COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, April 29, 2004 10:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order, members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Bishop Eugene H. Grace, Jr., of the Faith Chapel Church of God and Christ. He is here today as a guest of Councilwoman Miller. All members and guests will please rise.
Let us pray. Onto three, oh, God, do we come. Our gracious father we come before you today and pause for a moment just to give thanks. We thank you for the weeks and the months and the years that you have bought us in this place. We thank you, oh, God, for the struggles that we have had, the difficulties that we have faced. And, yet, by your grace, we have been able to make it. And we stand here today giving you have done for us. Now we stand again with all the problems that our cities are faced with; with the struggles in our communities, our young people are dying, we ask you, oh, God, that you would stretch out your hand in our direction. We thank you for this City Council, for how they have sought so faithfully to try to bring some kind of harmony within our communities. And, yet, we struggle with all of the problems that the human race is faced with. But we beseech you, we ask that you would show your mercy and, again, that you administer to us in only the way that you know how to do. We pray, oh, God, that you would bless us as we move forward. As we seek to chart the course for this oncoming year, we ask that you would grant onto us the wisdom. We thank you because we have within your Word a promise that when we come to the place where we cannot handle situations ourselves, that you said that you would us in the way that we should go, and you would counsel us. We stand upon that promise today. And as these deliberations go forward, we pray, oh, God, that you would so strengthen these, your children. There are issues that are before us, issues that the decisions that we make will affect someone in a negative and in a positive way. So the decisions that we make, we find ourselves sometimes in a dilemma. And that is why we seek your grace and seek your wisdom. And we ask, oh, God, that you would guide us through these difficult times in which we face, and we pray that you will continue to bless us. And as we enter into these discussions, maybe take the attitude that the psalms had when you said, "This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." So bring harmony out of confusion, and where there is weakness give strength. there is sickness, Lord, we ask that you administer to us healing; healing in our relationships, healing in our communities, healing in our world. We commit ourselves to you afresh and we thank you, again, for hearing our prayer in Jesus' name. Amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks Bishop Grace for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, April 22, 2004. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, April 22, 2004, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, April 22, 2004, stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, the motion carries, and the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, April 22, 2004, is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence. And, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today there are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the majority.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, I haven't been asked to ask for a leave of Kelly and O'Neill will be here shortly. I will let you know if that changes.
Thank you. The Chair will dispense with the regular 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 your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter, who will present a Resolution honoring Water Commissioner Kumar Kishinchand and Deputy Commissioner Richard Roy. Would the Commissioner and Mr. Roy, and those accompanying them, please join the Councilman at the podium. Councilman Nutter will be joined by Councilwoman Tasco.
The Commissioner be being up on this side of the table over there, so he is unfamiliar with this territory. This is a City Council Resolution honoring Kumar Kishinchand. The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to extend congratulatory wishes to Kumar Kishinchand on the occasion of his retirement following 34 years of dedicated service to the Water Department. Whereas, Kumar Kishinchand began his career at the Philadelphia Water Department in September of 1968 as the Assistant Chief in the Materials Testing Laboratory. He rose through the ranks of the Water Department to become Water Commissioner in January of 1992. As Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kishinchand was responsible for the $2 billion municipally owned water and waste water utility with assets serving a population of over 1.5 million within the city limits and an additional 200 square miles with neighboring counties and townships; And, whereas, Kumar Kishinchand of three fresh water treatment plants producing over 300 million gallons per day, three waste water treatment plants treating approximately 500 million gallons daily, a bio-solids recycling center disposing approximately 250,000 tons a year, and 6,000 miles of water mains and sewers and 31 sewer and water pumping stations; And, whereas, in March of 2000 until August of 2001, Kumar Kishinchand was called upon to use his expertise to act as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Philadelphia Gas Works; And, whereas, Kumar Kishinchand performed all his duties above and beyond the call of duty. Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend Kumar Kishinchand. We congratulate him on his retirement after 34 years of dedicated service to the City of Philadelphia and extend to him our respect and admiration. engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Kumar Kishinchand as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Signed by Council President Anna C. Verna, introduced by myself, a constituent, and all members of City Council. (Applause.)
Commissioner how gratifying it has to be to you to see that everyone got up to their feet to applaud you. And I just wanted to say, on behalf of all members of City Council, we hate to see you leave. And we want you to know that we are so grateful for all of the service that you have given us, and we certainly hope you enjoy your retirement. I am sorry that you are not staying with us just a little longer. The Chair recognizes the Commissioner for remarks. COMMISSIONER KISHINCHAND: Thank you, President Verna, and thank you, Councilman Nutter and Councilwoman Tasco, and all of the City Council members, for honoring in this fashion you are, in fact, honoring all of my colleagues in the Water Department who made this department a world-renowned utility. If it weren't for them working day in and day out, in the heat of summer and the cold of winter, your department would not be well served. And we owe all of the gratitude to my colleagues, many of whom are out there, the management team. And I would be remiss if I would not specifically single out one individual without whom I could not have managed this department, and that's Dick Roy. (Applause.) COMMISSIONER KISHINCHAND: Dick Roy was the one who would go out to the water main breaks in the middle of the night, the five-alarm fire, just to help out and make sure that the fire department had our full support. But he would not call me until 6 morning, because he knew I needed my rest, and he would be out there. And, so, he has done a great job. And we would not have been able to do all we did if it were not for the support that this City Council has provided throughout the many years that I have been associated with the City of Philadelphia. They have counseled us, they have advised us, and they have, essentially, encouraged us to do more with less. And if I can take a moment just to give you an anecdote on how they have actually counseled us and helped us. There was an occasion one time that I got a call from Councilman Nutter about 5 o'clock in the evening. He was in West Philadelphia on a particular street. I won't identify it right now, but it was in his district. And he said, "Commissioner, I think you personally need to come over here because there is something strange going on on this street, and these violation notices that we customers may not be appropriate." So I went out there, and he pointed out to me the specific geometric pattern in which the defects in the street were occurring. He was the one who actually diagnosed what might be the problem. And I won't go into details on what it was. But I think if this Council has the authority to give out honorary engineering degrees, I think he ought to be the first one to get it. But, thank you again so much. Thank you for all the help that you have given us. And I really appreciate it, and I will treasure this particular day. Thank you, again. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. We certainly will miss the Commissioner. He has done an outstanding job. been kind enough to ask me to read this citation for Richard Roy, who is a resident of the 9th Councilmanic District. But the two gentlemen here certainly served the Water Department very well and served us as Council Members extremely well. And we certainly say it is a sad day when we lose two fine members from the Water Department. And we will miss you. Thank you so much for your service. This Resolution honoring Richard E. Roy. The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to extend congratulatory wishes to Richard E. Roy on the occasion of his retirement following 36 years of dedicated service to the Water Department. Whereas, Richard Roy began his career at the Philadelphia Water Department in June of 1968 as a Project Engineer, he rose through the ranges of the Water Department to become Manager of the Construction Division in January of 1992 and Deputy Water Commissioner in August of 2001. Commissioner, Mr. Roy was responsible for the $2 billion municipally owned water and waste water utility with assets serving a population of over 1.5 million within the city limits, and an additional 200 square miles with neighboring counties and townships; And, whereas, Richard E. Roy managed the daily operations of three fresh water treatment plants, producing over 300 million gallons per day, 3 waste water treatment plants treating approximately 500 million gallons daily, a bio-solids recycling center disposing approximately 250,000 tons a year, and 6,000 miles of water mains and sewers, and 31 water and sewer pumping stations; And, whereas, in March of 2000 until August of 2001, Mr. Roy was called upon to use his expertise to act as Interim Water Commissioner; And, whereas, Richard E. Roy performed these duties above and beyond the call of duty. Resolved by the Council of the City hereby honor and commend Richard E. Roy. We congratulate him on his retirement after 36 years of dedicated service to the City of Philadelphia and extend to him our respect and admiration. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Richard E. Roy as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. It is signed by the President of City Council, introduced by Michael Nutter, Councilwoman Verna, Council Members Tasco, DiCicco, and Frank Rizzo, and supported by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
Thank you. Thank you all, Madam President, all City Council Members. I am not going to be quite as windy as the boss was, but his sentiments are exactly mine. And it has been an honor and a privilege to have served this Council and the I thank you for the kind words, they are deeply appreciated. And thank you very much. (Applause.)
At this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller who will present a resolution recognizing the Department of Human Services in Child Abuse Awareness Month. Will Ms. Wanda Miles and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And Councilwoman Miller will be joined by Councilman Rizzo.
Good morning. It is an honor and a pleasure to give this citation to a department of the city, Department of Human Services. They work very, very hard. Resolution, Joining the nation and in acknowledging April 2004 as Child Abuse Prevention Month, and recognizing the Philadelphia Department of Human Services for its efforts to eradicate the problems of abuse and neglect of our children. Whereas, across the nation agencies and organizations have placed special emphasis and public awareness on the prevention of child abuse in the month of April. And...
Whereas, the Philadelphia Department of Human Services has shifted its organizational perspective from that which solely focuses on intervention to one that simultaneously invests in prevention and intervention of child abuse 365 days a year;. And, whereas, nationwide the incidence of child abuse has increased, and support and assistance for families is only available after a crisis has occurred;. Whereas, the Philadelphia Department of Human Services, with its new focus on child abuse prevention, is investing in highest-risk areas of the city;. And, whereas, the Philadelphia Department of Human Services is improving the chances that families have to reach the stability and strength that they need to support the healthy development and growth of their children. And...
Whereas, the Department of Human Services recognizes that parents and caregivers in this city need support in raising children, and that the responsibility of raising children in healthy, loving, and safe environments is extremely challenging and complex, and that the task is more so under extreme economic pressure and hardship. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that April 2004 is recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the City of Philadelphia, and that the Philadelphia Department of Human Services is recognized and honored for its prevention programs and services that address the issue our city. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to a representative of the Department of Human Services as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Certified that this is a true and correct copy of the original Resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 22nd day of April, 2004. Anna C. Verna, President of City Council, introduced by Donna Reed Miller, and co-sponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
Thank you, Council President Verna. Good morning. This is a special morning. It is really always wonderful for us at the Department of Human Services when we are able to acknowledge and receive the respect and support of our community. We work so hard on behalf of kids in our city. And this resolution really belongs to the staff of the Department of Human Services, who often go unrewarded and without the gratitude that I believe they deserve every day. They are very caring, loving people who work every day on behalf of kids, so I accept this very much on behalf of them. I am just going to take a few minutes to briefly thank Councilwoman Miller and Councilman Rizzo and the entire Council membership for your love and your support and your passion on behalf of kids, and the most vulnerable kids here in Philadelphia. As you know, the Department of Human Services works every day to address the needs, the very extensive needs, sometimes, of families in our community. On behalf of Mayor Street and Commissioner Martinez, I just want to say that we are so grateful to be able to have an opportunity to have this recognition and celebrate the work that we do on behalf of kids every day. like this that I am reminded of my favorite quote from George Washington Carver, who said, "How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic of the striving, and tolerant of the weak and the strong because one day in your life you will be all of these." We are all bound together irrespective of our titles, our jobs, our roles in the community. We are all bound together in our responsibility to the most vulnerable among us. I want to thank this Council for taking the lead and leading the way in helping us deliver for kids in our system every day. Thank you. (Applause.)
At this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski, who will present a resolution recognizing April as Cynthia Day and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilman DiCicco and Councilwoman Miller are also joining Councilwoman Krajewski. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. A Resolution declaring April 2004 as Autism Awareness Month. Whereas, autism was first identified by Dr. Leo Kanner in 1943; and, whereas, this disease is now estimated to occur in 1 out of every 500 births. And research further indicates that autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Over one half million people in the United States today have autism or some form of pervasive developmental disorder; And, whereas, the prevalence rate of autism makes the disease one of the most common developmental disabilities, yet most of in the medical, educational, and vocational fields are still unaware of how autism affects people and how they can effectively work with individuals with the disability. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: And, whereas, with appropriate intervention, many of the associated behaviors can be positively changed, even in some cases that the child or adult may appear to the untrained person to know longer have autism. The majority of children and adults will, however, continue to exhibit some degree of disability throughout their entire lives. Although there are still no medical tests for diagnosing autism and a cure has yet to be found, a better understanding of this disorder has led to a host of strategies to deal with the disability; and...
Whereas, the Children's Health Act of 2000, the Pediatric Autism Research Act, provides an additional $40 million annually to research this disability and hopefully find a cure;. Whereas, founded in 1995, the Cure Autism Now (CAN) Foundation is an organization of parents, clinicians, and leading scientists committed to accelerating the pace of bio-medical research in autism through research, education, and outreach;. And, whereas, its founding Cure Autism Now has committed over $12 million in research, the establishment of ongoing support of the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange, AGRE, and numerous outreach and awareness activities aimed at families, physicians, government officials, and the general public. Now, therefore...
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby declare April 2004 as Autism Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia. An engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Chapter of Cure Autism Now as evidence of the respect and appreciation of this legislative body for the work they do in their fight to find a cure for autism. and certified copy presented by the President of City Council and sponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
Good morning. On behalf of all the families in Philadelphia and the surrounding area that have children with autism, I would like to thank Councilwoman Krajewski, the Council, Madam President, for this incredible honor and recognition of a disorder that, quite frankly, is very disabling for the families, as well as us as a society. When my own son was diagnosed with autism eight years ago here at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, my wife and I had no idea what kind of a journey we were going to be on. Our doctor told us that it occurred in about 1 out of every 1500 children. And it was shortly thereafter that the statistics came out that it was 1 in 500. I tell you today that the Centers Prevention just recently came out with a new statistic. Autism now affects 1 out of every 166 children born today. If 1 out of every 166 children were being kidnapped from their families, we would have a national emergency. And we have one, it is called autism. Cure Autism Now was founded almost ten years ago, actually, by the son of Marcia Rose Shestack and Jerry Shestack. Marcia Rose stands behind me today. And it is an organization that has made a profound difference in the field of autism research. We have made a lot of progress, we have a long way to go. I have just left a 12-year career at Johnson & Johnson to become the Executive Director of this organization. My family and I are going to be moving to Los Angeles so that we can significantly accelerate the pace at which we find a cure for autism. We are also going to have a walk here in Philadelphia. It is going to be our going to be October 2, a Saturday. I would like to invite each and every one of you to be there to see the families and to meet the children that suffer from autism. It will be a truly rewarding experience. We expect to have well over 5,000 people there. And, with a little luck, we will raise over $1 million to help us find a cure. Thank you so much. (Applause.)
Unused as I am to a microphone, I just wanted to thank the Councilwoman and City Council. It is always wonderful to be in these halls in this beautiful place and to see all of your interested and shining faces. And if we could just mobilize everybody to help us fight autism, we really will be able to cure autism now. We thank you very much. (Applause.)
Madam President, I would like to ask for a leave of absence for Council Brian O'Neill.
Leave will be granted. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano, who would like to make a presentation.
Thank you, Madam President. I just found one I forgot to turn in. Can we do it now? Thank you. I have a citation honoring Mr. Hugh Allen. Hugh, could you stand up.
I have a term that I, it is an endearing term, that I always refer to you. We were up at Clemente about four years ago. And I said, Mr. Allen is here. And a few people in the audience said, "Which one is Mr. Allen?" And I said, "He is the whitest white guy in the room." So he is still the whitest looking white guy in the room. Now, Councilman Nutter, that's just his skin color, that's not his soul. I just want you to know he has got soul. Whereas, in January 2000, a fresh-faced, rosey-cheeked Hugh Allen arrived in City Council to serve at the will of Honorable Richard T. Mariano. I didn't write this, so if it comes out a little silly. When Hugh Allen first entered Council chambers with an engaging optimism, naive disposition; And, whereas, in the last four years Mr. Allen has honed his legislative skills by passing resolutions such as the National Payroll Week, earning him the nickname of Hugh Allen;. Whereas, Hugh continue his stellar legislative achievements by constantly drafting ordinances that were destined to be founded unconstitutional by the courts of this state;. And, whereas, in his four years of service, Hugh Allen has successfully earned the animosity of most city agencies and all but two Council offices;. And, whereas, since the Year 2000, Hugh Allen has been transferred into a jaded, combative, 31-year-old -- I don't even know what this word is -- which will take pride in aiding in his transformation. He is still the whitest white guy here, just so everybody knows. Therefore, by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby recognizes Hugh Allen for his distinctive service in Council and wishes him the best in his future endeavors. (Applause.)
Hugh, would you few remarks before the picture is taken?
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor. THE
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia. I am pleased to advise you that on April 28, 2004, I signed the following bills that were passed by Council at its session on April 15, 2004. Bill No. 040092, 040183, and 040024. And to the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a draft of a resolution the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the new Kensington Fishtown Urban Renewal Area; and a Resolution for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Eastwick Urban Renewal Area; and a Resolution for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Philadelphia Redevelopment Area; and a Resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Philadelphia Redevelopment Area; and an Ordinance approving the First Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Tioga Urban Renewal Area; and an Ordinance approving the First Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area; and an Ordinance approving the 32nd Amendment for the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Area; and an Ordinance approving the 12th Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area; and an Ordinance approving the First Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Frankford Creek Urban Renewal Area; and an Ordinance approving the 4th Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Independence Mall Urban Renewal Area; and an Ordinance amending Titles and of the Philadelphia Code, the Air Management Code, and Health Code, respectfully, by increasing the fees or establishing new fees for various health-related licenses, permits, certificates, approvals, and variances; and an Ordinance amending Section 11-203 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Sewer and Water Pipe and Other Underground Service, by increasing permit fee charges for breaking and excavating any paved macadam street under certain terms and conditions; and an Ordinance amending Title of the Philadelphia Code entitled Regulation of Businesses, Trades, and Professions by adding a new section establishing a fee schedule for reinspections conducted by the Department of License & Inspections; and an Ordinance authorizing construction of sewers and appurtenant work and a portion of right-of-way for drainage, sewer, and water main purposes in the bed of a private street known as Blakiston Lane.
Thank you. The messages will be presented in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession. THE
Thank you. The next order of the business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended in order to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration at the time of introduction. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce four bills and two resolutions on my behalf and one resolution on your behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
An Ordinance amending Titles and of the Philadelphia Code, the Air Management Code, and Health Code, respectfully, by increasing the fees or establishing new fees for various health-related licenses, permits, certificates, approvals, and variances.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And an Ordinance amending Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code entitled A Regulation of Businesses, Trades, and Professions by adding a new section establishing a schedule for reinspections conducted by the Department of License & inspections.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And an Ordinance amending Section 11-203 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Sewer and water pipe and other underground services.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And an Ordinance approving the First Amendment of the Redevelopment proposal for the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And a Resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Philadelphia Urban Renewal Area.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. THE
And a Resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia which includes inter alia the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Philadelphia Redevelopment Area.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chief Clerk will please read the final resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 36th and 48th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An Ordinance authorizing John and Sharon Miller, 7800 Jackson Street, Philadelphia, owners of the property 7800 Jackson Street, 4400 Hartel Street, their successors and assignees, to construct and maintain privately owned underground water and sewer branch mains, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Madam President, I have one bill and two resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An Ordinance approving the First Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Frankford Creek Urban Renewal Area.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And a Resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 7th, 19th, 23rd, and 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed. The ayes are it, and the resolution is adopted. THE
And a Resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 7th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor with signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An Ordinance approving the First Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Tioga Urban Renewal Area.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And a Resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 11th, 13th, 17th, and 22nd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills and two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
An Ordinance repealing Chapter 2600 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Standards of conduct and ethics, and enacting a new Chapter 2600 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Standards of conduct and ethics, providing for the powers and duties of the Board of Ethics and the imposition of civil penalties and providing for the compensation of the members of the Board of Ethics, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And an Ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the 54th and Columbia Urban Renewal Area.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE
And a Resolution authorizing Council's Committee of the Whole to hold public hearings to investigate the findings and recommendations of the study performed by DJ Miller & Associates concerning the city's utilization of minority, female, and disadvantaged businesses in the procurement of goods and services, the Disparity Study.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. And I wish to speak on the resolution, as well. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I take no gratification in introducing this resolution, especially, and I mean especially, during the tenure of an African-American Mayor. Nevertheless, the unconscionable racial disparities in this city's contracting and procurement processes compels me to act in such a way as to bring light to this very critical issue of economic fairness. To be sure, economic disparity as seen by African-Americans and many other minorities rises almost above all other civil rights concerns. Wealth creation lies at the heart of racial equality, paralleling well-funded public school education, access to higher education, quality and affordable housing, healthcare, and full and upwardly mobile employment. That African-Americans as consumers contribute more than $600 billion annually to the national economy merits an outcry for economic fairness, balance, and room for much needed debate. Moreover, that Philadelphia between 1998 and 2003 awarded 96 percent of nearly $2.8 billion in contracts to companies owned by white males, while nearly half the city's population, which is African-American, received a very small fraction, impugns the elected leadership and challenges that leadership to set a new course immediately and just as quickly right the wrongs. I offer this resolution as a means of understanding where and how we went wrong, gathering the real data and confronting it, and righteously planning for the future. And, in that regard, I believe that public hearings and appointment of a task force bring order and legitimacy to changing the wrong course of things; perhaps, and more importantly so, restoring a sense of African-American trust in the government that has ostensibly failed them. My remarks, deliberately short, simply toll the bell, sound an alarm, and serve as a clearing call. There obviously will be plenty of opportunity to make speeches and, unfortunately, even finger-pointing. At the end of the day, with the work of the Committee of the Whole, the work of the task force, and, most importantly, the public's participation, I am certain that the minority, female, and disadvantaged business community will receive their fair share of this city's business and that every city resident will acknowledge that Philadelphia's future largely depends upon economic stability for everyone. I urge my colleagues, Madam President, to support this resolution. Thank you.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the Resolution will be referred to the Committee of the Whole. The Chief Clerk will please read the second Resolution. THE
A Resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 34th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the Resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the Resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the Resolution. THE
A Resolution declaring June 3, 2004, as Arts and Education Day.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the Resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer three bills and three resolutions. One is co-sponsored by you, and I would like to speak on one of the Resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
And Ordinance approving the 4th Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Independence Mall Urban Renewal Area.
And an Ordinance authorizing Karl's Furniture located 724 to 6 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, its successors and assignees, to construct and maintain a building addition on the north public footway, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And an Ordinance amending Chapter 10-400 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Noise and excessive vibration by amending Section 10-404 entitled Prohibited conduct, by providing for the issuance of tickets in commercial districts for violations of this chapter.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And a Resolution recognizing May 4, 2004, as Southwest Airlines Day.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. Last November the voters -- I am sorry. I move for the adoption of the Resolution.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Last November of voters of this city overwhelmingly approved the change to the City Charter that created the Office of the Insurance Public Advocate. To date, no one has been appointed to that office. For the sake of all Philadelphians, I believe that the time has come for that appointment. There are thousands of men, women, and children in this city that live without healthcare. These people are one accident or one serious illness away from disaster. Car insurance rates in the City of Philadelphia are the second highest in the country. The average Philadelphian pays $3,666 a year to their insurance company. That's over 10 percent of the average person's salary in the City of Philadelphia. The list of insurance-related problems continue, from medical malpractice, to obscene company profits. The foundation for all of them is the lack of a regulation of the industry and that there is no advocate to work on our behalf. That is why the voters of the city approved the Charter change. That is why we need to act now and ask the Mayor to appoint an advocate. I believe that the Mayor feels that this appointment of the consumer advocate fulfills the mandate. I actually understand his logic. Lance Haver is extremely competent and energetic. However, it is my belief that one man, no matter how competent and energetic, can address all the changes facing Philadelphia consumers. On April 8, I asked the Mayor by way of letter to make the appointment. This is an issue that must be addressed immediately. Not simply because the Charter now demands it, but because an insurance public advocate is in the best interest of all our residents. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of that particular Resolution at this time. THE
A Resolution urging Philadelphia Mayor John F. Street to appoint an insurance public advocate.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos. Did you want to speak on this, sir?
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a motion. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: I move the adoption of the Resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the Resolution is adopted. THE
And a Resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the New Kensington Fishtown Urban Renewal Area.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: I move for the adoption of the Resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the Resolution is adopted. I believe there was a third, southwest. THE
And a Resolution recognizing May 4, 2004, as Southwest Airlines Day.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Move for the adoption of the Resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the Resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
And Ordinance approving the 32nd Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. THE
And an Ordinance approving the 12th Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Cecil B. Moore Urban Renewal Area.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate Committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, no bills or resolutions today. Thank you.
Thank you. As there are no reports from 4/29/04 - STATED - 1ST READING committees today, the next order of business is the consideration of the calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar. THE
Bill No. 040008, an Ordinance establishing a neighborhood improvement district in an area that generally includes both sides of Germantown Avenue from 7640 to 8705, both sides of Bethlehem Pike from 10 to 104, and certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Germantown Avenue, to be known as the Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District.
The Chair agrees. That completes our First Reading Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bills No. 040185 and 040186 will be called up for Second Reading and Final 4/29/04 - STATED - 2ND READING Passage.
And Bill No. 040114, our last bill. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 040185. THE
An Ordinance establishing a No Truck Parking regulation on South 7th Street, between Washington Avenue and Fitzwater Street, both sides.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill being considered is Bill No. 040186. THE
An Ordinance establishing a No Truck Parking regulation on East Passyunk Avenue between Washington Avenue and Fitzwater Street, both sides.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. THE
The ayes are 16, the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I just want to take this moment to recognize the Democratic 4/29/04 - STATED - 2ND READING candidate fresh from his victory from the 190th Legislative District, the son of Congressman, late Congressman, Lucien Blackwell, son-in-law of Councilwoman Blackwell, Tommy Blackwell. (Applause.)
Councilwoman Miller, did you want to be recognized? Your light is on.
An Ordinance amending Section 10-800 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Safety by adding a new section 10-833 entitled Possession of weapons on school property, to prohibit the possessions of weapon in and around educational institutions, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question 4/29/04 - STATED - 2ND READING now is shall the bill last finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. I think the Councilwoman wanted to speak on the bill.
Thank you, Madam President. You know, this is the bill that adds a special layer of safety to schools and playgrounds, et cetera, as it relates to people carrying weapons. Everyone knows that in the past several months we have had, you know, a rash of violence in and around our neighborhoods, and this one particular incident at the Pierce Elementary School, which happens to be in my district. 4/29/04 - STATED - 2ND READING We have had hearings. Most people know we have had a lot of support from neighborhood-based groups and other types of national groups, like Million Mile March. We have been working, Councilman Clarke and I have been working, with the state representatives and other people at the state level. So I am just asking that our Council Members vote in support of this bill because we believe that this is a bill that is going to be passed at the state level. Thank you.
Thank you very much. Again, I would ask the Chief Clerk to call the roll. THE
The ayes are 16, the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That concludes the calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? Are there any speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. Mindful of what seems to be an increasing problems, I was interested in an answer from -- I guess it was Councilman DiCicco who requested that the Mayor appoint an insurance advocate. It is true over 200 years ago we fought against the British, but I think maybe we can learn a little bit. On Sunday night the British Prime Minister appears on TV, he shows up in front of a meeting of the legislature in Britain and answers all questions. I think it would be great if we could adopt that British policy for the City of Philadelphia and address questions of Mayor Street, who doesn't answer letters, he doesn't respond to phone calls. Maybe he will respond to a direct question from somebody in the legislative body. I, for one, would like to know, among many questions, how you deal with the school crisis, of kids getting hurt by automobiles, by dealing with the closing of the street or partial closing of the street for college students. I would like to understand what the relationship of the two things is. Other Council Members will have other kinds of questions. But certainly democracy would be much strengthen if there was a way to get the Mayor to respond to the questions we legitimately have and require answers for here in City Council. Thank you, Madam President.
You are welcome, sir. Are there any other speeches on the part of the majority? Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 6, at 10:00 a.m., 2004. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May the 6th. All in favor will say aye. opposed? The ayes have it, and Council stands adjourned until Thursday, May 6. Thank you. (Council adjourned at 11:25 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, April 29, 2004, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING _________________________ DEBRA A. WHITEHEAD