Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 19, 2016 11:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
Good morning. We're going to start. We are running a little late, so we're going to get moving as soon as possible, if the members will take their seats and the visitors retire behind the rail. Thank you very much. Before we start, I'm going to ask if anyone has a cell phone or any other type of electronic device that makes noise, could you please turn it off or turn it on airport mode. I appreciate -- oh, there's one. I appreciate your cooperation on that matter. We're going to have our invocation, but before we do that, I would ask Councilman Domb, he wants to make a quick note.
Thank you, Council President and fellow colleagues. I just wanted to mention how I met Reverend Purvis of the Trumpet of Zion Church at 17th and Clearfield, and it Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 happened when I was out campaigning before the primary. And I went to his church at 17th and Clearfield, and they actually said to me, We want you to take a walk around the neighborhood and look at the real estate first before you come to the church. So I said, Sure. I took a tour around for an hour and a half, went to the church, sat in the back row. It's a small church. And there was a woman sitting in front of me with an 8-year-old, and the pastor said at some point in the service he'd like everybody to stand up and tell a story of a good thing that happened to them during the week. And the person in front of me with the 8-year-old stood up -- her name was Julie -- and said, I got a part-time job at the Salvation Army for $8 an hour, so I can pay my electric bill of $92.42. I remember that number. And I leaned over and I said, You know what, after she sat down, I gave her a Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 said, Pay your electric bill but, more importantly, here's my business card. Call me, because you're going to be a receptionist there. I may have an opening in my office. She called me. I hired her. She worked full time. This week she got a job at CHOP, with all the benefits, $18 an hour, and she's back in the system. So I just wanted to mention that, because I thought it was a great story of somebody rising up from $8 an hour part time at Salvation Army, suffering from an electric bill, to now she's got a great job. So, Reverend Purvis, thank you. Thank you, Council President. (Applause.)
Thank you so much, Councilman. We always need to hear good stories, particularly in this place. So to give our invocation this Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend William A. Purvis of Trumpet of Zion Tabernacle Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Domb. I'd ask all guests and visitors and members to please rise. (Councilmembers and guests rise.)
Let us go before the Lord. God, our Father, we come seeking your presence and your help, for we realize that without you, we can do nothing. We ask that even now that as this Council go forth and the issues that may be discussed, that you would just give them the direction for the decisions which need to be made. We know that, again, we need your strength. We pray that for each position Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 here, that, Father God, that you would give clear directions. You will give them clear vision for the good of this city and for the people of this city. And when it is all said and done, may you yourself be glorified. In Jesus' name. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor, for those inspiring words. Appreciate it. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. Thank you, Pastor. Before we proceed, the Chair would like to recognize Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President, for recognizing me for the purpose of joining with Councilman Brian O'Neill, along with Councilwoman Gym and all members of Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Council, in asking for a moment of silence honoring the legacy and life of Christopher Trakimas, who was the 62-year-old facility mechanic who was tragically, tragically injured in the explosion that took place at the F.S. Edmonds School in January. I just wanted to note for the record that Mr. Trakimas leaves behind a wife, along with three adult children and two grandchildren. And while the explosion took place at F.S. Edmonds in the 9th, he is a resident of the 10th Councilmanic District. So while our body, all members, will send formal condolences to the family, we deemed it appropriate to ask for a moment of silence on his behalf. And we thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Would you please stand for a moment of silence. (Moment of silence.) Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 12th, 2016, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 12th, 2016 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 12th, 2016 stand approved. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Councilman. Leave shall be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to come down to witness their government in action. We truly hope that Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 is a pleasurable one and a knowledgeable one. We appreciate you so much that we, frankly speaking, hope that you enjoy it so much that you come back again. So, again, thank you all for coming down. We look forward to a very successful session. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmembers Blackwell and Domb, who will present a resolution recognizing Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett. Would Officer Hartnett and those accompanying him please join the Councilmembers at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And also we have Councilman Jones, Councilman Henon, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, and Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. This has been a long time coming. Councilman Domb talked Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 it's the mighty 18th, and we got together, and it's taken us this long to get him, but that's the way it is sometimes and we're just grateful that this day has finally come. And we thank all of those who are with him. Certainly we see our police community relations officer in the 18th. We see our captain in the 18th. We see Inspector Johnson and all those who are here. We have from the FOP certainly the President McNesby was here. He did leave. His legislative person, DeNofa, here, and all those who have come that I haven't seen. We are grateful and honored to make this presentation and are glad that we got it in before we recess. Resolution recognizing and honoring Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett for exhibiting undeniable bravery, resilience and dedication to protecting the City of Philadelphia in the face of mortal danger. Whereas, the Council of the Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 pleased and proud to honor Police Officer Jesse Hartnett, a four-year veteran in the 18th District; and
Whereas, on the evening of January 7th, 2016 at approximately 11:30 p.m., at or around the corner of 60th and Spruce in West Philadelphia, a gunman stormed the officer's marked patrol car and unloaded a gun at Officer Hartnett;
Whereas, despite being shot in the left arm multiple times, Officer Hartnett, a 4th District resident, demonstrated his valor and courage by radioing for help, stepping out of the police car, successfully chasing down and shooting the assailant, Edward Archer, who was apprehended a block away by responding officers; and
Whereas, the assailant believing that the police defend laws that are contrary to the Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 stated, "I follow Allah. I pledge my allegiance to the Islamic State and that's why I did what I did"; and
Whereas, in consideration of the City of Philadelphia's founding principles of religious freedom and tolerance, our Mayor James Kenney said the shooting had nothing to do with Islam and that this does not represent the religion in any shape or in any form or in any of its teachings; and
Whereas, Police Officer Hartnett, who miraculously survived the attack, sustained injuries to his arm and nerves which will require multiple surgeries; and
Whereas, we echo Police Commissioner Ross' comments, that it was Officer Hartnett's will to live undoubtedly saved his life and we were so ever grateful and thankful that he is here today; Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby recognizes and honors Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett for exhibiting undeniable bravery, resilience and dedication to protecting the City of Philadelphia in the face of mortal danger; and Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett as a sincere expression of the Council of the City of Philadelphia's gratitude, admiration and recognition. I would just like to add that since this happened, you guys -- Lily and Jesse are engaged, right? And which is great. And also I understand you'd like to get married, and I understand that maybe the Mayor of Philadelphia will be able to marry them. Maybe our Council President can help arrange that with you. So thank you. Congratulations. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair would like to recognize Officer Hartnett for remarks. OFFICER HARTNETT: City Council, thank you very much for having us here. Lily and I, we are greatly appreciative of this award. It's very nice to be recognized and get through what we've been through. The past few months have been very busy, in the hospital, in and out, doctors appointments and stuff. So it's very nice to be recognized, and we greatly appreciate it, and I thank you very much, City Council. (Applause.)
Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Again, thank you to the Officer, a true hero. Our next order of business is communications, and the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 17, 2016, I signed the remaining bills which were passed by Council at its session on May 5, 2016, with the exception of Bill No. 160073, which I am returning without my signature. And I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing the Director of Planning and Development, on behalf of the City, to file applications with the United States Department of Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 for a Community Development Block Grant; to participate in the HOME Investment Partnership and Emergency Solutions Grant program; and for a Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS grant; and An ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer to enter into an amendment agreement with Wells Fargo Bank for the provision of payroll banking services to the City; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development all or part of 1611 through 41 Ruan Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to grant to the owner of 1140 Rear 15th Street an easement across a portion of a certain parcel of land known as 1129 South Sydenham Street; and An ordinance amending Chapter Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 10-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Places - Prohibited Conduct," by adding a new Section 10-615, entitled "Disorderly Conduct and Related Offenses," to prohibit certain types of disorderly public conduct and to provide for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional communications?
Thank you very much. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finance, Taxes and Collections," by adding a new Chapter 19-4100, entitled "Non-Reusable Beverage Container Tax."
That bill will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce one bill on your behalf, one on behalf of the Administration, and also a non-privileged resolution on behalf of myself, co-sponsored by Councilman Oh and Councilwoman Parker. Thank you.
An ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer, on behalf of the City, to enter into an amendment agreement with Wells Fargo Bank for the provision of payroll banking services to Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 the City.
And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Planning and Development, on behalf of the City, to file applications with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant; to participate in the HOME Investment Partnership program and the Emergency Solutions Grant program; and for a Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS grant.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Philadelphia Vernoca Michael for her exemplary service to the City of Philadelphia with special acknowledgement of her leadership at the legendary Blue Horizon and her work in West Philadelphia at the Paul Robeson House. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer three bills, two on your behalf and one co-sponsored with myself and Councilman Squilla.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Sarah Street, Wildey Street, Shackamaxon Street and the Delaware Expressway.
And an ordinance authorizing the transfer in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2017 from Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 the General Fund, the Mayor - Office of Community Schools and Universal Pre-K to the General Fund, the Director of Finance - Contribution to School District.
And an ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Newsstands," by revising the requirements for sales from newsstands by permitting newsstands to sell additional products and services.
That bill will be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
An ordinance amending Chapter 20-600 of The Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Philadelphia Code, entitled "Standards of Conduct and Ethics," to restate and revise conflict of interest prohibitions and related provisions and provisions pertaining to public disclosure of conflicts of interest.
That bill will be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Good morning, Mr. President. Today I offer three bills, one privileged resolution -non-privileged.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Parkside Avenue, Belmont Avenue, Girard Avenue, Merion Avenue, and 52nd Street.
Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Referred to 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 Henry Avenue, Coulter Street, School House Lane, Wissahickon Avenue, and Lincoln Drive.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 10-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Places - Prohibited Conduct," by adding a new Section 10-615, entitled "Disorderly Conduct and Related Offenses," to prohibit certain types of disorderly public conduct and to provide for penalties.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 hold hearings on the possibility of developing, designing and constructing a Public Office Highway Vehicle Park -Public Off-Highway Vehicle Park in the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Council President, I have two bills and one resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Grays Ferry Avenue, Kimball Street, 25th Street and Washington Avenue. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to grant to the owner of 1140 Rear South 15th Street an easement across a portion of a certain parcel of land known as 1129 South Sydenham Street.
And an ordinance authorizing Philadelphia License Number One to install, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1200 South 21st Street.
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar -- sorry. That will be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you. I have four bills, one Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 non-privileged resolution, and one privileged resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Front Street, Coral Street, Boston Street, Emerald Street, Hagert Street, and Kensington Avenue; 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 East Wingohocking Street, Adams Avenue, Bristol Street (extended) and the Frankford Creek; and An ordinance providing for an exemption from charges relating to storm water management and disposal for community gardens operated for community benefit and producing food or non-food crops; and Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development all or part of 1611 through 41 Ruan Street.
Thank you. Those four bills just read by the Chief Clerk will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Consul Carlos Giralt-Cabrales on 25 years of outstanding Public Service to Mexico and the City of Philadelphia.
That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Nineteenth and Thirty-Third Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. Today I have one privileged resolution co-sponsored by Councilmembers Johnson, Domb, and Taubenberger and also I'm introducing a non-privileged resolution co-sponsored by Councilmembers Gym and Squilla.
A privileged resolution honoring Peirce College for its 150 years of providing an affordable education to working class students. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
And a non-privileged resolution respectfully urging the General Assembly to restore funding for human services programs to historic levels, and to put mechanisms in place to assure any future budget impasse or budget delay does not become a burden on the citizens or City and County of Philadelphia.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Thank you, Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Council President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Good morning, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues. I have no bills or resolutions this morning.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Thank you, Councilman.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising requirements for Preliminary Plat approval.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilman Squilla, I offer four bills, one privileged resolution, and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," including the amending -- including by amending Chapter 14-500, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by modifying Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 the boundaries of the Old City Residential District Area of the Center City Overlay District and by revising parking and loading requirements; and An ordinance authorizing Kubiel Ben Ayed to install, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 906 Christian Street; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 27S by striking from the City Plan and vacating Shunk Street from Swanson Street to Vandalia Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept title to all or a portion of the parcels of land commonly known as 1035 through 37 South 6th Street and 1028 through 32 South Fairhill Street.
Those bills just read by the Chief Clerk will be referred to the appropriate committees. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Joint Committees on The Environment and Streets and Services to hold hearings to explore the feasibility of the curbside recycling of No. 6 plastics expanded polystyrene foam products.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, 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 Twenty-Fifth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Next week's Final Passage Calendar. And, Councilwoman, did you have bills for you? Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill and three privileged resolutions.
An ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement," by requiring the City to pay its vendors promptly.
And a privileged resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings concerning the recent state downgrade of Philadelphia's Department of Human Services license to provisional as a result of serious violations of child welfare laws.
That Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings on health delivery services for the deaf and hearing impaired.
And a privileged resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Finance to investigate and hold hearings on how ineffective enforcement of the City's Liquor-By-the-Drink tax is causing millions in revenue to go uncollected, funds which could go to support schools in general and early childhood education in particular.
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Oh.
Thank you very much, Council President. I offer one bill, one non-privileged resolution co-sponsored by Councilmembers Reynolds Brown, Bass, and Green.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by adding two new categories of licenses entitled "Transportation Network Company Driver" and "Transportation Network Company."
And a non-privileged resolution requesting that the Governor and the Pennsylvania State Legislature Amend the Medical Marijuana Act to Allow Doctors to Prescribe Medical Marijuana as a Direct Alternative to Opioid Painkillers. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. Thank you very much. That concludes the introduction of bills and resolutions. We will now move to our reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports out 13 resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Resolution No. 160255, entitled "A resolution appointing Rasheia Johnson to the Board of Directors Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Authority"; and Resolution No. 160344, entitled "A resolution appointing Christopher P. McGill to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 160345, entitled "A resolution appointing Lynn Martin Haskin to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 160346, entitled "A resolution re-appointing Jafar Maleki to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 160410, entitled "A resolution approving the reappointment of Asia Coney as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Philadelphia Housing Authority"; and Resolution No. 160411, entitled "A resolution approving the reappointment of Ethel M. Wise as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Philadelphia Housing Authority"; and Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 160413, entitled "A resolution approving the reappointment of Lynette Brown-Sow as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Philadelphia Housing Authority"; and Resolution No. 160414, entitled "A resolution approving the reappointment of Julia Danzy as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Philadelphia Housing Authority"; and Resolution No. 160417, entitled "A resolution approving the appointment of Fran McLaughlin as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Philadelphia Housing Authority"; and Resolution No. 160426, entitled "A resolution approving the reappointment of Herbert Wetzel as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Philadelphia Housing Authority"; and Resolution No. 160427, entitled "A resolution approving the reappointment of Reverend Bonnie Camarda as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Authority"; and Resolution No. 160428, entitled "A resolution approving the reappointment of Reverend Dr. Leslie Callahan as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Philadelphia Housing Authority"; and Resolution No. 160429, entitled "A resolution approving the appointment of Fredrick S. Purnell, Sr., as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Philadelphia Housing Authority," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. These resolutions will be placed on our Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 you, Mr. President. The Committee on Finance reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 160248, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-1806 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Authorization of Realty Use and Occupancy Tax,' by adding an exclusion from the tax for certain new businesses, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 160248. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 160248. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. This bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Law and Government reports one bill with a Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
The Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 160072, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Fair Practices Ordinance: Protections Against Unlawful Discrimination,' by adding a section prohibiting employers from obtaining or using credit-related information regarding employees and job applicants in certain circumstances, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 160072. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 160072. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and this bill will be on our First Reading Calendar today. Thank you very much. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 2ND READING reading. They will be on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Bill Nos. 160418, 160475, 160476, 160477, 160478, 160479, 160480, 160482, 160483, 160485, 160110, and all other bills and resolutions are being held.
Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, we will have our public comment session. It will go as follows: Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolutions that is on the Final Passage Calendar today, if you have not already done so, I'd ask that you sign up at the table to my left. When your name is called, you will go to the podium in the middle of the Chambers. There's a device. When that light on that device turns green, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When the light turns red, we would ask that you please adhere to the guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given two minutes. Thank you very much for your cooperation. Mr. Decker, call the first name.
Joe Danihel, commenting on 160475, 160476, 160478, 160481, 160480, 160477, 160479, and 160482. (Witness approached podium.) Stated Meeting May 19, 2016
Good morning. Now that Council has been duly notified by a list of personal grievances given multiple times in public meetings, your refusal to stop using the Redevelopment Authority is extraordinary and egregious. Each Councilmember uses this apparently rogue and possibly unconstitutional agency. My home, 1038 West Wyoming Avenue, was taken without notification, without payment, and without due process. Notice of this should stop the Council in its tracks. The people demand accountability, yet Council appears not to care. Yet Council appears to violate laws, 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, among others, and their oaths of office. See Cooper v. Aaron. Council's behavior is quite apparently criminal. Council should Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 de-fund the RDA and the Land Bank and demand the Attorney General investigate the RDA for missing money, unconstitutional, possibly criminal procedures. This is Council's fiduciary duty. The RDA has seized more property than King George did, and that started the Revolutionary War. In addition, City attorneys are opposing my 7th Amendment right to jury trial in the very city where it was drafted. This is in clear violation of your oath to support the Constitution. Can anyone be above the law, was quoted by the Constitutional Delegate, George Mason. De-fund and investigate the RDA now and restrict the usage of the Land Bank until after a public meeting and report has reviewed these actions.
Hillary Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 Linardopoulos, commenting on 160483 and 160485. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is Hillary Linardopoulos and I'm speaking on behalf of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers this morning in favor of Resolution 160483 and 160485. The PFT truly appreciates Council's recognition that our children's learning conditions and their educators' working conditions are inextricably linked. There are a number of components in our collective bargaining agreement that speak to the very issues at the forefront of debate and discussion in this councilmanic body. For example, our contract calls for a functional water fountain on every floor of every school building, calls for one counselor in every school, calls for class size Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 limits. These are obligations that are contractual because they are pedagogically and morally sound. The District for too long has accepted that oversized classes, frozen salaries, lack of access to supplies, and school closures are simply collateral damage in the cost of running an urban school district. But the PFT and this body has refused to be complacent in these conditions that affect our children, their families, and our educators every single day. Today in Philadelphia, there are 522 oversized classes, 522, and that's defined by our contract, defined as more than 30 students in grades K to and more than 33 students in grades through 12. I've provided updated data to Council this morning regarding exactly where those classes are and what size they are. You can look and see that there are 48 students in a chemistry class at Martin Luther King High School, Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 48 students, in a school that was designated as a Promise Academy and in need of additional support. Forty-two students in a physics class at Northeast High School, 37 students in a 2nd grade class at Bridesburg Elementary School. So for every student and every educator in the District and for every one of the 43 7th graders who are in a class at Beeber Middle School today, the PFT thanks Councilman Green, thanks Councilwoman Gym, and thanks the rest of the co-sponsors and signators of these resolutions that are so important to our everyday lives. Thank you.
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. That concludes our public Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 5/19/16 - STATED - 2ND READING comment session for today. Mr. Decker, can you please read the title of 160418.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, 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 Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 5/19/16 - STATED - 2ND READING Those opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 160418 has been adopted. Mr. Decker, 160475.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 3741 Aspen Street.
We'll have to come back. The sponsor is not in the room at the moment. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 160476.
Mr. Decker, hold on one second. Councilwoman is back. Can you read 475 again, Mr. Decker.
Resolution Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 5/19/16 - STATED - 2ND READING 160475, entitled "A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 3741 Aspen Street."
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Resolution 160475 is Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 5/19/16 - STATED - 2ND READING adopted. Mr. Decker, 160476.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 3405 Wallace Street.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 5/19/16 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it. Resolution 160476 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 160477.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, 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-Second Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 5/19/16 - STATED - 2ND READING Those opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it. That Resolution 160477 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 160478.
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act.
The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Stated Meeting May 19, 2016 5/19/16 - STATED - 2ND READING All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. 160478 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 160479.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Fairhill/East Tioga/Hunting Park Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 3110 North Percy Street.
The Chair one more time recognizes Councilman Greenlee.