COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:25 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
The hour has come. It is clear we have establishment a quorum. I will ask that all guests and visitors please retire behind the rail and members please take their seat. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Father Ed Brady, Pastor of St. Anne Roman Catholic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman William Green. I ask all guests and visitors to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
We ask this day for our creator's blessing upon our City Council to selflessly serve the needs of all the citizens of Philadelphia. Continue to grant them, oh Lord, enlightenment in all their deliberations. Help them to sustain their reverence for they address their responsibilities for the welfare of our city. May they be passionate and strong in their deepest convictions as they formulate those approaches which will best serve the citizenry. May your guidance bring them to decisions that will benefit all the citizens, especially those most in need. As a special request, Lord, we ask that you shower your blessings upon Sophie Bryan, allow her indomitable courage to accompany her as she leaves Councilman Green's office tomorrow. May her leadership bring new life and assurance that all Philadelphia's children will receive a quality education. May she experience the warmth and compassion of all of our children, especially those with special needs. We place this prayer before you, Lord, with our fullness of confidence and faith. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 18th, 2012. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 18th, 2012 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 18th, 2012 stand approved. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Good morning, Mr. President. Thank you. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you so much, sir. dispense with the regular order of business at this time to welcome all the guests and visitors here today. We really appreciate you taking time out of your busy day to come down and watch your government in action. We hope we do our business in a way that you feel comfortable with, and we hope that we do it in a way that will make you want to come back again. So, again, thank you all so much for coming down. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson, who will present a resolution honoring Mothers in Charge. Would Ms. Dorothy Johnson Speight and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium.
Yes, await that important citation saluting one of the citizens in our city, I wanted to join you in welcoming Ms. Bonnie Lucas, a member of the Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee for more than 20 years. She is a block captain. She's on the ground, in the trenches, doing good work in Councilman Squilla's district, and she's also a member of Mothers in Charge. So we join you in welcoming Ms. Lucas to City Council.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Thank you so much. Councilman Johnson is joined by Councilman O'Brien, Councilman Goode, Councilman Jones, Councilwoman Bass, Councilman Henon, and Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. honored and privileged to have this opportunity to honor and recognize a group of passionate, committed, and courageous women. They go out into the communities throughout the City of Philadelphia day by day addressing the issue of youth gun violence. And so in my prior life as a community organizer and my efforts through Peace Not Guns, I have come to know first and foremost the founder, Ms. Dorothy Speight Johnson, but also the members based upon their effort to do solely nothing but bring a sense of peace in the City of Philadelphia and encouraging other mothers who suffer from senseless acts of violence to be courageous as they live their lives. And so I am honored to present a resolution to Mothers in Charge on behalf of the members of City Council, and I thank all my colleagues for standing here with me today. And the resolution reads: Honoring, recognizing and commending Mothers in Charge for its leadership in providing community advocacy and support in the fight to end violent crimes. Whereas, Mothers in Charge is a grassroots organization whose mission focuses on violence prevention through education and intervention for children, young adults, families and community organizations; and
Whereas, after the murder of her twenty-four-year-old son in 2003, Dorothy Johnson Speight founded Mothers in Charge as a support organization for families to come together in the fight against gun violence; and
Whereas, most of the members of Mothers in Charge have experienced the horror of having a son, daughter or loved one murdered; and Whereas, Mothers in Charge works with elected officials on legislation to support safe neighborhoods and families and collaborates with community and faith-based organizations; and
Whereas, the passion and drive exhibited by Mothers in Charge comes from within, because each one of these brave women has found the strength to attempt to turn a personal tragedy into a medium for change; and
Whereas, as Executive Director and Founder of Mothers in Charge, Ms. Johnson Speight's work has led to national appearances and presentations throughout the United States and abroad; and
Whereas, Mothers in Charge has received many recognitions and awards for its work in the community including the Philadelphia Leadership Award Transformer of Grief, the NAACP Exemplary Citizens Award, and recognition from the Philadelphia 76ers; now therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor, recognize and commend Mothers in Charge, Incorporated for its leadership in providing community advocacy and support in the fight to end violent crime.
Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Mothers in Charge as evidence of the sentiments of this legislative body. I'd like to also do an honorable mention of Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, who always has been supportive of Mothers in Charge as well, who isn't up here, but I do know at the last banquet we were at, we kind of both came out and showed support. But I wanted to sincerely thank all of you for the work that you do on a daily basis and thank you for ridding our streets of gun violence. I want to present this citation on behalf of the (Applause.)
Good morning. I want to, on behalf of members of Mothers in Charge, thank you for this honor. This truly is a true honor to Mothers in Charge to receive this special recognition. We are on the front lines every day working to make a difference with the issue of violence in our city, but not only in our city, across this country. Mothers in Charge is now a national movement. We're located in several cities throughout this country, because it's not just a Philadelphia problem. And I just really want to thank the courageous women that make up the organization Mothers in Charge who are working tirelessly every day to save lives. We can't bring back our children, but we're working every day to make a of violence in the City and across this country. And, again, I thank City Council for this honor and this recognition. Thank you so very much. (Applause.)
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution recognizing November 12th to November 16th as Back on My Feet National Sneaker Week. Would Ms. Jill Fink and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And joining Councilwoman Blackwell is Councilman Jim Kenney.
Resolution recognizing November 12th to November 16th as Back on My Feet National Whereas, Back on My Feet is encouraging all employees in the City of Philadelphia to wear sneakers during the week of November 12th to 16th for a $5 contribution to the organization Back on My Feet; and
Whereas, November 12th to 16th is also National Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week; and Whereas, in 2011, more than 300 companies and offices participated in Sneaker Week and found Sneaker Week easy to implement; and Whereas, Back on My Feet is a national non-profit organization that's dedicated to creating independence and self-sufficiency in the lives of those experiencing homelessness and other underserved populations by first engaging them in running as a means to build confidence, strength and self-esteem; and Whereas, after launching in Philadelphia in July 2007, the Baltimore; Washington, DC; Boston; Chicago; Dallas; Indianapolis; Atlanta; and New York City;
And whereas, Founder and CEO, Anne Mahlum, has led the organization to grow to a staff of over 40 professionals, with thousands of volunteers and hundreds of members; and Whereas, the organization's mission is not to create runners within the homeless population, but to create self-sufficiency in the lives of those experiencing homelessness by using running as a vehicle; and Whereas, the program's success is measured by how many members achieve independence through employment and housing; and Whereas, 626 residential members have obtained employment, and 421 residential members have obtained housing since September 2008; and Whereas, Back on My Feet takes lifestyles and making a difference in the communities in which they work and serve; now therefore
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, recognizes the week of November 12th to 16th as Back on My Feet Sneaker Week. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Anne Mahlum, Jill Fink and others, and Back on My Feet has a profound expression of this Council's appreciation for all that they do. Let me note that this was introduced by certainly Councilman Jim Kenney, who told me about this organization first off, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, and myself and agreed to by each and every member of City Council. (Applause.)
Good morning. Thank you all for coming out for this resolution and for recognizing the work of Back on My Feet. I do hope that all of you will be showing up to work in your sneakers, perhaps on that last Friday of Sneaker Week or all week, should you choose to do so. I think it actually makes employees much more productive to wear your sneakers. You're much more comfortable throughout the day. So if there is -- a couple things that I can just tell you about Back on My Feet in addition to running, which is obviously the first and foremost thing that we do. We do also provide job readiness, workforce development skills, financial literacy training. And two things that I think that really set Back on My Feet apart from other social service agencies that are doing tremendous work in the City are the financial aid component of the work that do, where members have the ability through participation in the program to earn up to $1,250 in financial aid that they can use to remove the financial hurdles that are preventing them from moving their lives forward. For the amount of money that many of us would have in our pockets or would easily be able to get from an ATM machine can mean the difference between someone being able to take a step forward to get a uniform for a new job, to buy sneakers or work clothing for employment. And then the second thing is really just the social engagement component of the work that we do, working with teams to help individuals to overcome the isolation, despair, and loneliness that they feel, to feel confident in themselves to go out and to be successful. I hope that you will participation in Sneaker Week for a small contribution of $5 and know that that long way in supporting us and helping Philadelphia's homeless population. Thank you.
The Chair would like to recognize Councilman Kenney and then Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. As a symbol of our support for the organization and a tangible show of support for the group and their work, we've asked -- Councilwoman Blackwell has asked every Councilmember to bring a pair of running shoes today to donate to their cause. It's not all they need, but it's certainly a symbol of what we believe is a great organization doing great work in the City. So I hope everyone has got their sneakers here today.
I join number of years going in 2007 when I first learned of Back on My Feet, and then actually got out and did -- I don't run. I did a power walk with Anne. And you should know that Anne was one of the young women we saluted with our Next Generation of Leaders effort that we do every March, because she's under 40 doing enormously wonderful work, and then the very next year CNN picked up her great story and she became one of the 25 finalists for the CNN Heroes Program. So the organization is extraordinary, and Anne is just a wonderful woman with vision and wanted to give back and pay it forward at the same time. We salute Back on My Feet.
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass, who will present a resolution supporting Bilal Qayyum and the Fathers' Day Rally Committee as they convene to present the Call to Action: Black on Black Violence Conference in Philadelphia. Would Mr. Qayyum and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And also joining the Councilwoman is Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilman Greenlee, and Councilman Jones.
Good morning. It is such an honor to be able to present this next resolution, and it's in honor of Bilal Qayyum and the Fathers' Day Rally Committee and the work that they're doing starting actually tomorrow with the Black on Black Violence Conference here in Philadelphia. And as black on black violence is just something unbelievable rate in our communities, it's something that as the wife of an African American man and the guardian of a young black male in my household, there's not a day that goes by that they leave the house that you worry about their safety and their return, and you hope that they won't fall victim to any of the things that are happening just by happenstance, just by being in the wrong place at the wrong time. So I thought it was critical that we bring attention to this conference that's going to be happening. We certainly hope that everyone can either plan to attend or send someone to attend. And I know that Councilman Jones as the Chair of Public Safety also wanted to make a few opening remarks before we present this citation.
Well, it's truly appropriate that Bilal Qayyum be that Mothers in Charge are being recognized. It's not by chance that the two are related one to the other. We hope sincerely as a part of our reality that teddy bear memorials in communities aren't the new normal, that young people should look at those things as things of compassion, things of comfort as opposed to things of mourning and as makeshift memorials to a tragic death. So we salute Mothers in Charge today, but we salute the bold work that Bilal Qayyum is doing to look deep into the issue, peel down into the weeds to find out what the causes are, but also recommend the solutions, so...
So we're going to go ahead and present this resolution, and it reads: Supporting Bilal Qayyum and the Fathers' Day Really Committee, Inc., as they convene to present the Call to Action: Black on Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from October 26th through October 28th which will explore methods to develop an action plan to reduce violence and crime in the urban areas of the country over a three year period; and Whereas, every year America sees over 51,000 deaths as a result of violence. Over 49 percent of those murdered are Blacks in general and Black males in particular. The U.S. Justice Department determined that Black victims of homicide are most likely to be male, 85 percent, and between the ages of 17 and 19 years of age, and that's 51 percent. The medical and productivity-related cost of violence is estimated to exceed $70 billion each year; and
Whereas, the purpose of this conference is to develop a network of collaborators, communications, and create some action innovative ideas and examining various preventive models and strategies that are culturally relevant for the Black community. The conference will focus on alternatives to violence among young and highlight successful programs, projects, initiatives that promote new ideas; and
Whereas, the goals of the conference are to create a national movement to reduce violence and shootings in the African American communities nationally by twenty-five percent; to study evidence based information and crime prevention programs regarding Black on Black violence that are found to be effective and disseminate this information to cities across the country; and to create a national network of individuals and groups that are working to eradicate the culture of violence and follow up on the outcomes of the conference; and
Whereas, conference are to create a national movement to reduce violence and shootings in the African American communities nationally by twenty-five percent; to study evidence based information and crime prevention programs on Black on Black violence that are found to be effective and disseminate this information to cities across the country; and to create a national framework of individuals and groups that are working to eradicate the culture of violence and follow up on the outcomes of the conference; and Whereas, in 1989, Bilal Qayyum founded the Fathers' Day Rally Committee, an organization of Black men that seeks to promote positive images of the Black male. The mission of the Fathers' Day Rally Committee is to promote positive action and interaction among individuals to prompt more aggressive hands on action toward resolving a range of problems confronting African American communities County; and
Whereas, Bilal Qayyum, as the President and Founder of the Fathers' Day Rally Committee, has worked tirelessly to diffuse the senseless bloodshed on city streets that lead to the death of Black men throughout Philadelphia. Since 1989, the FDRC has been committed to reducing violence in the minority communities affected by a myriad of social ills. Men working together at the grassroots level can launch a meaningful attack on the negative attitude which contributes to the destruction of families and neighborhoods; now therefore be it resolved
By the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby supports Bilal Qayyum and the Fathers' Day Rally Committee, Incorporated, as they convene to present the Call to Action: Black on Black Violence Conference in Philadelphia from 26th through October 28th which will explore methods to develop an action plan to reduce violence and crime in the urban area of the country over a three year period.
Further resolved, that a copy of this resolution be presented to Bilal Qayyum and the Fathers' Day Rally Committee as evidence of the strong support and sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Thank you. Congratulations. (Applause.)
With me this morning is Curtis Jones from Philadelphia Safety Net, who is part of the Planning Committee for this conference; Anthony Murphy -- Ray Jones. I knew it was one of the Jones's, since I grew up with them both and I helped raise them. They're -- (continued) Anthony Murphy from Town Watch; Eric Grimes from AAKT Concepts. I gratefully appreciate Councilwoman Bass and Councilman Jones, Councilman Johnson, Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilwoman Tasco, Councilman Greenlee for joining and also the other members of Council for this resolution this morning. I had been -- and a lot of folks know -- on the front line in this city for over 40 years trying to reduce violence, and it's come to my attention over the last couple years that it's not only a Philadelphia problem, but a national problem. And it's also -- even though this is built as a Call for Action: National Conference on Black on Black Violence, black on black violence is also an American problem. So I had a radio interview I was participating in Sunday at a radio station in New York and I talked about that, about how important this is an American problem. And we have a tendency as people, and particularly in the black community, to think that America doesn't care about black on black violence. So part of this conference is to put this issue on the front burner, and we are calling for all Americans to support this issue of reducing homicides in America. When we look at 50 percent of all citizens are black folks are dying on the streets across America, it is an American problem. It's just not a black problem. It's a Latino problem, Councilwoman, as you know. Councilman Oh, it's an Asian problem. Councilman Green, good friend Councilman Kenney, it's a white problem. So it's all of our problems, and we must work together collectively to solve this issue. I stood before this Council when I got a resolution when I retired from government and came to this great body of folks, and I talked about the this city was violence. Violence affects business, as Councilman Goode knows. Violence affects individuals. Violence affects the medical culture. You heard this figure of $700 million spent -- billion dollars -- $70 billion spent annually to reduce has to do directly to the acts of violence in America. So we could reduce violence. We could reduce -- we could create an environment better for jobs, for businesses to come. We could reduce the medical costs that we pay. So we all have to work together. So, once again, thank you for this citation. We're honored, and the conference is going to be great. We have folks from Seattle, Washington; Detroit; Chicago; Atlanta; New York; New Jersey; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; New Orleans all will be coming in to the City of Philadelphia tomorrow to participate in this conference. So, once again, thank you, Councilwoman, and my good friend, President Councilman Clarke. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you. The next order of business is communications. Will the Sergeant-of-Arms please deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, will you please read the messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission regarding the following bills: 120654, 120656, 120658, 120724, 120774, 120778, 120781, and 120798; and I am pleased to advise you that on October 19, 2012, I signed the following bills that were passed by its session on October 18, 2012: Bill No. 120644 and Bill No. 120723; and I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 340 by striking from the City Plan Woodbine Avenue from Belmont Avenue to Hayes Avenue and Forty-Ninth Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, do you have any other communications?
Thank you so much. At this time, we have introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill and two resolutions.
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Refuse and Littering," by revising certain provisions on liability, enforcement and penalties, relating to handbills that litter public places.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring the extraordinary efforts and contributions of Pennsylvania State Representative John Taylor at the conclusion of the 2011-2012 legislative session.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution calling for the City Council Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold hearings on the economic opportunities available to the Philadelphia Gas Works resulting from the Marcellus Shale find and other developments in the natural gas industry.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I have one privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing the West Philadelphia Alliance for Children for their steadfast dedication to Philadelphia's public schools as they initiate literacy programs and open school libraries.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two resolutions, one co-sponsored by Councilwoman Tasco and the other resolution on your behalf.
A privileged resolution honoring PathWays PA as the winner of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce's Annual Excellence Award as the Non-Profit of the Year.
That resolution will be placed on today'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 conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Sixteenth, Twentieth and Thirty-Seventh Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Johnson.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill and I'd like to speak briefly after its introduction.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Income and Receipts Taxes," by revising the total amount of all tax credits available in any year for new job creation.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode at this time.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce a bill which will double the amount of total available credit for new job creation. The total amount of tax credit that's available in any year currently cannot exceed one percent of all revenues collected for the City's business taxes during the previous year, approximately $4 million. This bill would increase the program cap to two percent of all revenues collected through those business taxes. Businesses can receive a 5,000 credit for each new job created for tax years 2012 and 2013. The original tax credit was only for $1,000 for each new job when the one percent cap was establishment. From 2003 to 2011, 81 firms were approved for participation in the program, promising the creation of over 5,000 jobs. Through 2011, over 1,000 jobs have been verified, resulting in 1.5 million tax credits claimed. This year the $5,000 credit was established with Bill No. 120012, the first bill approved by this new Council. Since then, at least ten companies have already applied for the new credit and promised over 550 new jobs. If an additional 250 jobs are proposed this year, the program would exceed its cap because of the increase in the tax credit amount. Over 900 jobs were projected each of the years 2003, 2005, 2008, and 2011. With the increase in the tax credit amount from $1,000 to $3,000 to $5,000, it is wise to increase the program cap at this point. If employers seek help in creating new jobs, we should be in the position to favorably respond to that demand. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman. And that bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions this morning.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill, two non-privileged resolutions, one on your behalf.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 340 by striking from the City Plan Woodbine Avenue from Belmont Avenue to Hayes Avenue and Forty-Ninth Street.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution confirming the reappointment of Judge Phyllis Beck as a member of the Board of Ethics, to serve in the term ending November 16, 2017.
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 Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two resolutions today.
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.
That will be placed on next 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 conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Fifth and Thirty-First Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
That will also be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution co-sponsored by Councilpersons Kenney, Squilla, O'Neill, Henon, Blackwell, Quinones-Sanchez, Johnson, Tasco, Bass, O'Brien, and signed by all members of City Council.
A privileged resolution honoring veterans of the United States Armed Forces who have bravely served our country and protected our freedom and way of life in accordance with the observation of Veterans Day on November 11, 2012.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business is reports from committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green for a report on the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Finance reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, will you please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 120009, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Contracts and Procurement,' by adding a new Chapter, entitled 'First Source Jobs Policy,' requiring the creation of a for the purpose of employment referral and further requiring that Beneficiaries of certain City Financial Assistance use such registry as the first source for all hiring related to any new, entry-level job created as a result of such Financial Assistance," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just read. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as this day of Bill No. 120009. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. It will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. That concludes our committee report. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bill just reported from committee with suspension of the rules has been deemed to have had a first reading, and that will be placed on the Second and Final Reading Passage Calendar next week. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up resolutions and 2ND READING bills on the Second and Final Passage.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today: Nos. 120832, 120833, 120835, 120836, 120725-A, 120563, 120564, and all other bills and resolutions are being held.
Thank you, sir. Before considering these resolutions and bills, we will have public comment. It will go as follows: If anyone is interested in testifying and speaking on any of the bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today, you must sign up at the table to the left. You will be given three minutes to speak. You will speak at the podium in the center of the Council. When the light turns green, it is your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you have 30 seconds left. And when the light turns red, your time shall be concluded. Mr. Decker, please call the first individual.
Carole Haas Gravagno, commenting on 120835. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is Carole Haas Gravagno and I'm the Chair of the Stoneleigh Foundation, but before I speak, I would like to thank Councilman Jones for his leadership on this effort and also the Committee on Public Safety for accepting this report. The Stoneleigh Foundation finds fellows -- or gives fellowships that will provide -- sorry. I can't see and speak in this thing at the same time. We provide fellowships to individuals whose work has been -- has the potential to inform our public systems and improve outcomes for our vulnerable youth. In 2008, we learned that Pennsylvania was the most populated state without any Youth Courts. In 2009, we gave a fellowship to learn more about Youth Courts and to expand that concept to the rest of the state. The results are promising. Youth Courts keep students in school rather than expel or suspend them. They engage youth in learning the democratic process. They improve academic performance. They blunt the pipeline from school to prison. They also increase graduation rates. The students who have participated fully in Youth Courts mostly graduate. So that's another issue that we need to be paying attention to. Last May, I observed the Youth Courts in Chester, and I watched the seriousness and the competence of the young people who were directing these courts. They served as judge, bailiff, jury members. My understanding is that some of the City Council staff was down to visit and they also were impressed with this. I saw a young woman come in. She had been accused of profanity in the classroom. She sat on the chair slouched, like, What do you want me for? And they treated her very respectfully. They asked her very pointed questions. They got at things that you and I might not have been able to do. Before the session was over, she was sitting up in her chair paying attention to what they were saying. I think something that we -- is that telling me I'm almost done? We as adults need to understand that sometimes peers know more about what's going on in the youth community than we do, and they can have a much bigger influence on what happens. I encourage you to all vote for this resolution. It really gives our young people a chance at real justice, and it helps them understand that we respect them and we care about them. I got a lot more I'd like to say about it, but I appreciate your listening and, again, thank you, Councilman Jones and the Committee on Safety.
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you. Anyone else who wishes to testify on any of the bills and resolutions on today's Final Passage Calendar? (No response.)
There being none, thank you very much. 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING We'll now consider the resolutions and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, will you please read the title of Resolution No. 120832.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 2305 North Smedley Street.
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.)
10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Those opposed? (No response.)
Resolution No. 120832 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 120833.
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 Twentieth and Thirty-Seventh Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 120833 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 120835.
A resolution adopting the report issued by Council's Committee on Public Safety on how Youth Courts could reduce juvenile recidivism rates, violence in schools, bullying and the costs of incarceration by engaging previously disconnected youth in a participatory and democratic system.
Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you to my colleagues in advance. I move for the adoption. 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. Before we call for a vote, the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Thank you, Council President. Before we vote on this bill, I want to take time and just commend my colleague, Councilman Curtis Jones, Chairman of Public Safety, for taking the leadership and stepping to the plate and addressing this issue as it relates to the young people in the City of Philadelphia, primarily focusing on it from a proactive standpoint, providing alternatives to incarceration for some young people who probably just need a little additional guidance and support based upon the decisions that they have made in their lives, rather they be good or bad. So I just want to commend you on this work particularly as it relates to Youth Courts. 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you very much.
Again, it's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 120835 is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120836.
A resolution initiating action to: continue the Roxborough District, a neighborhood improvement district, beyond its termination date in an area that generally includes both sides of Ridge 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Avenue from Main Street to 7220 Ridge Avenue and certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Ridge Avenue.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you again, Mr. President. I wish to offer an amendment to Resolution No. 120836. A copy of this amendment has been circulated to all members of Council, and I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
That amendment has been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
The amendment is adopted. 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilman Jones, are you going to ask for a vote on that also?
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for an adoption of this resolution, as amended. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 120836 is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 120725-A.
An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," by 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING providing for prohibitions relating to all-terrain vehicles, and for penalties and enforcement.
This bill having been read on two separate days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120563.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Brill Street, both sides, Frankford Avenue to Darrah Street.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I call to withdraw the resolution. 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING
All right. Moved and properly seconded. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it. The bill is withdrawn. Again, Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120564.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Ellsworth Street, north side, 2nd Street to Front Street.
Thank you, Mr. President. I wish to withdraw that bill. (Duly seconded.) 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Bill No. 120564 is withdrawn. That concludes the written Calendar. Mr. Decker, do you have any other resolutions?
A privileged resolution honoring the extraordinary efforts and contributions of Pennsylvania State Representative John Taylor at the conclusion of the 2011-2012 legislative session, introduced by Councilman Kenney.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING
Moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
And a privileged resolution calling for the City Council Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold hearings on the economic opportunities available to the Philadelphia Gas Works resulting from the Marcellus Shale find and other developments in the natural gas industry, introduced by Councilman Kenney.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
And a privileged resolution recognizing the West Philadelphia Alliance for Children for their steadfast dedication to Philadelphia's public schools as they initiate literacy programs and open school libraries, introduced by Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of that, and also I would like to be recorded as voting no on Bill No. 120725-A.
The 10/25/12 - STATED - 2ND READING record shall reflect that.
It's been moved and properly seconded. Those in favor? (Aye.)
And a privileged resolution honoring PathWays PA as the winner of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce's Annual Excellence Award as the Non-Profit of the Year, introduced by Councilman Greenlee.
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.)
And a privileged resolution honoring veterans of the United States Armed Forces who have previously served our country and protected our freedom and way of life in accordance with the observation of Veterans Day on November 11, 2012, introduced by Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority -- I'm sorry. Before that, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
I want to go back. I'd like to be recorded as voting no too on 120725-A.
Thank you. The record shall reflect that. Any speeches on the part of the minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. I understand that this will be a busy weekend. I just wanted to invite everyone in City Council and listening to the observance of the 25th Anniversary of the Vietnam Memorial at Penn's Landing. It will begin on Friday, the 26th at 6:30 with a candlelight vigil and then followed by an 8:00 p.m. reception at the Sheraton Society Hill. The following day, on Saturday, the 27th, there will be a parade at 9:00 a.m., starting at Columbus Boulevard and Avenue, leading to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. At 12:00 noon there will be a keynote address by Chief Justice Ron Castille and a ceremony there. Thank you very much.
Thank you, Councilman. Any speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to particularly thank all my colleagues on the Committee of Public Safety that passed the Youth Court resolution and report. It was a significant report, looking into best practices of peer mediation courts, holistic justice courts. We have advocates in the audience that swear by this as an intervention method, an empowering method for young people. And some of us might think it's a drop in the issues, until I had the opportunity to look at a YouTube message that was sent to me about the subject from another one of my colleagues that I grew up with. A lot of people made a lot about Ray-Ray. Well, I'm going to tell you about Piddy. Piddy sent me this, and he's a new guy. He's matured and he's doing good things, and I'm fortunate to have friends that had a wayward past that have gotten their self together. But this individual sent me a long conversation he had with other young people, and it chronicled his 26 years in prison. I'll say it again, 26 years in prison, two escape attempts, one successful, his number of armed robberies, non-armed robberies. He went back to the first time he ever snatched money out of a cash register. But before that, before he was on this path to crime, he talked about his first real disruptive incident that school classroom. When he was disruptive, got thrown out of class, and it began. That 26-year path began. At the time, no one intervened, could not see the warning signs, could not help him through some of his challenges personally to keep him from that path of crime. So I say to you today, I say to my colleagues today, this Youth Court is more than what we tend to know on its surface. It has the potential of setting a lot of young people on the right path from the classroom, averting the path to prisons, and if we can do that in any small way, we do a number of things. We create citizens, good citizens. We create taxpayers, and, more importantly, we relieve, as important, we relieve the burden of the taxpayer to $35,000 a year that we spend to incarcerate individuals, if we could just steer them to that right path. So thank you all for the support, and we're going to use that as a ruling guide as we look at how to implement that in our public schools. It's one of your critical concerns about public education, and I know you can't talk, so I said it for you, Mr. President. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman, for your continued good work. (Applause.)
Thank you, Mr. President. I make two announcements. Many of us know Oscar Robinson, African American jeweler, one of the first on Jeweler's Row, and he did a lot of Masonic items for many of those who are in masonry. Well, he passed away yesterday, and certainly we offer condolences to his son and his family. The other notice is that Month. Since 2004, this month-long observance recognizes the significant and vital contributions pharmacists make to health care in the United States, to improve medication use, and advance patient care in all practical settings. Both their theme and core message is that we recognize vital contributions, we enhance the images of pharmacists, and we educate the public and policymakers and pharmacists. To promote the importance of "know your pharmacist," we have a table out in the hallway between Councilman Jones' and my office with information there for you. University of the Sciences and students of the pharmacy, part of that university, Ashley Krumenacker, Jonathan Feathers, and Antonella Frattarelli, are there to pass out information. We hope you'll take advantage of it. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to take this opportunity today to publicly thank my Chief of Staff for another day, Sophie Bryan, for five years of great service to City Council and the City of Philadelphia and, in particular, my office. She was involved in some of the most important work that we've done over the last five years, including tax reform, into the budget details and helping us in that regard. She's involved in discussions on tax delinquency now and land bank and other things that we're going to have to finish up without her, but she has been invaluable to the work that I have done and I think she has also been very helpful to City Council. Councilman Jones often refers to her as the 18th Councilperson. And I'll certainly miss her, and just want to thank her for her dedicated service, which is going to continue, moving to the School District where she'll be helping the Charter School Office come up with policies about how it should be run and then directing other strategic initiatives for the School District after that. So I just want to thank her. (Applause.)
And, Councilman, I agree. I want to say to Sophie, you probably didn't read the fine print on the back of your initial application, but it does say that you will be required, regardless of where you go, you always have to come back and help the City Council of Philadelphia. It's a part of your pension package. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Thank you, announcement. There will be a luncheon in the Caucus Room, an informal luncheon, by the Schuylkill River Development Corporation on the issue of stream buffers. So we welcome everyone to come in and join the luncheon and listen to the informational session by the Schuylkill River Development Corporation.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Yes. Thank you, Mr. President. I'd just like to join in the chorus on wishing Sophie Bryan well. I enjoyed working with her very much, particularly around the ethics issues. It was a good experience, and she is a fine employee. I really hate to are losing a very valuable employee. While she worked for Councilman Green, she was certainly available to all of us to provide help and information. So we wish you well, Sophie, but I will be calling you back, I'm putting it on the record, to deal with the ethics issues. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Yes, Mr. President. My two points grow to three points. I want to help Councilman Bill Green understand that Sophie is gone, without the E, and I too lost a dedicated, skilled professional, Joe Meade, to the School District. So know that -- welcome to that small class, Councilman Green, of those who have superstars that may go on to do wonderful District. We wish you well, Sophie. Mr. President, I also -- the trigger for me for the remarks today was a KYW story about Spanish billboards that I heard last week. In 12 days, Philadelphians will have the opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote. In 12 days, Philadelphians will have the opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote without voter ID. Thanks to an October 2nd decision by Judge Robert Simpson, voters are now able to vote without showing a state-approved photo identification. Why then, I ask, are voters in Philadelphia still seeing advertisements on websites, billboards, and television that read or depict a person holding up a photo ID wherein the script says, "If you have it, show it"? A spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of State told our Daily News Jan Ransom that their ads, areas, will not be removed. I wonder why. These ads are confusing and for sure they are misleading. We need to salute the many who have taken leadership on this issue; namely, Commissioner Stephanie Singer, Councilmembers Maria Quinones-Sanchez, Councilman Jones, and Councilman Oh and former City Councilman Juan Ramos, who actually heads up the Delaware Valley Voter Registration Education Project. Despite the advocacy of these leaders, there still may be a large segment of the Philadelphia population who continue to believe that they must provide photo ID. We can never assume that voters follow every judicial case that is handed down. People are busy, working multiple jobs, taking care of their children and grandchildren. These same citizens rely on leaders to provide clear, factual information that allows the voting process to be not only easy This advertising campaign does not pass the test. So, Mr. President, we all know that every vote counts. One of my horror memories is 2000 when George W. Bush was elected President because of 537 votes in the State of Florida. Were these advertisements crafted to intentionally suppress the vote in Philadelphia? We do not know. Do we believe that it can suppress voters? Absolutely yes. Therefore, I rise to respectfully ask the Pennsylvania Department of State to take down their billboards, stop running the ads, put their energy into educating all voters that, yes, they are indeed able to vote without a voter ID. My second ask goes to those watching, reading or listening. Mahatma Gandhi said it best: Be the change you wish to see in this world. Given current technology, young people, citizens, we ever. You do not have to wait for a news media story to be reported. You actually have the power to report the story yourself. Remember those 537 votes in Florida in 2000. Ask yourself, can I reach 537 people by way of Facebook or Twitter? How many friends, families or colleagues can you send an e-mail to over the next 12 days? How many neighbors, how many doors can you knock on on the block where you live? If you knew that you could change the world by reaching out to 537 people, would you do it? Trust that I will be posting on Facebook and Twitter to alert all Philadelphians you do not need a voter ID to exercise your right to vote. Spread the word. I ask and encourage all my colleagues to do the same. Thank you, Mr. President.
Yeah, Mr. President. I just wanted to clarify the announcement that I made. That luncheon is going to be immediately after Council's session, and that's the Schuylkill River Development Corporation doing a presentation on stream buffers for City Councilmembers and staff. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you. Mr. President, I would like Sophie to note that on Tuesday at 10:00, the Education Committee will meet and one of the panelists is that of charter schools. So we invite her to come back and just keep working.
Thank you, Councilwoman. You have to of the rail she has to sit on. If there are no other speeches, at this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown for a motion for adjournment.
Surely, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, November 1, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, November 1, 2012, 10:00 a.m. All in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Council shall stand adjourned. Thank you all very much. ) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on October 25, 2012, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. MICHELE L. m 72:21 reads 8:25 23:22 35:2,13,19,21 previously 57:18 projected 41:16 real 54:3 74:2,25 36:8,14,18,25 70:21 projects 25:8 Q reality 23:7 37:16,22,24 pride 16:2 promised 41:11 Qayyum 21:7,11 really 6:5 12:20 38:6,7,12,14,19 primarily 58:15 promising 41:3 21:20 22:25 17:21 18:16 38:21 39:2,3,8 83:2 52:10 23:16,23 26:16 23:23 54:2 39:10,15,18 print 79:15 promote 25:9 27:4,21 28:9,16 80:25 40:3,7 42:2,3,10 prior 8:9 26:19,21 77:14 28:17,19 reappointment 42:12,17,20 prison 52:16 promoting 16:2 quality 3:18 43:9 43:4,12,25 44:7 74:17,18 prompt 26:23 question 62:7 Receipts 39:23 44:9,14,16 45:5 prisons 75:16 properly 4:22 questions 53:12 receive 3:18 12:10 45:20 46:2,3,8 privileged 8:3 48:24 55:22 Quinones-Sanc... 40:19 46:14,23 47:10 34:20 35:5,20 57:2 58:4 59:8 1:16 46:11 received 10:19 47:13,17 48:13 35:25 36:20 60:17 61:12 63:19 83:9 reception 72:21 48:18,23 49:6,9 46:8,16 66:15 65:7 66:3 67:3 quorum 2:7 recidivism 57:15 50:4,10 51:10 67:11 68:10 68:2 69:9 70:10 recognition 10:24 54:11,16,17,24 69:17 70:18 71:9 87:14 R 12:11 13:5 55:15,18,21,25 proactive 58:16 Property 37:6 radio 29:23,24 recognitions 56:4,18,22,25 probably 58:18 43:16 44:20 rail 2:9 87:2 10:20 57:5,8,20,23 79:15 45:10 56:9 raise 28:25 recognize 8:4 58:3,8 59:3,6,7 problem 12:19 proposed 41:13 Rally 21:7,21 11:4 19:10 59:12,15 60:5 29:17,18,22 protected 46:19 26:17,21 27:5 77:10 60:10,16,21,24 30:3,14,15,15 70:22 27:22 28:10 recognized 23:3 61:5,8,11,15,18 30:17,19 31:2 provide 17:18 Ramos 83:11 recognizes 2:12 62:5 64:6,8,19 problems 26:24 51:21,23 81:5 range 26:24 4:14 5:10,18 64:24 65:2,5,9 30:20 83:18,23 Ransom 82:25 6:15,24 12:5 65:12,20,23 proceedings 89:4 providing 9:4 rate 22:2 13:14 16:7,25 66:2,6,9,21 67:2 process 52:14 11:6 58:16 62:2 rates 52:17 57:16 21:5 28:16 34:3 67:6,9,20,25 83:25 provisions 34:14 Ray 28:23 35:16 36:11 68:5,8,18,21,25 Procurement public 22:21 Ray-Ray 74:7 37:19 38:2,9,16 69:5,8,12,15,23 47:23 34:16 35:7 36:5 reach 85:8 38:23 39:5,12 70:3,6,9,13,16 productive 17:11 37:6 43:16 reaching 85:14 40:4 42:7,14 71:2,5,8,12,15 productivity-re...