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Minutes

Stated Meeting, September 17, 1998

Philadelphia City CouncilSep 17, 1998

People mentioned

Names our system found in this transcript. Automatically extracted, so it can include anyone named in the record, not only officials or parties.

Organizations mentioned

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, September 17, 1998 10:43 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHN F. STREET COUNCILWOMAN AUGUSTA A. CLARK COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN ANNA CIBOTTA VERNA COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILWOMAN HAPPY FERNANDEZ COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK DICICCO COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO MARIE B. HAUSER, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - GREETING/INVOCATION P R O C E E D I N G S

President Street

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. The Chair notes that the hour has come and that a quorum is present. Council will come to order. Members will take their seats, visitors will retire to their seats outside the rail. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Dwight Lundgren, who is pastor of the First Baptist Church, which is located conspicuously and prominently in the Fifth Council District. He is here today as my guest. Members and guests will please rise.

Reverend Lundgren

On this important occasion, let us begin with a few seconds of silence before our voices are lifted up in prayer. (Pause.)

Reverend Lundgren

Out of the silence of eternity, o God, you have brought all things into being. May all of our words to you and about you arise out of that solemn, silent mystery, a grateful humble response to your creating, sustaining and searching presence. With your servant of old, we call to 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - GREETING/INVOCATION you out of the depths of our lives, out of the depths of our gratitude for the gift of life, especially as we've experienced its richness through the presence of family, friends, neighbors, and through strangers who have called for the best in us and from us. Out of the depths of a joyful wonder at the richness and glory of the creation, we ask for the wisdom necessary to be good stewards of our world, acknowledging through our actions that which is your gift and truly our commonwealth. May this place and this hour be made solemn by our attention to the business of our common life. We lift up before you the life of our beloved City, Philadelphia, brought into being in a spirit of prayer. We rejoice in the richness of the human family that it encompasses, the diversity of its neighborhoods, the treasure of human endowments and traditions that renew and nurture it daily. In our several callings, o Lord, as we fulfill our responsibilities as stewards of our life and community, now give to each of us a vision of that city such as Abraham of old saw it, 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - GREETING/INVOCATION where none are left out or left behind, where all may blossom and never at the expense of another, where our diversity is not the source of division but, rather, the cause of our delight, and the reflection of the fullness of your goodness. May thy spirit rest upon each and every one of us, o God, this day. Amen. ALL: Amen.

President Street

The Chair thanks Reverend Lundgren for his inspiring invocation. * * *

President Street

The next order of business is the approval of the journal of the meeting of June 18, 1998. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.

Councilwoman Clark

Mr. Chairman, I move the acceptance of the journal of June 18, 1998. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The journal of the 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - LEAVES OF ABSENCE meeting of June 18, 1998 stands approved. * * *

President Street

The next order of business is leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.

Councilwoman Verna

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.

President Street

The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth. For leaves of absence.

Councilman Longstreth

Mr. President, I would like to introduce to you and ask that we greet -- oh, I beg your pardon, I'm on the wrong one. Leaves of absence. I thought I covered that.

President Street

No, sir.

Councilman Longstreth

We have a leave of absence requested for Mr. Brian O'Neill.

President Street

The Chair thanks the Councilman. Leave will be granted. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - RECOGNITION OF VISITORS * * *

President Street

At this time, we will dispense with our regular order of business to recognize visitors. To all of our visitors and guests with us this morning, we welcome you here today and applaud your interest in the civic affairs of our city, and certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth for the purpose of introducing a visiting group.

Councilman Longstreth

Thank you, sir. Correction on my original transmission. I'd like to welcome and to ask this group to welcome visitors from the great state of Parana, in Brazil, who are under the auspices of the Rotary Club, visiting Pennsylvania and Philadelphia and other parts of the United States. It's been my pleasure to spend a great deal of time in Brazil over the years, and I regard this country and its friendliness to the United States, the wonderful resources that are possessed there and, above all, the creativity of Joe Bene (ph.), who brought that wonderful music 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - RECOGNITION OF VISITORS to us over a long period of time. So I ask you to welcome them, and I ask them to stand, our visitors from Brazil. (Brazilian visitors stand for recognition.) (Applause.)

Councilman Longstreth

Where all the men are brilliant and all the women are beautiful. (Laughter.)

Councilman Longstreth

And, strangely enough, all the men are brilliant and all the women are beautiful, and it works the other way around as well. So thank you so much for being with us. We love having you. Thank you, sir.

President Street

Thank you very much. (Applause.)

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Thank you, Mr. President. It is my pleasure to introduce a guest representing the 9th Councilmatic District, George 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - RECOGNITION OF VISITORS Tomezsko. He's a reporter from the Olney Times, the Northeast Breeze, and the Times, and it's his first time covering City Hall meetings. And he has been very helpful in reporting the news of community activity in the northeast area, part of which I represent. Today also is his birthday.

President Street

Oh, okay. Can we have him please stand. (George Tomezsko stands for recognition.) (Applause.)

President Street

Thank you very much for being with us. * * *

President Street

The next order of business is communications. The Chair recognizes the Sergeant-At-Arms for the purposes of delivering the messages from the mayor to the chief clerk. There are no messages? Okay, the next order of business, then, is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS for the purpose of introducing bills and resolutions.

Councilwoman Clark

Mr. President, today I have two resolutions, one of which is on your behalf. I don't know where the other one is, wait a minute. It must be circulating. I'll find the other one.

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the one that we have.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing the commissioner of public property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain properties situated in the 28th, 32nd, and the 37th wards of the City of Philadelphia.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.

Councilwoman Clark

I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Just as a matter of legislative formality, the Chair recognizes Councilman Verna for a motion.

Councilwoman Verna

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit consideration of all resolutions immediately after introduction. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The motion is adopted. This motion will include the resolution just considered by the Council. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution introduced by Councilwoman Clark.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution declaring October 1998 as Human Relations Month in the City of Philadelphia.

President Street

The Chair recognizes 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Councilwoman Clark.

Councilwoman Clark

Mr. President, I move the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Mr. President, I have three bills, two of which are cosigned by Councilmen Ortiz and Cohen.

President Street

The clerk will please read the titles of the bills.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance postponing and changing the effective date of Ordinance 970817 relating to sidewalk behavior by providing that certain provisions of said ordinance shall take effect when the Commissioner of Health and the Director of Office of Emergency Shelter Services shall have certified that adequate and appropriate facilities and programs 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS are available for persons who are found to be in violation of such provisions. And an ordinance amending Section 10-611 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Sidewalk Behavior" by providing that certain parts of the 3rd Councilmatic District shall be covered by the prohibitions and penalties set forth in said Section 10-611 of the Code. And an ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code relating to sidewalk sales by adding a new provision prohibiting sidewalk sales on portions of Baltimore Avenue and 58th Street.

President Street

These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.

Councilman Cohen

Mr. President, I offer two bills and one resolution.

President Street

The clerk will please read the titles of the bills.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance amending Section 10-611 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Sidewalk Behavior" by extending the prohibition against jailing violators of the 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS provisions of this section by barring the jailing of persons during the processing of any notice or summons issued in connection with an alleged violation of said section. And an ordinance amending Section 10-611 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Sidewalk Behavior" by providing that social service outreach teams, rather than police officers, shall be the parties determining the appropriate manner of dealing with violators of certain provisions of this section relating to various sidewalk activities, including, among other things, whether such persons should be referred to social service agencies.

President Street

These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution introduced by Councilman Cohen.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Law and Government to conduct public hearings to determine what impact that the proposed November ballot question to amend the Pennsylvania constitution to allow prosecutors to have the same right as 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS criminal defendants to determine a jury trial will have on the citizens of Philadelphia, the Criminal Justice Center, and the rights of the accused to a fair trial.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.

Councilman Cohen

Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution.

President Street

Is there a second? (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.

Councilwoman Krajewski

Mr. President, I offer one bill.

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code relating to sidewalk sales by adding new 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS provisions prohibiting sidewalk sales in the 6th Councilmatic District.

President Street

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. It might be appropriate to announce at this time, as a result of an agreement between the sponsor of the ATM bill, that the veto message which was sent will be considered for override in next week's session -- in case there are people here who are here solely and exclusively because of that bill. So that the veto will be considered next week as opposed to this week. And I would like to remind all Councilmembers that before you speak, activate your lapel microphones. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.

Councilwoman Verna

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one resolution on your behalf, one resolution by myself and several Members of Council, and a second resolution.

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS welcoming and thanking the distinguished members of the Democratic National Committee Site Selection Advisory Committee for their three-day visit to Philadelphia and to urge their favorable consideration of this great city as the site of its 2000 National Convention.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.

Councilwoman Verna

I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution introduced by Councilwoman Verna.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution designating the week of Monday, October 5, 1998, through Monday, October 12, 1998, as Christopher Columbus Week, in celebration of the festivities commemorating Columbus' historic voyage to the new 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS world.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.

Councilwoman Verna

I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the third resolution introduced by Councilwoman Verna.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Eastwick Urban Renewal area identified by house number and street address as 8008 Madison Avenue, and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the redevelopment contract with William Johnson and to take such action as may be necessary to effectuate 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS the redevelopment contract.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.

Councilwoman Verna

I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill and two resolutions.

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "The Philadelphia Construction and Occupancy Code" by amending Subsection A of the Philadelphia Administrative Code, by amending Chapter 5 entitled "Violations," by amending A-505.0 entitled "Cease Operation Orders," by adding a new section regarding unsafe and unsanitary 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS conditions, and by amending Subsection PM of the Philadelphia Property Code by amending Chapter 2.

President Street

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution introduced by Councilman Kenney.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution honoring Tommy McDonald for his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

I move the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing that Council's Committee on Rules 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS conduct hearings to investigate the reasons why residents of the City of Philadelphia pay some of the highest automobile insurance rates in the nation, and to examine possible avenues of relief.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

Move the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

Councilwoman Miller

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two resolutions.

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution honoring the coaches, trainers, parents, and youth participants of the United Age Group Track Coaches Association.

President Street

The Chair recognizes 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Councilwoman Miller.

Councilwoman Miller

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Honoring the life and legacy of the late Senator James R. Lloyd with the creation of Lloyd Hall on Boat House Row.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

Councilwoman Miller

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer nine bills and four resolutions.

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the bills.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance establishing a no motor-home parking regulation on 51st Street, Overbrook Avenue to Woodbine Avenue, both sides. And an ordinance authorizing the installation of stop signs on Manyunk Avenue at the intersection of Seville Street and Kingsley Street. And an ordinance authorizing the installation of stop signs on Acorn Street at the intersection of Hazelwood Street. An ordinance authorizing the installation of stop signs on Lancaster -- I'm sorry -- Lansdowne Avenue at the intersection of 58th Street. An ordinance authorizing the installation of stop signs on Lebanon Avenue at the intersection of Georges Lane. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS An ordinance authorizing the installation of stop signs at the intersection of 62nd Street and Haverford Avenue. An ordinance establishing a no motor-home parking regulation on Woodbine Avenue, 51st Street to Bryn Mawr Avenue, both sides. And an ordinance establishing a no tractor-trailer parking regulation on 33rd Street from Allegheny Avenue to Westmoreland Street, both sides. And an ordinance amending Section 9-205 of the Philadelphia Code relating to sidewalk sales by adding a new provision prohibiting sidewalk sales in the 52nd Ward, which encompasses the area bordered by and within the Schuykill River and Girard Avenue west on Girard Avenue to Parkside Avenue, northwest on Parkside Avenue to Belmont Avenue, south on Belmont Avenue to Girard Avenue, and west on Girard Avenue to Lancaster Avenue. And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public -

President Street

Excuse me. These bills will be referred to the appropriate 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS committees. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds for properties situated in the 4th, 21st, 38th, 44th, and 52nd wards of the City of Philadelphia.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution congratulating Saul High School and the 1992 State 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS FFA Championships in landscape nursery.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution observing October 8, 1998 as the Day of National Concern About Young People and Gun Violence, and encouraging Philadelphia students to take and honor the students' pledge against gun violence.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the last resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing the Committee of the Whole to hold hearings on the issue of a pension benefit increase in order to fully evaluate the short- and long-term costs to the City's General Fund, the impact on the unfunded liability of the City's Pension Fund, and the significance of such an increase to uniform and non-uniform retirees; and to make recommendations on legislation providing for a cost-of-living adjustment for the pensioners.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Fernandez.

Councilwoman Fernandez

Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions this morning.

President Street

The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Mr. President, I offer two resolutions.

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.

Councilwoman Tasco

One for which I ask for the suspension of the rules.

Chief Clerk Hauser

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 conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS of ground, with the buildings and improvements thereon, situated in the 42nd and 49th wards of the City of Philadelphia.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Mr. President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and designating October 1, 1998 as the Second Annual Philadelphia Let's Stop Domestic Violence Day.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Mr. President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.

Councilman Ortiz

Mr. President, I have one bill and one resolution.

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance amending Section 10-611 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Sidewalk Behavior" by deleting various superfluous provisions relating to matters covered by other provisions of the Code or a departmental regulation.

President Street

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution introduced by Councilman Ortiz.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance honoring and recognizing Giovanni's Room for its dedication and commitment to the lesbian and gay 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS community of Philadelphia as it celebrates its 25th anniversary on October 1, 1998.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.

Councilman Ortiz

Mr. President, the resolution is also cosponsored by Councilman Kenney. And I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.

Councilman Dicicco

Mr. President, I have no bills or resolutions.

President Street

The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Councilman Mariano

Mr. President, I have one bill and two resolutions. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS

President Street

The clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance amending Title 9 entitled "Regulation of Business, Trades and Professions of The Philadelphia Code" by prohibiting sale of laser-pointing devices to minors, and regulating the display of laser-pointing devices for sale.

President Street

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution introduced by Councilman Mariano.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Health, Human Services and Recreation to hold hearings for the purpose of examining the placement and concentration of community living arrangement facilities in the city's residential neighborhoods.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Councilman Mariano

Mr. President, I move for the adoption of this resolution. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing that Council's Committee on Licenses and Inspections hold hearings to examine the issue of abandoned housing in the City of Philadelphia, and to formulate solutions that will expedite the redevelopment of these properties.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Councilman Mariano

Mr. President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.

Councilman Longstreth

Mr. President, I have no bills or resolutions.

President Street

The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Councilman Rizzo

No bills or resolutions, Mr. President.

President Street

The Chair thanks Councilman Rizzo. * * *

President Street

The next order of business, then, is reports from committees. There are no reports from committees today. As I have previously mentioned, Council will consider the veto of the ATM bill at its next session. Then at this time, as a special order of business, Council will recognize Councilwoman Verna, who has a special resolution.

Councilwoman Verna

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one resolution.

President Street

The clerk will 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution requesting the mayor to return to City -- to Council -- I'm sorry -- requesting the mayor to return to Council Bill No. 980330, entitled "An Ordinance" amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, 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 Grays Ferry urban renewal area by approving the eighth amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan, which provides inter alia for the expansion of the northwestern boundary to 36th Street between Wharton and Grays Ferry Avenue certain additional land acquisitions; And provision of certain relocations services, as required by law, for the individuals, families, and business concerns which will be displaced for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.

President Street

The Chair recognizes 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA Councilwoman Verna.

Councilwoman Verna

I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is approved. The Chief clerk will read the letter from the Mayor.

Chief Clerk Hauser

To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am returning herewith, as requested by your resolution adopted September 11, 1998, Bill No. 980330 entitled "An Ordinance" amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, 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 Grays Ferry renewal area by approving the eighth amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan which provides inter alia for 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA the expansion of the northwestern boundary to 36th Street between Wharton Street and Grays Ferry Avenue certain additional land acquisitions and provision of certain relocation services as required by law for the individuals, families, and businesses concerns which will be displaced for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.

President Street

The chair thanks the clerk. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for a motion.

Councilwoman Verna

Mr. President, I move that Council reconsider the vote of bill 980330 as passed. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The motion passes. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA 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 Grays Ferry urban renewal area by approving the eighth amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan, which provide inter alia for the expansion of the northwestern boundary to 36th Street between Wharton Street and Grays Ferry Avenue certain additional land acquisition and provision of certain relocation services as required by law for the individuals, families, and business concerns which will be displaced.

President Street

The Chair thanks the clerk. All those voting aye will be voting in favor of the reconsideration; those voting nay will be voting against. The chief clerk will call the roll.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Blackwell?

Councilwoman Blackwell

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Clark? 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA

Councilwoman Clark

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Cohen?

Councilman Cohen

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman DiCicco?

Councilman Dicicco

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Fernandez?

Councilwoman Fernandez

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Kenney?

Councilman Kenney

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Krajewski?

Councilwoman Krajewski

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Longstreth?

Councilman Longstreth

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Mariano?

Councilman Mariano

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Miller?

Councilwoman Miller

Aye. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Nutter?

Councilman Nutter

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Ortiz?

Councilman Ortiz

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Rizzo?

Councilman Rizzo

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Tasco?

Councilwoman Tasco

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Verna?

Councilwoman Verna

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Council President Street?

President Street

Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of members having voted in the affirmative, the vote by which Bill No. 980330 was passed has been reconsidered. This bill is now on the second- and final-reading passage calendar and is in front of us today. The clerk will now read the title of the bill. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA

Chief Clerk Hauser

Bill No. 980330, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, 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 Grays Ferry urban renewal area by approving the eighth amendment of the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan which provides inter alia for the expansion of the northwestern boundary to 36th Street between Wharton Street and Grays Ferry Avenue certain additional land acquisitions and provision of certain relocations services as required by law for the individuals, families, and business concerns which will be displaced.

President Street

The Chair thanks the chief clerk. This bill having been both approved and reconsidered and it is now in front of us, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for amendments.

Councilwoman Verna

Mr. President, I offer amendments. 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA

President Street

The chief clerk will read the amendment.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An amendment to Bill No. 980330, an ordinance -- the following language is to be inserted as the previously unprovided legal description: Beginning at the intersection of the easterly side of 25th Street, 100 feet wide and the northerly side of Wharton Street 50 feet wide projected; thence extending in a southerly direction along the easterly side of 25th Street, crossing the bed of Wharton Street, 449 and 700,000 feet more or less to a point on the northerly side of Reed Street, 50 feet wide; thence extending east along the northerly side of Reed Street, 50 feet wide, 100 feet to a point; thence extending south along the westerly side of a 3-foot-wide alley crossing the bed of Reed Street and Dickinson Street, 50 feet wide, 500 feet 4 and 3/4 inches to a point; thence extending west along the southerly side of Dickinson Street, 15 feet more or less to a point; thence extending south along the westerly side of a 4-foot-wide alley crossing the bed of Tasker Street, 50 feet 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - VERNA wide, 450 feet 4 and 1/8 inches to a point; thence extending west along the southerly side of Tasker Street, 85 feet to a point; thence extending south along the easterly side of 25th Street, crossing the bed of Morris Street, 50 feet wide, 450 and 250,000 feet more or less to a point; thence extending west along the southerly side of Morris Street, crossing the bed of 25th Street, South Bambrey Street, 40 feet wide; 26th Street, 50 feet wide; 27th Street, 50 feet wide; 28th Street, 50 feet wide; South Newkirk Street, 40 feet wide; South Dover Street, 40 feet wide; 29th Street, 50 feet wide, 1,864 and 225,000 feet more or less to a point.

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for a motion.

Councilwoman Verna

I move the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Then this bill will be added to our 9/17/98 STATED - FINAL-READING BILL 980457 second- and final-reading passage calendar for our next session. * * *

President Street

The next order of business is the consideration of the calendar. The chief clerk will read the bills on the first-reading calendar.

Chief Clerk Hauser

I have no first-reading calendar.

President Street

Thank you very much. Council will now consider bills on the second- and final-reading passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.

Councilwoman Verna

Thank you, Mr. President. Bill No. 980457 is being called for consideration on the second-reading and finalpassage calendar. All other bills are being held.

President Street

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is -- the clerk -- I'm sorry. The clerk will please read the tile of Bill No. 980457.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance 9/17/98 STATED - FINAL-READING BILL 980457 authorizing the striking from City Plan No. 244 and abandoning of a certain right-of-way for drainage purposes from Haines Street to Eastburn Avenue, under certain terms and conditions.

President Street

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, Shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will call the roll.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Blackwell?

Councilwoman Blackwell

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Clark?

Councilwoman Clark

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Cohen?

Councilman Cohen

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman DiCicco?

Councilman Dicicco

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Fernandez?

Councilwoman Fernandez

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Kenney? 9/17/98 STATED - FINAL-READING BILL 980457

Councilman Kenney

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Krajewski?

Councilwoman Krajewski

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Longstreth?

Councilman Longstreth

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Mariano?

Councilman Mariano

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Miller?

Councilwoman Miller

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Nutter?

Councilman Nutter

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Ortiz?

Councilman Ortiz

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilman Rizzo?

Councilman Rizzo

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman Tasco?

Councilwoman Tasco

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Councilwoman 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPEECHES Verna?

Councilwoman Verna

Aye.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Council President Street?

President Street

Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This completes our consideration the calendar for the day. * * *

President Street

Are there any speeches on the part of members of the minority? (No speeches on the part of members of the minority.)

President Street

Are there any speeches on the part of members of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.

Councilman Ortiz

Mr. President, during this summer, the attention of this nation has been glued to the newspapers and TV sets because of events that are transpiring. . . on the field of baseball. (Applause.) 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - SPEECHES (Laughter.)

Councilman Ortiz

I gotcha. All right.

President Street

You did.

Councilman Ortiz

And as one who lives vicariously through the exploits of Mr. MacGwire and Sammy, as we call him in the Latino community, "Sammy," I think that our eyes, during the next two weeks, should be turned to these two individuals because they are setting an example of what sports is all about and what baseball really can mean to kids. I have a four-year old son who every day comes to me and says, "Did Sammy break record today?" Well, Sammy hit 63 homers; and last night, he hit the 63rd with a grand slam. And like I say, "Go Sammy, go Sam!" So I want to say that through all of the turmoil that has occurred, one shining light has kept this nation focussed on good deeds and great heroes -- Sammy and Mac. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)

President Street

The chief -- the 9/17/98 STATED MEETING - ADJOURNMENT clerk will note that all members were in applause of Councilman Ortiz's speech. This may be a first. (Laughter.)

President Street

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.

Councilwoman Verna

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Wednesday, September 23, 1998, at 10 a.m. (Duly seconded.)

President Street

All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. This Council stands adjourned until Wednesday, September 23, 1998, at 10 o'clock a.m. (Adjourned at 11:21 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, September 17, 1998, were reported and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: Stated Meeting __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, Registered Professional Reporter