COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 15, 2008, 10:16 a.m. COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: Anna C. Verna, President Jannie L. Blackwell Blondell Reynolds Brown Darrell L. Clarke Frank DiCicco W. Wilson Goode, Jr. Bill Green William K. Greenlee Curtis Jones, Jr. Jack Kelly James F. Kenney Joan L. Krajewski Donna Reed Miller Brian J. O'Neill Frank Rizzo Maria D. Quinones-Sanchez Marian B. Tasco V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Specialists 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670 5/15/08 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and 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 is pleased to welcome Father Gary Pacitti. He is the pastor of the Annunciation Blessed Virgin Mary parish is the guest of Councilman Kenney. I would ask all members and guests to please rise.
Good morning. Let us pray. Heavenly Father. As we begin our prayer, we ask thank you open our minds and our hearts to your grace, Your grace that is Your mighty presence among. As we gather, we remember that 5/15/08 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION You are our father and that despite distinctions and divisions among us that sometimes arise that we are Your children. We are all brothers and sisters, we are all family. And so we pray for the spirit of unity, mindful that we have many details to tend to and many difficult decisions to make but that we also have a higher purpose: to love one another; or, as the scripture says, to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. Father, we come to You in turbulent times. Recent calamities in Asia have left the world stunned with images of massive loss, the loss even of our most innocent, our children. And while these events are far away, we are united in prayer for all those suffering. And closer to home, we are also painfully aware of the suffering here in our own city; suffering not from natural calamity but from our own 5/15/08 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION frailty, dysfunction, weakness, and sometimes, we dare say, evil. So we pray, Father, for healing, healing from the terrible violence that we see in our homes, in our streets, and even in the halls of our schools. We pray for all the victims of violence and murder and their families that are now suffering to grievously. Father, we pray for healing in the form of new solutions to the many problems that plague our city. We ask for the spirit of confidence, knowing that with Your help, all things are possible. We pray, Father, bless the members of our City Council who have taken on a heavy responsibility and burden. We ask that You bless each of them with the spirit of wisdom and understanding and the spirit of counsel and fortitude. Father, we know that we can do better as we 5/15/08 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION strive to live up to our name as The City of Brotherly Love. And, finally, Father, we pray that you pour out Your grace in abundance upon all our chosen leaders and renew their energy, fill them with hope, and afford them your guidance. And this, we pray, in the name the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Thank you, Father. The Chair thanks Father Pacitti for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. * * *
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting Thursday, of May 8, 2008, and the Chair 5/15/08 STATED - JOURNAL APPROVAL recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 8th stand approved. (Motion duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 8, 2008, stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. * * *
The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, on behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today. 5/15/08 STATED - LEAVES OF ABSENCE REQUESTS
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, at this point, I have not been asked to request any leave of absence for the Republicans, so if that changes, I'll let you know.
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 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution declaring May 24th through May 26th as "Cherokee Heritage Week." Will Chief Buffy Red Feather and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilwoman Tasco and honorees come forward.)
Thank you, Madam President. As always, it is a pleasure today to present this resolution declaring May 24th through the 26th, 2008 as "Cherokee Heritage Weekend" in celebration of the 15th annual Cherokee Indian Festival. Whereas, predating the arrival of the European explorers by almost 500 years, the Cherokee Indians occupied much of the southern Appalachian Mountain area to the 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS eastern seaboard of what is now the United States and provided the new settlers with techniques of working and living on the land; And whereas, the Cherokee nation today consists of three major groups -- the Eastern Band, the Western Band, and the Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy -- representing the largest Native-American group in the United States; And whereas, the Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy of Pennsylvania, which was designated as an official Cherokee group in July 1988, with Buffy Red Feather Brown appointed as chief and Levy Newell, III as the vice chief, now counts 18,375 NativeAmericans within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; And whereas, the Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy of Pennsylvania has flourished since its formation, the Tribal Council has been successful 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS in preserving the Cherokee language, whose written alphabet was invented in 1821 by Sequoia, making it the first Native-American newspaper, The Phoenix, possible in 1828; And whereas, the Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy also offers the culture of the Cherokee Nation to students in public and private schools and universities throughout the Commonwealth, with exhibits of dance, arts, crafts, music and Cherokee regalia and ideals; And whereas, the Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy of Pennsylvania preserves their tradition of great respect for learning and education through its scholarship fund and the sponsorship of the Cherokee Festival, enabling the award of four-year scholarships to worthy and needy students; And whereas, the Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy will host 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS representatives from at least ten states at the Cherokee Festival over the Memorial Day weekend in its fundraising activities; Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we declare May 24th through the 26th, 2008, "Cherokee Heritage Weekend" and salute the 15th annual Cherokee Indian effectively. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Chief Buffy Red Feather Brown for her zealous representation of the Cherokee people and her embodiment of the Indian way and spirit as an expression of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 10th of April 2008, signed by President Verna, introduced by Marian Tasco, and 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS supported by all members of City Council. And we thank you so much. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Chief Red Feather for remarks. CHIEF BUFFY RED FEATHER: Wado. "Wado" in Cherokee means "thank you." We bring many thanks to City Council for all of the times that they recognize us. But, you know, I'm getting special honor and they're constantly calling my name, but it's because of the people behind me: They're the ones who make me look good, my tribal Council. So I'd like a hand of applause for them. (Applause.) CHIEF BUFFY RED FEATHER: We had brought with us today baskets, a gift for some of the people. I'm sorry that we don't have one for each of the 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS City Council, but I think I would probably need a truck to bring it in. But in the basket, there is a container that has sage in it. There's also a write-up so you'll know what the smudging of the sage means. There's also a small dream catcher with an explanation of the dream catcher. And when we go -- no matter where we go, even to a presentation like this, we end up with some type of education going on. Once again, thank you so much for this great honor. I am honored and I am blessed. Wado (Applause.) CHIEF BUFFY RED FEATHER: At this time, I don't know if our mayor has a representative here. If so, I have a basket for the Mayor. We also have a basket for Marian Tasco. We also have a basket for Donna Reed Miller; is she present? 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS (Councilwoman Miller comes forward.) CHIEF BUFFY RED FEATHER: Very good. Okay, Donna Reed Miller is our representative and, as you know, we submit many, many grants, and Donna Reed Miller is always very supportive of the grants that we submit, so we say wado to Donna.
Thank you. (Applause.) CHIEF BUFFY RED FEATHER: At this time, last, but certainly not least, a basket for President Anna Verna.
Oh, thank you very much. Thank you so much. CHIEF BUFFY RED FEATHER: Once again, wado. (Applause.)
Thank you. 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones, who will present a resolution recognizing Beeber Dimner Middle School Girls Basketball Team. Will Coach Gladys Watson and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers Jones, Blackwell, Brown, and honorees come forward.)
I see that Councilman Jones is being joined by Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Brown.
It is with a great deal of pride that we in Council recognize and honor and celebrate Beeber Dimner Middle School's Girls Basketball Team, the Bobcats, and their 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS coach, Gladys Watson, for their first Public League Middle School Championship. Whereas, on the heels of an undefeated season, Beeber Dimner Middle School Bobcats went on their win for the first time, receiving the public school championship and middle school championship. On Thursday, May 28th, year 2008, the girls were victorious over Wilson Middle School, which happens to be in the 7th District. Their basketball team won by a score of 22 to 6; And whereas, Gladys Watson joined the Beeber Dimner Middle School Girls Basketball Team, the Bobcats, as their head coach during the season of 2006 and 2007 and...
... Whereas, since her tenure as coach, Gladys Watson has fostered a winning attitude of team spirit and cooperation with a team of eight girls; 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS And whereas, the high standards set by Coach Watson have laid the foundation for her players to succeed at all times they have desired to achieve; And whereas, Coach Watson strengthens family ties between players and parents, and the level of parents' support exceeded all expectations. Now, therefore...
... resolved that the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby recognizes, honors, and celebrates the Beeber Dimner Middle School Girls Basketball Team, the Bobcats, and Coach Gladys Watson for their first -- underscore first, exclamation point -- Girls Basketball Public League Middle School Championship. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Coach Gladys Watson as 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS evidence of the sincere admiration of this legislative body, signed by the President of City Council, Anna C. Verna, introduced by Councilmembers Curtis Jones, Jr. and W. Wilson Goode, Jr., and sponsored by all of the members of the Philadelphia City Council. Congratulations, ladies. (Applause.) (Councilwoman Tasco assumes position of meeting chair.)
The Chair recognizes Coach Watson for remarks. COACH WATSON: Good morning. I'd like to take this time to thank City Council for recognizing the Girls Basketball Team. I'd also like to thank God for allowing us to be victorious. I'd like to thank the parents for being very supportive of her team. I'd like to thank my ladies, my babies, my little girls, who stood strong in all adversity. And I'd like 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS to thank Mr. Jones for allowing us to be recognized. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. COACH WATSON: I'd like to introduce the captains of the Girls Basketball Team, Lornay Roe (sp?) and Kyra Hutton. (Applause.) MISS ROE: My name is Lornay Roe, and I'm the captain of the Girls Basketball Team. On behalf of my team, I would like to take the time to recognize my coach and fellow teammates. We worked hard for the prize, and I can't believe we won the championship. We set out to be undefeated and we ended that way. We're here today because we are the first females of Beeber Dimner Middle School to win a championship. 5/15/08 STATED - PRESENTATIONS Now we have made history that will never be forgotten. (Applause.)
Hello. My name is Kyra Hutton. I play shooting guard on the Beeber Girls Basketball Team. This year was a very fun and successful year playing basketball for Beeber, and we finally got what we wanted: We went and had a perfect season. And I would like to thank my coach, Miss Watson, for leading us to a very successful and perfect season, and this is a season that I will never forget. And thank you. (Applause.)
I just found this out: They're all, all honor-roll students, all. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.) 5/15/08 STATED - COMMUNICATIONS * * *
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 May 14, 2008, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on May 1, 2008, and I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body: An ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner and the Procurement Commissioner. On behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a service contract with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority pursuant to which the City will assume certain obligations under an agreement with 5/15/08 STATED - COMMUNICATIONS the Authority and the Philadelphia Biosolids Services; And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority for further sublease to Philadelphia Biosolid Services, located at 7800 Penrose Ferry Road; And an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Municipality Authority to design, build, finance, own, operate, maintain, and lease facilities and equipment and provide related services for the management of the City's waste-water treatment solids, all under certain terms and conditions; And an ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2009 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works for Fiscal Year 2010 through 5/15/08 STATED - COMMUNICATIONS 2014; And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing, on behalf of the City, to file an application with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a community development block grant. And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone and Economic Development District"; And 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 the Convention Center Avenue; And an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Civic Center Boulevard between Health Sciences Drive and Convention Avenue; And an ordinance authorizing 5/15/08 STATED - COMMUNICATIONS the paving of Health Sciences Drive from Civic Center Boulevard to Convention Avenue; And 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 and 931 South 22nd Street; And an ordinance authorizing Massimo Criniti, owner of Criniti's Ristorante Italiano, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the east sidewalk of South Broad Street, north of Moyamensing Avenue; And an ordinance authorizing Bimim Divine to construct, own, and maintain two balconies at 1109 South 23rd Street, under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. Building, Construction, and Occupancy Code," by amending Subcode B by amending the provisions in Chapter 33 relating to safeguards during construction and in particular the provisions related to covered wall walks and other measures for the protection of pedestrians during construction, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Legislative Oversight to hold public hearings to investigate how City departments coordinate with each other to prepare and conduct street closures for street resurfacing and reconstruction projects.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion. 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO.
Move the adoption of the adoption of the resolution. (Motion 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 will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution supporting Temple University's bid to host the National Collegiate Athletic Association Women's Final Four Division One Tournament in 2012 through 2016.
Move for the adoption of the resolution. (Motion duly seconded.) 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce five bills.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
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 under certain terms and conditions. 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And 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 Sciences Drive from Civic Center Boulevard to Convention Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance regulating the direction and movement of traffic on Civic Center Boulevard between Health Sciences Drive and Convention Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the paving of Health Sciences Drive from Civic Center 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. Boulevard to Convention Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee picture.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. No. 44 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Race Street from 33rd Street to 34th Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer three 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. bills.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designation of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Harbison Avenue, Tulip Street, Harbison Avenue, Eadom Street, and Bridge Street.
The bill will re referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a no-truck-parking regulation on both sides of Norris Street between Frankford Avenue and Charles Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. amending Chapter 9-200 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Commercial Activities on Streets," by amending Section 9-211, entitled, "Boxes for the Distribution of News and Printed Material," relating to the regulation of newspaper boxes on public sidewalks.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer two bills on my behalf and seven bills on your behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Municipality Authority, Incorporated, pursuant to the Municipal Authorities Act, to design, build, finance, own, 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. operate, maintain, and lease facilities and equipment and provide related services for the management of the City's waste-water treatment solids.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance granting permission to Massimo Criniti, owner of Criniti's Ristorante Italiano, to construct, own, and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe located on the east sidewalk of South Broad Street, north of Moyamensing Avenue;
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And 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 and 931 South 22nd Street. 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing Bimim Divine to construct, own, and maintain two balconies at 1109 South 23rd Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipality Authority to further sublease to Philadelphia Biosolid Services a certain portion of parcel of ground located at 7800 Penrose Ferry Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. authorizing the Water Commissioner and the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a service contract with the Philadelphia Municipality Authority, pursuant to which the City will assume certain obligations under an agreement that the Authority will enter into with Philadelphia Biosolids Services.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2009 Capital Budget providing for the expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing, on behalf of the City, to file an application with the United States 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. Department of Housing and Urban Development for a community development block grant.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 36th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Motion duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. Those opposed? 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing LaSalle University to construct, own, and maintain an overhead pedestrian bridge crossing the 5600 block of East Wister Street connecting the main campus with Germantown Hospital.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
thank 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I have two bills and one resolution cosponsored by Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilwoman Brown, and Councilman Green.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the James Thomas 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. Development Company to construct, operate, and maintain a building extension located at 4300 Boone Street at Roxborough Avenue, Philadelphia, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of Queen and Knox Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities and the Committee on the Environment to investigate and hold joint public hearings on the designation of zones or areas in which demonstration projects and sustainable strategies can be explored to increase the use of 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. renewable energy, green-building design and construction, water conservation, and agricultural tools to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental strategies.
I move for the adoption of the resolution, Madam President. (Motion duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will please say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill. (No response.)
Madam President, I have no bills or 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 15th, 37th, and 43rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It 5/15/08 STATED - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS INTRO. 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 Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Madam President, the Committee of the Whole reports out ten bills and one resolution 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 of the Whole, to which was referred: Bill No. 080022, an ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of the Philadelphia Code relating to tax rates, credits and alternate tax computation for the business-privilege tax by reducing certain tax rates; And Bill No. 080154, an ordinance to adopt a Capital Program for six fiscal years, 2009 to 2014, 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS inclusive; And Bill No. 080155, an ordinance to adopt a Fiscal 2009 Capital Budget; And Bill No. 080156, an ordinance adopting the Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2009; And Bill No. 080158, an ordinance amending Section 19-1801 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Authorization of Tax," to impose a tax on real estate within the City of Philadelphia; And Bill No. 080159, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1800 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "School Tax Authorization," to impose a tax on the use or occupancy of real estate within the School District of Philadelphia; And Bill No. 080160, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1200 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Parking Tax," by establishing a rate 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS of taxation on parking transactions for Fiscal 2009 and thereafter; And Bill No. 080161, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Wage and Net-Profits Tax"; And Bill No. 080168, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business-Privilege Taxes," by revising certain types of business-privilege licenses; And Bill No. 080465, an ordinance amending Title 19 of the Philadelphia Code by creating a new chapter imposing an assessment on certain net operating revenue of general acute-care hospitals; And Resolution No. 080173, a resolution providing for the approval by the Council of the City of Philadelphia of a revised Five-Year Financial Plan for the City of Philadelphia covering Fiscal Years 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS 2009 through 2014 respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills and resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of 080022, 080154, 080155, 080156, 080158, 080159, 080160, 080161, 080168, and 080465.
Thank you. Councilwoman, did you make a motion for a suspension?
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so that these bills can have first reading today. 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS
Thank you. Do I have a second? (Motion 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. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. Resolution No. 080173 will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports out three 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 Rules to, which was referred: Bill No. 080362, an ordinance approving the fourth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area; And Bill No. 080377, an ordinance to amend the Institutional Development District Master Plan of LaSalle University by allowing for the expansion of Holroy Hall; And Bill No. 080401, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designation of certain areas of land located within area bounded by Grays Ferry Avenue, 30th Street, Titan Street, and 31st Street respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from the committee, with the exception of Bill No. 080401. (Motion duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS of the bills just read from committee. All those in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. Bill No. 0800401 will be placed on our first-reading calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports 13 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 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS of Philadelphia: The Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred: Bill No. 080129, an ordinance granting permission to Sunil Shroff, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of 40th and Spruce Streets for the purpose of supplying electrical service and telephone service to said newsstand; And Bill No. 080162, an ordinance amending Chapter 11-200 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Openings and Excavations in the Streets," to revise the operating period of permits to break streets and footways for the installation and repair of underground conduit; And Bill No. 080163, an ordinance amending Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code and Title 11 of the Philadelphia Code to provide authorization to the Streets 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS Department to adopt regulations establishing fees for issuing permits for hauling oversized and overweight vehicles; And Bill No. 080164, an ordinance amending Chapter 11-600 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Construction, Encroachments and Projections," to make the Streets Department the permitting agent for the placement of construction materials in the right-of-way; And Bill No. 080374, an ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on Guilford Street from Crispin Street to Rowland Avenue; And Bill No. 080375, an ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on Brighton Street from Sackett Street to Rowland Avenue; And Bill No. 080380, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of curblines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 97 by 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS relocating the easterly curbline of Broad Street approximately nine feet, six inches eastwardly; And 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; Bill No. 080383, an ordinance authorizing Arch Street Hotel Partners to construct, own, and maintain various encroachments at 1421 Arch Street; And Bill No. 080384, an ordinance authorizing Grasso Holdings, the owner and developer of 1601 Vine Street, to construct, own, and maintain various encroachments to be installed in conjunction with a mixed-use development; And Bill No. 080404, an 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS ordinance authorizing the construction of sewer appurtenant work required to alleviate unsanitary conditions in a portion of East Willow Grove Avenue; And Bill No. 080406, an ordinance amending Chapter 12-2400 of the Philadelphia Code by the addition and changing of towing zone locations, all under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 080408, an ordinance granting permission to Howard Foreman, owner of the Island Caribbean Restaurant, 1338 to 44 Rising Sun Avenue, for a raised-deck encroachment for accessory seating for the restaurant, 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. 5/15/08 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS The Chair recognizes 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 13 bills that have just been read into the record. (Motion 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. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. * * *
The 5/15/08 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR next order of business is consideration of the calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the firstreading calendar.
Bill No. 080022, an ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of the Philadelphia Code relating to tax rates, credits and alternate tax computation for the business-privilege tax by reducing certain tax rates.
And Bill No. 080154, an ordinance to adopt a Capital Program for six fiscal years, 2009 to 2014, inclusive.
Bill No. 080155, an ordinance to adopt a Fiscal 2009 Capital Budget.
Bill No. 080156, 5/15/08 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR an ordinance adopting the Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2009.
And Bill No. 080158, an ordinance amending Section 19-1801 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Authorization of Tax," to impose a tax on real estate within the City of Philadelphia.
Bill No. 080159, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1800 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "School Tax Authorization."
And Bill No. 080160, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1200 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Parking Tax."
The Chair agrees. 5/15/08 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 080161, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Wage and Net-Profits Tax."
And Bill No. 080168, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business-Privilege Taxes."
And Bill No. 080465, an ordinance amending Title 19 of the Philadelphia Code by creating a new chapter imposing an assessment on certain net operating revenue of general acute-care hospitals.
And Bill No. 080362, an ordinance approving the fourth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the American Street 5/15/08 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area.
And Bill No. 080377, an ordinance to amend the Institutional Development District Master Plan of LaSalle University by allowing for the expansion of Holroy Hall.
And Bill No. 080129, an ordinance granting permission to Sunil Shroff, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of 40th and Spruce Streets for the purpose of supplying electrical service and telephone service to said newsstand.
And Bill No. 080162, an ordinance amending Chapter 11-200 of the Philadelphia Code to 5/15/08 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR revise the operating period of permits to break streets and footways for the installation and repair of underground conduit.
And Bill No. 080163, an ordinance amending Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code and Title 11 of the Philadelphia Code to provide authorization to the Streets Department to adopt regulations establishing fees for issuing permits for hauling oversized and overweight vehicles.
And Bill No. 080164, an ordinance amending Chapter 11-600 of the Philadelphia Code to make the Streets Department the permitting agent for the placement of construction materials in the right-of-way.
The Chair agrees. 5/15/08 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 080374, an ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on Guilford Street from Crispin Street to Rowland Avenue.
And Bill No. 080375, an ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on Brighton Street from Sackett Street to Rowland Avenue.
And Bill No. 080380, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of curblines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 97 by relocating the easterly curbline of Broad Street approximately nine feet, six inches eastwardly.
And Bill No. 080382, an ordinance authorizing Mariner Commercial Properties, owner 5/15/08 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR and developer of 1441 Chestnut Street, to construct, own, and maintain various encroachments to be installed in conjunction with a mixed-use development.
And Bill No. 080383, an ordinance authorizing Arch Street Hotel Partners to construct, own, and maintain various encroachments at 1421 Arch Street.
And Bill No. 080384, an ordinance authorizing Grasso Holdings, the owner and developer of 1601 Vine Street, to construct, own, and maintain various encroachments to be installed in conjunction with a mixed-use development.
And Bill No. 5/15/08 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR 080404, an ordinance authorizing the construction of sewer and appurtenant work required to alleviate unsanitary conditions in a portion of East Willow Grove Avenue.
And Bill No. 080406, an ordinance amending Chapter 12-2400 of the Philadelphia Code by the addition and changing of towing zone locations, all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 080408, an ordinance granting permission to Howard Foreman, owner of the Island Caribbean Restaurant, 1338 to 44 Rising Sun Avenue, for a raised-deck encroachment for accessory seating for the restaurant, under certain terms and conditions.
The 5/15/08 STATED - SECOND-READING CALENDAR Chair agrees. That concludes our first-reading calendar for today. * * *
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar to be considered today.
Today, Bill No. 080407 is being call up for second reading and final-passage calendar for today.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of 080407.
An ordinance authorizing the City's Chief Information Officer, on behalf of the City, to enter into multi-year 5/15/08 STATED - SECOND-READING CALENDAR contracts with one or more providers of online legal-research services to be used by various City and City-funded agencies, 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 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That completes our calendar for today. * * *
Are there speeches on the part of the Minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the 5/15/08 STATED - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to seize the opportunity to commend the leadership of this Council and the Mayor for the enormous progress made this week on our city's '09 budget. However, I want us to be mindful that the School District, as we know, continues to face serious deficits. And while their situation has improved over the many years, still more remains to be done. We all know that this Council and our mayor have shown a willingness to do the City's share in supporting the School District, including, I guess, in a big way Councilman Goode's real-estate tax millage to the tune of 18.4 million, which further benefits the School District. 5/15/08 STATED - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT So my hope is that we can be as thoughtful and eager in working with the Mayor to ensure that the School District reaches a better place with regards to the budget shortfall that still exists. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd just like to recognize some visitors that are here in the Council today, and they are the family of my legislative aide, William Eshneiwat and it's the Shadeed from Rockville, Maryland. And I believe they're sitting here.
5/15/08 STATED - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT Please stand. (Applause.)
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator John Edwards made history this week, and it wasn't just because of his endorsement of Barrack Obama. He came to Philadelphia, to a small church in North Philadelphia in particular, to announce a national campaign entitled "The Half in Ten Campaign." That campaign is designed to reduce poverty by half in the next ten years. This Council did a good job, a prudent job, and an important job of taking the first step to pass its budget. In so doing, we had to make 5/15/08 STATED - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT some compromises, and one of them was the Cohen wage tax, but we can't -and it was the right thing to do. But we need to also make sure that we don't rescind from our effort to eliminate poverty in the City of Philadelphia and join with Senator Edwards in his worthwhile goal to reduce some of the burden onto 300,000 working poor in the City of Philadelphia and to make sure that every aspect, every department of this government makes it their mission to, in some way, impact that statistic in Philadelphia. Last year, unemployment -- the unemployment rate was higher than the City of New York, higher than the City of New York. So we've come a long way and we're on the right track, but we can't forget that portion of our city's population. Thank you, Madam President. 5/15/08 STATED - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT
You're welcome. Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until 10 a.m., Thursday, May 22, 2008. (Motion duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May the 22nd. All in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. (Proceedings end at 5/15/08 STATED - SPEECHES/ADJOURNMENT 11:11 a.m.) * * * C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings of the Stated Meeting of the Philadelphia City Council are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me on Thursday, May 15, 2008, and that this is a true and correct statement of same. __________________________________ JOSEPHINE CARDILLO Registered Professional Reporter (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's.)