COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 3, 2011 10:15 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO, JR. COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend Monsignor John Boland of St. Christopher's Roman Catholic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman O'Neill. At this time, I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us pray. God, our Father, we ask you to be with us today as we begin this session of our City Council. We ask your blessings for our city and for the members of this Council. Fill them with the spirit of wisdom, charity and justice in their office to promote the well-being of all people, especially the poor and the needy. Give them strength, vision, love and compassion that they be ever more effective leaders. As they gather today, may they experience a spirit of servant leadership. Bless also the families of the members of Council. Help Councilmembers as they balance their responsibilities between public office and home. May our Councilmembers and their family members know the gratitude of their fellow citizens for the sacrifices and the time spent on our behalf. Lord, bless too the Council staff. Help them to do their work with eagerness to serve the common good. We place these prayers before you, confident that you will hear them, because you are a good and gracious God, who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Monsignor Boland for his invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 27th, 2011, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 27th, 2011 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 27th, 2011 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 Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence for today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, I'd like to welcome to our Chamber this morning Vincent J. Liuzzi. He's the new Regional President of Wells Fargo for Philadelphia and Delaware, and he's just recently arrived from Los Angeles to run this big bank. So we would like to welcome him here to our city.
If here, if he would please stand. Welcome. (Applause.)
Welcome. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution honoring the African American Children's Book Project. Would Kerri Conner Matchett and Floyd Cooper and those accompanying them please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Brown is being accompanied by Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. Once again we get an opportunity to salute those who have the gift of taking images and concepts in their head and reducing it to writing on paper. I have enormous respect for authors. And so this morning, we are honoring the African American Children's Book Project on the occasion of the 19th Book Fair. Whereas, the importance of book fairs cannot be understated, and for 17 years, the African American Children's Book Fair has enhanced multiculturalism in our City utilizing the joy of reading as a tool; and Whereas, Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati created the Book Fair because she believes books open up a world of opportunities for children; and
Whereas, one of the most important reasons to encourage reading in our children is that studies show that the more our youth read, the more likely they are to make positive life-style decisions as they grow older; and Whereas, strictly judging by the attendance of the Fair, it is a tremendous success, as well over 4,500 people attended the fair in past years; and
Whereas, rich or poor, no one leaves empty-handed, as the books themselves are priced at a level where they are more affordable, and posters, bookmarkers and raffle books are distributed free of charge to attendees; and Whereas, one of the esteemed attendees will be Kerri Conner Matchett, CPA, a partner at Anita T. Conner and Associates Certified Public Accountants and Financial Services/The Tax Divas. She holds a B.B.A. in accounting from Howard University and has successfully completed all parts of the Uniform Certified Public Accounting Examination. She is a member of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter, and the National Association of Black Accountants, Philadelphia Chapter. Kerri is a breast cancer survivor and recent author of "My Cancer, But She is Ok," quote/unquote. Her hopes are that this book will inspire women with breast cancer and other adults to have conversations with young children about the journey of recovery; and
Whereas, the Fair is also lucky to host a terrific author, Floyd Cooper, who received a Coretta Scott King Award for his illustrations -- in honor for his illustrations for "The Blacker the Berry" and won CSK honors for "Brown Honey in Broomwheat Tea" and "I Have Heard of a Land." He has illustrated numerous books, including "Ruth and the Green Book" by Calvin Ramsey. He was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mr. Cooper received a degree in fine arts from the University of Oklahoma. In 1984, he came to New York City to pursue a career as an illustrator of books and now lives in Easton, Pennsylvania, with his wife and two sons; and Whereas, the 19th Annual African American Book Fair will be held free of charge on Saturday, February the 5th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the gymnasium of the Community College of Philadelphia located at 17th and Spring Garden; now therefore be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor the African American Children's Book Project, founded by Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati, on the occasion of the 19th Annual African American Children's Book Fair. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the African American Children's Book Project, Kerri Conner Matchett and Floyd Cooper for their hard work and efforts in the promotion of children's literacy, as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Introduced by Blondell Reynolds Councilmembers you see here and supported by all the members of the Philadelphia City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you so very much. And to you Councilwoman, voy bani, von viage, tatookela fetora (ph). But I wanted to thank everyone this morning, especially these four people who are in back of me, who contribute so much to the cultural life and make the City a better place to live. And I wanted to introduce these two people, because they represent 20 of the African American authors and illustrators who will be featured in the 19th Annual African American Children's Book Fair. They are the best and the brightest from the children's literary community. A Association, Coretta Scott King winners, Newbery and NAACP Image Award winners will be presented at the book fair. Today, we have two authors. It is an author and an illustrator. The illustrator has made over 85 books. They are two people who bring to life on paper stories of overcoming obstacles, from Floyd Cooper's strong breast strokes that tell the story of a man's civil rights journey through his hands, or the little known Green Book, which many of you have, that was a beacon of light for African Americans traveling in the segregated south. And Kerri Conner's journey that started out as a tragedy, but ended victoriously. These books are just a sample of the wealth of literary talent that will be showcased at the Book Fair. The African American Children's Book Project recognizes that the ability to read is so transforming. To read can take you to places beyond your help right or wrong. And to read gives the ability to control your destiny. So I hope all of you will take the time on Saturday -- we will be there rain or snow -- to come out to the African American Children's Book Fair. And the really unique thing about this book fair is that we're giving away brand new books of the authors and illustrators that will be there, and for some children, that is the first time they will own a book. So I thank you for this opportunity. (Applause.)
Thank you, Councilmembers. It is with great honor that I accept this citation today. When I wrote "My Mommy Has Breast Cancer, But She is Ok," I only had three goals in mind. My first goal was that I wanted to write a book that would be engaging to my daughter, a book that had bright, vibrant colors, a book where she could see images of herself and be proud, a book that would not only encourage her to read but to read often. My second goal was that I wanted to create a book that would educate children and their families about the journey to recovery from breast cancer, a book that simplified but educated in a non-scary manner. And, thirdly, I wanted to inspire our children to never give up despite what life throws their way. In this story, it just so happens that Maddie's mom has breast cancer, but children today are faced with so many obstacles, I felt it important to teach them to have faith and believe anything is possible. I know firsthand that if you continue to fight and you continue to believe, you will eventually succeed. You see, when my mother was 41 years old, she was diagnosed with an aggressive The doctors told us she would not survive, but she fought and believed, and I'm proud to say that 12 years later, she is here, proving anything is possible. You see, I know that if you fight, you will make this journey. It was five years ago that my mother and I started an initiative called Praise is the Cure. The goal was to motivate, educate and encourage women to get breast health screenings and treatment. It is only through faith that now in 2011 we've reached thousands of women, men and children, providing support and awareness. And, lastly, it was my desire to fight and believe that allowed me to get through high-dose chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, more high-dose chemotherapy, radiation, reconstruction and, yes, two more years of chemo after that, but yet I'm still standing. "I'm Proud That My Mommy Has Cancer, But She is Ok" not only educates, but it inspires. Together, we cannot only save lives, but we can encourage our families to fight, to never give up despite what life throws their way. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning. On behalf of my family and myself, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for this distinguished honor. I would also like to thank Blondell Reynolds Brown for her work as well. And I shall approach my work with a renewed vigor, that of enriching children's lives through books. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
On a final note, Blondell Reynolds Brown is officially called "The Literary Councilperson."
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Green, who will present a resolution honoring the Historical Commission. Would Mr. Sam Sherman and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilman Green is being joined by Councilman Greenlee and Councilwoman Brown.
Before I read this resolution, I just want to say that Councilmembers Blondell Reynolds Brown and Councilman Greenlee co-sponsored a bill with me, I think it was in 2008, early 2008, that then began the arduous process of going through legislative hearings and other things. At the beginning of the process, the Historical Commission and The Preservation Alliance, who is also responsible for the reason we're here today, were very -- not opposed, but had raised a lot of issues about the ordinance, and through working with both of those great organizations, we were able to craft a historic preservation ordinance in the City of Philadelphia. We were the only major city in the country to not have one, and most have had theirs for 25, 27 years. So we're here today to celebrate the first pronouncement of a Philadelphia historic interior, which is our beautiful Chambers. Expressing the gratitude and appreciation of City Council to the Philadelphia Historical Commission for designating the City Council Chamber as an historic interior. Whereas, on June 18th, 2009, Philadelphia City Council approved Bill 080527, which empowered the Philadelphia Historical Commission to designate the public interior portions of buildings as historic; and Whereas, a designation from the Historical Commission protects spaces or structures from being physically altered by requiring Commission approval of any building plans prior to permits for the work being issued by the City; and
Whereas, the City Council Chamber was constructed in 1895, remodeled in 1907, and remained largely unaltered until restoration work in 2002; and Whereas, the City Council Chamber was designed by noted architect W. Bleddyn Powell and has been the backdrop of virtually all legislative activity in Philadelphia for the last century; and
Whereas, with generous support from The Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, a nomination was prepared for the City Council Chamber to be designated a historic interior. This nomination included a detailed history of historically significant fixtures within it; and Whereas, at its meeting on November 12th, 2010, the Philadelphia Historical Commission approved the designation of the City Council Chamber, making the Chamber the first historic interior in Philadelphia to be protected under the new law; now, therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that the City Council hereby expresses its sincere gratitude and appreciation to The Preservation Alliance and to the Philadelphia Historical Commission for designating the City Council Chamber as a historic interior and preserving the character and physical integrity of this hallowed space for generations to come. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Historical Commission as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. And to accept that, Sam Sherman. (Applause.)
I want to express my gratitude to the sponsors of this bill, Councilman Green, who introduced, Councilman Greenlee and Councilwoman Brown, who co-sponsored. And I am very proud to have this Chamber be the first designated interior space in the City of Philadelphia. My face is fairly familiar in here, as I've offered testimony and I've met and spoken to almost every Councilmember here over the years, and this is by far one of the most beautiful governmental chambers in the country. I've traveled extensively throughout the United States and the world, and most cities do not have this architectural legacy as their seat of power, and I am very grateful that we were able to the interior. And I would also like to thank The Preservation Alliance, John Gallery and all of my fellow Commission members and the Historic Commission staff for all of the hard work and dedication that they have shown through this process. Thank you. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing transfers Year 2011 from the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions and from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions; and Also an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the Acute Care Hospital Assessment Fund; and An ordinance amending Chapter 9-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fair Practices," by changing the title to "Fair Practices Ordinance: Protections Against Unlawful Discrimination," by replacing "handicap" with disability as a protected status, by adding domestic or sexual violence victim status, familial status, and genetic information to the prohibited bases for discrimination; by amending the definition of discrimination, employer, life partnership, public accommodation and other terms, and by adding or deleting other definitions; and Also an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, for use of a premises owned by the City located at 1221 Bainbridge Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation to lease the land and improvements known as the Mann Center for Performing Arts, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in his possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by authorizing duly designated employees of the Philadelphia Parking Authority to enforce Section 9-102, Subparagraph (3), Subparagraph (a), which requires a person licensed under Title 9 to produce a copy of the license upon request; amending Subcode "A" of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia Administrative Code," to require a person who is required under Title 4 to be licensed to conduct a trade or practice to produce such license upon the request of the code official.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution Calling for Public Hearings before the City Council Committee on Education to Discuss the Possibility of Using City Health and Social Service Agencies to Compliment School District Nurse and Guidance Counselor Resources in Public Schools.
The resolution will be placed on the Calendar to be considered at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill. It's co-sponsored by Councilman Green.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fair Practices," by changing the title to "Fair Practices Ordinance: Protections against unlawful discrimination."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I offer no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Gerald Rothstein and Frederick Mumenthaler, owners of the property located at 1921 through 23 South Bancroft Street, to legalize an existing encroachment in the right-of-way located on the east public footway of Bancroft Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
A resolution declaring February 15 as "Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer Day" in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on our Second Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Sorry. Thank you, Madam President. I have four bills.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bills.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to provide for changes to the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Tacony Street, Dark Horse Street, the Delaware River, Frankford Creek, and Bridge Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Milnor Street, Levick Street, the Delaware River and Robbins Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance Provision for Other Grants to the Acute Care Hospital Assessment Fund.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 from the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions and from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to lease the land and improvements known as the Mann Center for Performing Arts.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown. (No response.)
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Section 14-1607 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Special District Controls for the Center City Commercial Area," and Section 14-1605 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulated Uses," by adding to both Sections special provisions relating to the area bounded by Chestnut Street, 12th Street, 13th Street, and Sansom Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for use of a premises by the City located at 1221 Bainbridge Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
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 relating to the creation, appointment, powers and duties of an independent Jobs Commission; and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation, appointment, powers and duties of a Jobs Commission.
The resolution will be placed on our Calendar at our next session of Council for consideration. Oh, I'm sorry. That is to be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo. 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution Recognizing, Honoring, Celebrating, and Thanking Leonard Thomas on the Occasion of his Retirement as a United States postal worker and letter carrier for City Hall.
The resolution will be placed on our Second Reading Calendar at our next session of Council. There are no reports from committees today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. As there are no bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion concerning the resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar. 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar: Resolution Nos. 110007, 110008, 110009, 110010, 110012, 110013, 110014, 110015, 110016, 110017, 110018, 110019, 110020, 110021, 110022, 110023, 110024, 110030 and 110031. All other resolutions are being held.
It has been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the resolutions just read by Councilwoman Tasco. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries, and we will consider the Resolution Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up the bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. In addition to the resolutions being considered on the Resolution Consent Agenda, the following bills and resolutions are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage today: Bill Nos. 100536, 100780 and 100722. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment on those matters, those matters listed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar portion of the Calendar for possible action at this week's session of Council. Before our first speaker comes forward, let me note once again that Council's rules have been amended to provide for a public comment period. The public comment procedure operates as follows: For each Council session, there will be a sign-up sheet to determine the order in which we receive public comment, although no one will be denied the opportunity to provide public comment because they have not previously signed up. Public comment is limited to Philadelphia residents and taxpayers. So when it's your turn to speak, please state your name and where you live, and if you are not a resident of Philadelphia, please state that you are a Philadelphia taxpayer. You will then have up to three minutes, three minutes, to provide public comment on bills and resolutions listed on the Calendar for possible action at today's session. At this time, I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.
Mr. Parente, would you please come to the microphone.
My name is Joseph Parente. I am a taxpayer and an owner of Morton Towing and Recovery, a Philadelphia-based towing company. I am also the Director of the Philadelphia Independent Towers and Salvers Association. Our association has members of good, honest, hard-working tow companies, body shops and salvers that will feel the effect of hardships and the loss of revenue if Bill 100536 is voted in. The general public will also feel that same effect. This bill was originally introduced to Council as an accident rotational program, but it was changed later to give the Parking Authority total control of the towing industry. As an association for the towing industry, it is our obligation to request that our members have a voice in the administrating procedures. We are asking Council to give us a chance to sit down with the Administration before you make your decision today. The Philadelphia Independent Towers and Salvers Association have submitted and suggested some requirements to the rotational program. These requirements were put together by our advisory board with the intent to bring restriction and control in the implementation of the rotational program. Our attorney, Michael Henry, has introduced the legal aspect, which questions the legislative authority of City Council to let the Parking Authority, the towing industry's competitor, control the towing industry. These documents have been presented to the Honorable Michael Nutter, Mayor Michael Nutter, Deputy Mayor Everett Gillison, Truck Enforcement and all of City Councilmembers. I would like to let Councilmembers know that we believe Councilman Kenney has had the best intentions to try to fix a problem that has plagued our city for years, but because several tow companies have abused the towing industry, all of the companies are being put into that same category. Our association would like to thank Councilmembers and the City Administration for all of your understanding in the towing of accident vehicles. I have in my hand a copy of legislation, Bill 040595, the original bill introduced by Councilman Rizzo. I never realized it before, but 12 of Councilmembers here today supported that bill. So if you're wondering what drives the Philadelphia Independent Towers and Salvers Association in pursuit to make this program work, it is those Councilmembers who wanted this bill to work. The Philadelphia Independent Towers and Salvers Association ask that Councilmembers not vote on Bill 100536 and that we sit down and work together and make this program work. Thank you, Council.
Thank you, Mr. Parente. The Chief Clerk will please call our next speaker.
-- of Council and visitors. Yeah, I'm looking at this ordinance concerning the standards on conduct and ethics regarding the political activities of City officers and employees, and I'm going to talk to the broader issue. I'm very upset to read in the paper such negative things about City Council, City Councilmembers both in the newspaper section out of the editorial section of the newspapers, and I think the hundreds of thousands of people reading them are very upset concerning the issue of ethics. I think a primary one as written in by three editorials in the Inquirer and other newspapers, a city paper, which I live in Center City -- by the way, I'm an ex-City employee who worked to put these cameras in City Council. I think everybody is very, very concerned with the appearance of unethical activities by Council in handling the DROP program, and not only for Councilmembers but the 9,000 people signed up for the DROP program. This is bankrupting the City.
You tried to get into the DROP program. I told you then, as I will tell you now, you will have sufficient time to discuss that issue when Council has their public hearing.
Now, please talk about the bill that you're referring to.
Well, I think it refers to the ethics of Councilmembers. That's all I have to say. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Fisher. Is there anyone else here who wishes to provide public comment on today's agenda? (No response.)
Seeing none, that concludes today's public comment period. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to please introduce one bill today.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement," to provide that certain City contractors must offer the same benefits to life partners of their offered to the spouses of married employees, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. We will now consider today's Resolution Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the resolution on the Resolution Consent Agenda. Upon such objection and without debate, the resolution will be immediately removed from the Resolution Consent Agenda and placed on today's regular Final Passage Calendar. The Clerk will now read the title of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda.
Resolution No. 110007, entitled "A resolution honoring and congratulating Scott M. Wilds"; and Resolution No. 110008, entitled "A Resolution Calling on the Philadelphia on Education to Hold Hearings in Partnership with the State Board of Education and the Department of Education on the Lack of Library Facilities and Certified Librarians in Public Schools"; and Resolution No. 110009, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Forty-Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 110010, entitled "A resolution designating the month of February as 'Teen Dating Violence Aware Month in Philadelphia'"; and Resolution No. 110012, entitled "A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Point Breeze Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 61 and also sometimes identified by house address and street address as 1533 Federal Street"; and Resolution No. 110013, entitled "A resolution recognizing and acknowledging Delta Sigma Theta Sorority on the occasion of its Fourth Annual Philadelphia City Council Delta Day"; and Resolution No. 110014, entitled "A resolution honoring Thomas E. Knudsen for his achievements in service to the City of Philadelphia and its citizens as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Philadelphia Gas Works"; and Resolution No. 110015, entitled "A resolution declaring February 17th, 2011, as PGW Day in the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 110016, entitled "A resolution proclaiming January 2011, 'Poverty in America Awareness Month'"; and Resolution No. 110017, entitled "A resolution proclaiming January 2011, as 'National Mentoring Month'"; and Resolution No. 110018, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Council Committee on Education to conduct hearings to examine the Philadelphia School District's discipline policy and the recent report 'Zero Tolerance in Philadelphia' by the Advancement Project and Youth United for Change, which documents the negative and disproportionate effect of zero tolerance discipline policies on poor and minority students"; and Resolution No. 110019, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold hearings investigating ways that targeting medical resources can help the City of Philadelphia improve the quality and reduce the cost of providing health its employees and citizens"; and Resolution No. 110020, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings regarding a strategic assessment of the City's workforce agencies"; and Resolution No. 110021, entitled "A resolution honoring the African American Children's Book Project on the occasion of the 19th Annual African American Children's Book Fair"; and Resolution No. 110022, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Joint Committees on Law and Government and Public Safety to hold hearings to support the creation of a robust, active Family Justice Center in the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 110023, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment City of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-First Ward of the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No.
110024, entitled "A resolution celebrating Philadelphia's Asian Community at the start of the Lunar New Year"; and Resolution No. 110030, entitled "A resolution honoring Bernard Brunwasser on His Retirement"; and Resolution No. "
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda has been adopted. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 100536. 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING
An ordinance amending provisions of The Philadelphia Code relating to towing; in particular, amending Section 9-605, entitled "Towing," by revising provisions for the licensing of towing companies; by revising the rotation system for towing certain vehicles; by providing for fines, penalties and license suspensions, and for administrative adjudication of certain violations.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 10; the nays are zero (sic). A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 100780. Oh, I'm sorry. The vote was 10-7. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING passes. We will now consider Bill No. 100780.
An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," by expanding the scope of "Plan '10" and "DC Plan" to cover additional employees, including Fire Department employees.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 100722. 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-818 of The Philadelphia Code to provide that no person shall carry a firearm on public streets or public property unless the person is licensed to carry such firearm by a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, regardless of whether the person possesses a license issued in another state.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. 2/3/11 - STATED - 2ND READING COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That concludes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. As we enter February, I want to let everyone know it is Black History Month; that Black History Month actually started as Negro History Week in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson; that since that time, the month of February has been designated to highlight accomplishments in the areas of science, military, economics and politics; that African American men and women have made a contribution to our history. Whether we talk about the Tuskegee Airmen or the proud soldiers that serve today, whether we talk about the first African American Congress that was elected post-reconstruction or President Obama today, our accomplishments are a part of the fabric, the greater fabric, of American society. body to recognize African American History Month throughout the month and throughout the year. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. As everybody in this Chamber is aware, Councilwoman Sanchez and I have for three years worked to revise Philadelphia's burdensome tax structure and benefit Philadelphia-based companies and small businesses. President Obama in his recent State of the Union address talked about revamping the federal corporate tax system because of the available loopholes and the fact that the high corporate rate is not anywhere near the effective rate paid by the aggregate of corporations in the United States, and ability of some people to use loopholes and others not to is hurting our economy and ability to create jobs. The same is true in the State of Pennsylvania, and today Senator Anthony Hardy Williams has committed to introducing a bill in the State Senate that will eliminate the State's corporate net income tax and move Pennsylvania to a commercial activity tax similar to the State of Ohio's, where they have increased their competitiveness, been number one in capital creation and job creation and retention for four years, and have won the Governor's Award for four years in a row for all those things. And so I want to commend the Senator for moving Pennsylvania into the future and allowing Pennsylvania to compete more effectively to create and grow jobs in our state. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Madam President. Very quickly, I'd like to jump back to the comments made by my colleague Councilman Jones, and as he has stated, this is African American History Month, and it is a good thing not only for African Americans but for all Americans to understand this history, and I'd like to refer to this particular history as American history, not just African American history. It's American history that's been denied and delayed and the stories not been told, and I think it's important, especially in Philadelphia, when there are so many contributors of African descent to the Philadelphia history and the history of our country right here on the streets that we walk every day and the buildings that we walk by, people toiled in a very difficult situation and persevered. is African American History Month, again, I'd say it's American history that's been delayed and denied, that we all need to take part in it and to understand it and learn about it, because we were never taught about it when we were in grade school. Thank you.
I would like to remind my colleagues that there will be a Zoning Code Commission briefing immediately after our Council session in the Caucus Room. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until February the 10th, 10:00 a.m., 2011. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 10th at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Thank you. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on February 3, 2011, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)