COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 27, 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 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, everyone. 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, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Gerald Carey of St. Paul's Parish. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Rizzo. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us now be mindful of and place ourselves in the presence of God. Let us pray. Oh God of infinite love and mercy, it is you who create and transform and unite the hearts of the many citizens of this great City of Philadelphia. At the beginning of this day, we are Chamber to give our sincerest praise and thanks to you, not only for the blessings which you bestow upon us in our own individual lives, but in a particular way for all of the blessings you give this great city, whose very name reflects so eloquently the goodness of your own divine love. We acknowledge and are grateful for the skills and tireless dedication of all of our elected leaders present, who tirelessly labor each and every day for the common good. We ask that through their efforts, our City of Philadelphia may be recognized, held up and shine forth as a city that truly values our neighborhoods and those persons who are in them; a city that cherishes the pursuit of education and true wisdom; a city that promotes justice and compassion, especially for the poor and the needy; a city that supports beauty and the arts; a city that encourages business and hard work; a city that the lives of our citizens, recalling that in the midst of our local decisions, all of us are part of a larger global family seeking community and justice and peace. Bless now this Council meeting and all of our Councilmembers. Give them wisdom as they deal with many details and visions and who, with integrity and courage, lead all faithful citizens into the future, taking the best of our past and building upon it, creating a vision that moves us all forward in hope. May all those of goodwill now join their hearts and minds together in advancing the promise and the purposes of our good people of Philadelphia. And so we offer this prayer to you, oh God, in gratitude. Remain and stay with us here and now, and help us always to live authentic lives that are truly worthy of the sacred trust we have all been given. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Reverend Carey 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, October 20th, 2011, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October the 20th, 2011 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 20th, 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 leaves of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there is a request for leave of absence for Councilwoman Krajewski.
Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, there are no requests for leave of absence for Councilman Kelly or myself. Thank you.
The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests 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. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution to someone we all know and respect; that is, Peter Longstreth. Would Mr. Longstreth and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Oh, everybody is coming up. Wow.
Madam President, we tried. We tried to get as many people as we can.
Everybody loved Thacher Longstreth and everybody loves Peter Longstreth. We many of you as we could, and if you're not included, blame John Christmas.
Thank you, Madam President. Resolution honoring and congratulating Peter S. Longstreth on the occasion of his retirement from the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation after ten years of service as President.
Whereas, Peter S. Longstreth, a life-long resident of Philadelphia, has demonstrated a continuous passion for the commitment to the City in his personal life and professional career; and
Whereas, in 2001, Mr. Longstreth, after serving an outstanding 30-year business career in banking and real estate, was chosen by the Board of PIDC to lead the agency into 21st century; and
Whereas, Mr. Longstreth first focused his efforts on putting PIDC on a sound financial footing and recruiting a talented and diverse staff;
Whereas, Mr. Longstreth led the development of numerous innovative public and private resources, including the Welcome Fund, which stimulated foreign investment of over 500 million in Philadelphia, and the Emerging Business Programs, which target women, disabled and minority-owned businesses; and
Whereas, Mr. Longstreth's signature achievement has been the transformation of the Philadelphia Navy Yard from its closure over ten years ago by the federal government into the local and national economic success story it is today; and
Whereas, Mr. Longstreth leaves PIDC with the tools, resources and leadership to continue as a driving force in the growth of the City and the region; now therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Philadelphia City Council hereby honors and congratulates Mr. Longstreth for his outstanding service as President of PIDC and for his life-long contributions to the prosperity and quality of life in Philadelphia; and
Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented as a sincere expression of this body's recognition and gratitude to Mr. Longstreth for his selfless contributions to our great city and to all those who live and work here. Thanks for all your hard work. We appreciate it. Thank you. (Applause.)
And so that we make this official, this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 15th of September 2011. Signed by President Anna C. Verna and enthusiastically introduced and sponsored by all of the members of the Philadelphia City Council. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Mr. Longstreth for remarks.
I got so many thank-you's here that it may take a little while, but I certainly want to start with Council President Verna and all of the members who, I guess, introduced, sponsored and passed this resolution by which I am deeply honored with this recognition for what, after all, have been the happiest ten years of my life. So it's a pretty good deal. I had a great time and I get recognized as well. But thank you all. I am really a very firm believer that all significant individual product of team work and cooperation, and I am delighted to share this honor with the many members of the PIDC family, and I include in that my wife, Betsy, who I'm really thrilled to have here today as well. (Applause.)
As I hope you all know, the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation was founded over 50 years ago. It has served eight mayors and 13 councils and is a functioning public-private partnership between the City of Philadelphia and the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. So I'd really like to start by thanking Mayor Nutter, Deputy Mayor Greenberger and their really extraordinary economic development team, as well as Rob Wonderling and his dynamic organization over at the Chamber. I'd next like to recognize and thank the PIDC Board, led by our Executive Committee and by the PAID Board, with their really tremendous commitment of time and energy. And, remember, they meet virtually every two weeks under the iron hand of our long-time Chairman, Walter D'Alessio, who unfortunately cannot be with us here today, but they make the important decisions which stimulate economic development throughout the City. And I see a number of those directors here today, Alan Kessler, David Hyman I saw, Abe Beavers, Bill Marrazzo in the back. So thank you all very much for being here with us today. The PIDC staff, and it's led by John Grady, Sam Rhoads, and I won't try to point them all out, Paul Deegan, who you all know here in Council very, very well, Anne Evans, Tony Simonetta and a number of those. Why don't those of you in the audience who are PIDC employees please stand up, because I'm very, very flattered -(Applause.)
Very, very flattered that you're here, because you're the heart and soul of this wonderful organization, and the sense of pride and gratification which I feel for what has been accomplished by PIDC during the past ten years is totally the result of your commitment to economic development mission here in Philadelphia and to your hard work in making it all happen. So, once again, to the staff, thank you very, very much. (Applause.)
In our form of government here in America, obviously there's a legislative branch, and City Council, of course, provides that legislative balance to the executive policy directions. And there's no question that PIDC's effectiveness requires your participation and your support. According to PIDC bylaws, the Council President is, as you know, a Board and Executive Committee, and she is very well represented by Councilwoman Blackwell, who is our most loyal and active member and I can assure you always cheerleading for that 3rd District. Occasionally I'm a little concerned she might try to annex the Navy Yard into the 3rd District, but in all seriousness, a wonderful, wonderful asset to our Board and ably assisted by John Christmas -- John, where are you? There we are -- who, I know you'll find this difficult to believe, is always the nattiest dressed man in the room. PIDC, of course, interacts regularly with all of you on a whole variety of very, very important issues, which impact every aspect of the City's economy, and for this critical engagement, I thank really all of you. In closing and from a much more very personal perspective, I have been profoundly grateful for the opportunity so many of you all who were my father's former colleagues. He always considered his years in City Council as his greatest achievement, and I know he would be very, very pleased if he were here today. And I recollect, therefore, with very special warmth and really appreciation City Council's participation in his memorial service back in 2003 at the Academy of Music. And I would say my mother and all of our family were particularly touched by Council President Verna's very personal role in assuring a very dignified farewell to a committed public service and a life-long friend of Philadelphia. So thank you all very much for this honor to me and to PIDC. It was a privilege to work with you. For those of you who will be joining me in retirement, enjoy it. You've earned it. And for those of you -- well, the rest of you, I wish you the best of luck on November 8th and keep up the good work. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown. Councilwoman Brown will present a resolution recognizing October as Parent Involvement Month at the School District. Would Jim Scott and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I'm joined by the Chair of the Education Committee, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, where we seized the moment to sort of lift up working moms and dads who care about being actively engaged in the lives of their children. And with that, we are recognizing October as Parent Involvement Month at the School District of Philadelphia. Whereas, according to the National Committee for Citizens in Education, students with parents who are involved in their school have fewer behavioral problems and better academic performance, and are more likely to complete secondary school than students whose parents are not actively involved in the lives of their children; and Whereas, research continues to show that parents get involved in their children's education for a variety of reasons, but they do so especially when schools reach out to them and invite their participation;
And whereas, parents are the first and most influential teachers of their children and most often have high hopes and dreams for their children's future; and Whereas, the most accurate predictor of student achievement in school is the extent to which their families are able to create a home and advocates for their children's achievement in both school and the community; and Whereas, the importance of parent engagement in education requires not only recognition, but a firm commitment to the School District of Philadelphia, its students and families; and Whereas, the Office of Parent, Family, Community Engagement and Faith-Based Partnerships, on behalf of the School District of Philadelphia, has scheduled a month of activities to show appreciation for parents and their contributions as members of the school-based and District teams; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize October 2011 as Parent Involvement Month in Philadelphia. Further resolved, that an resolution be presented to the School District of Philadelphia and its parent organizations as represented by Parent Power, the Philadelphia Home and School Council and the Right to Education Task Force as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. This resolution was introduced by Chair of the Education Committee, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, and myself and sponsored by all -- co-sponsored by all the members of the Philadelphia City Council. (Applause.)
My name is Jim Scott. I'm Director of the Office of Parent, Family, Community Engagement, Faith-Based Partnerships for the School an honor for us to be here today as we honor our parents within the City of Philadelphia, and we thank City Council for this recognition. It is, as you know, a tremendous support for the School District of Philadelphia when we have parents involved. So we're very fortunate to have the organizations that are represented here today who serve us as the School District and who serve all parents across the City, and we want to recognize them on this day for all their hard work and effort to ensure that our students achieve everything that they are capable of achieving. So, City Council, Council President Verna, we certainly thank you for this honor. Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds, we thank you. (Applause.)
My name is Quibila Divine and on behalf of the Philadelphia Home and School Council, the Right to Education Task Force and Parent Power, we gratefully appreciate your recognizing October as Parent Involvement Month. You are joining with the State of Pennsylvania as well as the School District of Philadelphia to recognize the achievements and the cooperation of parents all over the City. In Philadelphia, parents quietly go about their work and their due diligence of being involved in our children's education by understanding what's going on with school vouchers, by going to facilities master plan meetings, by attending Title I Parent Advisory Council meetings and by understanding how parents can be involved in their child's education. you, we appreciate you, and we look forward to working with you in the future. (Applause.)
In the audience I see Sheriff Barbara Deeley. I would ask her to stand so that we can acknowledge her. Welcome. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution recognizing October as National Arts and Humanities Month. Would Tom Kaiden and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that the Councilwoman is being joined by Councilman Clarke.
I believe I saw Joe Meade in the audience from the Philadelphia Art Museum. I want to ask up here, Joe. And, Madam President, while we prepare for this presentation, I'd like to pose a friendly question to my colleagues. Who was the first First Lady that established the National Endowment for the Arts? Rhetorical question for now. You can tell me after the presentation. This morning we stand to recognize October as National Arts and Humanities Month. Whereas, according to Innovation Philadelphia, the creative industries in the Philadelphia region generate more than 44 billion annually in revenue and account for 32 percent of the Philadelphia region's workforce; and
Whereas, Philadelphia has championed a number of arts and humanities firsts, including the first art museum, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts established in 1805, the first art school for women, the Moore in 1848, the first tuition-free conservatory established in 1928, the first children's museum, the Please Touch Museum established in 1976 and is home to one of the largest museums in the United States, the Philadelphia Museum of Art founded in 1876; Whereas, each year during the month of October, many arts, culture and humanities institutions throughout the City acknowledge, recognize and celebrate this industry through National Arts and Humanities Month; and COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Whereas, National Arts and Humanities Month is a coast-to-coast collective recognition of the importance of culture in America. It is designed to encourage all Americans to explore new facets of the arts and humanities in their lives and to begin a life-long habit of active participation in the arts and humanities; and Whereas, National Arts and largest annual celebration for the humanities, arts and culture in the nation with a compilation of thousands of activities across 165 cities;
And whereas, through hosting and creative conversations, arts center open houses and better media coverage of the arts, people across the United States of America, including Philadelphia, can celebrate National Arts and Humanities Months by helping recognize the contributions of more than 400 cultural organizations in this region and enjoy the richness of the arts; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize October as National Arts and Humanities Month. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the representatives from community as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Madam President, I'm pleased to say that this resolution was co-sponsored by all the members of the Philadelphia City Council. We salute our city's rich arts and culture community. (Applause.)
I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to all the members of City Council for passing this resolution recognizing October as Arts and Humanities Month and the importance of arts and culture to our city's economy. Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, a special thank you to you for introducing this resolution. The Cultural Alliance is honored to have you as a Board member, and you've been a great advocate for the creative I'd also like to thank my partner, Gary Steuer, who is also accepting a copy of this resolution today. You and the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy have been invaluable partners in the effort to make Philadelphia a world-class cultural center. But most of all, I'd like to express my deepest gratitude to the people of Philadelphia. The Cultural Alliance recently published our third edition of Portfolio, which is I believe a copy in front of all the Councilmen this morning, which includes analysis of the impact of the recession on the City's non-profit cultural community. It's no surprise that the sector has been hurt by the downturn, but the damage would have been so much worse had it not been for the loyalty and support of Philadelphians. Whereas foundation giving, corporate sponsorships and been reduced, individuals and families really came through. Attendance to cultural events and programs in our region during the recession increased by 5 percent, memberships and subscriptions increased by 8 percent, and personal contributions increased by 20 percent. We often talk about everything that arts and culture provides for our communities - jobs, tourism, innovative education programs. What we don't often mention is how supporting our City residents are in return. During the most prolonged recession since the Great Depression, Philadelphians have once again proven to be the true heroes of the cultural sector, and for that, I thank you and I thank them. (Applause.)
Welcome, everyone. I'm Gary Steuer, the Chief Cultural Officer for the City of Philadelphia. I want to add my thanks to Tom's to all Council, Council President, especially Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, who is such an extraordinary advocate for this sector. We know that arts and culture, which includes our unmatched heritage assets as well, are one of the great resources of the City. They improve the quality of life for our residents, help energize our economy, generate jobs and attract visitors to our city and region. In fact, just this week Travel & Leisure Magazine released their new 2011 America's Favorite Cities survey results, and Philadelphia was ranked by visitors the number one city in the nation for culture. That's a pretty extraordinary thing. We moved up from a ranking of No. 10 in 2010. We're now ranked higher than New York, DC, Boston, Chicago and San Francisco, essentially every city in the country. And that's an accomplishment that's thanks to the support of this Council, thanks to the work of the the artists and arts organizations in the City. And the survey just tells us what we already know, that these number one ranked assets are available to our residents every day of the year, not just to visitors, and this is an extraordinary, extraordinary place to live and work. So thanks again to Council for this resolution, which is so important. 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, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendations of the City Planning Commission regarding the following bills: Bill Nos. 110563, 110161, 110614, 110616, 110632, 110636, 110647, 110648, 110650, 110662, 110663, 110669, 110671 and 110681. And I am pleased to advise you that on October 26th, 2011, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on October 13, 2011, except Bill No. 110557, which I am returning without my signature. And I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the filing of Articles of Amendment with the Department of State and Department of Community and Economic Affairs to change the name of the "Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia" to "Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority"; and 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," to rename the Business Privilege Tax the Business Income and Receipts Tax and the "Business Privilege License" the "Commercial Activity License," and making conforming amendments throughout The Philadelphia Code; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 228 by striking from the City Plan Markle Street from Ridge Avenue to a point approximately four-hundred one feet northeastwardly therefrom, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please -
Point of information. Could you ask the Chief Clerk to read that Redevelopment bill again. I didn't get it.
Changing the name of the "Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia" to the "Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority."
Okay. That clears it up. Thank you. I appreciate that.
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, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of myself and Councilman Greenlee, I offer one bill.
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 adding a new Chapter, entitled "Agents and Sheriff's Sales," specifying conditions under which any person may assist or act on behalf of another person in connection with the recovery of surplus funds due the owner upon completion of a Sheriff's sale of such owner's property.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution also naming Haverford Avenue from Fifty-Second Street to Fifty-Eighth Street "Geneva Black Way."
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
Madam President, may I note that that is co-sponsored by Councilman Curtis Jones.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the next resolution.
And 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 Sixth and Sixtieth Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-2800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Administrative Adjudication of Parking Violations," by providing that additional fees and costs shall be imposed for failure to answer a parking ticket only when a notice of violation, issued with respect to such ticket, has not been answered within a specified period of time.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer a couple of things here, a bill on behalf of the Administration, three resolutions on your behalf and one resolution on my behalf.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," to rename the Business Privilege Tax the Business Income and Receipts Tax and the Business Privilege License the Commercial Activity License.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And 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 Thirty-Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a resolution honoring veterans of the United States Armed Forces, in Philadelphia and across the country, in accordance with the observation of Veterans Day on November 11, 2011.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on 15th Street, both sides, Moore Street to Mifflin Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on 15th Street, both sides, Jackson Street to Wolf Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I offer four bills.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land known and numbered as 1925 through 33 West Venango Street thru to Pacific Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
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 Germantown Avenue, Hartwell Lane, Shawnee Street, and Southampton Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by amending Section 14-1613, entitled the "Germantown Avenue Special District Controls."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on Hartwell Lane from Germantown Avenue to Shawnee Street, eastbound.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution approving the filing of Articles of Amendment with the Pennsylvania Department of State and Department of Community and Economic Affairs to change the name of the "Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia" to "Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority."
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 228 by striking from the City Plan Markle Street from Ridge Avenue to a point approximately four-hundred one feet northeastwardly therefrom.
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.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution this morning.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing Council's Committee on the Disabled and Handicapped to hold public hearings for the purpose of examining and investigating the incidences involving Linda Ann Weston and three additional persons suspected of holding four mentally disabled adults and several juveniles captive with the intent to commit fraud by cashing the Social Security checks of those held in captivity.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
An ordinance repealing Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," and replacing it with a new Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning"; and making conforming changes to the Zoning Maps of the City.
This will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
An ordinance granting permission to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, 1234 Market Street, to construct, own and maintain a passenger boarding platform, passenger shelter and other miscellaneous encroachments on the public sidewalk.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Institutional Development District Master Plan of Temple University, located on the block bounded by 11th Street, Berks Street, 12th Street, and Norris Street, by allowing for the construction of a new building addition for use as the Science Education and Research Building.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. The next order of business is reports from committees. Tasco for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Madam President, the Committee on Finance reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 110548, entitled "An ordinance amending The Philadelphia Code, principally Title 19, entitled 'Finance, Taxes and Collections,' and such other provisions as may be appropriate, to reduce the tax burden on existing new businesses and to eliminate, waive or reduce certain fees and permit charges, all for the purpose of generating growth in existing businesses, the birth of new businesses and the creation of jobs"; and Bill No. 110554, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Business Privilege Taxes,' by providing certain exclusions, modifying certain definitions and revising certain tax rates, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 110548 and 110554. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works reports three bills with a favorable recommendation.
The Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 110632, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to purchase a certain tract of land with the improvements thereon situate at 9470 Ashton Road"; and Bill No. 110650, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire the beds of certain portions of Delaware Avenue and Buckius Street"; and Bill No. 110669, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to convey a parcel of land with the improvements thereon located at 921 through 27 Ellsworth Street, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 110632, 110650 and 110669. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.
Madam President, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
The Committee on Public Health and Human Services, to which was referred Bill No. 110552, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 10-602 of The Philadelphia Code, known as the 'Clean Indoor Air Worker Protection Law,' by providing a limited period of time, expiring January 1, 2012, during which certain Drinking Establishments, as defined, may apply for and obtain a waiver of the provisions of the Section places"; and Bill No. 110565, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Animals,' to establish provisions for the reporting of wild raccoons and to provide for the manner of their abatement, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 110552 and 110565. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All those in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on the Environment.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on the Environment reports two bills out with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
The Committee on the Environment, to which was referred Bill No. 110442, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Business Privilege Taxes,' by changing the reporting requirement related to the Sustainable Business Tax Credit"; and Bill No. 110533, entitled "An ordinance amending Subcode 'A' (The Philadelphia Administrative Code) of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code,' by providing for the manner of payment of electrical permit fees for the installation of solar electric (also known as photovoltaic) systems," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. 10/27/11 - STATED - 1ST READING The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Madam President, I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 110442 and 110533. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with suspension of rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. 10/27/11 - STATED - 1ST READING These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chief Clerk will please read any other bills on the First Reading.
Bill No. 110130, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Real Estate Taxes,' to provide a credit against the tax for owners of condominiums and cooperatives and planned community units who do not receive regular City refuse, recycling and bulk item collection services"; and Bill No. 110671, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Bodine Street from Spring Garden Street to Green Street, all under certain terms and conditions."
The Chair agrees, and the bills will be 10/27/11 - STATED - 1ST READING placed on the Second Reading Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Kenney. Do you have another report, sir?
No, Madam President. I'm offering an amendment to Bill No. 110548, which was just read out of committee today. I'd like to make a motion the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit an amendment to be offered to Bill No. 110548 at this time. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it and the amendment is adopted. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Kenney. 10/27/11 - STATED - 1ST READING
Thank you, Madam President. I would now like to offer the amendment to Bill No. 110548. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council and I, therefore, move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it and the bill has been amended, and it will placed on the Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion concerning the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar: Bill Nos. 110560, 110612, 110613, 110660, 110291, 110293, 110499, 110550, 110555, 110566, 110608, 110609, 110614, 110615, 110616, 110634, 110635, 110651, 110652, 110653, 110654, 110655, 110656, 110657, 110658, 110665, 110673, 110674, 110675, 110676, 110677, 110678, 110679 and 110680.
Councilwoman, I believe you would like to move that the rules of Council be suspended for the use of a Consent Agenda to be considered for those bills.
The motion carries, and we will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up the bills and resolutions on the regular Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Madam President. In addition to the bills being considered on the Consent Agenda, the following resolutions and bills are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars: Nos. 110728, 110740, 110742, 110743, 110744, 110746, 110748, 110749, 110750, 110633. Bill No. 110747 is being withdrawn. All other bills and resolutions are being held.
Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. Speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so by giving your name to the Sergeant-At-Arms at the table to my left. You will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. You will have up to three minutes to testify. I know that we have a number of people that have signed up, and I would ask you please to keep in mind that we would like to hear all of the people who have signed up, so please try to be as brief as possible. At this time, I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.
Wali Rahman, commenting on 110633. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Wali "Diop" Rahman. I'm running for Mayor of Philadelphia as the only independent candidate on the ballot. I'm also a representative of an organization known as Black is Back Coalition for Social Justice, Peace and Reparations, and I wanted to speak at this particular hearing as much as I did last time to voice my opposition to this proposal on the floor to pass or to revise the youth curfew that's already in place. We recognize that this curfew is part of an all-out assault that's being made on the black and Latino community here in Philadelphia, the historically oppressed and exploited black and Latino community here in the City of Philadelphia. This curfew is seen in no different ways that the stop and frisk policy that specifically targets black and Latino men and youth in particular, but the entire community, a policy that does not result in a deviation of violence and crime, but in fact it's made as a way to deflect the source of real crime in the City of Philadelphia, which is the crime of the budget cuts, the unemployment, the poverty. This is the real violence that the youth that are being targeted by this curfew suffer on a regular basis. And I think it's ironic that as we discus proposals to invest more in police containment of the black community, just this morning there was a report about how another $600,000 will be cut from the education system. How can the City afford to fund the $1 billion budget for police, prisons and courts, but you can't find the money to keep the schools open? We know there's something wrong with that. But more than that, I want to warn City Council in a literal sense. The City of Philadelphia is creating conditions for all-out upheaval, social upheaval. The same youth that you are backing into a corner are going to resist, and I believe that they have a right and a responsibility to resist unjust, anti-democratic, draconian laws like the curfew that you're trying to pass right now. (Applause.)
I want to say this. I want to say this. If you don't learn anything else, if you don't believe me, then you should look at history as your best teacher. Just this past summer, the month of August, the youth, black youth in particular, of London, England responded to the stop and frisk and responded to the budget cuts. They responded to the same policies that you are implementing right here in Philadelphia in the form of all-out rebellion. And I don't think that you want to see that same type of situation in your hands in the City of Philadelphia, but the reality is that if the City of Philadelphia goes up in flames, then the ashes of the City will be on the hands of City Council and the Mayor of this city. (Applause.)