COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, June 12, 2008 10:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER 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 Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
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 Rabbi William Kuhn of the Congregation Rodeph Shalom. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Green. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Good morning. It's an honor to be here today. Our God and God of all humanity, we thank you for this opportunity to come together today to work on behalf of thy people. We pray for all who hold positions of leadership and responsibility in the life of this great city. Let your blessing rest upon responsive to your will so that our city may be to the world an example of justice and compassion. Deepen our love for our city and our desire to serve it. Strengthen our power of self-sacrifice for our city's welfare, and teach us to uphold its good name by our own right conduct. Make us see that the well-being of our city is in the hands of all of our citizens. Imbue us with zeal for the cause of liberty in this cradle of liberty, and strengthen the bonds of friendship among all of our inhabitants, and may the love of thy name hallow every home and every heart. Praise be thou, oh, Lord, who blesses thy people with peace. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Rabbi Kuhn for his very inspiring invocation. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 5, 2008, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 5th stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 5, 2008 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence. The Chair
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence for today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. I would request that I be recorded as voting yes on all bills and resolutions today and ask to be excused for the day. Thank you.
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 Rizzo, who will present a resolution recognizing the North Catholic Falcons Basketball Team. Will Mr. Tom Kaiser and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And I see that Councilman Rizzo is being joined by Councilman DiCicco and Councilman Kelly. Are the Falcons here? The Chair recognizes Councilman
Good morning, Madam President. Good morning, everyone. Recognizing, honoring and celebrating the North Catholic Falcons Basketball Team on the occasion of their 2008 Championship Season. Whereas, led by Senior Wing Guard Lenny Young averaging a team high of 17 points per game and Combo Guard Velton Jones, who both received Division 1 basketball scholarships, the Falcons amassed a record 22 wins and just five losses during the regular season; and COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Whereas, in February of 2008, North Catholic won its eighth Catholic League Basketball title in the school's 82-year history by defeating Archbishop Ryan High School by a score of 51 to 45; and Whereas, this basketball team title marks North Catholic Alumni and heads basketball Coach Mike McCarron's championship, and also serves as a benchmark for future basketball teams at North Catholic to achieve; and Whereas, 21 years ago, in 1987, three years before any of the current members of the basketball team were born, North Catholic won its last Philadelphia Catholic League Basketball title; and
Whereas, these young men of North Catholic not only have excelled physically, but academically as well, with many of the seniors on the basketball team receiving academic or athletic scholarships to attend college in the fall; and Whereas, the City of Philadelphia looks forward to future Philadelphia Catholic League Basketball titles of the North Catholic Falcons, all marked by athletic excellence and success thereof; Whereas, North Catholic High School now boasts one of the largest all-male alumni of any high school in the world, a great number whom proudly showed up to watch a masterfully coached title game at the University of Pennsylvania's Palestra; and
Be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, recognizing, honoring and celebrating the North Catholic Falcons Basketball Team on the occasion of their 2008 Championship Season. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the North Catholic Falcons Basketball Program further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. Congratulations, Falcons. (Applause.)
I assist Mike McCarron, the head coach at North who did the marvelous job. We appreciate this from our fine city. With us today are all sophomores to be juniors, Bobby McCore, Woody Reading, Mike Terry and Jallel Mack. And Bobby would like to say a few words. Thank you. (Applause.) MR. McCORE: On behalf of my teammates and I, we would like to thank you guys for having us here today. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present a resolution honoring of Realtors. Will Mr. Bill Festa and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium.
Thank you. This is a resolution honoring the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors on the occasion of celebrating their 100th anniversary. Whereas, the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors, GPAR, was founded on January 10, 1908 as the Philadelphia Real Estate Brokers Association. Since then, the Association has grown to become the most influential professional real estate association in Philadelphia; and Whereas, in 1908, loosely knit neighborhood broker groups carried out transactions in Philadelphia. What was then known as the Philadelphia Board of Realtors, PBR, the GPAR succeeded in unifying these groups and brought order to Philadelphia's real estate market; and Whereas, in the same year, the Board of Realtors became a founding member of the National Association of Realtors, which organized realtors on a national level; and Whereas, the Association has always been an advocate of private property owners, as well as an ardent crusader against government spending and unnecessary real estate tax increases. A real estate license law, drafted by the Board and passed by the Pennsylvania Legislature in 1929, became a model for similar laws adopted in other states; and Whereas, since its inception, the Association has worked diligently to improve the City of Philadelphia. In the mid to late '20s, GPAR was involved in development, mass transit, dealing with problems of deteriorating neighborhoods and keeping large industries from leaving Philadelphia. The Association continued to battle excessive real estate taxation and played an active role in the New Deal programs of the Roosevelt Administration during the '40s; Whereas, since the 1960s, GPAR has maintained a strong working relationship with the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations in dealing with urban housing; and Whereas, in 1995, PBR became the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors to reflect the growing scope of its members and services. GPAR continues to be a unifying force for its members and is still active in such issues as anti-graffiti and real estate tax assessment; Whereas, GPAR has formed a strong relationship with many City to promote and advocate private property rights and homeownership in Philadelphia; and Whereas, GPAR works to give back to the community and polices its own members by holding ethics hearings in response to consumer complaints. Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council does hereby honor the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors on the occasion of celebrating their 100th anniversary. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Mr. Festa for remarks.
Thank you for having me here today. It's exciting to be the President during the 100th year of the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors. high, we have served buyers, sellers and this great city to create a place that people are now proud to call home. And like City Council, every day we touch the lives of Philadelphians. Whether it's the first-time buyer, the last-time buyer, new buyers, empty nesters, whoever, we touch lives. Home sales are down, everyone knows that, and that's a fact, but we are also comparing that to the best seven years that this market, that this city has ever seen in real estate. And in a very bold move, Mayor Nutter and City Council made it possible for homeowners to avoid foreclosure. GPAR thanks you and applauds City government for taking these steps to make sure that our residents are able to stay in their homes. During the last century, we have worked hand in hand with Mayors, with Councils to make sure that our real and our residents have the means to be able to stay in their homes. Today we are seeing the fruits of that relationship. In closing, I want to just make a quick observation. Sometimes out of a negative comes a positive. I believe that the current gas crisis is going to help revitalize this city, and instead of spending 100, 200, 300 or more per week to commute to the City, people will choose to move back. Everything that they need is right around the corner, without paying high gas prices. And wait until they see what their winter heating bills will be. But those are the things that might paralyze family budgets, and the City is in a wonderful position to capitalize on that. Thank you for having us here today. I'm excited to see where the next 100 years is going to take us, the new lives that we are going to touch and our continued partnership with City Council behalf of the Greater Association of Realtors, I am honored to accept this citation in recognition of our centennial. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution recognizing the important work of the Child Care Facilities Fund. Will Ms. Christie Balka and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Tasco is being joined by Councilwoman Brown. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning we're here work of the Child Care Facilities Fund. Whereas, high-quality child care is an essential educational support to Philadelphia's 111,000 children from birth to age five, improving their chances to succeed academically, graduate from high school and become productive and responsible citizens; and
Whereas, child care is an essential support for Philadelphia's parents, enabling them to pursue activities and strengthen their family's economic security with the assurance that their children are being cared for in safe and healthy environments;
Whereas, many child care programs are not fully able to invest the total funds necessary to make the major repairs and facility improvements that are required to continue eligibility for state licensing and other state and federal support, as better environment for the children in their care; and
Whereas, the Child Care Facilities Fund was created with a $5 million investment from the City of Philadelphia in 2003 to improve child care quality by providing grants, loans and technical assistance to child care programs in Southeastern Pennsylvania; and
Whereas, under the management of the Non-Profit Finance Fund, it has leveraged more than $7 million in state and private contributions, enabling over 400 child care providers serving 14,000 children to make needed repairs and improvements and become eligible for licensing and quality incentives, including additional state and federal support; and
Whereas, research continues to prove that investing in high-quality child care has an excellent return to the educational, of a community; and
Whereas, strengthening the child care industry is an important part of the City's economic development through affording working parents child care, as well as providing jobs and small business vitality; and
Whereas, the City Council of Philadelphia strongly supports high-quality child care for all of the City's children and families and recognizes the important role that the Child Care Facilities Fund plays in the delivery of such. Now, therefore
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, declares and recognizes that the Child Care Facilities Fund is an important component to the City's child care industry and hereby recognizes the important work of the Child Care Facilities Fund. resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the representatives of the Child Care Facilities Fund as a sincere expression of this Council's commendation. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 13th of March 2008. Signed by President Verna, co-sponsored by Tasco and Blondell Reynolds Brown and supported by all members of Council. (Applause.)
Good morning. On behalf of all of the children from birth through age five who benefit from child care programs supported by the Child Care Facilities Fund, I would like to thank each and every member of City Council and the Administration for its significant going forward. Each day, thousands of child care providers perform miracles to ensure that Philadelphia's children develop the cognitive, social and emotional skills that will prepare them to succeed when they start school. It's hard to perform miracles when you're concerned about leaking pipes and fire hazards and leaking roofs and unsafe playground equipment, and this is where the Child Care Facilities Fund and the City's investment comes in. I would like to introduce Dr. Yu from the Rising Sun Children's Center and acknowledge Garvester Kelley of the Non-Profit Finance Fund, which administers the Fund. And while Dr. Yu is coming up here, I'd like to encourage each of you to take a look at the invitations on your desk from child care facilities in your district who are inviting you to come take a look during the summer months.
Good morning. Thank you for the introduction. Actually, I feel honored to be selected to describe on behalf of Child Care Facilities Fund. My name is Jin Yu, Executive Director of Korean Community Development Service Center and also Rising Sun Children's Center. Rising Sun Children's Center is located in Councilwoman Tasco's district, and also I'd like to thank her for her strong support not only for child care, but also our agency's programs. Thank you. Rising Sun Child Care Center get children from low-income neighborhoods that -- children come from diverse ethnic backgrounds: 70 percent African-American, 15 percent Latino-American, ten percent Asian-American and five percent Caucasian. So we are proud of serving children from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Rising Sun Children's Center 3. That means that it meets the high standards set by the State of Pennsylvania for its Keystone STAR Program. In 2006, we need the actual classrooms for additional children, but we had two existing apartments and we want to renovate apartments and make two classrooms, and with a grant of $40,000 from Child Care Facilities Fund, we were able to renovate the building, also converted two apartments to child care space, and currently we use the classrooms for Pre-K Counts Program children, that we receive a contract with the School District and provide 27 children who are enrolled in Pre-K Counts Program. And the fact that we have improved facility helps us to serve the kids who are enrolled in Pre-K Counts Program. Without the $40,000 from Child Care Facilities Fund, we wouldn't be able to do those kind of things, improve available for additional kids. So we really thank the Child Care Facilities Fund, also the support of City Council for Child Care Facilities Fund. I thank you for your continuing support of Child Care Facilities Fund. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller, who will present a resolution proclaiming June the 18th, 2008 as "Philadelphia CPR Training Day." Will Mr. Lance Becker and Mrs. Michelle Spino-Bolles and those accompanying them please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And I see that Councilwoman Miller is being joined by Councilmembers Brown and Sanchez. The Chair recognizes
Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. Good morning, everyone. Proclaiming June 18, 2008 as "Philadelphia CPR Training Day." Whereas, each year, an estimated 166,000 lives are claimed by sudden cardiac arrest; and Whereas, the Heart Association estimates that more than 95 percent of cardiac arrest victims die before they get to the hospital; and Whereas, according to the Heart Association, about 75 percent to 80 percent of all cardiac arrests outside a hospital occur at home, and effective CPR can double or triple a victim's survival odds; and
When a bystander performs CPR, quick action is the key. The faster a bystander starts giving CPR, the more likely the victim is to survive; and Whereas, studies show that the chance of survival for people who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest fell by ten percent for every minute following the attack that CPR was not administered. After about four minutes, permanent brain damage begins to occur; and Whereas, in fact, more people die from sudden cardiac arrest than from breast cancer, prostate cancer, AIDS, house fires, handguns and traffic accidents combined; and
Whereas, since 1971, the City has trained 650,000 ordinary citizens, from taxi drivers to restaurant employees; and Whereas, according to the report by USA Today, Philadelphia has a ten percent bystander rate and only four percent of its population has been trained in CPR; Whereas, the American Heart Association trains ten million people in CPR annually, but we must do more. For arrest, a bystander who performs immediate CPR and defibrillation with an AED could make a life or death difference. Now, therefore
Be it resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that June 18, 2008 forevermore be declared "Philadelphia CPR Training Day" and that we honor the American Heart Association and the University of Pennsylvania for their tireless efforts in training the life-saving techniques necessary in CPR. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the American Heart Association and the University of Penn as further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. (Applause.)
Well, thank you name is Lance Becker and I'm here as an American Heart Association volunteer, which I've been for about 25 years. I'm also here because I'm a Philadelphia resident and I work in the emergency department, and if any of you are real unlucky, you might see me some evening looking down at you. So take a good look, because you'll want to get treated at that point. I work in West Philadelphia and it's a busy, busy place. The reason that I'm here -- and I put a little recent Journal article, if you will, on the Council's desks. This cover of Newsweek I think captures what this is all about very well, and what it says is, "This man was dead. He isn't anymore." And those are the real challenges that we face and that we work on every day at the University of Pennsylvania. And we have a special center that is really devoted to the new science of figuring out how we'll bring who have been dead for a period of time. And the good news is that -- I'll quote one of my favorite movies. I don't know how many of you have children, but, you know, the best movie I've ever really seen was the Princess Bride, and I must have watched it a hundred times with my kids, and there's a scene where Billy Crystal has the dead hero in front of him and he says, Oh, you think you're so smart here. He's only mostly dead, and mostly dead means he's a little bit alive. And it turns out that scientists are actually figuring out that Billy Crystal was right. We are going to be able to return people to the land of the living who were mostly dead, and that's sort of the new work that's going on. Now, the reason why this is such an important resolution is, there's something that all of you can do every day to increase the chances of survival, and that's to know how to rescue somebody hands doing CPR. And so I applaud this resolution. I hope that the members will take the opportunity to take 20 minutes and learn how to do CPR at lunch today. This is a disease that kills a thousand Philadelphians every year, and these are people who are just like all of us, walking around doing our jobs, when they're struck by sudden cardiac arrest. The opportunity to save people is enormous. I encourage you to learn CPR, and I thank Councilwoman Miller and all of you for your support. (Applause.)
I work for the American Heart Association, but also I personally have been affected by heart disease, and recently actually my father, who worked in this building, passed away of sudden cardiac arrest down the street during the day. He was in work here. -- I don't know if any of you know him, but in November was here and walked down the street, walked to his car and ended up dying behind the wheel of his car from a sudden cardiac arrest. So I personally am here to say it's a devastation to our family, but also there's so much more that can be done as a community. So I just would like to say knowing CPR is one of the main things that you can do and knowing the warning signs of a heart attack so that you can actually activate 9-1-1 and get someone help as soon as possible. So thank you. (Applause.)
I just want to remind those Councilmembers and staffers that signed up for the CPR training today immediately following City Council in the Caucus Room, and we also have lunch for you. And next Wednesday there's going to be training pretty much all day. We'll send you out a memo in -- we're using the Mayor's Reception Room for next Wednesday's training. So as soon as Council is over, we can just go across the hall. And as he indicated, it's only 20 minutes, but we also have lunch. Thank you.
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on June 9, 2008, I signed the following bills that were passed by Council at its session on June 5, 2008: Bill No. 080471, Bill No. 080470 and Bill No. 080472.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal, and I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and 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 three resolutions signed by nearly everyone in Council. One resolution is co-sponsored by Councilman Clarke, Councilman Jones and Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution calling for hearings before the City Council Committee on Housing, Neighborhood Development and the Homeless to discuss the Administration's housing agenda and how the possible reorganization of the Redevelopment Authority, the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation, the Vacant Property Review Committee and the Public Property Department affect the flow of information, land and property to citizens and business interests in the City of Philadelphia.
Are you asking that that be referred to a committee?
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. Councilman Kenney?
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution honoring and recognizing Wynne Alexander for her impressive career as a journalist, author, composer, civil rights activist and international recording artist, and commending her on the accomplishment of her groundbreaking new book, Get It from the Drums.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 24th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I offer one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Public Safety to hold a public hearing to investigate City Hall's Emergency Plan and current policies and procedures for addressing both Large Scale Emergencies and Small Individual Emergencies.
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. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," by requiring all persons who file a business privilege tax return to include as part of such return a disclosure form summarizing certain information included on the return, which disclosure forms shall be public information, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," by expanding the program under which a credit against business privilege taxes is given to certain businesses that contribute monies to community development corporations undertaking economic development activities within the City of Philadelphia.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution this morning.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution requesting the Administration through the Office of Transportation and Utilities to commission a study to provide recommendations on the location, demand and usage for Public Use Bicycle stations for the entire area of Philadelphia and to explore the various business models for such systems.
Thank you, 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. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code by prohibiting newsstands on both sides of 5th Street between Ludlow and Market Streets.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke. Councilman Clarke.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing the accomplishments of the Basketball, Cross Country/Track and Field, and Tennis Teams at Community College of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 29th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by adding a new definition for "Mechanical Access Parking Garage" and adding it as a permanent use in certain residential, commercial and industrial districts, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by prohibiting the sale of foie gras in the City of Philadelphia and providing penalties for violations, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Madam President, the Committee of the Whole offers two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Resolution No. 080553, entitled "A resolution confirming the appointment of Gilbert Rowe to the Malt and Brewed Beverage Hearing Board"; and Resolution No. 080554, entitled, "A resolution confirming the appointment of Melissa Kim to the Malt and Brewed Beverage Hearing Board," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached resolutions to Council with a favorable
Thank you. The resolutions just reported from committee will be considered at the end of today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports nine bills out with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 080080, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by adding a new 14-908, entitled 'Queen Village Neighborhood Conservation District'"; and Bill No. 080249, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land and approving a Master Plan of Development"; and Bill No. 080250, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled 'Miscellaneous,' by adopting a new Section 14-1635, entitled 'River Road District Controls'"; and Bill No. 080251, entitled "An ordinance establishing a neighborhood improvement district in an area that generally includes the east and west sides of Aramingo Avenue starting at 2700 Aramingo Avenue to 3995 Aramingo Avenue, to be known as the Aramingo Avenue Shopping District"; and Bill No. 080381, entitled "An Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Delaware Avenue, Fairmount Avenue, Front Street and Poplar Street"; and Bill No. 080437, entitled "An ordinance approving the thirty-seventh amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area"; and Bill No. 080469, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by State Road, Poquessing Creek, the Delaware River and Grant Avenue"; and Bill No. 080491, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Harbison Avenue and Bridge Street"; and 080527, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-2007 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Historic Buildings, Structures, Sites, Objects and Districts,' to permit the historic designation of public interior portions of buildings, and making technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee, with the exception of Bill Nos. 080251, 381 and 527. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Bill Nos. 080251, 080381 and 080527 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Finance reports out five bills with a
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 080486, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200, entitled 'Keystone Opportunity Zone and Economic Development District,' by providing for the extension of benefits for certain properties in certain subzones"; and Bill No. 080500, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing, on behalf of the City, to file applications with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant"; and Bill No. 080501, entitled "An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2009 the expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works"; and Bill No. 080525, entitled "An ordinance constituting the ninth supplemental ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance"; and Bill No. 080526, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-1804 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Authorization of Net Income Tax,' by revising the rate of tax, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit bills just reported from committee. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Law and Government reports two bills and one resolution with a favorable
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 080169, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the transfer of powers and duties of the Fairmount Park Commission to the Department of Recreation"; and Bill No. 080468, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-1103 of The Philadelphia Code, to provide that certain employees may take unpaid leave from work to address domestic or sexual violence"; and Resolution No. 080181, entitled "A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the transfer of the powers and duties of the Fairmount Park Commission to the Department of Recreation," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached resolution and bills to the Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 080169 and 080468. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution No. 080181 will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Public Property reports out two bills with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 080496, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority the properties known as 917, 919, 923, 925, 927, 929, 931 South 22nd Street"; and Bill No. 080541, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to lease from the School District of Philadelphia certain property located in the vicinity of Byberry and Academy Roads for further sublease to the Academy Sports Association, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 080496 and 080541. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports 22 bills out with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 080426, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Orthodox Street"; and Bill No. 080428, entitled "An Longacre Holdings to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the northwest corner of Mifflin Street"; and Bill No. 080429, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 129 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of 23rd Street"; and Bill No. 080430, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, approved February 16, 2006, entitled 'An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 266,' by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein"; and Bill No. 080431, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of southward"; and Bill No. 080432, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 350 in an area northeast of Susquehanna Road"; and Bill No. 080434, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Leithgow Street south of Reno Street"; and Bill No. 080436, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of the relocated Harlan Street from 19th Street to 20th Street"; and Bill No. 080466, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 11-600 of The Philadelphia Code, by adding a new Section that requires that certain conditions be placed on any permit that authorizes the temporary closing of a sidewalk or roadway lane"; and 080467, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 109 by striking from the City Plan and vacating legally open portions of Melon Street"; and Bill No. 080487, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 269 by placing on the City Plan Health Science Drive from Civic Center Boulevard to Convention Avenue"; and Bill No. 080488, entitled "An ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Civic Center Boulevard between Health Science Drive and Convention Avenue"; and Bill No. 080489, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of Health Science Drive from Civic Center Boulevard to Convention Avenue"; and Bill No. 080490, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of a portion of City Plan No. 44 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Race Street"; and Bill No. 080492, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on both sides of Knorr Street"; and Bill No. 080493, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Commercial Activities on Streets,' by including certain portions of Frankford and Torresdale Avenues within the boundaries subject to the provisions of this Section"; and Bill No. 080494, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Bikim Divine to construct and maintain two balconies at 1109 South 23rd Street"; and Bill No. 080497, entitled "An ordinance granting permission to Massimo Criniti, owner of Criniti Restaurante Italiano, to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe"; and 080502, entitled "An ordinance to amend an ordinance authorizing LaSalle University to construct, own and maintain an overhead pedestrian bridge crossing 5600 East Wister Street"; and Bill No.
080503, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the James Thomas Development Company to construct, operate and maintain a building extension located at 4300 Boone Street at Roxborough Avenue"; and Bill No. 080504, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of Quentin and Salaignac Streets"; and Bill No. 080523, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Refuse and Littering,' by prohibiting the disposal of household or commercial refuse in public receptacles," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the 22 bills that have just been read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read our First Reading Calendar for today. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown for a report from the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, to which was referred Bill No. 080427, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 15-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Fairmount Park,' by removing 5100 Pennypack Street from the areas under the the Fairmount Park Commission"; and Bill No. 080540, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Executive Director of Fairmount Park to enter into an air rights license agreement with Main Street Partners to construct a deck over a certain portion of the Manayunk Canal Towpath at 2 Rector Street, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 080427 and 080540. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Miller for a report from the Committee on Public Safety.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Public Safety reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Safety, to which was referred Bill No. 080425, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to execute a Mutual Aid Agreement by and between the City of Philadelphia and the State of New Jersey, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 080425.
Do I 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING hear a second? (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 080080, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING Planning," by adding a new Section 14-908, entitled "Queen Village Neighborhood Conservation District."
And Bill No. 080249, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by the County Line, a Railroad ROW, Shawmont Avenue and the Schuylkill River.
And Bill No. 080250, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by adopting a new Section 14-1635, entitled "River Road District Controls."
And Bill No. 080437, an ordinance approving the 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING thirty-seventh amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
And Bill No. 080469, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by State Road, Poquessing Creek, the Delaware River and Grant Avenue.
And Bill No. 080491, to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Harbison Avenue, Tulip Street, Eadom Street and Bridge Street.
And Bill No. 080486, an ordinance amending Chapter 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING 19-3200, by providing for the extension of benefits to certain properties in certain subzones, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 080500, an ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing, on behalf of the City, to file applications with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant.
And Bill No. 080501, an ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2009 Capital Budget providing for the expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works for Fiscal Year 2010 through 2014.
And Bill No. 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING 080525, an ordinance constituting the ninth supplemental ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance.
And Bill No. 080526, an ordinance amending Section 19-1804 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Authorization of Net Income Tax," by revising the rate of tax, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 080169, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter.
And Bill No. 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING 080468, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-1103 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Unlawful Employment Practices,' to provide that certain employees may take unpaid leave from work to address domestic or sexual violence."
And Bill No. 080496, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority the properties known as 917, 919, 923, 925, 929, 931 South 22nd Street.
And Bill No. 080541, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to lease from the School District of Philadelphia certain property located in the vicinity of Byberry and Academy Road. 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 080426, an ordinance authorizing the paving of Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Orthodox Street.
And Bill No. 080428, an ordinance granting permission to Longacre Holdings to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the northwest corner of Mifflin Street.
Bill No. 080429, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 129 to its terminus at the southwesterly right-of-way line of the Norristown Branch.
The Chair agrees. 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill 080430, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 051234, approved February 16, 2006, by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein.
And Bill No. 080431, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Clifton Street.
And Bill No. 080432, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 350 in the area northeast of Susquehanna Road and northwest of Verree Road.
The Chair agrees. 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 080434, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Leithgow Street south of Reno Street.
And Bill No. 080436, an ordinance authorizing the paving of relocated Harlan Street from 19th Street to 20th Street.
And Bill No. 080466, an ordinance amending Chapter 11-600 of The Philadelphia Code, by adding new a Section that requires that certain conditions be placed on any permit that authorizes the temporary closing of a sidewalk or roadway.
The Chair agrees. 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 080467, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 109 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Melon Street.
And Bill No. 080487, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 269.
And Bill No. 080488, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Civic Center Boulevard between Health Science Drive and Convention Avenue.
And Bill No. 080489, an ordinance authorizing the 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING paving of Health Science Drive from Civic Center Boulevard to Convention Avenue.
And Bill No. 080490, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on City Plan No. 44 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Race Street from 33rd Street to 34th Street.
And Bill No. 080492, an ordinance establishing a no parking regulation on both sides of Knorr Street.
And Bill No. 080493, an ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to the regulation of newspaper boxes on the public sidewalk.
The 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING Chair agrees.
And Bill No. 080494, an ordinance authorizing Bikim Divine to construct and maintain two balconies at 1109 South 23rd Street.
And Bill No. 080497, an ordinance granting permission to Massimo Criniti, owner of Criniti's Restaurante, to construct, own and maintain on open-air sidewalk cafe located on the east sidewalk of South Broad Street.
And Bill No. 080502, an ordinance to amend an ordinance authorizing LaSalle University to construct, own and maintain an overhead pedestrian bridge crossing at 5600 East Wister Street.
The Chair agrees. 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 080503, an ordinance authorizing the James Thomas Development Company to construct, operate and maintain a building extension located 4300 Boone Street.
And Bill No. 080504, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of Quentin and Salaignac Streets.
And Bill No. 080523, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Refuse and Littering," by prohibiting the disposal of household or commercial refuse in public receptacles.
And Bill No. 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING 080427, an ordinance amending Chapter 15-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fairmount Park," by removing 5100 Pennypack Street from the area under the care and jurisdiction of the Fairmount Park Commission.
And Bill No. 080540, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Executive Director of the Fairmount Park to enter into an air rights license agreement with Main Street Partners.
And Bill No. 080425, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to execute a Mutual Aid Agreement by and between the City of Philadelphia and the State of New Jersey, under certain terms and conditions.
The 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING Chair agrees. That concludes our First Reading Calendar for today, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up the bills which will be considered today. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Madam President?
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. Earlier I mentioned in the Caucus Room that I would be offering an amendment to a bill that was voted out of committee yesterday. Is this the appropriate time?
Yes. This would be fine. What is the bill number? COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: I would ask that the rules of Council be suspended to permit an amendment on first reading of Bill No. 080080. (Duly seconded.) 6/12/08 - STATED - 1ST READING
It has been moved and seconded that the amendments be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
Was the amendment -- I'm sorry. Were the amendments circulated? COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Yes, they were.
They were? Because I don't have a copy. Okay. We have a motion to suspend the rules. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Chair again recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: I move 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING that the amendment that's just been offered be approved to Bill No. 080080. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions that appear on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for today.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, Bill Nos. 080085-A, 080382, 080495 -
I'm sorry. 080424, Councilman Greenlee, you wanted that called up; did you not? 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
I'll call it up. Should I begin again? Bill 080085-A, Bill 080382, 080495, 080402, 080403, 080435, 080499, and 080148 are being called for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for today. Bill 080424 will be amended, as well as Bill 080498. All other bills will be held.
Thank you. At this time, the Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080085-A.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, providing for protections against 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING sale of cars in need of substantial repairs, commonly known as the "lemon law," all under certain terms and conditions.
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.
Councilman Green voting aye. Councilman Greenlee. 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080382.
An ordinance authorizing Mariner Commercial Properties, owner and developer of 1441 Chestnut Street, to construct, own and maintain various encroachments to be installed in conjunction with a mixed-use development, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080424.
An ordinance amending Title 2 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City-County Consolidation," by adding a new Chapter providing that prior to the recording of any deed, a check of record ownership be conducted by the Department of Records, appropriate documentation to be submitted to the Department with certain deeds.
Thank you, Madam President. I'll be offering an amendment to this bill, and if I could just explain it very briefly. The amendments were suggested by the Law Department to deal with language in the bill that it feels causes 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING some conflicts with state law. Quite frankly, I and a lot of others don't necessarily agree with the Law Department that there is a conflict, but I've been assured by the Mayor of his personal commitment that if Council passes this bill next week, he will make sure that he works with those of us who have been involved in this issue for a long time, including Councilwoman Miller and myself, that the necessary procedures are implemented in the Records Department to help curtail what I feel has been an epidemic of stolen houses. So in that spirit of cooperation, I move the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
Those 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING opposed? (No response.)
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for the management of the City's wastewater treatment solids, all under certain terms and conditions.
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.
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye. 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Oh, I'm sorry. The count was 16 to one. Excuse me. And the record will reflect that Councilwoman Blackwell voted in the negative. We will now consider Bill No. 080498.
An ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner and the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a service contract with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, all under certain terms and conditions.
Yes. Madam President, I have an amendment to this bill. It's been prepared by the Administration. I have agreed with it. They did it at my request. They prepared it at my request. And I would also state that it has been circulated to all Councilmembers in the Caucus Room.
Thank you. Do you want to move for -- do you have a motion?
Should it be read first? I'll move the adoption of the amendment. I'm sorry.
Only if you want to. If everybody has a copy, that would be fine. Do you want to read it? 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
Okay. Everyone has a copy of the amendment? Thank you. Councilman O'Neill, would you make a motion?
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the amendment is 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer an amendment to the same bill, 080498, on behalf of Council. It has been circulated.
I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the amendment is adopted. The Chief Clerk will please 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING read the title of Bill No. 080402.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into an amendment to an existing sublease between the Philadelphia Municipal Authority for the City's use of certain office space located at 100 South Broad Street.
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.
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye. 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080403.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Executive Director of Fairmount Park, allowing SEPTA to use portions of 185 West Allens Lane and 7301 to 7321 Cresheim Road, under certain 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING terms and conditions.
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.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080435.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to transfer to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a certain parcel of land known as 3548 Germantown Avenue.
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.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING 080499.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a lease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority for further sublease to Philadelphia Biosolids Services, all under certain terms and conditions.
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.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero -- I'm sorry. The record will indicate that the vote was 16 to one, Councilwoman Blackwell having voted in the negative. We will now consider Bill No. 080148.
An ordinance amending Section 17-107 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contractors: Labor-Management Relationships," to change the method by which the prevailing wage and prevailing working conditions 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING are calculated for certain occupational classifications, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion on Resolution No. 080553.
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. (Aye.)
Those 6/12/08 - STATED - 2ND READING opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion on Resolution No. 080554.
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. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I'd like to bring to your attention and, of course, to my colleagues' attention about a current labor dispute which may affect the safety of our citizens who use our public transportation system. I would like to point out that the Transit Police make $10,000 less than their brothers and sisters of the Philadelphia Police force, even though they go through the exact same rigorous training as their brothers and sisters of the Philadelphia Police force. In addition, as evidenced by the recent spate of serious crimes and one terrible murder in the subway system, Transit cops face the same danger cop colleagues above the ground. And with gas prices rising, public transportation ridership is way up, putting more pressure on the Transit cops to protect more and more people with inadequate resources. And because their salary and benefit packages are so under market, attrition is a serious problem for the Transit Police. The average annual attrition rate is 20 percent, which is way, way too high. And it's logical that this is going to happen, because if you deal with the same training and risk as a beat cop, why would you stay on as a Transit cop to make 10,000 less a year and have higher benefits, co-pay? They haven't had a raise in a half a decade. The three percent annual salary increases on the table from SEPTA is way, way too low. That equates to a mere $900 a year, and that's before taxes for an entry-level Transit cop. The maximum salary level for a Transit cop is $49,000. At the very least, SEPTA administration should submit to binding arbitration to the police as a show of good faith. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I rise to talk about the -- we have information that on June 19th, the Board of Revision of Taxes will consider a complaint filed by an advocacy group, a tax advocacy group --
Councilwoman, I'm sorry. Okay. Please proceed. We're having a hard time hearing you.
Thank you, Madam President. We understand that on June 19th, the Board of Revision of Taxes will hear an issue that an advocacy group is bringing before them to deal with the issue of full valuation. I understand in the Northeast Times article just yesterday there were some quotes by Controller Butkovitz dealing with this issue, but I rise to say as all of us know, this Council supported; in fact, we had on the ballot in May of '07, the question of whether or not we should change taxes, and the voters voted five to two in agreement that we do not change taxes. And certainly this whole issue of full tax valuation obviously is coming before -- there's a threat of a lawsuit before Common Pleas Court, and certainly we urge those who want to make this change to consider that the voters of this city voted five to two to sustain our issue that taxes not be changed and that we not go to full tax valuation. So we ask the Board to consider this on their June 19th Board hearing. Thank you very much.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. As Chairman of this Council's Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities, I've become aware, like my colleague, Councilman Kelly, of the threat, the impending threat of a job action, a strike, by the Fraternal Order of Transit Police this afternoon at 2:00 p.m. These are 200 first responders certified in homeland security for our transportation system. SEPTA and the union seemingly have come to an impasse after a 30-month negotiation process. I want to urge today that cooler heads prevail and that we do everything possible to avert this job to the unions and I've asked them to continue to engage in negotiations right up to their deadline and, if necessary, beyond their deadline, and they are considering this request. As we are aware, the unions have also brought a lawsuit attempting to settle whether impartial binding negotiations can be used to deal with this union negotiation, and I'm asking them once again to allow the court system to consider that possibility as opposed to a strike. In the long run, it makes sense for the State Legislature to cover these first responders under Act 111, and I've reached out to my colleagues at the State level, including Senator Hughes, to consider amending this Act to cover SEPTA Transit Police. Ultimately, I am requesting that cooler heads prevail, that the negotiations continue. We cannot afford our subway systems are any less safe because of the lack of professionals that are trained in homeland security not being there. I hope that cooler heads prevail today. I've reached out to them to consider not taking this job action, and I would urge my colleagues to join me in this request. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Actually, I just wanted to -- Councilwoman Miller had to leave briefly from the Chambers, and on her behalf, I just wanted to remind everyone to please go into the Caucus Room for CPR training.
Okay. Thank you. speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Now the big one. Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June 19th, 10:00 a.m., 2008.
Do I hear a second and a third and a fourth? (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June 19th. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Thank you. CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on June 12, 2008, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)