nd Street, Oregon Avenue, Vare Avenue, and 24th Street.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Legislative Oversight to conduct hearings to examine the progress of the Free Library of Philadelphia and the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation in pursuing organizational goals including expanding hours, reducing unplanned closures and delayed openings.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Correction. The last bill that was read by the Chief Clerk shall be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Council President. I have one bill on my behalf and one non-privileged resolution on behalf of Councilmember Sanchez.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Income and Receipts Taxes," by amending Section 19-2606, entitled "Returns," to revise filing requirements.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of 3217 Shelbourne Street located in the Seventh Councilmanic District.
Next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 non-privileged.
A non-privileged resolution commending various local private, not-for-profit, and governmental entities for adopting the "Accessible Icon", and calling on the City of Philadelphia to utilize this logo for all new public works projects.
Next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Good morning, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Good morning, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Roosevelt Boulevard, Blue Grass Road, and Grant Avenue.
Referred to committee. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Old Newtown Road, Tremont Street, Roosevelt Boulevard, Woodward Street, and Winchester Avenue.
Also referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
An ordinance amending Chapter 14-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by creating a new overlay entitled "9th St Market, South Ninth Street Overlay District"; and An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 land located in an area bounded by 4th Street, Race Street, Orianna Street, and Cherry Street; and An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Designated Bicycle Lanes," to authorize bicycle lanes in the First Councilmanic District on North 10th Street, from Buttonwood Street to Callowhill Street, and on Columbus Boulevard from Dilworth Street to Swanson Street; and An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Camac Street and Moyamensing Avenue; McKean Street and South 10th Street; Snyder Avenue and South 10th Street; Sartain Street and Mifflin Street; South Juniper Street and Jackson Street; Hoffman Street and South 7th Street; Wolf Street and South 11th Street; and An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: South 12th Street and Passyunk Avenue; Emily Street and South 8th Street; Dudley Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Street and South 7th Street through South 9th Street; Winton Street and South 11th Street; South 9th Street and McKean Street; South 13th Street and Morris Street.
Those five bills just read by the Chief Clerk will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one non-privileged resolution and one bill.
An ordinance approving a new plan, estimated costs and proposed method of assessment of the Germantown Special Services District of Philadelphia for and concerning business improvements and administrative services to the Germantown area of the City.
Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Referred to committee.
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 Germantown Redevelopment Area, identified by house number and street address as 65 West Penn Street.
Next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much, Council President. I offer one privileged resolution co-sponsored by Councilmembers Gym, Squilla, Henon, Taubenberger, and Bass.
A privileged resolution recognizing May 2019 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Philadelphia. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019
And that will be on today's Calendar. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions, and our next order of business is reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson for a report from the Committee of Transportation and Public Utilities.
Thank you, Council President. The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities, to which was referred Bill No. 180976, Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 "An ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner to enter into agreements to purchase electricity, natural gas and motor fuel for use by the City in City facilities and vehicles, including agreements that obligate payment for delivery of such energy supplies in future fiscal years," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 180976. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 of Bill No. 180976. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and this bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. That concludes our reports from committee, and our next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bill just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules has been deemed to have had a first reading. It 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 bills and Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 2ND READING resolutions on our Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today. They are Bill Nos. 190238, 190324, 190325, 190326, 190329, 190330, 190332, 190333, 190334, 190335, 190336, 190346, 181064-A, 180998, 190151, 190129, 190135, and 190231. All other bills and resolutions are being held.
Thank you. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Before doing so, we will have our public comment session. Our public comment session will go as follows: When your name is called, you will go to the middle of the Council Chambers. There's a podium. When your name is called, the podium has a device Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 on it. There's a light. When that light turns green, it 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'd ask that you please adhere to our guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes to testify. Mr. Decker, please call the name on the list.
Lauren Cheeseboro, commenting on 170408. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. I am here to ask you guys to not repeal the soda tax. The pre-K program is very beneficial to the community and the neighborhood and with the beverage tax being used for it. I have children that are in special needs in the pre-K program. I Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 have children that parents cannot afford childcare even with subsidies in the pre-K program, and this is very beneficial to the community.
Thank you. Thank you so much for your testimony. (Applause.)
Eliazaz Uzena, commenting on 170408. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, Council President Clarke, members of City Council. I'm here to support Resolution 170408 banning the suspension of elementary-aged students from the first through the fifth grades. This is important because every child deserves to have a chance to education and not feel Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 abandoned. I support more investments in our schools, but not -- beverage taxes is not a way to do this. I am a business owner in this community since 2007. We run a store of only three employees, down from four just a few years ago. Every day customers blame me for the increased costs because they can't -- they can just go across the street and not pay tax. Me and my wife have two other stores here in Philadelphia and they are struggling too. It's not just me. I mean, (unintelligible) fees by 33, 35 percent since the introduction of tax. If this tax remains, we will lose our business. Please repeal this tax. Thank you.
Rick Young, commenting on 170408. (Witness approached podium.)
I'm speaking on behalf of Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds and Councilwoman Gym to support the resolution for the School District of Philadelphia for prohibiting suspension of elementary school-aged students, but I'm also here to talk about some of the other things that I think is as equally as important. Neighborhood development. Neighborhood development should include everybody. Philadelphia is finally referred to as the City of Neighborhoods. A surge of new investment transforming communities into highly sought after Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 places to live, work, and play is not all a bad thing, but for the last 15 years, multi-million-dollar development projects has not been fair. Longtime residents and business people who have been committed to these neighborhoods have largely not been able to participate in the economic growth of our own community. The development has been -- development has not been diverse or inclusive. It has been done by developers who do not live in the neighborhood where they work or look like the residents. I'm an African American real estate developer, a long-life resident of Philadelphia. I started a business in my own community, created entrepreneurial programs in local elementary school. I still reside in the community where I grew up at. As a long-time minority business leader in West Philadelphia, I cannot outbid out-of-town millionaires for development opportunities in the Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 City. My story is not unique. It is the reality of many minority developers in Philadelphia. Currently Philadelphia Land Bank and the Redevelopment Authority bundle properties and they control and offer them at a higher bid. This may seem logical, but it is in fact painfully shortsighted and unfair when recognizing smaller developers participating for particularly minority developments and the lack of the same capital that other multi-millionaire developers have. Operating the City this way reduces the ability for smaller developers to build reasonable priced affordable projects in our neighborhoods. Look around to see the result. Luxury developments are going up in every community that the average Philadelphian cannot afford. Small local developers minority business people do not get to participate in the economic in their neighborhoods. This is very important. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Some City Councilmembers have been criticized for trying to include local business people, including myself, in the real estate development taking place in our community. I applaud this effort. It is unacceptable to me and should be unacceptable to everyone that minority developers are scolded for seeking the same seat at the table as larger developers. I challenge the City to use its resources to create more fair opportunity for smaller local developers participating in the economic development in our neighborhoods. I would like to see more development done by local diverse developers with a local diverse workforce. Not all neighborhood growth in Philadelphia should go to outside developers just because they have big bank accounts. Allowing more local developers who participate in transforming our communities has the Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 potential of producing thoughtful development, lasting benefits for community, more business role models, more community participation, more development dollars stay in the community and the neighborhood to help local folks, neighborhood development in Philadelphia that includes all of our neighborhoods.
181063, if we're going to talk about going green like we need to, why in the world would we be opening new contracts for gas? This is a humanitarian crisis, an economic, social, and justice crisis. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 When will we think about the kids? We already have blood on our hands. Until we act drastically, the toll will continue to increase. Philadelphia is the top five worst places to live for risk of asthma. Asthma is the leading cause for absentee days for kids. Over 12 percent of kids in school have asthma. Over 900,000 Philadelphians have asthma. Philadelphia has the highest rate of hospitalization due to asthma. Portland recently put out buses that are run 100 percent on renewables. Why can't Philly step up? Fossil fuels should be extinct. Thank you. (Applause.)
Meenal Raval, commenting on 181063. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. I'm Meenal Raval here to speak on actually three items, 170706, 181063, and 181081. They're all about the climate crisis and our dependence on fracked gas. I am aware that only the second one, Bill 181063, is on the agenda today. The first item, Resolution 170706, is from September of 2017. I bring it up to remind ourselves that it commits the City of Philadelphia to meet or exceed our share of the target set by the Paris Climate Accord to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Sponsors of that bill were many of you here today - Councilmember Cindy Bass, Derek Green, Kenyatta Johnson, Helen Gym, Curtis Jones, Blondell Reynolds Brown, Bobby Henon, Jannie Blackwell, and David Oh. The emissions from PGW are about 22 percent of Philadelphia's emissions. What's been done to reduce these emissions in light of our commitment to the Paris Accord a year and Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 a half ago? Related is Bill 181063 that you've -- well, I just talked about that. It's about the energy facility. And Resolution 181081 about the future of PGW beyond selling more fracked gas. All three of these connected in my head when I read yesterday's New York Times article titled "Your Gas Bill is Bad for You and the Planet." It says to help solve the climate crisis, we need to electrify everything. I highly recommend this article. Some quotes from it. In Berkeley, Councilwoman Kate Harrison is proposing a ban on gas hookups in new buildings in an effort to make sure the city follows through on its 2018 declaration of a climate emergency, a policy idea for us. Stoves actually use very little energy, but until people are convinced that there are superior alternatives to gas stoves, we will not be able to get rid of gas lines to buildings and start Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 saving large amounts of money by shutting down the gas distribution system. The article also says gas stoves are polluting our homes, that there's a growing body of scientific evidence showing that gas stoves throw off pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide that when you are cooking, these invisible pollutants can easily reach levels that will be illegal outdoors, but the Clean Air Act does not reach inside the home. So scientists link gas stoves to asthma attacks and hospitalizations, and doctors at John Hopkins urge parents with asthmatic children to get rid of their gas stoves, et cetera. So I'm here today asking all of you to step up to remember the Paris Climate Accord and each of your pledges to work towards it. I'm asking each of you to be our climate champion this coming election and leave us a memorable legacy. There are many of us ready to Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 work with you on the transition. Who will it be? Ms. Bass, Mr. Green, Mr. Johnson or Ms. Gym? I can read the whole list off. Mr. Jones, Ms. Reynolds Brown, Henon, Ms. Blackwell or you, Mr. Oh? We need climate champions, people.
Thank you. Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.)
Jacqueline Wiggins, commenting on 190231. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, everyone. Good afternoon. The 190231 reads, "An ordinance approving a Substantial Amendment to the Annual Action Plan 2018-2019 for $19,131,000 from the Housing Trust Fund Non-Recording Fee Sub-Fund, all under certain terms and conditions." Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 I'm here today to talk in terms of if this is to be supported, what does it mean and what does it mean "under certain terms and conditions"? I should hope that some of those certain terms and conditions would mean that we do something about our trash problem. Our trash problem is outrageous, as we know, but there are some issues. And, Councilman Clarke, I'm directing this really to you. In an April 18th article in the Philadelphia Tribune, the article had to do with our streets, and Commissioner Carlton Williams did give comment and so forth. But I'm concerned about the last paragraph of that article that says, City Council President Darrell Clarke said that City residents are responsible for the condition of the streets as well. I can agree to that. Here's the quote: "You talked about this issue" -- this is you speaking, Councilman Clarke. "You talked Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 about this issue of environmentally sound ways of moving trash off the street, said Clarke. I think the most environmentally sound way of doing that is for people to stop throwing trash on the street. At the end of the day, people in this city need to stop being pigs." Now, I just want you to know that Philadelphia taxpayers who pay salaries here, yours, we are not pigs. All right? We are hard-working people. We are people who are deserving of more than that type of descriptor. And so with respect to this part where it says this $19 million, all under certain terms and conditions, my hope would be that we would have more trash receptacles in our city, that there would be other ways in which the trash can be disposed of, and that we not be treated as animals. We are human beings. Thank you. (Applause.)
Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 Thank you for your testimony.
Joe Danihel, commenting on 190195, 190325, 190324, 190329, 190332, 190333, and 190334. (Witness approached podium.)
This is an official decree of the people in writ of mandamus quo warranto and, as such, requires immediate action and remedy. Did Council accuse a presidential candidate of buying votes for buy the weed and a 40? Did Council deny and derive any election oversight by the Commonwealth? Last week, Council awarded the City for conducting the most fair elections. Were most educated by a law school, whose professor stated he didn't see a problem with anyone trying to vote twice. Then Councilperson Blackwell expressed Council's concern for the homeless and downtrodden. Did Council Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 forget the June 2018 illegal but unanimous approval to build a mall on top of my stolen home with federal HUD money? Are the willful and illegal oath-violating behaviors so numerous, one needs a scorecard to keep up? If U.S. Attorney General McSwain stated failure to perform a known duty or task is illegal, then why have no attorney generals refused to investigate and prosecute the numerous oath, Constitution, and law violations? The constitutions require immediate remedy of this breach of law, breach of close, breach of fiduciary duty. Your oath of office requires you to act or face prison. 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1987; 18 USC 241, 242, 2381, 2384; PA Constitution, Article I, Sections 1 through 28; 26 PA CSA 703, 705, 708, 709, 711, 712, 713, 716, 902, and other laws listed in SCOTUS 15-8965, 14-1330, 14-4056 appear violated. Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 I call on the federal and Commonwealth governments to perform their constitutional obligations to investigate and prosecute all involved in the illegal theft and deed transfer of my home, 1038 West Wyoming Avenue. The denial of God-given 42 USC 1982 property rights for 25 years is egregious, extraordinary, oath-violating, and requires immediate remedy. A just government must obey the rule of law. This color of law government must have its Charter to govern revoked until a constitutionally compliant government is installed. Public servants cannot refuse their sworn duty to act any more than a fireman can refuse to fight a fire. The sovereign people require oath, Constitution, and law be enforced, and jail is required for all who violate oath, Constitution or law. I remind Council, it takes a lot of cooperation to create and allow Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 this monumental corruption.
Thank you very much for your testimony. (Applause.)
Ogbonna Hagins, commenting on 180723. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Ogbonna Hagins for the record. And actually I want to change this. I was going to talk about the dumping, but a few people before me talked about our environment, and the State Constitution is basically a green document and we're not here -
I'm speaking on -- Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 I was going to speak on 170408, but I want -- well, I'll speak on that.
Okay. But you have to speak about something that's on the Calendar.
Okay. Let me talk about not suspending children, right, under the fifth grade.
So we definitely shouldn't do that. I spoke about that about six months. I thought that would have obviously been gone, but I saw -- I got a report on Facebook about our schools, and in particular our schools in African American neighborhoods, and that there's a grading system that was distributed and that the schools in the hood are failing. That's primarily Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 African American children. And I remember when I was teaching and actually when I graduated, you know, our students can't read. Our students can't write. Six out of ten children who graduate can't read, write or do math on a high school level, and we're sitting around talking about not suspending children. We have to not let them graduate with a false document, with a false sense that they can go out here and succeed. And this is primarily happening to African American children with primarily African American leadership in City Council, and I don't understand how you can be sitting here and comfortable with that and not doing something drastic and radical to change this education system. We need a 21st century education system that keeps up with what's going on right now. Where is coding? Where is science, technology, engineering, and math? Where are our trades? Where are they? We need some Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 5/2/19 - STATED - 2ND READING answers. And I want to piggyback on this environment piece too. We have a green document in the state that basically says that we have a right to clean air and clean water. This dumping is violating our rights. Not keeping the streams clean is violating the State Constitution. Ogbonna Hagins, 58.
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. That concludes our public comment. We will now consider today's Calendar on bills and resolutions. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 190238.
A resolution Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 5/2/19 - STATED - 2ND READING condemning Pennsylvania State Representative Stephanie Borowicz's religious invocation on the day of the swearing-in of the first Muslim woman to ever serve in the General Assembly as Islamophobic and inappropriate.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 5/2/19 - STATED - 2ND READING Would you like to be recognized, Councilman? I'm sorry.
And anyone else? Councilman Oh. Let the record reflect that Councilman Oh and Councilman O'Neill voted nay. Thank you. Mr. Decker, 190324.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption. (Duly seconded.) Stated Meeting May 2, 2019 5/2/19 - STATED - 2ND READING
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. 190324 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 190325.
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2449 North Marston Street located in the Fifth Councilmanic District.