Aye. The ayes are 17 and the nays are 0. Majority of all members having voted in the affirmative the bill passes. Congratulations. Would the Clerk please 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING read any additional resolutions on today's Calendar.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Rich Lazer, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, for strengthening the Authority's operations, improving customer service and addressing key qualityof-life issues that impact residents across the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Phillips.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring La Salle College High School on winning the 2025 PIAA Class 6A State Football Championship. Introduced by Councilmember Phillips. 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I would love for Councilman O'Neill to provide the second. I move for the adoption of the resolu -
I hope Councilman Phillips learned last year that we support each other. He voted no on mine. I'm voting an enthusiastic yes on his. Thank you. (Duly seconded.)
We learned, and I'll support you next 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING time.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and a resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the MAAFA Redemption Project and its Executive Director, Reverend Marshall Hatch, Jr., for creating a safe, healing and 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING disciplined pathway for young men to reimagine themselves as leaders and change agents, work that reflects the same fight for opportunity, safety and dignity, championed in Philadelphia's neighborhoods. Introduced by Councilmember Phillips.
Chair recognizes Councilman Dr. Anthony Phillips for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing honoring and congratulating Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. on its 112th Founders' Day and declaring January 9th Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Day in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson of 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Zeta Phi Beta of the Divine Nine.
Thank you, Mr. President. And even though I am donning red today in our Council holiday tradition, on behalf of the Founders and also the President of the new Sigma Chapter, my husband David Richardson, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing, honoring and congratulating Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. on its 106th Founders' Day in declaring January 16th Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Day in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion.
Thank you again, Council President. And on behalf of our 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING triumphant Founders of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., all of the chapters represented here across the City of Philadelphia and my newest team member, also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., hailing from Zeta Alpha Chapter in North Carolina A&T State University, Talley Farmer, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution is adopted. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution, authorizing the Committee of the Whole to hold hearings examining the history and purpose of Philadelphia’s Minority-, Women-, and DisabledOwned Business Enterprises (MWDSBE) contracting programs, the current federal and judicial landscape affecting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy, and the Parker Administration’s revised approach to participation ranges and procurement strategy. Introduced by Councilmember Jones on behalf of Council President.
Chair recognizes Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr., for a 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING privileged resolution celebrating the fourth cohort of PhillyBOLT grassroots leaders in the City of Philadelphia, recognizing the students of PhillyBOLT Academic Year fellowship program for their dedication to community-led change and leadership development. Introduced by Councilmember Landau.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing honoring and celebrating The Wardrobe on the occasion of its 30th Anniversary of opening. Introduced by Councilmember Brooks.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution welcoming the FIFA for World Cup 2026 Teams playing in Philadelphia and 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING celebrating the World Cup's contribution to Philadelphia's global economy. Introduced by Councilmember O'Rourke.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing December 21, 2025 as Homeless Persons' Memorial Day in the City of Philadelphia, acknowledging the lives of all unhoused people we have lost over the past year and bringing attention to housing insecurity across the City. Introduced by Councilmember O'Rourke.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. 12/11/25 - STATED - 2ND READING I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
Council President, there are no further resolutions in my possession. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: That completes our Calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. Today I brought forward a resolution with Councilmember Gilmore Richardson to celebrate The Wardrobe for three decades of helping Philadelphians look their best and dress with success. The Wardrobe meets people where they are and supports them in taking the next step forward. That next step could be a job interview, a transition out of prison or foster care or even an internship here in City Hall. All on so many occasions, The Wardrobe has been an office and so many others. I'm glad to have this opportunity to thank them for their work and to celebrate all that they've done for people in Philadelphia over the past 30 years. And since this is our last session before winter break, I want to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday and encourage you to check out some of the many Kwanzaa celebrations that will be taking place in our city over the next few weeks. Two years ago, my office led an effort to bring Kwanzaa to the heart of our city with the 9-foot Kinara sculpture created by Mama Maisha of the Kwanzaa Collective. With the support of Visit Philadelphia and Wawa, Welcome America, I look forward to the Kinara here in City Hall on December 26th as well as a range of family-friendly activities across Philadelphia during the seven days of Kwanzaa. Thank you so much and everyone enjoy their time.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. R. Ambedkar for a successful revolution. "It is not enough that there is discontent. " I want to hit on today in that keyword thorough. E. Plan funding for the Anti-displacement Fund. Let me share an example that demonstrates why in this particular instance we moved this bill. You all may remember the story of Lindley Towers. You know that's in the 9th Councilmanic District. I do believe, Member Dr. Phillips, you may recall that in 2022 the seventh floor facade of Lindley Towers fell smooth off the building. And thank God nobody was injured. L&I declared the building imminently dangerous, which led to the forced relocation of around 100 tenants. The management, chiefly one Philip Pulley -- insert boo -who's one of Philly's worst slumlords, the same guy who sold some West Philly properties just days before they were destroyed in what our Fire Department has described as an act of arson. That's the Philip Pulley I'm talking about. It took a court order for him to respond to the needs of his displaced tenants, and the court ordered that he pay for a 28-day stay in the Red Roof Inn in Bensalem and transportation to the Inn and to return their first and last month's rent along with any security deposit. That was the ruling. That is a good start, but it's still a massive challenge for people having to search for housing on short notice now further from jobs, as they sort out the possessions that they can keep and those will have to buy again. One tenant who was part of the settlement told the press, of course people want the money, but at least they get the money that you can live off of. The Anti-displacement Fund now has the power to offer tenants in emergency situations support from the city beyond whatever their landlord is, or obviously in this case isn't actually ordered to give them. Unfortunately, too many tenants still face cease operations orders, and more likely, would in an environment where they felt safe call L&I. I'll wrap up on the fund with that point about L&I. You may recall that establishing and just the first, third of the Safe Healthy Homes Act, the Right to Safety, the Right to Repairs and the Right to Relocation bill, the Right to Relocation Bill council passed in June. As my example shows, each and every part of the Safe Healthy Homes Act is informed by what Philly tenants have actually gone through, actually struggled against. And the Right to Relocation bill comes from the valid fear that proper code enforcement for dangerous properties could lead to displacement and has. If tenants have a landlord like one Philip Pulley, that's a real concern. And this is why we fight. So now that the first bill has been made operative, colleagues, please know that I look forward to picking up the Safe Healthy Homes conversation in the new year. There's more work to do on that and I'm excited to do it with y'all. Kind of in that same spirit, I also offered today a resolution that Project HOME had a member of Council pass yearly for at least the last decade in some recent years -- I believe it was Member Gauthier that introduced it -- as it relates to the Homeless Persons resolution. As we memorialize those that we've lost, I realize this year is especially mournful because even as last year, we were together for that night, one of the coldest nights of the year. Think about when the federal government is turning its back on so many tenants long-term support.
The disgraceful Trump Administration is turning away from a housing-first approach for the most vulnerable tenants, many who quite frankly are predisposed to be the kind of homeless individual that we might tragically memorialize like we do every year. E. Plan amendments, and that's something that we ought to be real, real, real proud of. The /FIFA/ resolution that we introduced -- or FIFA, excuse me, got to get the name right. Philadelphia is truly a global city, so no matter who was there would be some extra happy Philadelphians. So to my Philadelphians of French, Brazilian, Croatian, Ecuadorian, Ivorian, Ghanaian, Curacao and Haitian descent, congrats on winning the sweepstakes of a lifetime. And an extra shout-out to Haiti for making the tournament, its amazing story. The Haitian Diaspora has had to face so much, and I'm so excited for the joy when Haitian Philadelphians will feel when match day comes. You know, they're gonna turn it up real good and I'm looking forward to that day with them. Let me wrap it up here. A few things I want to remind us and put on the radar, that we have yet low-wage workers in this city taking on a corporation backed by men to ever breathe air, a true oligarch if there ever was one, a man who could give everybody in this room, including the ones that left in the course of the last three hours, a billion dollars and still have over 100 billion left to give away. Think about that. We have to commend our constituents for having the gall and the gumption to take on that fight. Happy one-year anniversary to the historic victory of the Whole Foods Union. We also have baristas who are still fighting the good fight against Starbucks, a brand that is completely ruining its image which used to be good, by choosing to treat their workers with the utmost disrespect and not so good. The city of New York just fined them $39 million for Work Week laws, an unprecedented fine for unprecedented, unfair labor practices. By the way, Philly has similar laws in the books. And as I understand it, there's an investigation underway. Act right in this labor town. If you ever seemed particularly -- or if I have particularly seemed up-to-date, as it were, on labor news from around the city, from around the country, even around the world, if I've ever sounded like I was kind of on top of it as it relates to that, there is a particular member of our team that is due regards, respect and thanks for that, and I have so much else to thank her for. Dr. Pallavi Rao is one of the original team members for Team Nic, one of the Chief of Staff and I hired upon becoming a member of this body. She's leaving City Hall today in her last full Council session. She will not be with us in the next Council session to join the Strategic Organizing Center as their Senior Strategic Research Analyst. Dr. Pallavi Rao is a grandchild of Indian radicals from Kerala, who fought for their nation's independence, farmers. I know that heart for revolutionary change was passed down through the generations and it burns fiery and bright in her chest. A child of Hazard, Kentucky, part of the unmissable South Asian family out in Appalachia, her parents' affection and care for working people's struggles clearly lives on in her around working people from all walks of life.
As a child of the American South, she's going to be spending her time taking down those familial lessons back home as she helps the UAW win a battle that's a century or so old, the battle to bring unionized labor to the major plants of the South. Folks who have any knowledge on labor history will know that labor historians have called this struggle the Southern Key, namely because the fate of the South determine the fate of the nation and because unionization was the key to regional transformation. She's going to help win that fight in a real, meaningful way. Pallavi has been the key to do so much good work that we've been able to accomplish in the two the pleasure of working with her and being a member of this esteemed body, and I cannot wait to see which door she opens up next. She is, as we and our team have acknowledged, walking as we say in my tradition in her calling, walking in the will of God for her life. And you cannot be mad at somebody who has been called to do what their purpose is on this earth to do. And so, we're looking forward to her lighting it up and being the change that we all look forward to see happening in the world. She will truly, truly be missed by every single one of us. I will ask that all of us just congratulate her on her successful transition in her career. Thank you, Dr. Rao. We love you and appreciate you. you, Mr. President. )
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brian O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I probably attended, just based on quick math, over 1500 Council sessions. I have never spoken about an employee who is leaving, but Bobby Yerkov is so exceptional that I have to make an exception . Bobby's last session is today, his last day, so he will be in City Hall until the 16th of January. And I would have never thought I'd be speaking about how excited I was that he's leaving. I would have felt -- it was 5, 10 would have said, oh, man, you're really messing me up here, you know. But I never had a real -- I used to be pretty much my own legislative person because I needed everyone I had for constituent work. And Bobby has grown so much. I used to mentor him. I don't know when it stopped, but at some point I felt like the mentee. I stopped giving him advice and I started asking him for advice. When I say exceptional, it's intelligence, emotional intelligence is off the charts, personality and just being Bobby, you know. He has been extraordinary in my office and in my political life. I can't say enough. I feel gratitude more than anything else that I was lucky for the last 16 years. And before he became an intern, he lived down the street from me, probably four houses down on the other side of the street. I didn't know him. The person that some of you know, Franny Kelly, lives in my neighborhood from SEPTA and John Taylor and Traffic Court and all that, and his son was at Temple where Bobby had been. He was real good friends with Bobby's younger brother Michael. And I said, sure, I'll take a chance. He's an intern, you know, two years of interning. One semester of which Bobby hung out in Italy with the Temple program, I said, this kid is smart, you know. I said, go to Italy when you get you get a shot. But he has matured so much that he is so ready to move up I'm just excited for him. His partner Dr. Chris, Bobby, I'm sure they're on cloud nine, but I won't miss him because it's more like father/son, very close friends. I feel more like a relative of his. We discuss everything imaginable. And, you know, Bobby come out of college and when he first started as Legislative Director -- and by the way, he's not -- he meets -- we only get one title usually because it's pretty long, Legislative Director, but he's been Communications Director, Public Relations Director, Important Scheduling Director for me, and he wears a lot of hats and he wears them all well. But I just am so excited for him. He deserves the success that he's having. He's worked hard don't think I'll ever have an employee have this much impact on me. I hope I've had some impact on him, but I realized it had been kind of a reversal of roles the last couple of years, because I could depend on him as if I were there and he knows how I think. He isn't afraid to give advice, not afraid to tell me when he thinks I'm going over the line here, and it's been really good. And on the scheduling part, I've asked him to be a pest and he will pester me relentlessly until I establish a -
Oh, that's why you started showing up at Council Caucus. I thought it was me. Thank you, Bobby.
I wish him well. I hope everybody him a little bit, at least or a lot depending. But I think most staff -- Bobby's a relationship-builder. He knows more people, he spends more time, he's a people person. So it's going to impact a lot of people in City Council and I just wish him well. He went to law school for a year when he first got out of Temple at night at Delaware or Widener. And after a year, he was driving out one night, the first week of the new year and he said, I'm turning around, this isn't for me. Once you get done that first year in law school, it's the hardest year. Most people feel pressure to go through with it, which is one of the reasons a lot of lawyers are unhappy. But then he went not Wharton program and happened to be in the same class as a State Representative that I knew in Council, Cherelle Parker, and Tiffany Thurman. So he was in their graduating class. And it wasn't like they knew him a little bit. They felt like most people do, that they've known him all their lives and that's a very special quality. And I don't even know how to stop but I will, because I think that we should limit our own speeches and not just the public's. But I just wanted to convey in public that this is an exceptional person, he has an exceptional family and I've been really lucky to have him. Thank you. (Applause.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Member O'Neill, I second those sentiments and had a chance to learn who Bobby was through my staff, my former Chief of Staff, Chris Sample. And when you're talking about having a good staff person and building relationships, yes, Bobby is one of those guys who stays on the case. And so, wish you the best in your next endeavors and thank you for your service to the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Speeches on behalf of the Majority. Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.
Thank you, Mr. President. And I think that might have been an all-time record for the most words Brian O'Neill ever gave anything. So that is a true, want to rise, Mr. President, today with a spirit of gratitude. And what do I mean by that? I'm grateful for the privilege of serving the City of Philadelphia, but I'm also grateful for the privilege of serving with all of you. We're like a big family at the reunion. And sometimes we don't get along -- we get along, but certain guys have various opinions strongly held. And that's okay. Because at the end of the day, I have never -- I've always admired the way we go about our convictions, the way we present them. So whether we agree all the time, which we agree a lot of the time, there's no rubber stamps in this building. And we sometimes go head-to-head, chin-to-chin, but never with malice, never with malice. We will argue and it'll sound like to the public as they eat their popcorn, oh my goodness, did you hear what they just said, and we'll be out in the hall talking about some other public policy issue that we agree on. And if you look at the calendar of events, because over the year we agreed on a great many good things for the public. And that is why I'm thankful for the privilege to serve with all of you. At the end of the day, we all took an oath. And in that oath, we didn't say we're only going to represent the people of this zip code or that zip code, of this income or that income, but to the best of our ability to represent all of the citizens of feelings and convictions. That's all we can ask from each other. So I wish everyone a prosperous New Year. I hope everyone focuses and rejuvenates over the break and comes back in 2026 because it's going to be a party. When I tell you we've got a lineup that you see and some of which you don't see. And thank you, Isaiah Thomas, for insisting it's not just downtown, that it's a part of a neighborhood fabric so that people visiting our city will also be able to see our neighborhoods, the 7th Ward, you know, places that they -the Lest We Forget Museum up in the Cindy Bass area, get around and see the richness of our city. There are a couple of things. Member Jeffrey Young and I which is the FIFA piece at Lemon Hill.
And I'm going to send him an invoice and let's do a VIP tent. Share that love. But we're also going to do the bike race. That's coming back. I mean, we used to have a complex about being from Philadelphia. We should not have a complex anymore. We are up there when it comes to the world's view of us. And so, I'm looking forward and thankful for the Administration's emphasis on this. We're getting some good entertainment. So in addition to the struggle, the righteous struggle for everyone in the city, let's also appreciate our city and its richness in history. working with you next year. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, colleagues. (Applause.)
Very well said, Member Jones. Thank you. Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. Again, happy holidays to everyone. And I too am sad that Bobby is leaving because he was the only one that people said can compete with my laugh. So, Bobby, we're going to miss you, buddy. All right. Bobby, you've been great. Honestly, you've been really great, Bobby. And I can't say that much -- that was shocking to hear that just now. quickly say that I'm thankful for this body of City Council. I think it's important for the public to know that we are all working together to try to figure out how to make the City of Philadelphia stronger. And I wanted to be abundantly clear that in the City of Philadelphia we have an outstanding Council President Kenyatta Johnson. Council President Johnson, you know, regardless of where people stand in issues, he always finds a way to bring us all together. E. Initiative or anything else is going to come to fruition, because I know Council President Johnson is going to work with our Mayor and that we're going to be okay. And I think we're good. And I do want to just say really quickly for all of our neighbors that have said that middle class -- I know in the federal government they say that, you know, we represent the middle class, a lot of us in 19150 and 19138. But I will say that, you know, the middle class, I think we're more like working class. So I just want to clear the record that because we're juggling different things and expenses and a lot of us can't afford $2000 to $5000 repairs. And so, we just want to make sure that we work with them going forward and I'm committed to our 9th District neighbors as much as possible and I just want to applaud our City us. Next, I just want to quickly say today I introduced a bill called the Tobacco Retailer Education and Compliance ordinance in response to what our neighbors in the district are saying, seeing every day unlicensed and repeat offender retailers selling nicotine products to individuals under the age of 21. They're ignoring the law and creating nuisance conditions that destabilize our commercial corridors. Let me be clear, this is not about every business. Many retailers across the city operate responsibly. They follow the law and they care about the neighborhoods they serve. Those businesses are partners in keeping our corridors safe and stable. Yet there are others, unlicensed, who sell nicotine products to individuals under the age of 21. They operate without proper permits and contribute to disorder that our neighbors are left to deal with. These practices harm young people, undermine school safety and destabilize already vulnerable corridors. So what our legislation does is straightforward. It empowers and it also enforces by bringing illegal tobacco activity into the city's nuisance framework, and it adds a required education and compliance component so violations are corrected and not repeated. This is about clear expectations, real accountability and protecting young people. That same commitment to accountability and responsibility is reflected in forth today. I want to acknowledge Rich Lazer, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, for his leadership in response to this quality of life. I want to acknowledge my best friend from college who continues to do incredible work in Chicago. He's a brother and he's doing amazing work making sure that our young people, and particularly young men who are let out of prison that gain great re-entry into society through his MAAFA program.
That's a great mentorship and support services right there on the west side of Chicago that can be modeled right here in the city of Philadelphia. He's Time Magazine's 100 top for a reason. And I lastly want to acknowledge and recognize La Salle winning the 2025 PIAA Class 6A State Football Championship. As a graduate La Salle College High School, this recognition is especially meaningful. This achievement reflects discipline, teamwork and resilience, values and still long before the final whistle and carry forward well beyond the field. I look forward to welcoming La Salle College High School early next year to the Philadelphia City Council. Thank you everyone and have a beautiful and wonderful holiday season. Thank you, Council President, for your leadership. We really appreciate you. God bless.
Thank you very much, Member Dr. Phillips. And, yes, you are correct. I will continue working in partnership with our the issues and concerns that members may have regarding H.O.M.E. as we put forward our best efforts to address housing inequality here in the City of Philadelphia. And continue your great leadership in the 9th Councilmanic District. Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young, Jr.
Thank you, Mr. President. First, as Chair of the Streets and Services Committee here in Philadelphia City Council, I want to thank the Parker Administration for their commitment to making our city cleaner and greener. Working with Mayor Parker, almost the entirety of the 5th Council District will have in January, January 6th. The goal here is to reduce illegal dumping and other quality-of-life issues associated with trash. So remember, citizens of Philadelphia, you can schedule a bulk collection with the Department of Sanitation. And you also can drop off your trash at the Sanitation Convenience Center. In the 5th District, there's a Sanitation Convenience Center located at 2601 Glenwood Avenue. So there is now no excuse, right. So please contact our office to find out when your second trash day will be scheduled beginning January 6th. Also today, with the support of my colleagues, we passed resolutions authorizing the development of 75 Turn The Key -
That's 75 brand new homes targeted toward the working and middle class in Philadelphia. So these are Philadelphians. If you want to stay in Philadelphia, you have the opportunity here. With programs like Philly First Home, the Soft Mortgage buydown from PHDC and other buyer assistance programs, you can afford and you can qualify to purchase one of these homes with payments of about $1,300 per month. That's a brand new three-bedroom, at least 1.5 bathroom home that you own for less than what you're paying in rent right now. So if you're in the market, I urge you to contact our office to get connected to housing on the path to homeownership. Also, I want to thank my staff, Mr. President. My staff works hard and they know as a person who was a former staffer, you know, I expect a lot because our District has a lot of needs. And I put them through a lot on short notice, but they always get the job done. So again, I want to thank my staff. We worked hard this year, from town halls to health fairs to community cleanups to knocking on doors at our community care events to job fairs. We've sponsored the Girard Avenue Fest, the Spring Garden Sunflower Fest and of course, North Philly Day. We've had grocery giveaways. We've held Thanksgiving dinner. We've stood with workers and we've businesses have the tools and information they need so they can continue to thrive in our city. On top of the thousands and thousands of constituent service requests that come into our office, the staff in the 5th District Office is here to serve you. So again, I want to say thank you to my staff who I call the Justice League because we all have our own superpowers. And I cannot wait until 2026 so we can continue to improve lives in the 5th Council District and beyond. And I want to say Happy Holidays, Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa and Happy New Year to all of you and to all of the listening public here in the City of Philadelphia. So thank you,
Thank you. The Justice League, right. I think I'm going with the Avengers. John Christmas is Thanos. (Laughter.)
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you. Thank you very much, Council President. I must concur with the remarks of my esteemed colleague Councilmember Brian O'Neill. I remember Bobby's first day here. My team has heard this story a thousand times. But I remember your first day here, Bobby, 16 years ago you were walking down the hall on the fifth floor and I asked you, Who are you and who do you work for. And since that day and every day thereafter, Bobby, you have served Councilmember O'Neill's office and this body with distinction. You have truly been a student of this game and of this work and of the legislative process. And as leg staffer, you have become someone that we rely on, not only for your intellect, and Councilmember O'Neill said it best, you're just exceptional, you're extraordinary, but we rely on you and your expertise and your overall knowledge of this work. You have become one of the old kids on the block. Right, McMonagle? Bobby's one of the old kids on the block like us and all of the new kids on the block, they rely on you. So your absence here be a great void for this body, but we certainly wish you well. We congratulate you. We thank you for your work. Hats off to you, Bobby Yerkov. We will miss you. Thank you for your service. (Applause.)
Additionally, Council President, I wanted to pause to thank you and all of our colleagues for voting in favor of the deed fraud legislation that I passed today, that I sponsored and that we passed that ensures that victims of deed fraud, who have already faced the unimaginable emotional and financial turmoil that comes when your deed is stolen, that we can ensure that they can access meaningful relief as they work to rebuild their lives and plan for to just thank Community Legal Services for all of their help and hard work, the Department of Records, our Commissioner Jim Leonard, who has just been stellar throughout this process, and many of you who have helped us get this bill across the finish line. I also wanted to pause and thank and give my deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Philadelphia Police Department and particularly Central Detectives. They know why. But I am grateful for their work and how they have worked with me during this time. And because this is our last Council session, Council President, I too want to pause to say thank you to you for your steadfast leadership, for your hard work, for all you do on behalf of all of the Council offices here. We can always rely on you to be there for us, to guide us through this process and to shepherd us through each and every session in each and every week. So to you and to your team, all of the Tech staff, everyone sitting at the table, we and everyone that we don't see behind the scenes and behind the cameras, we thank you, we appreciate you and we uplift the work that you do. I'm looking forward to next year as we carry this momentum forward into 2026, Councilmember Thomas, and working together to continue to build a stronger Philadelphia for everyone. So Happy Holidays everyone and have a blessed,
Thank you, Majority Leader, and thank you for the kind remarks. Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Council President, the mood right now is so great. I hate to shift the energy, but I really don't have no choice. 2022 I became Chair of the Education Committee, and with your leadership, Council President, you see fit to reappoint me as Chair of the Education Committee. 2023 in July, we had a hearing around this concept of a School Building Authority. And what we talked about in that hearing was concerns around not just the facility crisis, but the capacity to do something about the facilities crisis. In 2024 when now Mayor Parker was sworn in, we gave her a proposal that talked about the importance of facilities and we gave her recommendations on what should be done, not just with the conditions of current schools, but also with vacant schools. It was very disturbing to find out in the paper this week that the largest transaction, the largest transaction that the School District has done since most of us have been in City Council is planning on happening this Thursday via a meeting that was not originally on the calendar, with no communication with myself or anyone in this legislative body. E. I know folks thought I was just skipping but I was upstairs dealing with the fiscal stuff with the School District, and they came to the meeting with no answers, Council President. They wanted to talk to us about the fiscal future of the School District and the need for more revenue while simultaneously not being able to tell us what it is they plan to do with the buildings. Now, the people who were phenomenal people. We've been working arm-and-arm for years, and it's unfortunate that the leadership of the school District put them in a position to have to come before members of City Council to answer questions about finances with no actual answers. So with that being said, I'm committed to 2026 being the best year it can be. And as my colleagues, you know I've been working very diligently on that. But let me go ahead and go on the record and say that I'm also committed to reviewing the finances of the School District. We gave them about two dozen questions yesterday that we're going to need answered by next quarterly meeting and they have more questions coming down the pipeline. and do a deep dive in 2026 at the revenue that the School District gets from the City of Philadelphia, because the School District and the School Board has decided that the city is the Mayor. They made a choice. The city is the Mayor. They don't see us or respect us as a legislative body because, Council President, when I asked them, I said, oh, wow, this is alarming, what's going on? They said refer all questions to the Mayor. I'm not talking to the Mayor. I'm talking to you. You come to us and ask us to confirm your appointments. You come to us and ask us to go to Harrisburg and fight with you to get more revenue for the School District of Philadelphia. And last I checked, colleagues, we've done to do. There's never been a time when the School District or the School Board came before City Council and have asked us to do something and we haven't done what they've asked us to do. But yet, I find myself constantly having to be the angry Black man when it comes to them. I'm tired, Council President. And I'm not saying I need a nap. I'm saying I'm tired. I'm tired of being the angry Black man. I'm tired of constantly having to fight for the basic needs of what's right. And then we have School Board members in leadership at 440 who make decisions that's so egregious that a judge ruled against them.
We sat here just weeks ago and we talked about around Charter leaders that we felt like was retaliatory. They told us it wasn't. A judge ruled that it was. These are the people who are in charge of our children. They're not even elected and they're playing politics. But then, Council President, when we go to their meetings they accuse us of playing politics on the record because we're fighting for children. Colleagues, we got a lot of work to do. And I can tell you right now I'm not asking y'all for nothing but support and to have my back, because we are going to do a deep dive working with the Council President's office to examine the money that we give them. Because at the end of the day, we can't keep writing blank checks for an us on a consistent basis and says, we don't respect you. Colleagues, that's what they did this week. They told you as a District Councilmember, I don't respect you. I'm going to tell you what we're going to do with the buildings in your district. And I think about what Councilmember Phillips and Councilmember Bass just went through the last couple of weeks with that unfortunate tragedy. At least communicate to them. Imagine the politics of Ada Lewis right now and the calls that Councilmember Bass and Councilmember Phillips got when that information was found out in the paper, and they got to look at people and say, I don't even know what you're talking about. my mood. )
There are couple -- I have a couple announcements that I need to communicate because it's on the record. So first and foremost, I want to really thank former Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown for the great work that she's been doing with the young Philadelphia's Continental Congress. This is something that we've been pushing. We really hope that there's a young person that represents every Councilmanic District who applies to be a member of the Congress. We want to work with the young people and bring them into City Council and make sure that they have as close to a as it relates to what it means to be a legislator. The deadline is tomorrow so I encourage everybody to please apply. I also want to encourage colleagues who are available to come out to the fourth Annual Councilman Thomas Classic, December, 12th, 13th and 14th at MaST up in the Northeast. We'll be having teams from New York and the entire region coming to compete against our great Philadelphia teams. I also want to remind everybody that our annual PHL Gaming Event is happening December 20th, at 10:00 a.m. at Localhost. It's going to be another phenomenal event. We want to continue to push and promote gaming. That's a huge priority for my office and we want priority for the City of Philadelphia. I want to -- because of Brian and Nic, I just want to go on the record and say y'all real corny for doing that, but I do appreciate y'all staff leaving. But because y'all did it, I got to do it. So Max Weisman isn't here today, but anybody who knows Max Weisman knows that Max was my campaign manager back in 2015 when I actually lost a City Council race. And in that race, Max and I grew to be really close friends. His wife, Talia, their two children are great friends with my wife and our three children. And unfortunately, similar in the same spirit of Councilman O'Neill and his staff, Bobby, and Nic and his staff, Max is going to be leaving my office as well too. so, I just want to let Max know who couldn't be here today, but just let him know that he is appreciated. Similar to the remarks that was made, he has one of those contagious personalities, gets along with a lot of people, really knows his area and has made his imprint on City Council. So, Max, I know you're watching. I do want to say thank you. I appreciate your friendship, your loyalty and the great work that you've done as it relates to my office. If y'all don't know, I'm on TV more than I probably want to be, but that is 100% because of Max's leadership and the great relationships he had. Last but not least, Council President, I want to say thank you to you, all of our colleagues at City Council. I thank you to the Tech staff, the stenographer, the Sergeant-at-Arms, John, everybody who really makes our job possible to do. We truly appreciate you. I want to wish all of you a happy holiday and just, you know, we don't say it as often as we probably should, but Council wouldn't be Council without you, Council President, the entire Tech team, the Sergeant-at-Arms and all the great work you do. So, folks, if I don't get a chance to see you or tell you face-to-face, please Happy Holidays. We truly appreciate you. Sorry for the long-winded remarks. Thank you, Council President.
That's all right, Member Thomas. Thank you very much for as the support as well. Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you, Council President. Great speeches today, my friends. First, I want to shout out the students from PhillyBOLT who came out today to give public comment. These kids come from West Philly High School, Palumbo, Olney and Sayre representing the whole City of Philadelphia. This program is so instrumental for our young people and I was pleased to honor the fourth cohort of grassroots leaders with the resolution today alongside Councilmember Gauthier. Thanks so much to all the students for joining what was hopefully a fun and informative day. We know we learned a lot from them. thank Council President, Councilmember Gauthier as well as the Councilmembers here for their collaboration on the recent H.O.M.E. amendments. This budget opens City housing programs to ensure that more than 200,000 low-income and working-family households have a chance to get into a program that provides housing stability and economic mobility and increases eligibility for Philadelphia's middle households in a big way for the first time. This is a transformational investment, a win-win and I cannot wait to see Philadelphia transform with it. Finally, my sidewalk cafe legislation was passed today after months of District Council tours, listening sessions, and cross-collaboration. This bill is going to be monumental for our small businesses, our neighborhood vibrancy and the safety of our streets. I'm appreciative for the advocacy of Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association for their partnership on this legislation as well as the many restaurant operators, community leaders, neighbors, Chamber of Commerce who came out to give public comment on this today as well as the Diverse Chambers which sent a letter of support. Thank you all so much. Before I finish, Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights starts on Sunday night. So I want to end by wishing Philadelphia's Jewish community a Happy Hanukkah. This is the time of year when changing, there is darkness. And as far as I see it, there is a lot of darkness happening from our federal government as well. Lighting candles each night reminds us that there is light in the midst of the darkness. I want to wish everybody a Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, every single holiday you wish. And I had a long list of thank-yous for you, CP, and for the Tech staff and for all of our support staff but you've heard it. I want to add, particularly the AV staff as well and to our ASL interpreters who make sure that our sessions are accessible at all times. Thank you for everything that you do to support us. We really appreciate it. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Thank you very much, Rue. And last, but definitely not least, Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to begin by wishing Bobby well. You've been a star in this legislative body. I think you're going to be a star in your next career and I think wherever your career takes you. We're going to be proud of you, sir. Thank you. And, Mr. President, I want to congratulate you on your bill, the Retirement Savings. Your staff, Brad, Helen, Chris and Christina were outstanding. They asked all the right questions. They did all the hard work. And someday, you know the folks that are going to benefit from that are to retire with dignity that they deserve. So congratulations to all of you. (Applause.)
And then lastly, Mr. President, Happy Holidays to everyone and a blessed 2026, the 250th anniversary of America. Happy Holidays.
Happy Holidays. I just again want to reiterate the sentiments as everyone. It's truly a pleasure and an honor to have this opportunity to lead this robust body, but also most importantly and as I say when I go out in public, I work with 16 other hard-working leaders within their own right to push the City of Philadelphia forward. And so, I wish everyone a great holiday. This has been a very, very productive year. I'd like to just talk about briefly how we introduced 307 bills in 2025 -and that's bills, not resolutions, bills. And 226 were passed out of committee. We introduced 582 resolutions. And of those, 547 were adopted. So we're working very aggressively day-in and day-out from a policy standpoint to move our great City of Philadelphia forward. And so, I wish everyone a great holiday season and most importantly to you and your families, get some self-care and enjoy the time off. But you know, they think when we get time off like we're really off. But I try to remind, particularly folks in the press, we're never off. They come to my house, they knock on my door and I know that comes along with the actual territory of being a public servant, but most importantly, a servant leader. So I thank all of you and God bless into 2026. With that being said, Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Council President. I move that Council stands adjourned until Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Thank you all very much and Happy Holidays. ) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I, hereby certify that the proceedings and evidence noted are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me in the foregoing matter, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. m. R. E. E. m. S.