Stated Meeting, January 22, 2004

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, January 22, 2004 10:20 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670

Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will please take their seats. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes the Reverend Julius W.G. Jackson of St. Mary's Episcopal Church. He is here today at my invitation. I would ask all members and guests to please rise.

Let us pray. Oh, God, the creator and preserver on all that is good and lovely. Look upon your children gathered here today at the opening of this Council. Give them wise and discerning hearts to do for Philadelphia and all who live in this City your grace and your glory. Be also present with the Mayor of this City, Council President Verna, and all the Members of the Council. Give them also the knowledge and wisdom to lead with great humility and love. Grant them also that as they are lead in your labor and love, they will do greater things in your will. Also not to be overwhelmed by what they cannot do, but be overwhelmed by your love which you give for us by dying on Calvary. All this we ask through the name of your son and savior Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

The Chair thanks Father Jackson for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

To commemorate the special occasion of our returning to go our Council Sessions, I would like to welcome world renown saxophonist Mr. Bayard Lancaster. Mr. Lancaster has played all over the world and for Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush. He will now perform our National Anthem. And I would request everyone to please rise. (National Anthem.)

Thank you so much for sharing your talent with us this morning. business the approval of the Journal of the Meeting of Monday, January 5, 2004. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the Meeting of Monday, January 5, 2004, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the Meeting of Monday, January 5, 2004 stand approved. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed, nay. (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries, and the Journal of the Meeting of Monday, January 5, 2004, is approved. order of business is request for leave of absence. And the Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Reynolds Brown.

Thank you, Councilwoman. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for leaves of absence.

The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. At this time it gives me great pleasure to welcome two new Councilmembers to our legislative body. Juan Ramos and Jack (Applause.)

And to all of my colleagues, I say, welcome home. Doesn't the Chamber look absolutely beautiful. (Applause.)

I do think that we do owe a special thanks to the crafts people and Public Property for the work that they did in restoring our magnificent Chambers. To the public who have been so faithful in attendance while we were in temporary Chambers, know that we appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. And we certainly always invite you to come again. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor. THE

To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am you pleased to advise you that on December 21, 2003, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its Session on December 11, 2003, except 030730. And I am also pleased to advise you that I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its Session on December 18, 2003, except 030769.

Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession. THE

I have none, Madam President.

Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.

Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor of the motion will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution cosponsored by Councilwoman Miller.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE

An ordinance amending Chapter 20-600 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Standards of Conduct and Ethics," to limit the receipt of contributions by elected City officers or candidates for City offices from individuals or businesses who are applicants for or recipients of City contracts or financial assistance if they have made political contributions within a certain time frame to elect City officers or candidates for City offices.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE

A resolution authorizing the City Council's Committee on Legislative Oversight and Committee on Public Safety to hold joint hearings to investigate the alarming high number of incidents in which our school children are struck by vehicles on their way to and from school.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the joint Committees of Legislative Oversight and Public Safety. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Madam President. Today, I introduce four bills, one resolution on your behalf and one on my own.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE

An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, Zoning and Planning, by amending Chapter 14-2007, (Historic, Buildings, Structures, Sites, Objects and Districts) to require Historical Commission may recommendations to City Council and the Mayor regarding the designation of certain districts of the City as historic.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance creating the Mill Creek Tax Increment Financing District.

This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance directing the Commissioner of Public Property to rely upon the recommendations of the Recreation Department's Mural Arts Program to operate the City's Art in City Hall Program, under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code by amending Section 9-205 by prohibiting vending on certain portions of Chester Avenue, Kingsessing Avenue, 53rd Street and 54th Street.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 6th and 27th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE

A resolution authorizing the Commission of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 40th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognize Councilman Cohen.

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution.

The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE

A resolution honoring the Pennsylvania Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators and proclaiming January 2004 Financial Aid Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.

Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Councilman Nutter, did you want to be recognized? Your light is on.

No.

Councilman O'Neill, is your light on, sir?

I'm sorry.

That's okay. I'm sorry, sir, do you mind making your motion again?

I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.

Madam President, I offer one bill.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE

An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Tacony street, Barnett street, Levick Street, the Delaware River, Cottman Avenue and New State Road.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Madam President, I have two resolutions, one privileged which I ask after it's read we take a moment of silence, and one RDA one.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 7th, 18th, 19th and 33rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE

A resolution mourning the loss of Tug McGraw.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Madam President, I move for the adoption. I ask that we stand for a moment of silence for Mr. McGraw. (Moment of silence)

The resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution, Madam President, that should be referred to a Committee, which is noted at the end of the resolution; and then one resolution on behalf of you.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE

A resolution designating February as American Heart Month in the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE

A resolution calling on the Pennsylvania Attorney General, the Secretary of Banking, and the General Assembly to carefully scrutinize the conduct of tax preparers in connection with refund anticipation loans and to take appropriate action to ensure that these business practices are consistent with state law.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Madam President, could I speak before I move?

Please.

This resolution was passed at our December 18th meeting, and we reintroduced it this time and we thank all those who have signed on to it. We're also asking that public hearings be held by the Public Health and Human Services Committee. Move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and three resolutions, one resolution cosponsored by Councilman Clarke, Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE

An ordinance establishing a neighborhood improvement district in an area that generally includes both sides of Germantown Avenue from 7640 to 8705, both sides of Bethlehem Pike from 10 to 104 and certain blocks of streets that intersect the portion of Germantown Avenue to be known as the Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 11th, 12th, 13th and 49th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE

A resolution honoring and recognize Men United For a Better Philadelphia on the occasion of its 2nd anniversary and for making December 2003 as the Month of Peace.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the third resolution. THE

A resolution initiating action to establish a neighborhood improvement district in an area that generally includes both sides of Germantown Avenue from 7640 to 8705 to be known as the Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District.

The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I offer 14 bills and 2 resolutions; the 2 resolutions I wish to be heard on. The bills, many of which are cosponsored by Councilman Goode and I, are offered on behalf of the citizens and taxpayers of Philadelphia and the Tax Reform Commission.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the titles of the bills. THE

An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Wage and Net Profits Tax," decreasing the rates of the tax by making technical amendments changing the effective dates for rate changes and repealing certain provisions, all under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code relating to tax rates, credits and alternative tax computation for business privilege tax, by reducing certain tax rates, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Title 2 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "City-County Consolidation," by removing the authority of the Board of Revision of Taxes to hear appeals and reassigning that authority with the power, functions and duties of hearing and deciding appeals from the Board of Revision of Taxes.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," by amending the definition of "net income" to determine the net income of unincorporated businesses by allowing deductions of payments to certain proprietors or partners.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Taxes," by specifying a rate for tax year 2004, specifying the rates thereafter be dependent on the total taxable assessed values certified by the Board of Revision of Taxes.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," by providing a minimum number of estimated tax payments in the last six months of the City's fiscal year and authorizing additional estimated payments in the first six months of the subsequent fiscal year.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled Real Estate Taxes, to mandate a phase-in of equal percentages of the Target Tax Billings to be imposed upon lands and buildings for real estate tax purposes.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes" by amending the definition of "Net Operating Loss" with respect to carryforward period for net operating losses.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending 19-1302 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Installation Payments" to provide for the Department of Revenue to accept payment of real estate taxes in four equal payments, all under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Taxes," by providing discounts and penalties related to the installation payments and new fiscal year billing and to guarantee that payments are applied to current year tax first to avoid accumulation of additions and penalties.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Realty Transfer Taxes," by amending the definition of "Value" to include deeds in lieu of foreclosure.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Taxes and Rents General," by providing for uniform time limitations on collections, examinations and assessments, under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance repealing Chapter 19-2500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Non-Utilization Tax," effective January 2005, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code related to "Real Estate Taxes," by providing that no change by the Board of Revision of Taxes to the ratios it uses to calculate assessed value shall be effective unless Council by ordinance adjust real estate tax rates so that such change is revenue neutral or unless Council otherwise approves such change by ordinance, all under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE

A resolution authorizing the Committee Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings to investigate the proposed closure of the Medical College of Pennsylvania by Tenet Healthcare Corporation and the devastating impact that such a closure would have on the patients and employees of MCP, the East Falls community and City of Philadelphia; and further authorizing the Committee to furtherance such investigation to issue subpoenas as may be necessary to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents to the full extent authorized under Section 2-401 of the Home Rule Charter.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Thank you, Madam President. I wish to move the adoption of the resolution and I also wish to speak very briefly on the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, this resolution is a reintroduction of a resolution that was introduced and approved by this Council at our last Session last year on December 18, 2003. I wish to say very briefly, one, I appreciate this body's support of that previous resolution, and I would also say that notwithstanding my passion on that particular day and a sense of calm that I may have today, there is no difference between my feelings on December 18th and today with regard to the proposed closure of MCP. But I do thank the Council for its support and also wish to thank Councilman Goode who is Chair of the commerce and Economic Development Committee who is supporting the resolution as well as helping us coordinate the public hearings that we propose to have by these resolutions. We anticipate those hearings to be next Thursday at 1 o'clock in the afternoon. I wish to thank the Councilman for his tremendous support and assistance in making that happen. The state legislature, Philadelphia Delegation also anticipates participating in these hearings, State Senator Vincent Hughes, Representative Jewell Williams, Representative Kathy Manderino, and many others are very supportive of our efforts to get to the bottom of what's going on with MCP, with Tenet, it's agreement with the City, and whether there are any material or factual violations of that particular agreement. Healthcare is a very important issue in Philadelphia and certainly in the East Falls community, and so I ask my colleagues for their continued support in this effort, and move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you it has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE

A resolution commemorating the work of the Philadelphia Tax Reform Commission.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution, and I also wish to speak even briefer than I did before. (Duly seconded.)

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, as is our general practice, I will not speak with regard to the bills that were introduced earlier. There were 14 bills, 13 of which represent the work of the Tax Reform Commission. And while many of us have, I think, appropriate concerns and questions about the actual details of the work of the Tax Reform Commission, one, I believe that they have done their job and they have done it well and should be recognized for their effort; two, the introduction of those bills hopefully will ensure that there are good public hearings and a great public discussion about the issues. But when all the discussion is over, I think we do have to take action to reform the tax structure of Philadelphia. I know that there is a lot of debate and discussion about "the package" and that all of the bills should be considered as a package. They've certainly been introduced that way, but as we go through our process in working with the Administration and Mayor Street, I'm not sure what we will finally do at the end of the process. But there should be a full engaged public hearing about all of these matters and on behalf of the citizens of the City. So, hopefully, the process has started with the introduction of these bills. I'm not sure at the end of the day where any of us, including myself will be on each and every proposal, but I look forward to the discussion. And, again, on behalf of the citizens, I think it's the right thing to do. The Tax Reform Commission was supported overwhelmingly by the citizens of Philadelphia. I think they met their charge and exceeded it. They've given us the framework for reforming taxes in Philadelphia, and that debate should start today. Thank you, Madam President. And I ask for support for this resolution.

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed?? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution. The bill is co-introduced by Councilman Nutter. The resolution is to be referred to Committee, but I believe it requires a vote.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE

An ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code relating to tax rates, credits and alternate tax computation for the business privilege tax by reducing certain tax rates, all under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings to review annual community reinvestment goals submitted by City depository and the role of the City depository banks in leverage private investment from the proposed 500 million Economic Development Capital Fund, and further authorizing the Committee to issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents and other evidence.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.

Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The resolution will be referred to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.

Madam President, I offer one privileged resolution.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE

A resolution honoring Judge Nelson L. Diaz.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.

Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.

Thank you, Madam President. I offer five bills and one resolution.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE

An ordinance amending Section 14-1200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Pending Public Acquisition District," by designating a Pending Public Acquisition District in the area bounded by the east North 13th Street, on the north by Race Street, on the west by North Broad Street and on the south by Arch Street.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance granting permission to Nahal Desai and Raju Desai, owners of the newsstand at the corner of 13th and Market Streets, to construct, use and maintain an electrical conduit with an electrical service line and a telecommunication conduit with a telephone service line.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance amending Section 1(a) and (c) of an ordinance (Bill No. 030344) approved July 31, 2003, entitled an ordinance granting permission to Ride the Ducks International, to remove an existing wood and metal newsstand located on the west sidewalk of Independence Mall West.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance granting permission to Robert Bitros, owner of the property 931-933 North Second Street, to operate and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe on the east sidewalk of North Second Street, under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance granting permission to 900 South Front Street, owner of the property 900 South Front Street, to operate and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe on the southwest corner of Front and Christian Streets, under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. I would ask the Clerk to please read the title of the resolution. THE

A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Washington Square West Urban Renewal Area.

The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.

Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Madam President, I offer four bills.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE

An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of the land located in the vicinity of McNulty and Townsend Roads, under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Roosevelt Boulevard, Southampton Road, Carter Street and Poquessing Creek.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to purchase fee simple title to a certain parcel of land with the buildings and improvements thereon, situated on the northwest side of Algon Avenue at Fox Chase Road, all under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance repealing an ordinance (Bill 030249), authorizing and directing of lines and grades on a portion to City Plan No. 253 of the area lying generally northwardly from the intersection of Unruh Avenue and Oakley Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.

Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills.

Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE

An ordinance authorizing 111 South 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, its successors and assigns, to construct and maintain a marquee, raised planters and rigid awnings on and over the public footways on Chestnut Street, South 15th Street and Sansom Street.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE

And an ordinance requiring the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to enter into a certain agreement with the City regarding Authority transactions involving non-City government agencies as a condition of Council approval of future Authority transactions, under certain

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.

Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.

The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Madam President, no bills or resolutions today.

Thank you. We have neither reports from committees nor bills on the First or Second Reading Calendars today. At this time, I would ask if there are any speeches on of the part of the minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.

Yes. Madam President, it's great to be back; I want to I want to thank you for your warm welcome. And I just want to thank you publicly for the very helpful way that you've been to me not only when we worked together in Council but, of course, I worked for you over the last few years, and I want to thank you for your direction and guidance over those years. I'd be remiss if I didn't thank two people, two other former colleagues of mine in this Council who have been very supportive of me. And that is our Minority Leader, Councilman Brian O'Neill, and Councilwoman Joan Krajewski. I thing they have been supportive of me over many, many years. And I think that there's no doubt in my mind that without their help and support, I would not be sitting in this seat today.

You're right about that. (Laughter.)

I can tell you one thin, she really knows how to push a person and she's pushed me back in this find the words that really express the gratitude that I have both of them. I want to thank them very, very much. And maybe some day I can repay them. Another person I would like to really thank, and we go back a ways, is our Majority Leader, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell. Jannie and I go back a long ways when she was chief of staff for her husband, the late and great Lu Blackwell. I had the utmost respect for them then and, of course, I know we had a great relationship then and I think we'll have better one now. A couple Councilpeople that I'm very, very familiar with and have been with here before and I've worked with them before, and that's Majority Whip, Councilwoman Marian Tasco, and Councilman Dave Cohen. They've been here many, many years. And I think that when it comes to Councilman Dave Cohen -well, not Marian, but I know Dave Cohen has been here. I'm try to get out of this one. I can just say that Councilman Cohen, I think many people think he's been here since the Samuel. And speaking of mayors, I had the privilege of working, of course, under Mayor Wilson Goode. And now I have the opportunity to work with his son Wilson Goode, Jr. And I think I had the utmost respect for the Mayor then and I have the same respect for his son. And while, of course, I didn't have of privilege of working under Mayor Frank Rizzo, I also have the opportunity to work with his son, Frank Rizzo, Jr. I think that this is a unique Council where we have the sons of two prominent and former mayors in our midst. And I think that, who knows, someday one or perhaps the both of them might be mayors themselves some day. I also want to take this time to welcome my good friend and neighbor Councilman Juan Ramos to this Council. I think that Juan and I are very close. We even share an office. And I think that we are going to be not only be close in proximity but I think we're going to be close on many of the issues confronting this Council. to be back and working with Councilman Mariano. I'm very familiar with Rick and his district, since I represented the 7th Councilmanic District before. And I know that many times people have come up to me with problems and requests for service that reside in this district. And I will say to you now that anytime I had this, I would give it to Rick. And between him and his staff, those requests or those problems would be handed efficiently and promptly. For that, I'm very, very grateful. Those two women that I've been following in this Council for many years, for the last few years. And I think that Blondell Reynolds Brown and Donna Miller have done an exceptional job. I think they represent their districts and the citizens of Philadelphia in a very, very professional manner. And I think they are great advocates for the children's and women's issues today and I think they deserve the support of Council in many, many of their issues. I just want to say that I'm also working with Councilman DiCicco again. I know Frank and I go back many, many years when we were in the judicial system together. We always had a great rapport then. I think frank was very, very fair. He treated me with respect. And I can tell you right now that we're going to in the next four years treat each other with respect again. I know that I'm anxious to work with, of course, two Councilman that have been outspoken on many, many issues confronting this Council, and that's Councilman Nutter and Councilman Kenney. And I'm anxious to get on with the debate and to listen to their opinions on many, many of the issues confronting this Council. I may not agree with them in all these issues, but, again, looking forward to hearing their side on many of them.

I will take exception to some people who probably think I'm a newcomer to this Council. But I can tell you now that I am not, and I don't like that description because this Council, I've been working with this Council, and I've been working for this Council for the last 15 years. I know how it works, and I want to be part of it. I think that we have to remember that our objective in this Council and our goals in this Council are the same, to make this City a better City. Now, the methods and uses that we try to achieve these goals, I think, can be debated and I'm looking forward to that debate. But, again, I'm glad to be back. And I think it's one of the ways, of course, that we have to resort from time to time is that we have to use the art of diplomacy and compromise to accomplish our goals. And I think I'm willing to do that and willing to work with this Council. That's the only way we're going to move legislation. Speaking of moving, I remember when John Street moved out of this Council to run for Mayor. I don't think he could have left the 5th Councilmanic District in better than Councilman Darrell Clarke. I think he has I'm looking forward to working with him. I know not only has he done a great job for his constituents in that district, but he has helped many of these Councilpeople over the years. And in fact, in my short term right now back in this Council, he has been very, very helpful to me. I know he's going to be -- I think he has the capabilities of being a great leader not only in this Council but of the City. And finally, Madam President, I am sitting here today unfortunately because of the loss of one Philadelphia's political legends, and that is Councilman Tacher Longstreth. There's no doubt that Tacher was not only a great statesman, legislator, politician and sports enthusiast, but he was a great friend. I know when I was in this Council before, we sat side by side. He shared many of his stories with me, but he also gave me some great advice. And he had a wealth of wisdom which he shared with anyone who asked. I know I will miss him. I know many of the people in this Council will miss people in Philadelphia already miss him. But I can tell you, Madam President, that I will do everything that I can to make not only make Thacher proud but also to repay and justify the confidence that the people of Philadelphia have given me in placing me in this Council to keep on the traditions and keep Tacher's memory alive. And I will do everything I can, I will work as hard as I can to keep this City the first class City that it is and to make the lives of all of our citizens a little bit better. And with, of course, God's help, your help, and the help of this Council, we can do just that. Madam President, it's great to be back, and thank you very much.

We welcome you. (Applause.)

Councilman O'Neill, is your light on?

Yes. Madam President. I'd like to thank Councilman Kelly on behalf of everyone. But I would note that my recollection is that Jack just spoke longer than he did the entire four years he was here and representing the 7th District.

I was thinking the same thing. (Laughter.)

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

I was waiting until you called for speeches on the part of the Minority. Thank you.

Are there any other speeches on part of the Minority? (No response.)

Seeing none, are there speeches on the part of the Majority? Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Madam President. I wanted to let the public and certainly my colleagues to know they are reception for Ambassador Dr. Simbi Muboko from Zimbabwe next Wednesday, the 28th from to in the Mayor's Reception Room. This event is sponsored by the African Americans United Fund of Pennsylvania and the City's Commerce Department. Thank you. We hope you'll join us. Thank you.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Thank you, Madam President. On January 12, 2004, consumer advocate Lance Haver, the Director of the Mayor's Office of Consumer Affairs and I sent a letter to the Secretary of Banking, Secretary Schenck, regarding Cash Today. This check cashing or loan center which is located throughout the City has not been abiding by the rules by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. And we have circulated a copy of this letter to our colleagues. Again, in keeping with our whole notion of protecting our citizens against predatory lending, we notice again our good friends the Daily News, who supported us 100 and 1,000 percent on the issue of predatory lending, still carries these ads. This company is charging high interest rates above the law, and they have to apply for a legal license to become either consumer discount company or an alternative company. So they're just breaking the law, and it just pains me to see that the Daily News continues to carry their ad which does not help the citizens of this City. And I ask the Daily News to discontinue carrying their ad until they comply with the law. I hope they will never carry it again, but that's America. But thank you very much.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the people of Philadelphia for give me this great honor to serve them in this historic and great Council. I want to make a promise, and that promise is I will work very hard for the people of this City and I will work very hard with my Council all in the best interest of Philadelphians. Muchos gracias.

Thank you. Again, we welcome you. Are there any other speeches on part of the Majority? (No response.)

Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.

I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, January 29th at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, January 29th, at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the motion carries. Thank you all very much. (Council adjourned at 10:59 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of January 24, 2004, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. RE: STATED MEETING _________________________ Lisa C. Bradley, RPR