Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Via Microsoft Teams Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, June 10, 2021 10:22 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN 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 COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
Thank you, and good morning, everyone. We're going to get started. I understand that the state law 00:00:29 currently requires that the following announcement be made at the beginning of every remote Council session: Due to the current public health emergency, City Council is 00:00:36 currently meeting remotely. We are using Microsoft Teams to make this remote meeting possible. Instructions for how the public may view the meeting and offer public comment are included in the Stated 00:00:45 Meeting notice that was published in the Daily News, Inquirer, and the Legal Intelligencer prior to the meeting, and can be also found on PHLCouncil.com. I now note that the hour has 00:00:56 come. The Clerk will please call the roll to take attendance. Members that are in attendance will please indicate that you are present when your name is called. We would like for your image to 00:01:05 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 the screen, so you may say a couple of additional words. Mr. McDermott, please call the roll. 00:01:15
I'm 00:01:19 sorry. Mr. Decker, please call the roll. I'm sorry, sir.
Good morning, Council President, colleagues, and the City of Philadelphia. 00:01:34
Good morning, Mr. President. Good morning, colleagues. I'm present.
Present. Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Good morning, 00:01:58 Philadelphia.
Good 00:02:04 morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. I am present.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. I am present.
Good morning, Mr. President and colleagues. Present. 00:02:54
Good 00:02:59 morning, Mr. President. Good morning, colleagues.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Present.
Good morning, Council President, and good 00:03:18 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 morning, colleagues.
And good morning to all. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes the 00:03:28 Reverend Robert Collier from Galilee Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Gym. I would ask all members and guests to please bow your heads for the 00:03:39 invocation.
Good morning, Council President Clarke. Thank you for the introduction. Let's pray. Heavenly Father, we come to 00:03:49 offer our prayer this morning. We begin by thanking you for keeping us safe over the night and waking us up this morning in our right minds with a good portion of health and strength. Not only that, 00:04:01 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Lord, but we thank you for providing our daily bread, a roof over our heads, and clothing on our backs. We thank you for these elected 00:04:09 officials who serve so diligently on City Council. Keep every Councilmember healthy and safe. Give them individually and collectively the wisdom that they need to make decisions that are best for 00:04:21 the citizens of Philadelphia regardless of zip code in which the residents reside. Whether they live in Northeast or North Philadelphia, in Kensington or Chestnut Hill, may all Philadelphians 00:04:34 have visible evidence that every Councilmember is equally concerned about them. Let no member of this esteemed body ever make a decision that robs the 00:04:45 poor and needy and give to the rich and prosperous. May every bill that is passed be based on what is right, just, and fair. Your word says that we have not 00:04:57 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 So during these times when the budget is being considered, we do have a few things to ask of you, God. 00:05:05 First, we ask that the $100 million for violence prevention that Black Clergy is advocating for to be used to fund successful violence prevention initiatives become a part of the budget. 00:05:16 Also, we ask that the $50 million for a youth-powered anti-violence agenda being requested by Councilmember Helen Gym and several other Councilmembers be a part of the budget. 00:05:30 A minimum of $150 million to fund community groups, job programs for youth, recreation center staffing and repairs, mental health programs is just the beginning of what is needed to stem 00:05:46 the spread of violence, especially gun violence. Let no member of City Council rest until he or she does his or her part to vote for a budget that helps curb the 00:05:57 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Gun violence is the second pandemic that we face. We know that it's not going to vanish on its own. 00:06:10 God, it took you directing the hands and minds of scientists for effective vaccines for COVID-19 to be found. Now because of that, we have seen a monumental reduction in the number of 00:06:20 people dying from COVID-19 pandemic. We know, God, that it will take that same kind of monetary investment to get rid of the gun violence. Lord, it was not your way or 00:06:34 your will that 499 people died of gun violence last year. We did not do our part. Heavenly Father, touch the hearts of Councilmembers and let the 00:06:46 budget reflect a minimum of $150 million targeted for violence prevention, especially the gun violence pandemic. Touch hearts, and let no tax breaks and tax cuts be given to those corporations 00:07:00 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 prospering, and let the tax money go where it belongs, to those who are suffering, suffering from hunger, suffering from homelessness, 00:07:11 suffering from rent evictions, suffering from mortgage foreclosure, suffering from the lack of adequate job opportunities, suffering from a lack of adequate mental healthcare, suffering because their 00:07:23 neighborhoods are deteriorating, suffering because for so long they have been neglected, bypassed, and discounted. Almighty God, we call on you to give the victory to the poor, give the 00:07:34 victory to the downtrodden, give the victory to that so that no mother or father will continue to cry out in pain and agony because their child was killed, be that child or 22, or 40.
00:07:48 We know that what we do for the least of these, we have done for you. Heal our city, God. Heal Philadelphia, God. This is our prayer. In the 00:07:59 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 matchless, marvelous, and miraculous name. Amen.
00:08:06 Amen. Okay. Very interesting invocation. Thank you for your spiritual guidance and actually thank you for your additional commentary. Thank you. 00:08:18
Okay. Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of 00:08:30 Thursday, May 27, 2021, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 27, 2021 00:08:40 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the 00:08:46 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Thursday, May 27, 2021 stand approved. All in favor indicate by saying aye. 00:08:51 (Aye.)
The 00:08:53 ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. And our next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker. 00:09:02
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the members of Council, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The 00:09:10 Chair thanks the Council Lady. And our next order of business is communications and, Mr. Decker, will you please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications that 00:09:19 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 your possession.
Yes, Mr. President. From the Mayor to the President 00:09:25 and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on June 9, 2021, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on May 27, 2021: 00:09:34 Bill Nos. 210074 and 210331; and I am submitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia 00:09:52 Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 2553 Kern Street in the First Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1931 00:10:03 through 33, 1939, 1943 North Lawrence Street, 431, 433, 434, 438, 443 Arlington Street, 415, 417, 418, 424 West Norris Street, 1707 North Orianna Street, 2914, 2916 through 2924, and 2926 North 2nd 00:10:24 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Seventh Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 28 00:10:35 Reger Street and 5026 North 7th Street located in the 8th Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to 00:10:43 execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon 00:10:52 situate in the Fifth Councilmanic District; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for 00:10:56 the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 1221 through 1225 North Fourth Street; and 00:11:07 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1921 South 6th Street and 2544 South 5th Street located in the 1st Councilmanic 00:11:14 District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2212 Fernon Street and 2214 Fernon Street located in the 2nd Councilman District; 00:11:24 and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1908 North Leithgow Street and 2547 North Mutter Street located in the 7th 00:11:31 Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1611 through 41 Ruan Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District; and 00:11:40 A resolution appointing George Pegram to the Board of Directors to the Philadelphia Municipal Authority; and A resolution appointing Jacqueline Dunn to the Board of Directors 00:11:48 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority; and A resolution reappointing Lynette Brown-Sow to the Board of 00:11:53 Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority; and A resolution appointing Michael Hill to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority; and 00:12:00 A resolution reappointing Robert Zuritsky to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, all under certain terms and conditions.
00:12:09 Thank you, Mr. Decker. Thank you very much. And our next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and by way of a reminder, we 00:12:31 are asking that all resolutions, including privileged resolutions, be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council, unless they are being referred to committee. In our 00:12:40 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 current remote environment, this procedure will provide an opportunity for public comment. And I want to thank you very much in advance for your anticipated 00:12:48 cooperation. Mr. Decker, please read the titles of the legislation that is being offered by the members today.
Councilwoman 00:12:57 Parker offers, on behalf of Council President Clarke, a resolution confirming the appointment of Matthew Stitt to the Board of the Philadelphia Energy Authority to serve in the term ending 00:13:10 January 1, 2024.
Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson offers two 00:13:19 resolutions. On behalf of Council President Clarke, Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson offers a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and 00:13:26 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District. 00:13:33
And on her own behalf, a resolution honoring and recognizing Adam Agalloco for his service 00:13:39 to the City of Philadelphia.
Councilwoman Gym offers one resolution, entitled a 00:13:47 "Resolution urging the Pennsylvania Department of Public Health to restore funding to the Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, and recognizing 00:13:56 the SCDAA/PDVC's nearly 39-year dedication to providing culturally competent services and to raising awareness of the serious condition of sickle cell disease." 00:14:09 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
Councilman Jones offers an ordinance approving an 00:14:15 amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of the City Avenue Special Services District of Philadelphia and Lower Merion to extend the term of existence of the District to December 31, 00:14:23 2042.
Councilman Johnson offers a resolution urging 00:14:32 Congress to pursue reconciliation and reparations regarding the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and the lasting devastation it caused.
Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez offers three resolutions, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to 00:14:49 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 dispose of 1931 through 33, 1939, 1943 North Lawrence Street, 431, 433, 434, 438, 443 Arlington Street, 415, 417, 418, 424 West Norris Street, 1707 North 00:15:04 Orianna Street, and 2914, 2916 through 24, and 2926 North 2nd Street located in the Seventh Councilmanic District."
And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1908 North Leithgow Street and 2547 North Mutter Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District. 00:15:24
And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1611 through 1641 Ruan Street 00:15:28 located in the 7th Councilmanic District.
Councilwoman Brooks and Councilwoman Bass offer a 00:15:40 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 resolution recognizing and honoring the staff of the Philadelphia Department of Parks & Recreation for their dedicated service as essential workers through the 00:15:47 COVID-19 pandemic.
Councilman Domb offers a resolution authorizing the 00:15:55 Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings regarding making permanent in the Philadelphia Code to permit outdoor dining spaces on city streets and sidewalks and the outdoor 00:16:04 entertainment sidewalk cafe rules established during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Councilwoman 00:16:13 Gauthier offers three resolutions, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying 00:16:24 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon situate in the Third Councilmanic 00:16:29 District."
And a resolution recognizing Saturday, June 19, 2021, as 00:16:34 Juneteenth Independence Day in the City of Philadelphia, in honor of June 19, 1865, the day when enslaved Black people were finally freed in the United States of America, declaring the annual 00:16:49 Juneteenth Philly Festival and Johnson House Historic Site Festival as Philadelphia's official Juneteenth celebrations, and advocating for the City of Philadelphia to become the official 00:16:58 home of the National Juneteenth Celebration Day Celebration.
And a resolution 00:17:05 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 celebrating the life and honoring the memory of Saboor Muhammad.
Councilman Thomas offers one resolution honoring and congratulating 19-year-old R&B singer and Philadelphia native, Cam Anthony, for winning season 20 of The Voice, $100,000, 00:17:25 and a recording contract with Universal Music Group.
Councilman 00:17:36 Squilla offers three resolutions, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying 00:17:41 fee simple title to 2553 Kern Street in the First Councilmanic District."
And a resolution 00:17:49 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1921 South 6th Street and 2544 South 5th Street located in the 1st Councilmanic District. 00:17:56
And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2201 East Tioga Street located 00:18:00 in the 1st Councilmanic District.
Councilwoman Bass offers one bill and one resolution, 00:18:10 entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-4116 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Public Health Emergency Leave,' to expire upon termination of the federal Proclamation 9994 of National Emergency 00:18:23 Concerning the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic."
Mr. Decker, was that a bill or resolution? 00:18:34 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
And a resolution proposing the establishment of the Philadelphia Promise Trust Fund.
There are no other bills or resolutions being offered by the members, Mr. President.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. 00:18:57 That concludes the introduction of bills and resolutions, and our next order --
Mr. President? I apologize, 00:19:03 Mr. President. I'd like to be recognized regarding the Promise Trust Fund.
Thank you, 00:19:12 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Mr. President. Over the years we've all seen the articles and stories about very wealthy individuals sitting on tiny 00:19:18 chairs in kindergarten classrooms with a group of hopeful five-year-olds. The cameras flash and the smiling children celebrate the announcement of a fund established to get them to college. Not 00:19:30 one of them or some of them, but all of them understand that this is a game-changer. This is something that will give them a real shot, something to look forward to. 00:19:45 The notion that college is attainable is a game-changer for these kids, and the donors know it. The teachers know, the parents know, and even the five-year-olds know that something 00:19:56 big is going to happen to me. Over the years, an article comes out here or there touting their progress until finally an article comes out detailing the end result, which is 00:20:06 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 usually that almost all of those same youth have been accepted to college and are on their way. The fund was established, the 00:20:14 promise was kept, and off they go to a world of opportunities and possibilities that otherwise would have likely been -that would have been unlikely to materialize. 00:20:26 Fast forward to 2021 and the need to go big, the need to go bold, the need to fundamentally change the trajectory of our young people who feel they have nothing to aim for. Where is 00:20:38 the fund established for their futures? What promises have we made? How can we have expectations of a better forward-facing path for them if those of us who have gone before them do not build 00:20:53 that path? And that's what we're going to do through establishing the Philadelphia Promise Trust Fund. Similar to other funds established in other cities, states, and 00:21:03 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 countries around the world, the Philadelphia Promise Trust Fund would set aside a lump sum of money to invest directly in our youth. As an individual 00:21:14 who is eligible turns 18, funds set aside will be available for investment in higher education such as college or trade and technical school or investment in their first home when they're ready, a 00:21:27 business venture, or other future endeavor. We believe the investment of 500 million to youth in target income brackets, zip codes, and/or census tracks 00:21:37 will complement the other calls for investment in this budget. These funds could come from the American Rescue Act or from the other grants being received from the Biden administration that are 00:21:49 meant to transform our cities and the futures of those left behind. We have a real opportunity to have a robust discussion on what we're really going to do to change the lives 00:22:00 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 people in the City, and let's not waste a moment when we could begin changing lives immediately. Thank you, Mr. President. 00:22:09
Thank you, Councilwoman. Thank you very much. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions, and our next 00:22:16 order of business is reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Green for a report from the Committee of Finance. 00:22:24
Thank you, Council President. The Committee on Finance reports out four bills with a favorable recommendation.
00:22:30 Thank you. Mr. Decker, read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, 00:22:37 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Bill No. 210475, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Director of Planning and Development, on behalf of the City, to file applications 00:22:49 with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant; to file applications to participate in the HOME Investment Partnership program and 00:22:58 the Emergency Solutions Grant program; and to apply for a Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS grant"; and Bill No. 210476, entitled "An ordinance approving the amendment to the 00:23:09 Fiscal Year 2021 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works (including the supplying of funds in connection therewith) subject to certain constraints 00:23:18 and conditions"; and Bill No. 210477, entitled "An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2022 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the 00:23:28 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 (including the supplying of funds in connection therewith) subject to certain constraints and conditions"; and 00:23:35 Bill No. 210508, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer, on behalf of the City, to enter into a provider agreement with Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania for provision of payroll 00:23:44 banking services to the City," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. 00:23:52
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, 00:23:59 Council President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 210475, 210476, 210477, and 210508. (Duly seconded.) 00:24:19 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit 00:24:22 first reading this day of Bills No. 210475, 210476, 210477, and 210508. All those in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) 00:24:32
The ayes have it, and they will be placed on 00:24:34 our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Parker for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank 00:24:44 you, Mr. President. The Committee on Law and Government reports out five bills and three resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
00:24:52 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Decker, please read the report.
The Committee on 00:24:57 Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 200075, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in 00:25:05 a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation of a Department of Fleet Services"; and 00:25:13 Bill No. 210329, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Fair Practice Ordinance: Protections Against Unlawful Discrimination,' to require the 00:25:23 use and disclosure of uniform screening criteria for rental housing and certain related disclosures to prospective rental housing applicants, and to provide that the failure to provide such disclosures 00:25:34 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 other unlawful housing and real property practices"; and Bill No. 210330, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-800 of The 00:25:44 Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Landlord and Tenant,' by adding a new Section 9-810, entitled 'Prospective Tenant Screening Practices,' to regulate the application and selection process for housing units"; 00:25:55 and Bill No. 210501, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to The 00:26:04 Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to revise provisions related to the manner of selection from eligible lists for vacancies and promotions in the civil service system, as approved by Resolution 00:26:12 of the City Council"; and Bill No. 210507, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to The 00:26:22 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 to provide for a mandatory annual appropriation for the Housing Trust Fund, as approved by Resolution of the City Council"; and 00:26:30 Resolution No. 200079, entitled a "Resolution proposing an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to create the Department of Fleet Services, to transfer the functions of certain City 00:26:40 agencies with respect to motor vehicles to the newly-created Department and to provide for additional duties of the Department"; and Resolution No. 210514, entitled 00:26:49 a "Resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to revise provisions related to the manner of selection from eligible lists for vacancies and promotions in the civil 00:26:59 service system"; and Resolution No. 210524, entitled a "Resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter providing for a mandatory annual 00:27:08 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Trust Fund; and providing for the submission of the proposed amendment to the electors of Philadelphia," respectfully reports it 00:27:15 has considered the same and returns the attached bills and resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. 00:27:24 The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to 00:27:30 permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 200075, 210329, 210330, 210501, and 210507. (Duly seconded.)
00:27:48 Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the first reading this day of Bills No. 200075, 210329, 210330, 210501, 210507. 00:27:56 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. 00:28:12 Resolution No. 200079 and 210514 and 210524 will be placed on our Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes 00:28:25 Councilman Henon for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Public 00:28:32 Property and Public Works reports out 12 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Decker, please read that 00:28:42 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
The Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 200662, 00:28:46 entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for use 00:28:58 by the City, of a portion of the premises located at 11311 Roosevelt Boulevard"; and Bill No. 200677, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Department of 00:29:10 Public Property to acquire, on behalf of the City, an easement in the area bounded by Chestnut Street, 12th Street, Market Street, and 11th Street"; and Bill No. 210076, entitled "An 00:29:19 ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a parcel of land situate at 2401 Chestnut Street, for 00:29:28 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 conveyance"; and Bill No. 210248, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of 00:29:36 Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with St. Agnes MOB, for use by the City, of a portion of the premises located at 1930 South Broad Street"; and Bill No. 210281, entitled "An 00:29:52 ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest from Pennsylvania Department of Transportation 00:30:02 to all or a portion of a parcel or parcels of land, bordered by Richmond Street to the north/northwest, Wheatsheaf to the east/northeast, I-95 to the west and the Northeast Treatment Plant to the 00:30:15 south/southeast for water treatment or supply purposes or other purposes"; and Bill No. 210282, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire fee simple 00:30:26 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 title, or a lesser interest in real estate, by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu of condemnation, or otherwise, in parcels 00:30:34 of land along the Delaware River and the Tacony-Holmesburg section of the Delaware River Trail"; and Bill No. 210293, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of 00:30:43 Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with Chestnut Street Realty Limited Partnership, for use by the City, of a portion of the premises located at 1327 through 29 Chestnut Street"; and 00:30:52 Bill No. 210418, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, all or a portion of a parcel or parcels of land in 00:31:02 and about the area bounded by Kingston Street, I-95, East Venango Street and Bath Street"; and Bill No. 210419, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of 00:31:14 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, a temporary construction easement on a portion of the parcel or 00:31:18 parcels of land in and about the area bounded by Richmond Street, East Butler Street, I-95 and Castor Avenue, commonly known as 3721 Richmond Street"; and Bill No. 210424, entitled "An 00:31:31 ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with The Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, for use by the City, of a portion of the premises 00:31:40 located at 1101 Market Street"; and Bill No. 210444, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire fee simple title, or a lesser interest in real 00:31:51 estate, by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu of condemnation, or otherwise, in parcels of land connecting Tacony Street to the Frankford Arsenal Boat Launch, for public 00:32:02 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 purposes"; and Bill No.
210450, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of 00:32:10 Philadelphia, to enter into an amendment to a lease agreement with Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority ('SEPTA'), for use by the City, of a portion of the premises located at 1234 00:32:19 Market Street by the City," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
00:32:27 Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of 00:32:38 Council be suspended so as to permit the first reading of this day the 12 bills that were just read into the record by the Clerk. (Duly seconded.) 00:32:48 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit 00:32:50 first reading this day of the 12 bills that were just read into the record by the Clerk. All those in favor indicate by saying aye. 00:32:58 (Aye.)
The 00:32:59 ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Henon for a report from the 00:33:09 Committee on License and Inspection.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on License and Inspections reports out five bills with a favorable recommendation. 00:33:17 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report. 00:33:22
The Committee on Licenses and Inspections, to which was referred Bill No. 210117, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-3700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Bouncers,' 00:33:32 by revising definitions of covered establishments and personnel"; and Bill No. 210205, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9 of Subcode PM ('The Philadelphia Property 00:33:45 Maintenance Code') of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Additional Special Requirements,' to establish a program in which the City may perform certain urgent repairs and bill the 00:33:54 property owner"; and Bill No. 210388, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-1000 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Trades,' to modify licensing and conduct requirements 00:34:06 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 contractors"; and Bill No. 210389, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'The 00:34:21 Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code,' and Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions,' to revise provisions relating to 00:34:27 excavation work and work impacting historic structures, create an excavation contractor license, and institute additional safeguards for property adjoining certain construction 00:34:38 activities"; and Bill No. 210481, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Service and Other Businesses,' to modify the 00:34:48 requirements to operate a self-service laundry," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. 00:34:56 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
Thank you, Mr. Decker. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Henon. 00:35:03
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the first reading of this day Bill Nos. 210117, 210205, 210388, 210389, and 00:35:12 210481. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of 00:35:26 Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 210117, 210205, 210388, 210389, and 210481. All those in favor indicate by 00:35:38 saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 00:35:40 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
The ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. 00:35:46 The Chair now recognizes Councilman Johnson for a report from the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities.
Thank you, 00:35:52 Mr. President. The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities reports out of this committee one bill with a favorable recommendation.
00:36:06 Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read the report.
The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities, to 00:36:14 which was referred Bill No. 210505, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Philadelphia International Airport on behalf of the 00:36:23 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Philadelphia, to enter into an amendment to a concession agreement for the management of the food, beverage, retail and passenger services program at 00:36:29 Philadelphia International Airport, and an amendment to the ancillary Additional Services Agreement," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a 00:36:37 favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Johnson. 00:36:46
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 210505. 00:36:55 (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit 00:37:00 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 of Bill No. 210505. All those in favor indicate by saying aye. 00:37:06 (Aye.)
The 00:37:07 ayes have it, and this bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Bass for a report from the 00:37:17 Committee on Public Health and Human Services.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports out two 00:37:31 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read the report. 00:37:43 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
The Committee on Public Health and Human Services, to which was referred Bill No. 210510, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 00:37:50 6-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Preventative Medicine,' by adding a new section offering gift certificates to citizens and property owners of Philadelphia who received vaccinations 00:37:59 for COVID-19 in order to incentivize immunizations against the disease"; and Bill No. 210511, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 6-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Preventative 00:38:12 Medicine,' by adding a new section offering vouchers for rebates on City gas and water charges to citizens and property owners of Philadelphia who received vaccinations for COVID-19 in 00:38:21 order to incentivize immunizations against the disease," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. 00:38:29 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Bass. 00:38:35
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 210510 and 210511. 00:38:43 (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit 00:38:51 first reading this day of Bills No. 210510 and 210511. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) 00:39:00
The ayes have it, and these bills will be 00:39:02 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Reading Calendar today. That concludes our reports from committee, and our next order of business 00:39:10 is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that bills just reported from committee with suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be 00:39:17 placed 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 00:39:25 Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker for a motion concerning the resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today.
Hold up. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, 00:39:39 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 President. For the Consent Agenda, I would like to have Resolutions 523 and 525 removed from the Consent Agenda. 00:39:49
Council President, I would like to make a similar request. 00:40:08
Yes. I would like to request that Resolution 210516 be removed from the Consent Agenda 00:40:21 as well.
Thank you. Okay. They shall be taken off. 00:40:46 The record shall reflect that the request by both Councilman Green and Councilwoman Gym will have those removed from the Consent Agenda. Okay. Our next order of 00:41:06 business is the consideration of the Calendar. I noted that the bills just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules -
Hold on. I got a little thing. I got too many messages coming through. I ask my colleagues to please stop sending me 00:41:25 messages. I'm sorry. Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the 00:41:40 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar. They are Resolutions 00:41:49 No. 210257, 210512, 210513, 210515, 210519, 210520, 210521, 210522, 210526, 210528, 210529, 210530, 210531, 210532, and 210533. And, again, Mr. President, Resolution Nos. 210516, 210523, 210525 00:42:33 will be removed from the Consent Agenda. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. Thank you, Councilwoman. It has been moved and properly 00:42:43 seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the resolutions just read by Councilwoman Parker. All in favor please indicate by 00:42:51 saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 00:42:54 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021
The ayes have it, the motion carries, and we will consider the Resolution Consent Agenda shortly. 00:43:01 The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Parker for a motion concerning the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank 00:43:07 you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today. They 00:43:17 are Nos. 200713, 210362, 210425, 210328, 200627, 210333, 210334, 210390, 210391, 210392, 210393, 210394, 210412, 210413, 210414, 210415, 210416, 210422, 210447, and 210448. 00:44:04 (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of 00:44:09 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 2ND READING a Consent Agenda to consider the bills just read by Councilwoman Parker. All in favor indicate by saying aye. 00:44:16 (Aye.)
The 00:44:18 ayes have it, the motion carries, and we will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Parker calling up -- go off track -- calling up bills and resolutions 00:44:38 on the regular Second Reading. I'm sorry. I've got a lot of stuff going on.
Thank you, Mr. President. In addition to the resolutions and bills being considered on 00:44:51 the Consent Agenda, the following resolutions and bills are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today. They are Nos. 210215, 210518, 210206, 210081, 210332, 210423, 00:45:03 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 and 210364. All other bills and resolutions are being held, Mr. President.
00:45:20 Thank you so much, Councilwoman Parker and Majority Leader. Okay. Before we continue with the consideration of the public comment, we will take a brief five- to ten-minute 00:45:29 recess to give our technology professionals some time to connect the speakers we have for today's meeting. We're going to take a brief break. 00:45:38 (Short recess.)
Thank you. Thank you very much. Before we proceed with the consideration of our public comment, we 00:50:58 will now have a set of ground rules. Now that everyone is connected to the meeting, before considering the bills and resolutions, I'll tell you how we're going to consider the public 00:51:12 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 comment. The public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible at a session of Council. A speaker on any of 00:51:19 those matters must sign up in order to testify. You must call 215-686-3406 by 3:00 p.m. the day before the session to sign up for public comment. When you call, we will take 00:51:31 your name, phone number, the number of the legislative item you are commenting on, and whether you are in support of or against the legislation, and add your name to the list. We will telephone each 00:51:41 person on the list during the Council session and invite them to our remote meeting. Under ideal circumstances, they will each have three minutes, but today 00:51:51 because of the volume, we're going to have two minutes per speaker. So please adjust your testimony to reflect a two-minute time limit. In order to be fair to all 00:51:59 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the established time limit. So once invited to the meeting and asked to begin your testimony, a timer will be 00:52:07 started. We will monitor your remaining time throughout your testimony, and when there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, you will be reminded of this. Once your allotted time has passed, you will 00:52:18 be asked to conclude your remarks, and shortly thereafter you will be muted and disconnected from the remote meeting. I also reserve the right to limit the number of speakers where 00:52:26 repetitious comments are being made on the same matter and to limit the scope of testimony to only certain items on the agenda during the emergency, which could affect callbacks for the public comment 00:52:36 at the meeting. Please be aware that the public meeting is being recorded. Because the meeting is public, participants and viewers have no reasonable expectation of 00:52:44 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 privacy. So by continuing to be in the meeting, you are consenting to being recorded. I will now ask, Mr. Decker, 00:52:50 please read the first name on the list of our speakers today.
Yes, Mr. President. The first speaker today is Jose 00:52:58 Nunez, commenting on 210081.
Good morning. State your name for the record and please proceed with your testimony.
Yes. Hello. My 00:53:10 name is Jose Nunez and I'm calling on Bill No. 210081. Thank you, Councilmembers. I'd like to say that I oppose this bill. I do agree in some form of 00:53:21 regulation, but as the current bill is being proposed, I don't agree. I'm an operator for short-term rentals in Rittenhouse. I'm a minority small business owner. 00:53:34 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Now, these are the reasons why I disagree with the bill, particularly the CMX-3 component: Parties - my units are small, 00:53:42 mostly all studios, 400 square feet. I limit it to two people max. I don't have any large homes. I've never had an issue with parties. I see as the City opens, more people are going to go out to night 00:53:57 clubs instead of trying to party at home because of the COVID restrictions. Garbage - I operate a small building. Trash isn't a problem. Now, the affordable housing 00:54:07 component in regards to STR, I'm in Center City. I'm in Rittenhouse, not a low-income area. Rents are higher. Affordable housing rental units have more to do with providing builders, developers 00:54:20 with low-income tax credit and abatements than with short-term rentals. Introducing a bill that mandates the developers to provide a certain percentage of their units to mixed-use 00:54:29 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 income families similar to New York City, if anything, the current price of construction lumber affects the prices of affordable housing building. 00:54:40 Now, given these reasons, it would come to agree that the bill in its current state would negatively impact me and is not effective. Like I like to say, don't throw the baby out with the 00:54:52 bath water. We hosted frontline workers while hotels were closed. Now they're the only ones to benefit. Now, this will cause undue hardship to me and my family, resulting 00:55:03 in losing 90 percent of my income. I plea and I beg for this committee and its members to push this vote back at least until September. Let's sit down and discuss solutions and have meaningful 00:55:19 conversations. Let's sit down and collaborate. As your constituents, we're asking for a voice. Help us help you working together for the mutual benefit 00:55:31 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 of the City, its residents. We will make Philadelphia not just recover from the pandemic but thrive, sharing our city, sharing our history, and sharing our 00:55:40 progressive ideologies, and sharing our home and our vision of a prosperous Philadelphia. I'm proud to be a resident, but prouder that you as our representatives 00:55:50 will do your best to help your city, your district, your constituents, your families. Make the right choice. I believe in all of you. Thank you for your service. 00:56:00
The next speaker is Jennifer Jordan, commenting on 210081. 00:56:07
Good morning. State your name for the record and proceed with your testimony.
Hello, City Council. Thank you for taking the time 00:56:20 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 to hear my testimony. My name is Jennifer Jordan. I have spoken in opposition of this Bill 210081 over the course of this year. I have commented 00:56:32 about my hosting standards in previous calls, so I won't mention it today, but I wanted to share the story of the people who work with me as well as my guests. I hire cleaners and assistants 00:56:45 to help me keep my short-term rental properties in good shape. Most of the people I hire are supporting their families with the income they make with me. Some cleaners work with me in 00:56:56 addition to their day jobs. They work to help pay down their student loans, save for travel, or save to buy a car. Every person I hire cares about Philadelphia and each of the properties 00:57:09 they care for with me. They are real people who would be negatively impacted by this bill. As for my guests, my guests come to Philly for many reasons. They 00:57:21 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 are fully vaccinated folks visiting family members for the first time this year and they picked the neighborhoods where hotels don't exist to visit their 00:57:31 families. They're international travelers coming to the U.S. to get vaccinated. Many guests are residents of nearby cities looking for a change of place. 00:57:43 Many guests have worked remotely over the last year and they make the rental their home base and their home away from home. They also support local businesses. I host people with food 00:57:55 allergies who could not cook their meals -- who need to cook their meals indoors, and families seeking treatments in our world-class hospitals. They need the privacy of a home and the amenities 00:58:11 that go with it. Short-term rental is creating an industry as well as an asset to the City. Thank you for hearing my 00:58:19 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 testimony.
Thank you so much for your testimony. We appreciate it. 00:58:24
Good afternoon. State your name for the record and proceed with your testimony. 00:58:38
Yes. Good afternoon. My name is Lewis Baum, B-A-U-M. Good morning, Mr. -- good afternoon, Mr. President, Councilmembers, and guests. I represent the 46th Ward 00:58:49 Democratic RCO. Because written testimony has been e-mailed to Council, I will limit my remarks. Bill 210081 contains good ideas for improving processes. However, we are 00:59:03 asking that the bill be amended in two crucial ways prior to passage. The bill should not be approved unless amended, A, to protect, rather than terminate, the role of long-term residential communities 00:59:18 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 in decision-making by restoring the zoning use permit requirement that presently applies. If not amended, this bill will remove this only point of 00:59:28 community input. And, B, assure that robust requirements for ongoing compliance monitoring and enforcement are designed and published and that responsibilities are clear. This 00:59:42 includes handling of neighbor complaints. No doubt Councilmembers are aware of the level of problems here, and we have firsthand experience ourselves. In general, we urge Council to 00:59:57 preserve our communities' voices by never allowing short-term rentals by-right in residential districts. Council must ensure that this city protects our community structure and community life 01:00:10 from impact and harm, including that caused by undesirable incursion of short-term housing. Without community participation, without other provisions 01:00:21 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 limiting the unwanted penetration of short-term housing in residential communities, we risk rampant speculation in short-term housing, which will 01:00:31 undermine and irrevocably decay our long-term communities. Communities experiencing gentrification pressure are at higher risk that locally clustered short-term 01:00:42 operations will create de facto block-busting. We thank you in advance for your attention and your continued support of the needs of our existing long-term 01:00:55 communities.
Thank you for your testimony. We appreciate it.
The next speaker 01:01:01 is Nick Schmidt, commenting on 210081.
Good morning. State your name for the record and please proceed with your testimony.
Good morning, 01:01:15 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 Council. My name is Nick Schmidt. I'm against Bill 210081. My wife and I are both frontline healthcare workers. We're registered nurses who work in critical 01:01:25 care. We've served the Philadelphia community for years. We have two kids under the age of three years old, and this past year we purchased a legal duplex. 01:01:35 We're responsible hosts who closely monitor our guests as well as maintain our property. We regularly clean up trash on our streets and interact with neighbors in our parks and 01:01:46 community. My concerns are related to the additional regulations and licenses being required by hosts and limiting the ability of people to responsibly rent 01:01:54 their homes based on their zoning. The income we receive from guests not only goes to our mortgage, allowing us the ability to live in the City close to the hospitals we work at, it pays taxes to 01:02:06 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 the City, it pays cleaners above minimum wage, and it allows tourists to come from out of town to spend money at restaurants and stores, as well as visit families for 01:02:15 graduations and funerals. I believe there are ways that hosts can continue doing business responsibly without disrupting surrounding neighborhoods and without 01:02:25 compromising data. I urge you to carefully consider the effects and limitations and their restrictions being proposed and for you to work with responsible hosts looking for successful 01:02:36 outcomes for both the City and the host. As nurses who directly care for countless COVID patients as well as critically injured gunshot victims at a time when gun violence is at an all-time 01:02:49 high, please realize that the implications of your restrictions could cause us as well as many other essential workers and upstanding citizens who supplement their income through hosting 01:02:58 Stated Meeting June 10, 2021 short-term rentals to have to relocate and leave neighborhoods that Philly needs us in. We thank you for your 01:03:05 consideration. Have a good day.
Thank you very much for your testimony. We appreciate it.
The next speaker 01:03:12 is Chris Carlone, commenting on 210081.