COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, October 21, 1999 10:10 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN AUGUSTA A. CLARK COUNCILMAN DARRYL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK DICICCO COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO MARIE HAUSER, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 OPENING/ NVOCATION P R O C E E D I N G S
I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will come to order, members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Lonnie Herndon, who is Pastor of the Church of Christian Compassion. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Blackwell. Members and guests will please rise. (All rise.)
Shall we bow together? Heavenly Father, we thank you for this privilege to come to you once again in prayer. We thank you for this day of life, health and strength of which you have afforded us. We pray now in your presence during this session that you might lead and guide us in our way. We thank you for each member of Council present. We pray that you might continue to empower them and endow them with wisdom and knowledge as they make important decisions concerning the plight of our City. 10/14/99 JOU NAL APPROVAL We thank you as we approach this millennium, this new millennium, that you might continue to bless us and keep us and lead us and guide us and your name shall receive the glory, honor and praise. In Jesus Christ's name we pray, and we say amen.
The Chair thanks Reverend Herndon for this inspiring invocation. Council will stand at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of October 14, 1999. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Madam President, I move the acceptance of the Journal of October 14, 1999.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the LEAVE O ABSENCE meeting of Thursday, October 14, 1999 stand approved. All in favor will vote aye. COUNCIL MEMBERS: Aye.
The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Journal of Thursday, October 14, 1999 stands approved.
The next order of business is leave of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Madam President, I ask leave of absence of Councilwoman Marian Tasco.
Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
Are there any requests for leave of absence brought to you?
There's no leave PRESE TATION of absence from the majority.
Thank you. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and the visitors joining us 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. This morning Council is honoring Ms. Marie Reinhart Jones. I invite Councilman Rizzo to come to make this presentation. Will Ms. Reinhart Jones and those accompanying her please join Councilman Rizzo at the podium. (Pause.)
Thank you, Madam President. First I'd like to welcome everyone from the northwest section of the City of Philadelphia and I'm sure from other areas of the City here this morning to recognize Marie's great work for the past 20 years as the editor of the Chestnut Hill Local, PRESE TATION honoring Marie Reinhart Jones on her retirement after 20 years as editor of the Chestnut Hill Local. Whereas, Marie Jones has faithfully served the Chestnut Hill Local for the past 35 years as a writer, associate editor, co-editor and for the past 20 years, as I mentioned, the editor; Whereas, Maria Jones is fiercely dedicated to the freedom of the Local to fulfill its intended role as a community forum and to promoting the welfare of every person in Chestnut Hill; Whereas, Her career with the Chestnut Hill Local has earned her several awards, including the Chestnut Hill award in 1981 for engendering the kind of understanding, leadership and intelligent sensitivity that facilitate cooperation in a many faceted community; she was awarded the Honorary Doctor of Laws from Chestnut Hill College in 1994; she was entered into the Congressional Record of April 8, 1983 for her work as editor for an outstanding community newspaper, the Chestnut Hill Local; in 1983, she was also honored by Senator Joe Rocks for her outstanding contributions to the quality of community relations in Northwest Philadelphia; she was honored for her outstanding PRESE TATION leadership and service to the community by the Germantown Branch of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom; also in 1983, by the Northwest Jewish Community Relations Council for her work in promoting good relations between Jewish and Christian communities; and Whereas, Under her leadership, the Local has received many prizes and awards, including: The "Best of Philly" Award six times from Philadelphia Magazine; awards from the Pennsylvania Newspaper Publishers Association, the Society of Professional Journalists, the National Newspaper Foundation and others; and a Citation from the City of Philadelphia for its excellence and its contributions to community life; and Whereas, Through Marie Reinhart Jones' leadership, guidance and concern for the entire community and an aggressive editorial outreach, the Local is considered by many to be the best community newspaper in America. Now, therefore, resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we then hereby honor Marie Reinhart Jones on her retirement after 20 years as Editor of the Chestnut Hill Local. PRESE TATION Resolved, That an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented today to Marie Reinhart Jones as evidence of the sincere admiration of this legislative body. (Applause.)
Will members of Council please honor Marie Reinhart Jones. (Applause.)
This is a very unusual forum for me to have, and I'd like to thank Council President Verna and all of the City Council for this extraordinary honor. I am very grateful to you and I am very touched. I've been in Council many times before, many times to cover a meeting, sometimes to protest, but I certainly am not protesting this wonderful honor that you have given to me today, and I'm also thrilled to be here today, because I understand that you are honoring the birthday of my old friend, Billy Penn. Indeed, I feel that I'm much nearer to his age than any of you are, so he is an old friend of mine. I also want to thank today my family, without whom I never could have done any of the work PRESE TATION that I've done at the Local, and the wonderful, wonderful staff of the Chestnut Hill Local and all the marvelous people who back us up in our business office and all of our stringers and also all the people in Chestnut Hill who really have made the Local, because the Local belongs to the people. It's the only newspaper of its kind that we know of. I am extremely grateful to Councilman Frank Rizzo, whom I have watched through actually his growing up years when he went to Norwood Academy and then when the Rizzos came to live in Chestnut Hill, and with a great deal of pride, I watched all his marvelous accomplishments in City Hall. We're all very grateful to him, to Thacher Longstreth, also representing us from Chestnut Hill, to thank all of you for this extraordinary honor. It's really a great honor for me to be here. Thank you for having me. (Applause.)
Council will stand at ease. (Council stands at ease.) COMMUNICATIONS
I understand that William Penn may be a little late in arriving this morning. With that being said, we will continue with our next order of business, which is communications from the Mayor. The Sergeant-at-Arms will please deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I'm transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body the following: A resolution agreeing to participate in the Penn's Landing Tax Increment Financing District should the change in the effective date of the district be approved. A resolution agreeing to participate in the New Market Tax Increment Financing District. A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Point Breeze East Urban Renewal Area. A resolution agreeing to participate in the 13th Street Passage Tax Increment Financing COMMUNICATIONS District if it should be created by the Council of the City of Philadelphia in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act. A resolution agreeing to participate in the Gateway Tax Increment Tax Financing District if it should be created by the Council of the City of Philadelphia. An ordinance approving the fiscal year 2000 capital budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works, including the supplying of funds to be obtained in connection therewith and rejecting the forecast for fiscal years 2001 through 2005. An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for use by the City and affiliated agencies including the free library of Philadelphia for offices and/or library purposes located at 18 South Seventh Street, Philadelphia. An ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 14th, as amended, which proposal the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of COMMUNICATIONS the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of South Central Urban Renewal Area. An ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner on behalf of the City to enter into agreements with the owner of the properties and their successors of a private street known as St. Bernard Street from Woodbine Avenue to approximately 385 feet northwesterly of Woodbine Avenue. An ordinance authorizing the construction of a water main and appurtenant work required to replace a private main and to ensure better water supply in portions of proposed right-of-way of St. Bernard Street. An ordinance amending provisions of the Philadelphia Code relating to sidewalk cafes in Center City by permitting sidewalk cafes to be maintained on Broad Street between Bainbridge Street and the north house line of Washington Avenue and amending Section 14-1607 entitled "Special Controls for Center City Commercial Area." An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance of the City of Philadelphia to enter into an amendment to an existing agreement with the COMMUNICATIONS Philadelphia Parking Authority, such amendment providing for the Parking Authority to issue and sell its parking revenue bonds in order to finance and proceed with a project. An ordinance amending an ordinance approved August 3, 1965, as amended, which approved the Redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Center City Redevelopment Area Franklin Urban Renewal Area. An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to convey to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia certain premises located at 1823 through 35 Callowhill Street.
The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will read any other communications in her possession.
I have none, Madam President. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
There being none, the next order of business is introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark for a motion.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of their introduction. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor of the motion to suspend the rules to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of their introduction will vote aye. Those opposed will say nay. The ayes have it, and the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
The Chair thanks the councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
Thank you, Madam President. This morning I have three bills and one resolution. The resolution, I introduce on your behalf as well as mine.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 42 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of 32nd Street from Market Street to Chestnut Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance approving the fiscal year 2000 capital budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes for the Philadelphia Gas Works, including the supplying of funds to be obtained in connection therewith.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance granting permission to Patricia McQween to operate, INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS use, maintain an open air sidewalk cafe located at 5700 Walnut Street projecting a maximum of four feet onto the west footway of 57th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring students from the Bartram High School.
Madam President, I move the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-100 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Animals," by adding a new section 10-115 entitled "Nuisance Animals Noise" and re-numbering subsequent sections under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution on your behalf.
The Clerk will INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-1000 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Animals" by amending Section 10-102 entitled "Administrative Provisions" and Section 10-103 entitled "Licensing and Rabies Vaccination."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to purchase fee simple title to a parcel of real estate with any improvements situated thereon located at 3033 South 63rd Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the redevelopment authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment urban renewal of a portion of the Point Breeze East Urban Renewal Area. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer four bills and one resolution.
The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Section 14-1705 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Appeals to Zoning Board of Adjustment" by INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS providing that appeals to the Zoning Board of Adjustments shall not stay proceedings in furtherance of the action appealed from.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the construction of water mains and appurtenant work required to replace a private main and to ensure better water supply in portions of a proposed right-of-way for drainage purposes.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into agreements with the owners of the properties and their successors of a private street known as St. Bernard Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the selection and appropriations or the purchase in lieu of condemnation all these certain lots and parcels of ground with improvements thereon situate at 1467 and 1469 North 52nd Street. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia without consideration deeds conveying fee simple title to certain properties located in the 38th and 44th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move 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. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Madam Chair, I have no bills or resolutions. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer four bills and four resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing revision of lines and grades on the portion of City Plan No. 307 by relocating a portion of the southerly curb line of Cuthbert Street between 12th Street and 13th Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Excuse me a minute, Marie. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I just wanted to make the record clear. I was in error when I introduced the first bill. That bill is being co-sponsored by myself and by Councilman DiCicco. I just wanted the record to reflect that.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the second bill being introduced by Councilman DiCicco. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved August 30, 1965, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Center City Redevelopment Area Franklin Urban Renewal Area.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for use by the City and affiliated agencies including the Free Library of Philadelphia for offices and/or library purposes located at 18 South Seventh Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending provisions of the Philadelphia Code relating to the sidewalk cafes in Center City in particular amending Section 9-208 entitled "Sidewalk INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Cafes" by permitting sidewalk cafes to be maintained on Broad Street between Bainbridge Street and the north house line of Washington Avenue and amending Section 14-1607 entitled "Special Controls."
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Councilman DiCicco, can I see you a moment, please? The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution agreeing to participate in the Penn's Landing Tax Increment Financing District should the change in the effective date of the district be approved.
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. Those opposed? INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution agreeing to participate in the New Market Tax Increment Financing District if it should be created by the Council of the City of Philadelphia.
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. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Clerk will please read the third resolution.
A resolution agreeing to participated 13th Street Passage Tax INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Increment Financing District if it should be created by the Council of the City of Philadelphia in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act.
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 in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Clerk will please read the next resolution.
A resolution calling on the School District of Philadelphia to issue emergency 60 percent checks to those employees who have not received compensation.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the motion be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam Chair. On behalf of Councilman O'Neill, I'd like to introduce one bill. And I have two bills and two resolutions for myself.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the bill that's being introduced on Councilman O'Neill's behalf.
An ordinance amending Section 9-211 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Boxes for Distribution of News and Printed Material" by adding additional locations to the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS designated program area including the 1700 block of Cottman Avenue, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Councilman Clarke has two bills. Will the Clerk please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia certain premises located at 1823 through 35 Callowhill Street and authorize the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into or ro execute such other instruments that may be necessary or desirable to effectuate the provisions of this ordinance.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing Wally Pertay, L.P. 245 Park Avenue, 26th floor, New York, New York, the owner of the property at 116 through 2122 South 17th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain two electrified marquis and six rigid awning attached to the property and projecting over the property INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS footways of 17th Street and Sansom Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chief Clerk will please read the first resolution introduced by Councilman Clarke.
A resolution agreeing to participate in the Gateway Tax Increment Financing District if it should be created by the City of Philadelphia in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act of July 11, 1990, PL465.
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. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion is carried.
A resolution authorizing Commissioner of Public Property to INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds for properties situate in the 16th, 20th, 28th, 29th, 37th, 43rd, 47th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
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. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth. Do you have any bills or resolutions, sir?
I have no bills INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
It was held from last week and the Clerk's Office has it, I believe.
A resolution requesting that before any agreement is finalized between the City of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Eagles in which public tax money is spent on a new stadium, every attempt be made to ensure in that agreement that Philadelphia Eagles games will not be blacked out.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? I think we better have a role call vote.
No. I believe the ayes are 3. The nays are 12. The motion fails.
The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Licenses and Inspections REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Committee.
Thank you, Madam Chair. The Council Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports out two bills with favorable recommendations.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Licenses and Inspections to which was referred Bill No. 990495, entitled "An Ordinance amending sub-code PM of Title 4" the Philadelphia Code entitled the "Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code," by extending the emergency nuisance abatement program to include the 5th Ward respectfully reports that it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. Bill No 990605 entitled "An Ordinance amending Sub-Code PM of Title 4" of the Philadelphia Code entitled the Philadelphia Property maintenance Code by extending the emergency nuisance abatement program to include the 5th Ward, the 2nd Ward, the 39th Ward and the 39B Ward respectfully reports it REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendations.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first readings to Bill No. 990495 and 990605 today. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill Nos. 990495 and 990605 on today's calendar. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries. Are there any other reports from committees?
There being none, the next order of business is consideration of the bills on the First Reading Calendar. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 990600.
An ordinance to FIRST READING CALENDAR amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 58th Street, Kingsessing Avenue, 59th Street Greenway Avenue, 60th Street, and Woodland Avenue.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for next week. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 990495.
Bill No. 990495, an ordinance amending Sub-Code PM of Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code" by extending the emergency nuisance abatement program to include the 5th Ward.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next meeting. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 990605.
An ordinance SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE CALENDAR amending Sub-Code PM of Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code" by extending the emergency nuisance abatement program to include the 1st Ward, the 2nd Ward, the 39A Ward and the 39B Ward.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next meeting.
This concludes the bills to be considered on the First Reading Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Madam President, all bills published on Second and Final Calendar are called up except Bill Nos. 980239 and 990492.
The Chair thanks the councilwoman. The first bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 990250. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE CALENDAR
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of the Department of Streets to take steps necessary to rehabilitate or replace a retaining wall which is located in the rear of premises of 5202 through 5254 Berks Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will please call the role.
Councilman SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE CALENDAR Longstreth.
Aye. The ayes are 15. The nays are 0. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 990463. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. I'm sorry, I didn't realize there were SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE CALENDAR lights on. Councilwoman Blackwell, did you want to be recognized?
Madam President, I neglected to say at the beginning of the session that I wanted to take the opportunity to introduce my best friend who is here again. She is the one that does my newsletters and she's here from Nigeria to visit her sick mother. And certainly if anybody, I just got more in, I just got more printed, so they're available for those people who wanted one or a few who didn't have an opportunity to get one. I hope that the Council will join me in welcoming and thanking Delores Muhammad.
We'd be more than happy to recognize her. And welcome. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano. Your light is on, sir.
The Clerk will SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE CALENDAR please read the title of Bill No. 990463.
An ordinance amending Section 19-203(4) of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Payroll Deductions," by permitting City employees to authorize payroll deductions for the German American Police Association.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call the role.
Councilwoman SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE CALENDAR Krajewski.
Councilwoman Tasco is absent. Council President Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 15. The nays are 0. SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE CALENDAR The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 990254. Councilman Mariano, your light is on again. Do you want to be recognized?
Yes, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, I'm still in the running for Rookie Councilperson of the Year, and I do not want to miss a vote, but I was not called on 990250.
Ms. Hauser, do you have Councilman Clarke on record as having voted on that bill.
Thank you. And we also have him as having voted on Bill No. 990463?
Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 990254. SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE CALENDAR
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 14, 1971, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of South Central Urban Renewal area, by approving the tenth amendment of the redevelopment proposal of the tenth amendment of the urban renewal plan.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call the role.
Councilwoman Tasco is absent. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS President Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 15. The nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
We will now dispense with the regular order of business for the purpose of introduction of a bill. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for the introduction of an ordinance.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill on your behalf.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 14, 1971, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of South Central Urban Renewal area, by approving the 11th amendment of the redevelopment proposal, the 11th amendment to the urban renewal plan and an amendment to the SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS relocation plan.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I just wanted to speak for a moment on the bill that was just introduced. I understand there is a letter that has been circulated to a number of Council representatives this morning pertaining to three properties on the 1300 block of Katherine Street. I do not have the letter in my possession, but I got glimpses of it during this morning. I just wanted to set the record straight that at the hearing last week when the three properties 1331, 1333, and 1335 Katherine Street were removed from the list when the question as to whether or not the title of bill could be changed to reflect that, we were advised by Noel Eisenstat of the Redevelopment Authority and others that it wasn't necessary to change the title of the bill or in fact we could not even do that legally. That the record, the testimony was sufficient evidence and record that would allow those properties to be taken. So nothing could change what was done last SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS week basically. The bottom line is those three properties were removed from the list for taking and the record will reflect that. And I just wanted to reinforce that to the people in the audience today that it will in fact occur. Thank you, Madam President.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. This concludes our Calendar.
Madam Chair, I would just like to follow up on the comments made by my colleague and say I was one of the persons who received the letter and whenever a homestead is at stake people are very nervous. The people who had asked me about this wanted a public discussion on the record with the stenographic record. I'm certain they are now satisfied that this has been done. I thank my colleague Mr. Frank DiCicco for it. What you asked for is to have it done publicly, and that's what has been done. But we'll talk about it later. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
Councilwoman Clark, I believe that was done publicly at the public hearing, and I'm sure that the notes of testimony will reflect that.
Thank you. Are there any speeches on behalf of the Majority?
This is not in the speeches part. We have with us today Mr. George Savinov from our sister city in Russia, Nichnenovgorod (ph). Mr. Savinov is a guest of the City's Department of Commerce and is studying economic development programs, strategy and general government operations. We welcome him here today and thank him for his interest in our City.
If the gentleman is here, if he would please stand, we would be very happy to recognize and welcome you. Welcome. SPEECHES (Applause.)
Thank you. Are there any speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning I offered a resolution requesting that the School District begin to issue emergency checks for those employees who have not been compensated for a number of weeks. It was reported very eloquently today in today's Daily News by Mr. Russel Beyers about the problems over at the School District. You know, there are a lot of things that have been going on in this Council, and I think it's very obvious that I've always had my concern for the upper level management over at the District. I really wonder if Dr. Hornbeck and his top management team had not received a check would this have allowed to go along for such a long time. I can recall back in the late eighties, early nineties, when AMS was the management system for the traffic court. They almost brought traffic court to a complete stop. How could anyone in their right mind, after having a city agency experience SPEECHES problems with AMS, elect to decide to use them for an agency that has about 22 point -- $1.5 billion budget. Personally, I could never go without a paycheck. If I didn't get a paycheck this Friday, I would be in trouble. Dr. Hornbeck has a lot of answers to this Council and the citizens of Philadelphia. I understand there are hearings today. I'm sure there are going to be a lot of questions as to that. But this is a disgrace. This is a total disgrace that should not have happened. And for Dr. Hornbeck to do his usual dance to say it wasn't him, it wasn't his staff, it was someone else, is a total disgrace to the citizens of Philadelphia and to the people who work for the School District. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Certainly, I agree that this absolutely should not have happened. There are many issues and SPEECHES problems and feelings that we have had over the years to ask the School District to be responsible, and perhaps this will point up the need for more vigilance. Anytime the employees and teachers aren't paid, then we're in real trouble about individual computer programs and folks at the bottom rung of the ladder who don't get paid. It absolutely should not have happened. And certainly, I support my colleague, as all of you did, in asking that this be rectified yesterday. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I just want to concur with my colleagues. I would ask the School District help employees resolve the issues around late fees and any penalties or fees that they have incurred due to late bill payments. Thank you.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on behalf of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark. SPEECHES
Madam President, today there is a memorial service being planned for Wilton Norman Chamberlain out at a church in West Philadelphia, and on your behalf and mine, I have sent a citation. I thought it appropriate for this body to recognize his passing. And with your permission, I'd like to read the citation that we sent and ask that it be adopted by standing vote.
The City Council, City of Philadelphia citation mourning the death and honoring the memory of Wilton Norman Chamberlain. The Council of the City of Philadelphia joins citizens from around the world in mourning the sudden death of Mr. Wilt Chamberlain. Whereas, Wilt Chamberlain broke more records, scored more points, won more awards, and showed more skill than anyone in the history of basketball; yet it is not for that alone that we remember him. Whereas, Mr. Chamberlain played for Overbrook High School, the Harlem Globe Trotters, the Philadelphia 76ers, the San Francisco Warriors, and the Los Angeles Lakers; and yet, it is not for SPEECHES that alone that we honor him. Whereas, Wilt stood 7 foot 1 and a half inches tall, was known as the big dipper, and possessed an amazing combination of height, strength, grace, and intelligence; yet it is not for that alone that we remember him. We remember Mr. Wilt Chamberlain because he was a truly fine gentleman, filled with good humor, constant curtesy, and simple humanity. He was inquisitive, smart with money, loving of family and friends, and constantly seeking more knowledge. He loved to work. He loved to talk. He loved people and was all in all a renaissance man who also played basketball. In his plans were movies, books, investments, and more and more charitable work. He was the most powerful man in sports, but the nature of his inner power was a constant quest for wisdom and for excellence. Therefore, with this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia does hereby join in mourning the death of the great Wilt Chamberlain. We in Philadelphia have lost a friend, for this was a giant on and off the court. We extend our most profound condolence to his family to whom we offer ADJOURNMENT the hope that they will find comfort in the peace that he has now surely found and in the goodness that he has left behind as a legacy for life. Respectfully submitted, Augusta Clark, Anna C. Verna, President, and concurred in, I'm certain, by every Member of Council.
All those in favor in voting for the citation will do so by standing vote. (Standing vote.)
The motion is adopted. Are there any speeches on behalf of the minority? There being none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Madam President, I move that this Council be adjourned until November 4, 1999. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, November 4, 1999. All in favor will signify by saying aye. ADJOURNMENT All those opposed will say nay. The ayes have it. The motion carries. Council stands adjourned until Thursday, November 4, 1999. Thank you. (Council adjourned at 11:10 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of October 21, 1999, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. RE: STATED MEETING ___________________________ Michele L. Murphy, RPR ___________________________ Lisa C. Bradley, RPR