COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, June 18, 2009 10:35 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will come to order. Members will take their seats. Visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend John Roberts of the Garden of Prayer Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Clarke. Will all members and guests please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us bow our heads. Our Father, we take time now to thank you for allowing us to see another day, for not only did you wake us up, but you gave us strength to get up, and we were able to put our own clothes on without any assistance. And you brought us safely here this morning for this this, we say thank you. We ask you now that you would bless all of us here today, for we are your children in the sheep of your pasture. We pray a special prayer for President Anna Verna and the loss of her husband of 54 years. We realize that earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. We pray for her strength at this time. We pray for the great leaders of this city, our Mayor, these Councilpersons that are here today. We ask, God, that you would speak peace to all of us. We're closing now the end of this Council meeting for the summer. We have children that will be playing on the streets. We ask that you would keep us under your divine protection. Watch over our children. Watch over our mothers and fathers and husbands and wives that go back and forth to work. you would be in this meeting today. We seek your wisdom and we seek your guidance. We ask that you would bless us and then make us a blessing, not only to this meeting on today but even in our communities and in our neighborhoods. We pray for peace. We ask that you would be with us today. Let everything be done to your glory. We ask this in the name of our resurrected and soon-coming king, Jesus the Christ, the anointed of God. And as always, Lord, I thank you for listening. And all God's people said amen. (Amen.)
I ask that all members and guests remain standing. We'd like to offer a moment of silence in remembrance of Severino Verna, husband of Council President Verna. (Moment of silence.)
Thank you. The Council will stand at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June the 11th, 2009, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 11th, 2009 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June the 11th, 2009 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the
Thank you, Madam Chair. On behalf of the majority, a leave of absence is requested for Council President Verna.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. Leave is granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam Chair, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you. The Chair thanks you, and there will be no leave. There is no leave. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair. I would like to introduce some guests who have been here before, the Montessori Genesis II School. They're little ones, but they're back there. And they have been leaders in our library fight to keep libraries open, and they are here. Certainly we would like to acknowledge them. (Applause.)
Thank you for joining us. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown.
Thank you, excited about the next level of leadership that will move in and take over our government, universities and hospitals, and today I'm delighted to introduce to members and guests a rising second-year law student at Rutgers School of Law. He's currently a legal intern at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and this summer is serving as a law clerk for Judge Frederica Massiah-Jackson. Please allow us all to welcome Jared Anderson.
Thank you for joining us. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present citations to Audra Jeffers and Mary Anderson, students from Community College of Philadelphia. Will Ms. Jeffers and Ms. Anderson and those accompanying them at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Miller is joining Councilman Kenney.
Thank you very much, Madam President. This is a citation congratulating Audra Jeffers. The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to recognize and congratulate Audra Jeffers on the occasion of being named both the 2009 New Century Scholar and the Silver Scholar. Whereas, Audra Jeffers, 37, a mother of three from Germantown, graduated in May 2009 from Community College of Philadelphia with a degree in nursing; and Whereas, Ms. Jeffers is one of the two Community College of Philadelphia's students to win national recognition from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Program; and Whereas, as one of the 50 states, Ms. Jeffers was awarded the New Century Scholar honor. As a New Century Scholar, Ms. Jeffers represented the College and the State of Pennsylvania at the opening session of the American Association of Community Colleges convention in Phoenix, Arizona on April 4th; and Whereas, Ms. Jeffers is also named a Silver Scholar as part of the Coca-Cola All-State Academic Team Program. As a Silver Scholar, she will receive a medallion and be listed in a special section of USA Today;
And whereas, both the New Century Scholar Program and the Silver Scholar scholarships are funded by the Coca-Cola Scholarship Foundation and administered by the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society; and Whereas, being named to the 2009 All Pennsylvania Academic Team by the Pennsylvania Commission for Community to be eligible for a full scholarship to any of the Commonwealth's 14 state-supported colleges. Ms. Jeffers will attend West Chester University in the fall. Therefore, by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia does hereby recognize and congratulate Audra Jeffers on the occasion of being named both the 2009 New Century Scholar and Silver Scholar. We wish her well in all future endeavors and extend the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body. (Applause.)
Hello, everyone. I'm very honored to have received this award, and I know I couldn't do it without the support and love of my family and also the support that Community College of Philadelphia has given me and other students. And I would just like to (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. This is an additional citation congratulating Mary Anderson. The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to congratulate Mary Anderson on the occasion of winning national recognition from the Coca-Cola Foundation's program. Mary Anderson, 38, of Northeast Philadelphia, graduated in May 2009 from the Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate's degree in education. Whereas, Ms. Anderson is one of two Community College of Philadelphia students to win national recognition from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Program. In addition, Ms. Anderson was named to the 2009 All Pennsylvania Academic Team; Whereas, being named to the 2009 All Pennsylvania Academic Team by the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges allows Ms. Anderson to be eligible for a full scholarship to any of the Commonwealth's 14 state-supported colleges. Ms. Anderson intends to attend West Chester University in the fall; and Whereas, Ms. Anderson, a mother of three children, dropped out of school in eighth grade. This year she became one of the 150 national finalists for the Coca-Cola scholarships; and Whereas, Ms. Anderson was the President of the Student Government Association and is a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society; and Whereas, the All Pennsylvania Academic Program began as an outgrowth of the All USA Community College Academic Team and the Coca-Cola All State Community College Academic Team Programs. Phi Beta Kappa coordinates the awards program, which are sponsored by the are drawn from all state teams in 50 participating states and in Canada. Therefore, by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia does hereby recognize and congratulate Mary Anderson on the occasion of winning national recognition from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Program. We wish her well in all future endeavors and extend the sincerest respect and admiration of this legislative body. Congratulations. (Applause.)
You know, eight years ago when I went to Community Learning Center to obtain my GED, I could have never imagined any of this. I want to thank the Council for all their support of Community College of Philadelphia, and I thank Community all the opportunities that I've been given. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution recognizing the service of Jettie Newkirk, Esquire. Will Ms. Newkirk and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. We see that Councilman Jones and Councilwoman Brown will accompany Councilwoman Blackwell.
We're happy to welcome Mr. Joseph Casey, who is the Executive Director of SEPTA, and Frances Jones, Community Relations, as well as all these other guests, and Pat Dion, who is also here from the SEPTA Board. And anybody I have overlooked have, I'll let Jettie clean that up. Resolution recognizing the service of Jettie D. Newkirk, Esquire, on the Board of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority. Whereas, Jettie D. Newkirk, Esquire, has served continuously on the SEPTA Board as a representative of Philadelphia County since September 1992; and Whereas, Jettie D. Newkirk, after graduating from Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in secondary education, earned a Master's degree in counseling and guidance and a Juris Doctor degree from Temple University; and Whereas, having practiced law for over 25 years, she exhibited a genuine devotion to the City of Philadelphia, especially its youth, and earned a reputation for honesty, integrity, thoroughness, directness and of her clients; and
Whereas, during her tenure on the SEPTA Board, Jettie D. Newkirk has been an active member of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials, whose Philadelphia chapter has recently established a scholarship fund for deserving students in her name to honor her service to both the local and national organization; and Whereas, Jettie D. Newkirk's substantial civic and social contributions currently include membership on the Carroll Park Community Council Board of Directors, FAMU Alumni Association, 2000 African American Women, Chair of Advisory Board for the Netter Center of Community Partnerships, University of Pennsylvania, and the Vine Memorial Baptist Church, where she serves as Chair of the Community Outreach Ministry; and Whereas, Jettie D. Newkirk is also a member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, the Barrister's Association, the Philadelphia Bar Association, the National Bar Association, the Women Lawyers Division, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Conference of Minority Transportation Officials, and was recently awarded the A. Leon Higginbotham Life Time Achievement Award by the Minority Bar Committee of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and was named by the Philadelphia Tribune as one of its 2008 leaders; and Whereas, the Philadelphia City Council wishes to recognize the many years of devoted public service that Jettie D. Newkirk has given to the citizens of metropolitan Philadelphia and the countless hours that she dedicated to the furtherance and improvement of public transit as a member of the SEPTA Board's Administration Committee and as Chairman of both of the Board's Operations and Committees; and
The Philadelphia City Council further wishes to recognize the devotion she brought to her position on the SEPTA Board and the recognition that she earned for herself, the City and SEPTA. Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the Philadelphia City Council hereby gratefully acknowledges her faithful and accomplished services that Jettie D. Newkirk, Esquire, gave to the citizens of Philadelphia, to SEPTA and its member counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, while serving as one of the appointees for Philadelphia County. Further resolved, that the Philadelphia City Council hereby extends its sincere and highest appreciation for her almost 17 years of dedication and service on the SEPTA Board, along with our best wishes for her future. Certification that this is true the original resolution, adopted by the City Council of Philadelphia on the 4th day of June 2009. Introduced by Jannie Blackwell, Blondell Reynolds Brown and Curtis Jones, Jr. Sponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam Chair. First, let me express my sincere sympathy to the family of President Anna Verna. She has always been a very gracious lady to me and has assisted me in many ways while I served these 17 years. Secondly, let me thank those Councilpeople who introduced this resolution and all of the Councilmembers for signing it and for this presentation and this honor today. I have with me a multitude of people, but among those are my family members, members of my church, the wife of our pastor, Reverend James S. Allen, Ms. Penny Allen, membership from my Deacon Board, Deaconess Board, and one of our assistant ministers. But let me introduce Pat Dion for brief remarks and then Joe Casey.
Jettie, thank you. I know when a Council like this puts somebody on a board or commission, they only hope for the best, but I will tell you with Jettie, she fought for the City and your interest every day fairly. It was a great honor to serve with her. I think you've made a great choice. We will sorely miss her on the Board, and I think the Board really appreciated her service over the years. And, Jettie, I'd like to express the thanks of us on the Board and to this City Council for giving us you for the term you were on the Board, and I really appreciate everything you've done. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. On behalf of SEPTA staff, I really want to thank Jettie for, again, 17 years with the Authority, and I can truly say that I believe SEPTA is in a better place since she's been on this Board, and we really look forward to improving service in this region. And, again, congratulations, Jettie, in your future endeavors. (Applause.)
Thank you, Joe and Pat. We also have with us today members of my family. Three of my daughters actually are here, Sheila, Linda and Frances. And my granddaughter came all the way from Peoria, Illinois to be here today, Eliza; and my grandson, who is now doing an internship at SEPTA and is working hard, Lee; and my son-in-law, Oscar L. Squire. We also have a representative from the Blue Horizon, the legendary Blue Horizon, and we invite you to all the fights that are put on so far. Members of my sorority and the members of COMTO who have supported me, and we invite you to the COMTO Gala on Friday night celebrating their ten years of service to Philadelphia, and we will issue over $100,000 worth of scholarships to students in the area on Friday night. (Applause.)
So thank you so much, Councilmembers. Thank you for those who attended. And I think that SEPTA is now in a better place. And I think it was Muhammad Ali who says, Quit while you're ahead and on top. And that's what we're doing, so thank you so much. (Applause.)
The Chair Jones, who will present a resolution recognizing the 20th anniversary of the Father's Day Rally Committee. Will Mr. Bilal Qayyum and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. Councilman Jones is being joined by Councilman Kenney, Councilman DiCicco, Councilman Green, Councilman O'Neill.
As we honor the 20th anniversary of the Father's Day Rally Committee, it is a happy coincidence that tomorrow is Juneteenth, a day that celebrates when federal troops arrived in confederate-controlled Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, two years, five months, 18 days after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. The struggle that exists today has its roots in that history of African American families that have inherited a difficult past, but we will to shackle our future, and one example of that is the men, the fathers, that stand with us today. We have a resolution recognizing and celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Father's Day Rally Committee, Incorporated, in their efforts to promote positive programs and activities for the African American male population of our great city.
Whereas, the mission of the Father's Day Rally Committee is to promote positive action and interaction among individuals to prompt a more aggressive hands-on approach towards resolving a range of problems confronting African American communities in Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley; and
Whereas, the Father's Day Rally Committee created "Operation Footprint," a mentoring program for youth traveling throughout in Philadelphia. The program reached over 5,000 high school students; and
Whereas, the Father's Day Rally Committee organized a month of peace in May as part of our ongoing Peace Campaign. Activities included daily visits to bus stops, walks in 25 neighborhood shopping districts and door-to-door canvassing in selected neighborhoods. The campaign reached more than 35,000 Philadelphians; COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Whereas, the Father's Day Rally Committee organized a citywide "March for Peace" on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The event drew over 1,000 individuals who marched in a Southwest Philadelphia neighborhood after two African American men were shot at a basketball game; and
Whereas, the Father's Day Rally Committee developed and implemented a "Twilight Basketball League" in conjunction with the City of weeks, the league hosted 75 young men, playing games from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., two nights a week; and
Unfortunately, yes, if I get to see any more of those bills. Whereas, the Father's Day Rally Committee organized the African American Summit on Black on Black Crime, calling for the entire community to work together to solve the City's crime problem. The recommendations of the meeting were published in the Philadelphia Daily News. Father's Day Really Committee received 380 responses from the newspaper article. Now, therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes and celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Father's Day Rally Committee in their efforts to promote positive programs and activities for the African American male population in our great city. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Bilal Abdul Qayyum, President and Executive Director of the Father's Day Rally Committee, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. (Applause.)
Good morning. I am not declaring my candidacy for Council. Okay? Madam Chair and the body, let me -- first of all, Councilman O'Neill, Kelly, Councilman Clarke, Councilman Jones, Councilman Kenney, Councilman Green, Happy Father's Day. Councilman Wilson Goode, Councilman Frank Rizzo and Councilman Greenlee, we will find you some wives and make sure that next year you'll stand up here with us. Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilwoman Miller, Councilwoman Tasco, Councilwoman Sanchez, Councilwoman Brown, Councilwoman Krajewski, Sunday is our day, but we will be back to wish you Happy Mother's Day in May of next year. But in all seriousness, we thank Councilman Jones for presenting this award to us. With me is members of the Father's Day Rally Committee Board of Directors. Mr. Joe Wright is our Chairperson. Also, there's a little note, we're 20 years old. Mr. Vernon Price, who worked for Councilwoman Miller, was one of the original members. When we first met the first day, Vernon group. So we wanted Vernon to join us today. Let me quickly say this: When a father is in a household, a child is most unlikely to not drop out of school. And when a father is in a household, a child is most likely not to be getting involved in illegal activities or using drugs. So we understand very importantly how important it is for a father to be in our households. And not only in the African American household, the Latino household, the Asian household, the white household. Every household in this country, there should be men and women raising their children. So what we do in the Father's Day Really Committee, which you heard in the resolution, is, we're promoting fatherhood, being responsible and being there with their kids. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we'd like to thank Council honoring us. And we will end by saying that Sunday is Father's Day. Please give your father a call, give your father a gift. You know, when Mother's Day comes around, mother gets breakfast in bed, taken to dinner, given diamonds, roses. Father's Day comes around -- and I have five kids and 12 grandchildren. One year they gave me a clip-on tie. Now, everybody knows me, I ain't wearing no clip-on tie. But that's what they gave me. So I'm pleading for mothers and girlfriends and baby's mommas and all those women out there, get your husband, get your father of your child and give them a good gift on Father's Day. With that, thank you very much. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on June 15th and June 17th, 2009, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on June 4th; and I am pleased to advise you that I signed the following bills that were passed by Council at its session on June 11th, 2009: Bill No. 090295, Bill No. 090352, 090354 and 090437, also Bill No. 090244-A and Bill No. 090361; and I am transmitting for the consideration of honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area; and redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; and An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," to create two new plans, entitled "Plan '09" "DC Plan," for certain employees hired or rehired on and after July 1, 2009, and certain electing employees, and making technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions; and Pursuant to Section 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendations of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 090392, 090408, 090413, 090434, 090435, 090436, 090439, 090442, 090443, 090447 and, finally, 090464.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you, Madam Chair. At this time, I would like to introduce Ms. Chelsey Clark, who is a guest of PECO Government Affairs head, Ed McBride. She's interning there this summer, and she's a student at Notre Dame University. If she would please stand with Mr. McBride.
Welcome to City Council. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney. (No response.)
Thank you, Madam Chair. Today I introduce one bill and one resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Walnut Street, 42nd Street, Locust Street and 43rd Street.
And a resolution recognizing and honoring the legacy of Thurgood Marshall on the occasion of the 42nd anniversary of his appointment to the United States Supreme Court.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Madam Chair. Today I offer one bill and one resolution.
An ordinance authorizing the construction of a water main and appurtenant work required to provide public water service, in a portion of Millman Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proclaiming June 2009 as "Student Safety Month."
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
The Chief Clerk will read the title of the resolutions.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 19th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The resolution will be submitted to the committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez for a motion on the resolution.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 7th, 19th and 33rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez for a motion on the resolution.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I'm sorry for being out of the room. I offer one bill and one resolution.
An ordinance amending Section 9-622 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Cigarettes and Tobacco Products," by prohibiting the retail sale of smokeless tobacco products and providing penalties for violations, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Legislative Oversight to hold public hearings to examine current issues affecting veterans in the Philadelphia area and to coordinate with the Veterans' Advisory Commission and veterans' organizations to identify and implement programs to address specific needs and concerns.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair -
I don't know if you need a motion on the resolution or not. You can just refer it to committee, if you'd like.
All right. Thank you. We will go back and we will call on Councilman Kenney for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted and will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold hearings to examine potential Civil Service reform, including the elimination or consolidation of redundant, outdated or unnecessary classifications, and to identify additional efficiencies and cost savings in the operation of City government.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been properly moved that the resolution be adopted. All in favor? (Aye.)
The bill will go to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills and one resolution.
An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Economic Opportunity Plans," by providing that Council may by resolution determine that there are reasonable grounds to believe that a participant, contractor, project developer or applicant for or recipient of financial assistance has failed to comply with the provisions of that Chapter and should be subject to debarment, and upon adoption of such a resolution, the Finance Director shall, after notice and hearing, make a final determination as to whether there has been a violation of the Chapter and whether debarment should be imposed.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter confirming Council's power to enact ordinances that require City contractors and recipients of City financial assistance to submit and comply with economic opportunity plans addressing the participation of disadvantaged business enterprises and workforce diversity.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter confirming Council's power to enact ordinances that require City contractors and recipients of City financial assistance to submit and comply with economic opportunity plans addressing the participation of disadvantaged business enterprises and workforce diversity.
The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have two resolutions, one co-sponsored by President Verna, Councilmembers Jones, Blackwell, Green and Kelly, and the second co-sponsored by yourself, Councilman Goode, Councilman Jones and Councilwoman Sanchez. And I'd like to speak on the latter, Madam Chair.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolutions.
A resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to hold hearings and form a working group of city, state and federal lawmakers and stakeholders to maximize funding for and to oversee completion of the Schuylkill River Trail, creating the region's first green transportation corridor.
The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown for the adoption of the resolution.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted and will be referred to the appropriate committee.
A resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings examining the level of female participation on executive boards in companies that contract with the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown for a motion on the resolution.
I move for the adoption, Madam President. I'd like to speak on that, if I may.
Madam Chair, it is clear to me after nine years that we still have a serious challenge when it comes to women and men sharing an equal place in leadership, policy and decision-making in all private and public sectors. Women will not be a familiar sight in executive offices and boardrooms until companies change the way they do business. Companies must embrace strategies to both recruit, retain and promote women, creating a pipeline of talent extending all the way to the top. Therefore, Madam Chair, I'm asking and insisting that Council has responsibility to share best practices and engage in straight talk about these challenges. That is my hope as we proceed with these hearings this fall. Leaders emerge and evolve over time. So if the internal corporate focus is blurred, then we as Councilmembers must sharpen it. If accountability lags, then we as champions must see that it does not. We cannot continue doing business as usual when it comes to the lack of women on Philadelphia corporate boards. I move for the adoption, Madam Chair. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted and will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I offer eight resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the titles of the resolutions.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 184.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 188.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 189-A.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 189-B.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a motion on the resolution. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 190.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 196.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a motion on the resolution. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 201-A.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a motion on the resolution. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 201-B.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a motion on the resolution. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, I have ten resolutions, one of them on your behalf, two on Council President Verna's behalf, two ordinances, and I want to emphasize, one of the ordinances relating to the pension issue is on behalf of the Administration.
Thank you very much. The Clerk will please read the title of the bills.
An ordinance requiring the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to provide certain specified notice of its public meetings as a condition of Council approval of future Authority transactions, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," to create two new plans, entitled "Plan '09" and "DC Plan," for certain employees hired or rehired on and after July 1, 2009.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Fiscal Stability and Intergovernmental Cooperation to hold hearings regarding the City of Philadelphia's receipt, allocation and utilization of federal stimulus funds pursuant to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.