COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, April 27 2000 10:15 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 Greeting/Invocation P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The 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 Patrick Quainco of the Christian Faith Ministries. He is here today as a guest of Councilwoman Reynolds Brown. All Members and guests will please rise. (All rise.)
Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we thank You for granting us a day such as this. For you, O, God unless You build a house, deliverance is built in vain. Unless, O, God, You keep this city the watchman of this city, it's watched in vain. Heavenly Father, we have come as sons and daughters of this city to take counsel and to reason with each other. You have ordained this day for Your people to come together, as you did, O, God, for our forefathers, for the fathers of Greeting/Invocation this nation, as they got together for the freedom as we enjoy today. Lord, we ask You for wisdom. Lord, we ask You for knowledge. We ask You for understanding, to understand the purpose for which we were born and to understand the purpose for which we are guided here this morning. Lord, we ask You to bless this meeting. Let Your will be done on earth, in our lives, as You purpose in heaven. We thank You, Father, that You have given us a day to be alive. We thank You, Lord, that you have given us the opportunity to be the people whom You have called to reason for Your city. Lord, we thank You for the life of the Mayor, we thank You for the life of the Council President. We thank You, Father, for every family represented here. And, Lord, we ask You to take control. Come in the midst of Your people and lead us to the right direction where our children, Father, will know that without You, it is impossible for us to take a step to our destiny. Help us, help us, we ask you. Smile upon Your people once Greeting/Invocation again. Call, O, God, our names, be proud of us. As we humble ourselves before You this day, bless us with divine wisdom and divine knowledge, divine understanding of why we are here. O, God, we thank You. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. ALL: Amen.
The Chair thanks Pastor Queno for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease, then resumes business.)
Councilwoman, your light is on. Do you care to be recognized?
Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the meeting of April 13, 2000. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Good morning. Thank you, Madam Chair. I move that the Journal JOURNAL APPROVAL, LEAVES OF ABSENCE of April 13th stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday April 13, 2000, stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the motion is carried. The Journal of Thursday, April 13, 2000, is approved.
The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. There are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the Majority.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill. VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for a leave of absence.
The Chair will dispense with the regular of order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining in chambers this morning. On behalf of all Members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session this morning. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city, and we certainly invite you to come again. Today, we have students from the Albert M. Greenfield School visiting us in Council. They are 6th-graders, and they are accompanied by their teacher, Miss Carolyn Matthews. I ask that the entire group rise at this time to be recognized by the Council and those in attendance. We welcome you. (Applause.) VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS
Welcome. Before I call upon Councilman DiCicco, I would like to say something about our next honoree, Mr. Kenneth Gamble, who I have worked with very closely in the last several years. He was born in our city and has been very active, not only throughout this region but especially in my Councilmatic District and that of Councilman DiCicco. And I am proud to say that Mr. Gamble does live in my district. Welcome. My neighbors and I owe Mr. Gamble a debt of gratitude for his commitment to our city, and I just want to say that we are all very, very pleased to have him with us this morning. I would now ask Councilman DiCicco and Mr. Gamble and anyone else with Mr. Gamble to please come forward so that we could make the presentation. (Mr. Gamble et al. come forward.)
Everyone wanted to know where all these people were coming from and for whom -- now you know. I just want to make mention, Madam VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS President, that Congressman Bob Brady wanted to be here this morning. In fact, when I mentioned to him that we were doing this resolution, he had indicated that it was his intention to be here because he's known Kenny for a long time and wanted to be here, but other obligations have not permitted him to be here this morning. But you know, Kenny, he sends you his best.
Good morning. This is a resolution honoring Kenneth Gamble. Whereas, Kenneth Gamble was born in Philadelphia on August 11, 1943 from. A very young age, he was involved in music. Along with Leon Huff, he is known as the preeminent producer of soul music of the '70s. Together they founded Philadelphia International Records for which they wrote music, developed songs, produced and marketed records for such artists as the O-Jays, Teddy Pendergrass, Howard Melvin and the Blue Notes, among others; and Whereas, "The Sound of Philadelphia" not only speaks to the African-American VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS experience, but also reflects the multi-ethnic heritage of Philadelphia. The Sound of Philadelphia established Philadelphia as a regional center for the music industry; and
Whereas Kenneth Gamble has received numerous accolades and awards for his achievements in the music industry. He has received two Grammies, is the founder and past chairman of the Black Music Association, cofounder of the Philadelphia Music Foundation, and, with Leon Huff, has been inducted into the Philadelphia Music Foundation's Walk of Fame, the National Academy of Songwriters Writers Hall of Fame, and in February 1999, the Grammies Lifetime Achievement Hall of Fame; and Whereas, Kenneth Gamble's talent and energy are by no means limited to music, his commitment to making Philadelphia a better place for all people has never waivered, and he has constantly worked to improve the lives of others. He has dedicated his resources to rebuilding the community through Universal Community Homes, which has begun one of the largest neighborhood revitalization projects in the City; and further VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS demonstrating his commitment, he and his wife moved from the suburbs to the 15th and Christian Street neighborhood, which, through his efforts, will become a model of neighborhood revitalization nationwide;
Therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend Kenneth Gamble. We thank him for his fine work on behalf all of the citizens of Philadelphia and wish him continued success in his endeavors. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Kenneth Gamble as evidence of the admiration and sincere respect of this legislative body. To paraphrase Mr. Gamble, respect each other because respect creates power, honesty, and strength. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 17th day of February of the year 2000, signed by the Council President, Anna C. Verna, introduced by myself, and cosponsored by all Members of City Council. VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS And just to echo a little bit on what the Council President said, I've got to know you over the last couple of years. You have already made a major difference in the 1st Councilmatic District, but I think, more importantly, you're making a difference for the entire city. And you're one of those people who have really put their money where their mouth is. By moving back into the city, you have no idea how happy you've made all of us, and I think you really send a message that Philadelphia is a city that's on the move -- and I think that's probably the lyrics to one of your songs. (Laughter.)
And we're on the move and we're going to continue to be on the move. And thank you very much and congratulations. (Standing ovation.)
Thank you. Thank you very much. Council President and members of City VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS Council, and especially Councilman DiCicco and Councilman Kenney, I'd like to greet you all with peace. Salaam aleikum. AUDIENCE: Aleikum salaam.
Always in my heart, I remember our creator. The minister who gave the prayer this morning, it seems it was a favorite scripture of mine about, in Ancient Romans, I think it is that the minister was speaking about, of how the laborers work in vain unless God is helping you to build the house. And we ask for God's help. To help us build and rebuild South Philadelphia, this community that we're working on. And it's a great message for the City of Philadelphia and for the United States of America, that without the help of almighty God, then we're all working in vain. So a country, which its pledge of allegiance that speaks of in God, "one nation under God," then we really should make it that way. So that's what we're doing at Universal Community Homes -- we are not forgetting the input of almighty God. Second of all, I'd like to thank my VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS family. And my wife, Fatimah, would you give her a big hand. (Applause.)
And my son Salvadeen (ph.) is in the back, back there. He's a little quiet, he's been working in the studio. Give Salvadeen a big hand, please. (Applause.)
Thank you. And my daughter Tamelia (ph.), she's up here with us on stage. (Applause.)
This was a tremendous task to take on, and I really thank my family for working along with me and supporting this whole concept. Third and last, I would like to thank all of the people. I guess you see all of these people up here with me, and there's probably a more in the audience -- like Imam Shamsadeen Ali (ph.), who just came in. Would you come up, Brother Imam. And Imam Fareed (ph.), would you come up, please. And I don't suppose -- and Bruce, too, VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS you can come up too. I mean, everybody is here, you know, I think they invited everybody. (Applause.)
And anyone else who came here for this, you can come up here, too, because this is not something that I'm doing for myself. This is not something that. . . that I need to do. This is something that must be done, and that's the way -(Applause.)
And the reason why I say that it must be done and that's the reason why I made the decision. And I need your support, this Council. I need your support in all that we're doing. It must be done, because as a young man who grew up in Philadelphia, South Philadelphia, 15th and Christian, who had a wonderful childhood, went through the public school system. Thank God that all the experiences that I was able to have in Philadelphia helped me to write an enormous amount of songs. All those songs were through my experiences in life. But my consciousness, as I read more VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS about the meaning of life and looked at the example of the great profit, Mohammed, and said, What is a man's life unless he is serving others? When we ride through our communities, this Council has power, this city has power to change the conditions that are in our communities. I bring forward with you today -- this is our general council. We have members here of the Modulista (ph.) Shore, which is the governing body of the Muslims. We also have the board of directors of Universal Community Homes. I wanted them all to be here with me today so that you would see part of the people -- we have more people than this. We're going to move to change the environment in this city for the future. It must be done. The commitment that has been made -this is not a game, people's lives are involved, children's lives are involved. And so this commitment that has been made -- and I thank you for this honor, because that indicates to me that you understand what we are doing. And difficult as the task may be, we are here to work with you, working together to solve the problems for the VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS future. Last but not least, I'd like to ask Abdul Raheem Islam (ph.), which many of you know, and I want you to give him a big round of applause. (Applause.)
And I'd also like to recognize and recognize and thank Brother Shaheed Dawan (ph.). Where you at, Shaheed? Right here. (Applause.)
These are the brothers who we have worked very hard with, and we've grown from a little organization and we're going to be a much better and bigger organization. I think you should feel good about Philadelphia. Do you feel good about Philadelphia? (Applause.)
'Cause I feel good about Philadelphia. I feel good about Philadelphia so much that my whole life has been Philadelphia. Everywhere I've gone, all over the world, it's been nothing but Philadelphia, promoting Philadelphia so much so that the name of our VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS record company was called "Philadelphia International," known all over the world. So much so that we wrote a song called "The Sound of Philadelphia," which was number one all over the world. I believe that Philadelphia is a city of firsts. There's a book out called Philadelphia, the City of Firsts, where the first of everything was here -- the first hospital, the first ice cream company, everything you could think of. I was amazed at all of the things that were first in Philadelphia. I believe that Philadelphia can be the first to end this devastation that's eroding, corrupting our communities. Let's make Philadelphia the "City of Firsts" once again to work together and end this devastation that's going on in our African-American and minority communities. You can do it, this Council can do it. We're going to be watching you. We're going to be watching you, and today is the beginning of a new day, because I make a pledge to you that I want to watch and I also want to work VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS with you so that we can change the conditions in our community. I leave you with this. There's Ideeth (ph.), and Ideeth is something that was reported that the prophet said. It's reported that the prophet said -- peace be upon him -- that no believer, whomever you are, no believer can eat your fill while your neighbor goes hungry. So I look in this room and it seems to me that we have a lot of people in here who are doing pretty good, that are eating your fill. So when you're eating your lunch and eating your dinners, remember that this is a community that is starving. And this does not mean food; this could mean opportunity. Why should you have all the opportunity and no one else has no opportunity. Why should there be a group that has all the information and another community that has no information. So let's try to work together. And remember that the choice is up to you and we're going to be a watchdog group right here, we're going to watch you and we're going to be there at every moment. So let's get our schools together, let's get the economy together, VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS let's fight. Let's bring back that revolutionary spirit that was here in Philadelphia from the beginning. And not to hold up Council. I thank you, Council President.
And I'd like to thank all of you. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Before you leave, please, the Chair recognizes the very popular Mary Mason for some brief remarks, please. (Mary Mason comes forward.)
Thank you, Madam Chairman and to all the Councilmembers. I knew this was Bring-Your-Child-toWork Day, so I brought my child to work with me. I simply want to say that he is the most for-real person I've known. Part of what I am today is because of the calls in the late hours of the night, middle of the day from Kenneth Gamble. Many a times I wanted to quit, I wanted to give up. And you know what he kept saying to me? "You VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS can't go." I said, "Why can't I?" You can't go. He never told me a reason, but I found out, in this project. And I thank him for it. And I thank all of you for honoring my brother. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease, then resumes business.)
The noise level is much too high. Everyone having conversations, please do so in the corridor. Thank you. During this week, we have been especially mindful of the sacrifices made by our armed forces during the Vietnam War, and today we are honoring Chapter 266 of the Vietnam Veterans of America. I ask Councilman Mariano to please come forward to present the resolution, and I would ask Mr. Tom Finnerty and those accompanying him to please join the Councilmen at the podium. (Vietnam vets et al. come forward.) VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS
I apologize for interrupting. There's a gentleman who's being honored today, a major who -
I'm sorry, I can't hear you. Just a minute, Councilman. Councilman DiCicco?
There's an article that was lost by a major who's here today. It's a clustered -
A bronze star. If anyone sees it on the floor, would you please bring it to either the Council President or to me. Thank you.
Thank you. Could Councilman Rizzo, Councilwoman Miller, and Councilwoman Krajewski help me with this. (Councilmembers come forward.)
The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano. VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS
Thank you, Madam President. We're going to start this now. A resolution declaring the week of April 24th through April 30th as "The Anniversary for the End of the Vietnam War Commendation Week" in Philadelphia.
Whereas, April 29, 2000 is the 25th anniversary of the fall of Saigon and the end of the Vietnam War; and. . .
Whereas, May 7th is the 25th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam era, as declared by President Gerald Ford; and. . .
Whereas, many Philadelphians served our nation during the Vietnam War; and Whereas, many Philadelphians were killed and disabled during in the Vietnam war; and. . .
Whereas, the National Vietnam Veterans of America and the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 266 are commemorating the end of the Vietnam War and the Vietnam era by holding several public seminars of VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS the Vietnam War and reading the names of the 58,213 Americans on the Vietnam War memorial; and. . .
Whereas, the reading of the 58,213 names will occur over a 54-hour period between today, Thursday, April 27th, and Saturday, April 29th, now, therefore. . .
Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we honor Chapter 266 of the Vietnam Veterans of America for their efforts on behalf of the Vietnam veterans and all of the veterans. And be it further resolved that the week of April 24th through April 30th be designated as "The Anniversary of the End of the Vietnam War Commemoration Week" in Philadelphia.
Thank you. And I just want to take this special time. Councilwoman Miller is one of the Councilpeople here that we all know and love, and her brother lost his life. He was a member of the 101st Airborne in Vietnam, and he was a casualty of one of those wars. So I just wanted everyone to know that. VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS Thank you very much. (Applause.)
I'm sorry. There's one part that we forgot. Further resolved that this week, April 24th through 30th be designated as "The Anniversary to End Vietnam War Week" in Philadelphia, signed by Council President Verna and all the Members of City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you, Council President. I'm not going to say too much now. I would like to thank you. For the 58,213 men that are on the wall, I'd like to thank you, City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. Oh, is there anyone else that would like to make remarks? (Stephen Uchniat comes forward.) VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS
Thank you, Madam President, City Council President, Madam -- I don't know what to call you.
Okay. And the Councilmembers for endorsing this. The City of Philadelphia has, through the years, really supported veterans of -- God, since this country started. But you can look no farther than down in South Philly where Veterans Stadium was named after -- named for veterans during a very, very unpopular war. And that took a lot of guts from the City of Philadelphia and, at that time, the City Councilmembers to do something like that. They've also helped with building our beautiful Vietnam Veteran Memorial down at Penn's Landing and to keep the upkeep of that and the ceremonies they have there. Just the City of Philadelphia has been very supportive of veterans over and over again, naming parks, streets, playgrounds, and everything like that. As Tom Finnerty said earlier, we're here to observe the 25th anniversary of the VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS Vietnam War. It's been over 30 years for me. I'm very lucky that I seen the horrors of the war but not as much as some of my colleagues and members back here. I'm very proud of color guard for what they do, and they represent the City in every way. And I feel that they are probably the best color guard in the City of Philadelphia, and I'm very proud of them. (Applause.)
And 58,000 -- over 58,000 men were killed in Vietnam. And to put that into perspective, since all you read about is stadiums anymore, that would fill up every seat in Veterans Stadium for a baseball game, with standing room only. So that's a lot of, lot of people. We also remember the 645 men from Philadelphia who died. It's our duty to remember them. And for as long as it can be, as long as there's a Vietnam veteran that can breathe, they will remember them in Philadelphia, and I'm sure Philadelphia will remember them into the future. And with that I'd like to thank youse for coming out today for supporting this bill. There isn't a day goes by that I don't know that VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS I'm a Vietnam veteran, as I'm sure everybody here. Will all Vietnam veterans in the audience please stand up, please. (Applause.)
One more thing. That was presented to Chapter 266, but if we could rip that up and just give everybody a piece of that, you guys deserve it just as much as anybody. I'm up here and you guys are down there, and there's guys all over this country that are remembering this week. And I thank you very much. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease, then resumes business.)
Every year we in Council recognize Take Your Daughter to Work Day in our city. This is that day, and I want to personally welcome all of the young people who are with us today. Would those who are observing the day please -- the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS
Thank you, Madam President. Today with me, as usual, is my granddaughter, Charlie Tasco.
We're going to try this. It's working, good, okay. Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. Today I have four young ladies with me on Take Your Daughters to Work Day, and as I call their names, hopefully they will stand. They're sitting to my left. We have La'Asia Bey, who's 11 years old, in 4th grade, at Our Lady of Grace school, and she is the niece of my staff person, Jenelle Lemon. (Applause.)
We have Nahiera Rush, who is age 9 and goes to Rowan Williams School, and she is the granddaughter of my staff person, Theresa Pinkett. And we also have LeAndra Rush, who is also the granddaugher of Theresa Pinkett, and VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS LeAndra is age 11. (Applause.)
And earlier, my own daughter that's no stranger to Council, Shakira Miller, was here. She's a high school student but she had to leave to take care of some important business. Being in town, she was trying to get her junior driver's license permit at 11th and Market. So thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Good morning, Madam President. I am pleased to. . . (Inaudible.)
Councilwoman, is your microphone on? We can't hear you. We will be having a new system in the summer months. (Applause.) VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS
With me today is Alex Woods, a 6th-grader 10-year-old from Voorhees Middle School, one of my nieces. And joining her is her older sister, Candice Woods, a 7th-grader, a 12-year-old. Also there's a former dance student of mine, Desiree Gardner, currently a 12th-grader, who will soon be entering my alma mater, Penn State University, fall of 2000. And, finally, we have "Say Yes to Education" students with us from West Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. With me today are two young ladies. One is Sarah Nivala (ph.), who's 7 years old, VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS standing to my left. And also Alexa Gordon, who is the daughter of Bruce Gordon of Channel 29, and she's 9 years old. She's in the press box. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have three guests for Take Our Daughters to Work Day. From the Benjamin Franklin High School, I have Madaline Santiago and Teresa Alslop (ph.). (Applause.)
And I have a daughter of one of my staffers, Gloria Valdez -Michela (ph.) Valdez. (Applause.)
She's about as excited to be here as we are, I think. Thank you.
Thank you, Madam President. I think somebody pulled a fast one on VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS me today. My son told me that they changed Take Your Daughter to Work Day to Take Your Children to Work Day. And he seems to be the only male here. (Laughter.)
He's very happy to be here but he's much happier not to be in school. My son, Brendan, 10 years old. (Applause.)
And I would like to say hello to my daughter Nora, who is home with a slight fever and she couldn't come today. So thank you.
Thank you, Madam President. I have a couple honorary daughters here from Ben Franklin High School, Asia White and Makia Dunn -- if they could stand. (Applause.)
I also have here Patria Bryant, the sister of Latrice Bryant, my VISITOR RECOGNITION, PRESENTATIONS executive assistant, if she would stand. (Applause.)
Also, Danea Frazier, the niece of Rhashida Perry, my special assistant, if she would stand. (Applause.)
Also, Valencia Adorno, daughter of Leslie Adorno, my administrative assistant, who is here. (Applause.)
As well as my two nieces, Sharese and Toni Trufant. (Applause.)
Daughters of Murial Goode-Trufant and Reverend Anthony Trufant, of Brooklyn, New York. If they would stand. (Applause.)
Thank you. Would anybody else like to be recognized? (No response.)
Then we will COMMUNICATIONS go on with our business.
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the clerk. The clerk will read the messages from the Mayor.
To the president and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that I have today signed the following bill that was passed by Council at its session on April 13, 2000? Bill No. 000105. And I am transmitting an ordinance herewith for the consideration of your honorable body, an ordinance creating the Silver City Tax Increment Financing District and approving the project plan of the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for the redevelopment of the Silver City Tax Increment Financing District to execute documents and to do all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The messages will be printed in the Journal. The clerk will read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of their introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the motion is carried. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one privileged resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending the provisions of Title 21 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Miscellaneous," by adding a new chapter entitled, "Vehicle Registration," providing for the placement for the placement of motor vehicle registration stickers, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring Charles Barkley on the occasion of his retirement from the National Basketball Association.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning, I present one resolution on your behalf that is signed by each member of City Council, and one bill.
The chief clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Funds, Deposits, investments, Disbursements," by amending Section 19-201, entitled, "City Depositories," by authorizing the City Treasurer to deposit funds in Sovereign Bank, under certain terms and conditions. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The clerk INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing the work of the Action Alliance of Senior Citizens as it holds its 27th Annual Senior Power Convention.
Madam President, 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 will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Madam President, I offer one resolution sponsored by Councilman Mariano and the President of City Council and myself. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Streets and Services to hold public hearings to examine the number or problems regarding the issuance of parking tickets related to the street-sweeping pilot program being conducted in various neighborhoods throughout the City.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Council President, I have two resolutions, one I'm introducing with Councilwoman Reynolds Brown and Councilman Goode.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings on the effects of the digital divide on students in the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Philadelphia public schools to investigate ways to bridge the divide in public schools and to compare current efforts in Philadelphia with initiatives in other states.
This resolution 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 a deed situate in the 7th, 19th, and the 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of these resolutions. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller. (Councilwoman absent from chambers at this time.)
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance granting permission to Chestnut Hill Academy, 500 Willow Grove Avenue, to construct, use, and maintain one water distribution line, one sleeve with two telecommunication conduits, and one spare sleeve under and across Willow Grove Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
And a resolution declaring May 1st to May 7th, 2000 as "Special Olympics Philadelphia Week." (Councilwoman Miller returns to chamber.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller to move for the adoption of her resolution.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have three resolutions: one cosponsored by my colleague Councilman Goode, another by Councilman Nutter, and a third resolution cosponsored by Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
Yes, Madam Chair. 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. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS been adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution endorsing the policy initiatives and May 14th March of the Million Moms March on Mother's Day, 2000.
Yes, Madam Chair. 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. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution proclaiming May 4, 2000 as "Jury Appreciation Day."
The Chair INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Madam Chair, I have one resolution that I wish to speak on.
The clerk will read the title of the resolution.
A resolution commending Attorney General Janet Reno for confirming this INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS country's commitment to family values by reuniting Elian Gonzales with his father.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye -
Madam Chair, I'm the father of a child that, on April 19th, celebrated his sixth birthday. And there's a kid that's six years old in Miami that recently lost his mother, it's a Cuban little boy named Elian. My son, INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS watching TV with me, has really identified, and he says, "Elian is on TV." When I'm away and Elian comes on, he comes over and says, "Elian is on TV, Dad." Some people have tried to use this little boy as a political football, a symbol, and have kept him away from his father -- his grandmothers, his cousins -- since Thanksgiving. They have disobeyed the law of this country and, more than anything else, they have caused grave damage to the ability of that child to grieve for the loss of his mother together with his father. And now they're trying to rewrite the family laws of this country. My son, who is six years old, cannot talk about socialism or capitalism or tell me the merits or the demerits of the other ones. He sees the world through the ayes of his mother and through my eyes and the eyes of those people who surround him. We give him the base of stability and love that he needs. I am very glad that Janet Reno is the attorney general of this country, 'cause she showed incredible courage, political and moral INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS courage, to do what she did this past weekend, and that was to bring together a family that needed to be brought together. And I just want to commend her because she's damned if she does and she's damned if she doesn't, as Joanie told me. And I'm glad that my colleagues, such as Blondell Reynolds, Joan Krajewski, Wilson Goode, Jr., David Cohen, Marian Tasco, everybody here, has solidified with this sentiment of a family coming together. She is being unduly criticized by people who want to keep on fighting the Cold War. The Cold War is over, there's a family that needs to begin healing, there's a child that needs his father. They are together. Let us commend the lady who came into the picture and brought back sanity into the issue: Janet Reno, a lady of courage, a lady of the law, a lady that I admire very greatly. Thank you very much.
All those in favor of the adoption of the resolution will signify by saying aye. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance creating the Silver City Tax Increment Financing District and approving the project plan of the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for the redevelopment of the Silver City Tax Increment Financing District, being the area generally bounded by Broad Street on the west, and to do all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to purchase fee simple title to certain properties bounded by Buttonwood Street, Hamilton Street, Nectarine Street, Spring Garden Avenue, with any improvements situate thereon located in the 5th Ward, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing Whole Food Market Growth, the tenant of the property located at 939 South Street, to construct and maintain various encroachments in and on the north footway of South Street and the east footway of Tenth Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance granting permission to Girish Sanghvi, owner of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Tenth and Market Streets, to conduct, use, and maintain an electric conduit and an electric service line and a fiber optic conduit.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 10-1200 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Posting of Temporary Signs," by adding a new section prohibiting the placement of any temporary sign that will cause damage upon removal or application of all stickers to any street light erected after January 1, 1995, on Broad Street, between Lombard Street and Glenwood Avenue, under COMMITTEE REPORTS certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The next order of business is reports from committees. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Finance Committee.
Thank you, Madam President. The Finance Committee reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and COMMITTEE REPORTS Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill 000165, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Funds, Deposits, Investments, Disbursements," by amending Section 19-202, entitled "Authorized Investments," by adding a subsection on United States Treasury certified community development financial institutions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended in order to permit first reading of Bill No. 000165 at today's Council session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended in order to permit first reading of Bill No. 000165 at today's Council session. COMMITTEE REPORTS All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the rules of Council have been suspended and Bill No. 000165 will be placed on today's first-reading calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Streets and services committee.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports four bills out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 000146, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance approved March 23, 1999, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 128"; COMMITTEE REPORTS And Bill No. 000148, an ordinance amending Title 12 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," by adding provisions regulating the parking of motorcycles at metered parking spaces; And Bill No. 000161, an ordinance authorizing Anthony Lucidoni, owner of the property 39 Oregon Avenue, to construct and maintain a sidewalk cafe awning, electric sign, and seasonal enclosure onto and over the north footway of Oregon Avenue; And Bill No. 000162, an ordinance amending Section 9-205 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," by prohibiting sidewalk sales at various locations within the area bounded by Reed Street, 21st Street, Morris Street, and 25th Street, under certain terms and conditions respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be COMMITTEE REPORTS suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 000146, 000148, 000161, and 000162. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended in order to permit first reading of Bill No.'s 000146, 000148, 000161, and 000162 at today's session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay? The ayes have it, and those bills will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano for a report from the Committee on Licenses and Inspections.
Madam President, the Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports two bills out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Licenses and COMMITTEE REPORTS Inspections, to which was referred Bill No. 000025, an ordinance amending Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code by providing for the installation of a fence or other protective devices and other related measures after demolition of a structure, under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 000061, an ordinance amending Title 10 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled, "Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity," requiring the retention of video surveillance tapes in commercial businesses for 30 days after use of those tapes and regulating the quality of those tapes respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns 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 for Bill No.'s No. 000025 and 000061. (Duly seconded.) COMMITTEE REPORTS
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No.'s 000025 and 000061 at today's Council session. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and Bill No.'s 000025 and 000061 will be placed on today's first-reading calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Labor and Civil Service.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Labor and Civil Service reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Labor and Civil Service, to which was referred Bill No. 000108, an ordinance COMMITTEE REPORTS enacting a new Chapter 9-2300 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Protection of Displaced Contract Workers," and amending Section 19-2602, entitled "License," to require that all contractors awarded contracts for the performance of food and beverage, hotel service, health care, janitorial, or building maintenance services within the City of Philadelphia, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended in order for the first reading of Bill No. 000108 at this session of Council. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 000108 on today's calendar. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. FIRST-READING CALENDAR Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is carried. Are there any other reports from committees? (No response.)
There being none, the next order of business is the consideration of the calendar. The chief clerk will please read the bills on the first-reading calendar.
Bill No. 000014, an ordinance Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by adding a new 14-1619, entitled "Frankford Avenue Special District Controls," under certain terms and circumstances.
And Bill No. 000062, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas FIRST-READING CALENDAR of land located within an area bounded by Carpenter Lane, Green Lane, Westview Avenue, and Sherman Road.
And Bill No. 000165, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Funds, Deposits, Investments, and Disbursements," by amending Section 19-202, entitled "Authorized Investments."
And Bill No. 000146, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance approved March 23, 1999, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 128," under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 000148, an ordinance amending Title 12 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," by adding FIRST-READING CALENDAR provisions regulating the parking of motorcycles at metered parking spaces within certain portions of an area generally bounded by Front Street, Pine Street, 11th Street, and Bainbridge Street, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 000161, an ordinance authorizing Anthony Lucidoni, owner of the property 39 Oregon Avenue, to construct and maintain a sidewalk cafe, awning, electric sign, and seasonal enclosure onto and over the north footway of Oregon Avenue, adjacent to the property 39 Oregon Avenue.
And Bill No. 000162, an ordinance amending Section 9-205 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," by prohibiting sidewalk sales at various locations within the area bounded by Reed Street, 21st Street, Morris Street, and 25th Street, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 000025, an ordinance amending Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code," by providing for the installation of a fence or other protective devices and other related measures after demolition of a structure, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 000061, an ordinance amending Title 10 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity," by requiring the retention of video surveillance tapes in commercial businesses for 30 days after the use of those tapes, and regulating the quality of those tapes.
And Bill No. 000108, an ordinance enacting a new Chapter 9-2300 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Protection of Displaced Contract Workers," and amending Section FIRST-READING CALENDAR 19-2602, entitled "License," to require that all contractors awarded contracts for the performance of food, beverage, hotel service, health care, janitorial or building maintenance services within the City of Philadelphia retain certain non-supervisory employees of a previous contractor for a 90-day transition employment period.
The Chair agrees. The bills just read by the clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for our next reading. This concludes the bills to be considered for the first-reading calendar
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up the bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. Today, Bill No.'s 000027, 000110, 000120, 000139, and 000145 are called up for second reading and final passage.
Councilwoman, SECOND READING - BILL 000120-A did you call up Bill No. 000120-A?
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 000120-A.
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance approved January 5, 1999 entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307," under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will call the roll.
Excuse me. SECOND READING - BILL 000120-A Is Councilman Ortiz in the room? I didn't hear his vote. Is Councilman Ortiz in the room? (No response - Councilman Ortiz not present at this time.)
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 000027.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by adding a new Section 1416-07, entitled "Special Controls for Walnut Street," under certain terms and conditions. SECOND READING - BILL 000027
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now, is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will call the roll.
Aye. Madam Chair, I also wanted to be recorded as voting aye on the previous bill, 120-A.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nayes are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. SECOND READING - BILL 000110 The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 000110.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Frankford Avenue and Knights Road.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A SECOND READING - BILL 000139 majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. No. 000139.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 376 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of McNulty Road and a portion of Meeting House Road and placing on the City Plan of a right-of-way for drainage purposes.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 000145.
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 980709) approved December 30, 1998, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 46-S by extending the period for compliance with the authorization conditions therein."
This bill having been read two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This concludes our consideration of the calendar.
Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? (No speeches on the part of the Minority.)
Are there any speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, today, along with Councilperson Reynolds Brown and Councilperson SPEECHES Goode, I introduced a resolution designed to deal with what today is called "the digital divide," and that is, simply, a lack of access to computer technology based on race, income, and ethnic. There is no doubt that we are entering an era where those without computer screens will be left behind. I'm already seeing this divide in the skilled trades. Today's electricians are working with increased advanced technology particularly in the telecommunications industry. Today's building trades apprentices should be learning more complex skills than their father's did. However, unfortunately, in many cases, the lack of computer skills is due to the lack of access. We in Council have shown concern about attracting e-commerce to the City of Philadelphia. However, I believe we must now begin the process of figuring out how to bridge that divide and provide everyone with an opportunity to access these high-tech jobs of the future, particularly our students from our schools. I'm looking forward to be working with ADJOURNMENT Councilpersons Brown and Goode and the rest of the Education Committee. Thank you Madam, President.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I move that Council be adjourned until Thursday, May 4, 2000. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 4, 2000. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and Council will stand adjourned until Thursday, May 4, 2000. Thank you. (Adjourned at 11:38 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, April 27, 2000, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, Registered Professional Reporter