COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, November 20, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK
Members, please take your seats. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. This City Council is now coming to order. All visitors, please retire to the seats outside the rails. Please take all sidebar conversations out of the Council chambers. I would like to ask all those present, please set your cell phones on vibrate and/or silent. Thank you. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Lynn Parks accompanied by her husband, Pastor Vandy Parks of Church. They are here today as guests of Councilman Dr. Anthony Phillips. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors rise.)
Would you pray with me. Lord God, I thank you for these men and women who serve our city through leadership. Thank you for the heritage we have in this city of proclaiming and working for freedom, especially the freedom to worship you and to practice our faith in you. Lord God, we come to acknowledge our need for you. You are wise, loving, just and powerful and we so often lack in all these areas. Lord, as we come to you on behalf of our City Council, I pray each member your peace today. May your peace help them order their thoughts and words as they discuss issues, listen and make decisions, guide them with wisdom that is both righteous and just. The burdens of leadership today are heavy. The problems in our city and world can feel very overwhelming. We need your strength so we can lead. We need your wisdom to guide us so we can lead. We need your peace to guard our hearts and minds so we can lead. Lord, guide these women and men through their agenda today. Lord, we pray you would continue to be at work in our city, bringing your Shalom to our neighborhoods. Our city is blessed with people from all over the world and we thank you for the richness of culture, talent of strong family ties, of hospitality in our city. And we pray for peace to remain among us as we learn to live together with respect and appreciation for one another as neighbors. We also pray for peace in places of the world where there is no peace, in Gaza, the West Bank, throughout the Holy Land, in Ukraine and Russia, in Sudan and so many other places where neighbors are at war with neighbor. Amplify the voices for peace and bring to justice those who have grievously wronged others. For without justice, there cannot be peace. Most of all, Lord, change the hearts of the unrighteous towards righteousness. For without righteousness, there cannot be justice. Lord, we want to be good caretakers of your creation. Guide us as we seek to care for this city and its people in the name of the Father, the Son and the Spirit. We pray amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Pastor for the invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 13, 2025. The Chair recognizes the Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal meeting of Thursday, November 13, 2025 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 13, 2025 stand approved. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absence. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of City Council, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Jones and Councilmember O'Neill.
Thank you very much, Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson. The Chair thanks you and leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the Minority party, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you. The Chair Minority leader and leave will be granted. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for a motion regarding certain legislative matters that may arise in the course of today's session of Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded the legislative by Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this Council session. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair takes a moment to recognize Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I heard you. I wanted to just welcome our guests here today, specifically Young, who is here to make public testimony and State Representative Darisha Parker and Ms. Linda Miller, who is in the audience here. She has been associated with the city for a long time. Rep. Parker is here in support of our resolution to support her bill in the State House about human trafficking, and that is about training and awareness for hotel workers and others in the hospitality industry to make sure that we are tracking and stopping human trafficking. So I thank you for you being here. We look forward to your testimony. Thank you, Council President.
You're welcome. The Chair will now order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate you taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our great city. We certainly invite you to come again. And I want to echo the sentiments of my colleague Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad and officially recognize State Representative Regina Young and State Representative Darisha Miller. Let's give them a real big round of applause please. (Applause.)
And for the record, that's Darisha Parker. I want to that right. Also, we want to take a moment to acknowledge -- and you'll get a chance to partake in acknowledging and celebrating the great work that he has done in the area of sports here in the city of Philadelphia, I want to welcome to City Council world boxing champion Danny "Swift" Garcia. Let's give him a really big round of applause as well. (Applause.)
And also take a moment to acknowledge and also joining us, the head of the Labor movement, Mr. Sam Staten, Jr. Thank you for joining us as well. The Chair takes the time now to recognize Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for acknowledgements.
Thank you so much, Council President. Today I wanted to take a moment to recognize and welcome to City Council chambers today a very special group of young people who have joined us, hailing from the great 5th Council District, represented by my colleague Councilmember Jeffrey Young. I ask everyone in chambers to please welcome 60 social science students from Julia R. Masterman School to City Council today. Please stand. I'm asking all the students in the balcony to please stand to be recognized. (Applause.)
We thank you for joining us to witness your government in action and we wish best as you continue to matriculate at Julia R. Masterman School, one of my alma maters. Thank you.
Thank you very much, Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson. Chair recognizes the Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. Today I rise to just quickly recognize the CEO and founder of Inner Strength, Ms. Amy Edison, as well as her staff members Ms. Christina Smith as well as Mr. Doron Tall who are instructors for Inner Strength. Inner Strength delivers mindfulness-based social emotional learning to Philadelphia middle and high school students. Their curriculum helps youth build regulation, reduce stress, improve focus and gain resilience. Programming takes place directly in classrooms and includes teacher training so entire school communities benefit. They are reaching 35,000 Philadelphia students at 30-plus school districts, School District of Philadelphia schools. Amy and her team are here today. Can you please rise and be recognized for your over 10 years of work in the city of Philadelphia? (Applause.)
Thank you, Council President. Mental health matters and we're so thankful for Inner Strength and incredible work that they're doing. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Thank you very much, Dr. Anthony Phillips. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you, Council President. Good morning, everybody. I just wanted to take one second to recognize, along with you, three incredible winners of Michelin awards last night, just last night, or two nights ago. So we have two restaurant owner chefs who won Michelin Stars and one who won the highly acclaimed as well recommended slot. With us today are Chad Williams from Friday Saturday Sunday. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, Member Rue Landau. And I'm a foodie. And so, I think that it's a great honor. And I also want to give a special acknowledgement to Mr. Chad Williams, who's the son of one of my mentors, Barbara Moore Williams, but also resides within the 2nd Councilmanic District. And so, let's give all three of them a real big round of applause please. (Applause.)
Outstanding accomplishments. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, who will present a resolution honoring and recognizing world champion boxer Danny "Swift" Garcia on his retirement and celebrating his outstanding contributions to the City of Philadelphia in the 7th Councilmanic District. Would Danny "Swift" Garcia and those accompanying him please join Councilmember Quetcy Lozada at the podium. Joining Member Lozada at the podium are the following Councilmembers: Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young, Councilmember Jim Harrity, Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Phillips, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke, Councilmember Mike Driscoll, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Minority Leader Kendra Brooks and all members of City Council. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Well done, Member Lozada. Very, very inclusive. The floor is yours, Member Lozada.
Thank you so much. And good morning, everyone. It is a pleasure and an honor for me to recognize Danny "Swift" Garcia, a young man who was raised in the same community as I was in the community of Hunting Park. Often times we don't hear about success stories in communities like mine. And so, to honor and to celebrate all of his accomplishments Danny is more than just a boxer. And as we read and recognize him, we will see that he has done everything that he possibly can to uplift young people in our community, through boxing and through other initiatives that he's been involved in. And so, thank you so much for everything that you do. This recognition is being supported by all of the Councilmembers, but really was in collaboration with Council President. And so, we begin by honoring and recognizing Danny Garcia on his retirement and celebrating his outstanding contribution to the City of Philadelphia and the 7th Councilmanic District. Whereas, Danny Garcia, born and raised in the Juniata Philadelphia, has represented the City of Philadelphia and the Puerto Rican community with excellence and pride throughout his distinguished career as a professional boxer; and Whereas, Garcia began his journey in boxing under the guidance of his father Angel Garcia, training at local gyms such as Harrowgate Boxing Club and developing a work ethic and discipline that will propel him to become one of Philadelphia's most accomplished and respected athletes; and
Whereas, over the course of his illustrious career, Garcia became a two-division world champion, capturing unified titles in the Super Lightweight division, including WBC, WBA (Super), and the titles, and later winning WBC Welterweight championship, and was named the 2013 Philadelphia pro Athlete of the Year by Philadelphia Sports Writers Association; and
Whereas, Garcia's achievements placed him among a rare group of Philadelphia-born boxers to win world titles in multiple weight classes, standing alongside legends such as Bernard Hopkins and representing the City's proud boxing tradition on the global stage; and
Whereas, Garcia has often expressed that Philadelphia is at the heart of his success, crediting the City's grit, diversity and resilience for shaping his character and fighting spirit, stating that he carries the pride every time he steps into the ring; and
Beyond his achievements in the ring, Danny Garcia has remained deeply committed to his roots in Philadelphia, investing in his community through business ownership, mentorship and philosophy; and Garcia established multiple small businesses in his home neighborhood, including a boxing gym, barbershop and service center and recording studio, creating local jobs and opportunities for residents of the 7th Councilmanic District; and
Whereas, in addition to his business ventures, Garcia has supported countless community events, youth initiatives, back-to drives, donating supplies, engaging with students and serving as a mentor and role model for young people across the city; and
Whereas, his efforts to inspire and empower the next generation, particularly Latino youth in Philadelphia, reflect his belief that success comes from hard work, perseverance and staying true to one's community; and
Whereas, in recent years Garcia has taken on a new role as a boxing promoter and an advocate for local fighters, using his platform to uplift Philadelphia's boxing scene and create new opportunities for inspiring athletes from the City's neighborhoods; and
Whereas, Garcia's legacy extends triumphs and is defined by his unwavering commitment to giving back, investing locally and uplifting the community that helped shaped his journey; and Whereas, on October 18, 2025 Danny Garcia concluded his storied boxing career with a final appearance at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, defeating Daniel Gonzalez with a trademark left hook 45 seconds into the fourth round of their scheduled 10 round fight; and
Whereas, Danny Garcia thanked fans for their steadfast support throughout his career, expressing his gratitude both before and after his final fight at the Barclays Center, and used the event to celebrate and inspire the next generation of boxing talent, to Philadelphia's boxing community; and
Whereas, as he transitions into retirement, Danny Garcia closed an extraordinary chapter in his athletic career while continuing to focus on his mentorship, business and community leadership, ensuring that his legacy of perseverance, pride and service to Philadelphia endures well beyond the ring; and
Whereas, the City of Philadelphia proudly commends Danny Garcia for his years of dedication, championship, spirit and enduring contributions to the City of Philadelphia and the 7th Councilmanic District; now, therefore, be it resolved
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby honors and recognizes Danny Garcia on his retirement and celebrates his outstanding contributions to the City of Philadelphia and the 7th Councilmanic District. May it be further resolved that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Danny Garcia as an expression of the sincere gratitude and respect of this legislative body. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Danny "Swift" Garcia for remarks.
First of all, I want to say thank you. After that speech, I don't know, I might come back out of retirement. Got me hyped. But I want to thank, you know, the City of Philadelphia time I step in that ring, I'm so happy to be a Philly fighter only because I know the guy across from me is scared of me because he knows I'm from Philly so I always take pride in Philly. I'm the first Latino boxing champion ever out of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
I love the city of Philly so much I named my first daughter Philly. Her name is actually Philly, Philly Garcia. (Applause.)
I'm just very proud. It's been one heck of a journey and I couldn't do this without, you know, my dad right here, Angel Garcia. He played a big role in my career. My father, my family, that's what inspired me. The City of Philadelphia, that's what inspired me to be who I am to every time I won every four of my world titles, that's what inspired me the most. So I just want to say thank you. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity, who will present a resolution recognizing November as National Restorative Justice Month and honoring the power of art, healing and community through the collaborative efforts of the Barnes Foundation, Mural Arts Philadelphia and Creative Philadelphia. Will Val Gay, Jane Golden and William Perthes and those accompanying them please join the Councilmember at the podium. are the following Councilmembers: Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, Councilmember Mike Driscoll, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke, Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Minority Leader Kendra Brooks. (Councilmembers and guests approached the podium.)
Thank you, Council President. This resolution was co-introduced by me and Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada. Start off reading, National Restorative Justice Month and honoring the power of art, healing and community through the collaboration efforts of the Barnes Foundation, Mural Arts Philadelphia and Creative Philadelphia.
Whereas, National Restorative Justice Month is observed every November by the National Center for Restorative Justice and the National Association of Community and Restorative Justice to increase awareness of restorative justice practices and programs; and
Whereas, both NCORJ and NACRJ have played leading roles in advancing education, research and implementation of restorative practice throughout the United States. They define restorative set of practices and also a broad philosophy that focuses on identifying needs and repairing harm, active accountability, centering relationships and community and voluntary participation;
Whereas, restorative justice offers an alternative to traditional punitive systems and enables offenders to take responsibility for their actions, while also empowering communities to engage in reintegration. Studies have shown that restorative justice practices can reduce recidivism by as much as 32%; and
Whereas, in Philadelphia incarceration and experiences in the justice system negatively impact individuals, children and families, by causing strains on emotional well-being, economic stability, family structure and community stability, leading to challenges that span across generations; and
Whereas, however the City of Philadelphia has made significant progress in advancing criminal justice reform and reducing incarceration rates. According to the Philadelphia Prison Population Report as of September 2025, the City's total prison population decreased by 56.1% from a baseline of 8082 individuals in 2015 to 3544 individuals in September 2025; and
Whereas, this decline reflects the efforts of the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia Department of Prisons They have worked to expand diversion programs, reduce the use of cash bail and address probation detainers more efficiently; and
Whereas, despite this progress the data continues to show racial and economic disparities in incarceration as Black Philadelphians comprise approximately 71% of the current prison population, demonstrating a further need for incarceration reform and a focus on restorative justice; and
Whereas, in Philadelphia Mural Arts Philadelphia's Restorative Justice program embodies the spirit of restorative justice through artistic avenues. The program supports justice-impacted art, education, mural design and other community outreach. Participants develop artistic and vocational skills while creating public art that reflects their commitment to reconciliation; and
Whereas, in partnership with the Barnes Foundation, Mural Arts Philadelphia and Creative Philadelphia, Councilmember At-large Jim Harrity is hosting an incredible, new Faces of Resilience art in City Hall exhibit. This collective exhibition celebrates the stories and portraits of individuals who have experienced the transformative power of second chances; and
Whereas, National Restorative Justice Month offers an important about justice reform, uplift those directly impacted by incarceration and celebrate initiatives that rebuild lives and restore communities; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, hereby recognizes the month of November as National Restorative Justice Month in Philadelphia and honors the Barnes Foundation, Mural Arts Philadelphia and Creative Philadelphia for their ongoing partnership in advancing restorative justice through art, education and community engagement; (Applause.)
Further resolve, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Barnes Foundation, my girl Jane, and Creative Philadelphia as a symbol of a profound respect and admiration felt by this legislative body and the citizens of Philadelphia for their dedication to healing, accountability and the arts as a pathway to justice. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Jane Golden, Val Gay and William Perthes for remarks.
Good morning. I am Val Gay, Chief Cultural Officer for the City of Philadelphia and the Executive Director of Creative Philadelphia, your office of arts and culture. Today is a meaningful moment for Creative Philadelphia and for our presenting partners of Faces of Resilience, Mural Arts Philadelphia and the Barnes Foundation. To receive the City Council resolution is an honor and we are so grateful for this recognition during Restorative Justice Month through our art in City Hall program, which includes the Creative Philadelphia Art Gallery downstairs in City Hall, Room 116. We bring community voices directly into the hallways where policies and decisions are made. We believe that art helps us understand one another and serves as a powerful tool for cultivating empathy, connection and community strength. It is also why we invite the public, everyone here, to visit the art. It's basically a free class trip. You hear that, Masterman students? It's a free truly grateful that the City Council recognizes the importance of the Art in City Hall program as well as the transformative restorative justice work led by Mural Arts Philadelphia, which I am proud to say is now a part of the Creative Philadelphia family and portfolio. My cousin Jane, you'll hear from her in a moment, and my former employer the Barnes Foundation, their commitment expands the ways creativity can support healing and opportunity in our city. Congratulations to our partners, collaborators, City Council and, most of all, to the 46 artists featured in Faces of Resilience. We are grateful we get to spend time with your art each day while it is on view. We also look a little different today on this fourth floor than they have in the past 40 years, and that is because we will soon install brand new art exhibition cases, and you will once again see the familiar figure of Tu Huynh, Curator of Exhibitions and Programs, once again inside of those cases, installing new exhibitions of art that reflects us all. Thank you again and we look forward to continuing this work together.
Hi, everyone. I'm Jane Golden. I'm the Executive Director of Mural Arts and I want to start with a huge amount of gratitude to City Council for supporting our efforts over so many years. Can we please have a round of applause? (Applause.)
Because it's like really invaluable. And I want to also acknowledge our Guild participants who are here. Could you stand up? (Applause.)
Yay, yay. Hi, artists. And Damon McWhite, who runs our Restorative Justice program, and Phoebe Bachman, who helps with all our prison work. Thank you. It takes a village to do this work. So we use this term restorative justice. And a long time ago we thought this was really important for us, because when crime happens, when violence happens, when trauma happens, the narratives of our lives get broken. And how does one start to repair that? You repair it together. You come together. People who have crime, people who have been involved in the crime communities. And through art, you can see the light and healing starts to happen. And we have seen that over and over and over again. In 2002 we started working at Graterford Prison. And what we learned there, I couldn't -- like it's volumes, because it was humbling. It gave us strength. It opened our eyes to those who are nameless, faceless people behind these walls and yet they're people who have extraordinary talent. And then in 2008 we started working in the County jail and we started working in the world of re-entry, because we want to make sure that everyone has opportunities and options. You've heard the word justice here used a that is such a beautiful word. And for us, justice means opportunities, opportunities to have art in every single part of the city because art is like oxygen and everyone deserves it. Opportunities for our Guild and our Rec crew. And people sitting behind walls should have opportunities. What do we all want? We want a better world. We want a healthier world. We want a just world. And we see art as a tool of equity. And we want to stretch it as far as it can go. And then when we think we've done that enough, we shall push ourselves to go further, because we want this world to be a better place. And we believe strongly, deeply, passionately, relentlessly, tenaciously, that art, yes, art can ignite change and grateful to my cousin, the Chief Cultural Officer Val Gay, and Bill Perthes, who you'll hear from in a minute, because working with the Barnes, working with Creative Philadelphia, we are stronger together. Go art. And all my colleagues from Mural Arts, you are awesome and wonderful and tireless and keep being brave and relentless. Yay. And now, I would like to introduce one of our great young artists, Paige Taylor, who's been in the Rec crew, has been in the Guild. He's in the Guild now and he is creating beauty throughout the City of Philadelphia. Paige. (Applause.)
Good morning, everybody. My name is Paige Taylor and I'm a member of of our program, I would like to thank the City Council for recognizing the program that has made a huge impact on my life. For me, I just came back home in July and I was about to say we would just like to invite everybody to the Guild and the Rec Crew celebration, December 18th. It's from 5:30 to 8:00 at Triple Bottom Brewing. Thank you everybody for your support. (Applause.)
Good morning. I'm Bill Perthes, Bernard C. Watson Director of Adult Education at the Barnes Foundation. And I'm here to add the Barnes' enthusiastic endorsement of City Councilmember Harrity's resolution declaring November Restorative Justice Month. The Barnes has a more 100-year institutional commitment to restorative justice. From Dr. Barnes' deep commitment to diversity and equity in his Powelton Village pharmaceutical laboratory to support the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement in the early 20th century to our work today in partnership with Mural Arts and justice-impacted youth, incarcerated artists and returning citizens. The Barnes remains committed to second chances and in providing opportunities through engagements with the arts. This ongoing commitment is now on display, as has been said, in the galleries of Creative Philadelphia, the exhibition Faces of Resilience. This exhibition presents works from currently and formerly incarcerated artists at the State Phoenix, Southeast Pennsylvania's maximum security prison for men. Through the works of Faces of Resilience, you'll see the images of those who are experiencing second chances, those who struggle for that opportunity and the loved ones that stand by them. I encourage you to visit the exhibition and to spread the word. Finally, I'd like to thank City Councilmember Harrity for his steadfast commitment to restorative justice to all of you for supporting this resolution and we're grateful for Mayor Parker and Council President Johnson for their support and I look forward to working together in the future. Thank you. (Applause.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Bill, I just want to take a -- before Council will be at ease, just take a matter of personal privilege to acknowledge Bill and the Barnes Foundation. Most of you may not know that the Barnes Foundation is a very, very prestigious institution. And for them to use their institution as a platform to address social justice for those who are incarcerated and really use their institution as a platform, supporting those who are putting their lives back together is something that should not be taken lightly, but most importantly, should be celebrated and acknowledged, so thank you very much. Let's give them a round of applause. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeantat-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will the Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I'm submitting herewith for the consideration of your Honorable body the following: An ordinance approving the amendment of the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works (including the supplying of subject to certain constraints and conditions and acknowledging the receipt of the Revised Forecast of Capital Budgets for Fiscal Years 2027 through 2031, as amended; and An ordinance authorizing the Director of Department of Aviation to acquire, on behalf of the City, fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest by purchase, amicable negotiation, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu of condemnation or otherwise, in and to all or portions of a certain parcel of land known as 4521 Island Avenue, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for use by the City of all or a portion of the premises located at 1600-26 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing real estate transactions by the Commissioner of Public Property, the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority and the Philadelphia Land Bank necessary to permit the City of Philadelphia to acquire property bounded by Island Avenue, Elmwood Avenue, South 77th Street, Buist Avenue, South 78th Street, Cobbs Creek waterway, the vacated section of South 75th, and the former Grays Ferry Avenue, including property known as Cibotti Recreation Center, all under certain terms and conditions; and Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development or the Philadelphia Municipal Authority to fit out a Health Center Facility based on plans and specifications acceptable to the City that will be developed on premises located on Frankford Avenue in the vicinity of Pratt Street and Dyre Street and to repay the landlord for the costs of the fit out, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance amending Bill No. 250103 (approved June 13, 2025) entitled "Authorizing the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with the coordination of a guaranteed energy savings contract for implementation and evaluation of energy conservation measures designed to reduce energy, water, wastewater, or other consumption or operating costs at specified City properties, all under certain terms and conditions," to clarify the scope of the guaranteed energy savings contract and make related technical changes; all under certain terms and conditions; and A resolution confirming the appointment of Wesley R.
Payne, IV, as a member of the Board of Ethics to serve in the term ending November 16, 2029; and A resolution appointing Patrick Christmas to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority; and Hindman-Harvey to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution reappointing Adam Shapiro to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Rafael Licht to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Marlene Clark to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District. Council President, there are no further communications in my possession.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Good morning, everyone. Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution honoring Inner Strength today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Inner Strength Education during the celebration of its 10-Year Anniversary for its decade of transformative work empowering Philadelphia’s youth through mindfulness-based socialemotional learning, traumasensitive mentoring, and wholeperson developmental programming, as part of the Children & Youth Spotlight, which celebrates community-centered organizations uplifting young people across the City.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair -- this resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one privileged resolution and one bill on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolution.
An ordinance authorizing the Director of the Department of Aviation to acquire, on behalf of the City, fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest by purchase, amicable negotiation, dedication, donation, condemnation agreement in lieu of condemnation or otherwise in and to all or portions of a certain parcel of land known as 4521 Island Avenue, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Finance to hold hearings on the state of the economy for Black women in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chief recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, Council President. Today I have two bills, one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance amending Section 19-1604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Charges Where Water Meter Has Become Defective," by authorizing the reduction of customer water bills due to defective or inaccurate water meters, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Water and Sewer Rents" by revising income eligibility standards for rate discounts and installment payment agreements, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Joint Committees on Housing, Neighborhood Development and The Homeless and on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold hearings to investigate the impacts of unaffordable water bills on residential tenants in Philadelphia, and to seek out best practices, policy changes and new ideas to make water affordability and assistance programs more available for residential tenants.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution recognizing and determining that Bill No. 250804 remains under active consideration by this Council.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final -- this resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Thank you, sir. Chair recognizes Councilmember Landau.
Good morning, Council President, colleagues and all the public that are here. I have one bill and two privileged resolutions today. One co-introduced by you.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolutions.
An ordinance amending Section 9-208 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Cafes" to revise standards and requirements associated with sidewalk cafes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution congratulating the Philadelphia restaurants earning the City's first Michelin Stars and recognizing the historic milestone of Philadelphia entering the Michelin Guide.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the revitalization of the Bok Building into a hub for artists, makers and small businesses.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one non-privileged resolution, one privileged resolution and one bill.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolutions.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development or the Philadelphia Municipal Authority to fit out a Health Center Facility based on plans and specifications acceptable to the City that will be developed on premises located on Frankford Avenue in the vicinity of Pratt Street and Dyre Street and to repay the landlord for the costs of the fit out, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and celebrating the 150th Anniversary of St. Christopher's Hospital for Children and proclaiming November 30, 2025 as "St. Christopher's Hospital for Children Day" in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2230 North 3rd Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President, and good morning. Today I offer one bill for introduction.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 19-926 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Center City Parking Regulations," to confirm regulations adopted by the Department of Streets that establish and revise loading zone regulations in additional portions of the Center City area; and to reauthorize changes and additions to such regulations; all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Chair recognizes Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have three privileged resolutions to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing honoring and celebrating Shirley Chisholm on the occasion of her birthday, this November 30th.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing November 20th as Transgender Day of Remembrance in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution celebrating and honoring the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People this November 29, 2025.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Hello, Council President. I have nothing today, but I'd like to send a shout-out, congratulations to my Chief of Staff Joel Volcy and his beautiful new wife Carlin on their nuptials. They got married last week. Thank you, Council President. (Applause.)
Chair recognizes Minority Whip Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Global Opportunities and the Creative Innovative Economy to hold hearings exploring globally equitable public budgeting practice as a hallmark of Philadelphia's emergence as a leading global city.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Morning, Mr. President. I have four bills to be introduced today. Two on your behalf and one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Ryan Avenue between Leon Street and Frankford Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code ("Business Income and Receipts Taxes") to exempt sole proprietorships and single-member limited liability companies from some or all of the Business Income and Receipts Tax, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the launch of Finanta Credit Union, a Low Income Designated Credit Union, and honoring Finanta's ongoing dedication to the residents of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Councilmember Catherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you so much, Council President. I also offer two additional bills on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills.
An ordinance amending Bill No. 250103 (approved June 13, 2025) entitled "Authorizing the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with the Philadelphia Energy Authority for coordination of a guaranteed energy savings contract for implementation and evaluation of energy conservation measures designed to reduce energy, water, wastewater, or other consumption or operating costs at specified City properties, all under certain terms and conditions," to clarify the scope of the guaranteed energy savings contract and make related technical changes; all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance approving the amendment of the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works (including the supplying of funds in connection therewith) subject to certain constraints and conditions and acknowledging the receipt of the Revised Forecast of Capital Budgets for Fiscal Years 2027 through 2031, as amended.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer four bills, one on your behalf, and four non-privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2025 from: the General Fund, the Water Fund, the Water Residual Fund, the Grants Revenue Fund, the Aviation Fund, and the Transportation Fund, all from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to: the General Fund, the Water Fund, the Water Residual Fund, the Aviation Fund and the Transportation Fund, all to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the installation, ownership and maintenance of various encroachments in the vicinity of 510 North Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19123, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," to provide for designated transportation network company vehicle stands, definitions and prohibitions, clarifying penalties related to bus, taxicab and TNC vehicle stands, amending violations subject to camera-based parking enforcement, and amending parking violations subject to towing, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending Chapter 14-1000 of The Philadelphia Code ("Historic Preservation") to revise procedures and requirements related to designation of historic properties and districts, including notification requirements; revising procedures concerning permit applications while designation determinations are pending; amending related Zoning Code definitions; and making technical changes; all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution reappointing Adam Shapiro to the Board of Directors for the South Street HeadHouse District.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution appointing Rafael Licht to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution reappointing Allison Hindman-Harvey to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution appointing Marlene Clark to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. Chair recognizes Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill, one bill on your behalf and one resolution today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance repealing in its entirety Bill No. 241055 (approved December 23, 2024), entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Packer Avenue, 7th Street, Pattison Avenue, and Darien Street, to amend Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by adding Section 14-541 entitled "/PAK, Packer Avenue Overlay District and making other related changes, all under certain terms and conditions."
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 14-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts" by amending Section 14-530, entitled "Eighth District Overlay District," to add a section on Supplemental Use Regulations and making related changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing Councilmember Cindy Bass' appeal on behalf of and as a representative of City Council on the decision of the Department of Licenses and Inspections with respect to 6930 Ardleigh Street.
This resolution will be Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee of the Whole to which were referred the following resolutions: Resolution No. 250612, resolution appointing Nicole Conrad to the Board of Directors of the City Avenue Special Services District of Philadelphia and Lower Marion. Resolution No. 250613, a resolution reappointing Nathan Muchnick to the Board of Directors of City Avenue Special Services District of Philadelphia and Lower Marion. Resolution No. 250820, resolution appointing Mark Graefe Directors for the Old City Special Services District, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further resolutions to report out from the Committee of the Whole, Council President.
Thank you very much. Resolution Nos. 250612, 250613 and 250820 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, on Law and Government reports out three bills and two resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee on Law and Government to which were referred the following bills and resolutions: Bill No. 241056, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to eliminate the requirement that City officers and employees resign from their City office or for public office; and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election; and Bill No. 250651, an ordinance amending Title 19 ("Finance, Taxes and Collections") of The Philadelphia Code to add a new chapter creating the Philadelphia Retirement Savings Program as an automated savings program for certain employees in the City of Philadelphia, to establish the Philadelphia Retirement Savings Board, and to establish the Retirement Savings Administrative Fund, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250950, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the creation of the Philadelphia Retirement Savings Board; and authorizing and directing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election. Resolution No. 241070, a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to eliminate the requirement that City officers and employees resign from their City office or employment before becoming candidates for public office; and providing for the submission of the amendment of the electors of Philadelphia; and 250970, a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter providing for the creation of the Philadelphia Retirement Savings Board; and providing for the submission of the proposed amendment to the electors of Philadelphia, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills and resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills or resolutions to report out from the Committee on Law and Government, Council President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion. COUNCILWOMAN GILMORE RICHARDSON: Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of these bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution Nos. 241070, and 250970 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity for a report from the Committee on Labor and Civil Service.
Thank you, Council President. The Committee on Labor and Civil Service reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Would the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Civil Service to which was referred the following bill: Bill No. 250607, an ordinance amending Chapter 17-100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Procurement Contracts," by revising Section 17-101, entitled "Prequalification of Prospective Bidders for Contracts for Construction of Public Works," to establish minimum workforce training requirements and documentation standards for contractors and subcontractors on public works projects, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Civil Service, Council President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bill just read into the record by the Chief Clerk.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of these bills just read by the Chief Clerk Council. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. This bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for a report from the Committee on the Environment.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on the Environment reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Clerk, please read the report.
The Committee on the Environment to which was referred the following bill: Bill No. 250768, an ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement" to prohibit contractors providing solid waste, recycling or composting services to the City from incinerating discarded matter, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on the Environment, Council President. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for a motion.