COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania June 4, 2026 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN CINDY GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK - -
I note that a quorum of City Council is present. Asking all members to please take your seats and for everyone to please put your cell phones on silent and/or vibrate. Thank you very much. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Bishop Hasan Urquhart of the Holy Temple Church. He is here today as guest of Minority Leader, soon to be Minister, Councilmember Kendra Brooks. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors rise.)
Let us all bow our heads. Eternal God in heaven, Lord, we thank you for yet another day that you have made. You instructed us to rejoice and to be glad, Lord. We thank you for this time and space that you have allowed us to come together one more time. Father, I ask now that you will remember every Councilperson that's here under the sound of my voice. Lord, we stand in need of your leadership. We stand in need of your direction. We stand in need of your wisdom. We stand in need of your power and your grace. Breathe on us today, God, lead us into all truth. Give us what we need, God, that we may administer, that we may properly flow in what it is that you have called us to do. I pray that you will help every individual here, one by one, and name by name. I pray, God, that you will grant us the wisdom, the power and the endurance, God, that we may do that which is right and that which is pleasing in your sight. Lord, have mercy on us one more time. Help us to do what we can't do alone. Help us to understand what we can't comprehend. Help us to reach where we can't reach. Help us to stand where we can't stand on our own. Help us to stand in the place, God, where it is feasible unto you, Father and Lord. We'll be so careful to give you all glory, all honor and all praise. And it's in Jesus' name that we pray. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Bishop for the invocation. Council will now be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the Approval of the Journal of the meeting on Thursday, May 28, 2026. The Chair recognizes Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 28, 2026 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 28, 2026 be approved. All those in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absence. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Brian O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the Majority Leader and leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. On the behalf of the Minority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Minority Leader. The Chair now recognizes Majority Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Majority Katherine Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise on the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. And the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Council 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 great city. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. I just wanted to take a couple seconds to recognize Sharon and Anthony Kahn. I'm introducing a resolution honoring them today and they will be speaking a little bit later. But in 2023 they tragically lost their daughter to a rare pediatric brain cancer. And since losing their daughter, they began to start the Elora J. Khan Foundation in memory of not just her life and her legacy, but also to highlight and recognize that this is a serious illness that is impacting young people, not just in this area, but all across the country. So if we can just take a moment to allow them to stand up and give them a round of applause. Thank you for sharing your story here today. And you'll hear from them a little bit later. Thank you, Council President. (Applause.)
Thank you, Member Thomas. And welcome to City Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. Today I'm introducing a resolution co-introducing with Councilmember Minority Leader Brooks, recognizing land stewards. Many of them who are here today have been taking care of land in our community across the city of Philadelphia for over 30 years. And so, I'd like to welcome them to Council today and thank them for the work that they do --
Will the land stewards please stand. (Applause.)
Welcome to City Council. Thank you for your service. Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. Today we are joined by three people whose passion for eviction diversion program and smart work behind the scenes is part of why the program has become a national model, Susan Layne, Leo Elliot and Nancy Giacomini. Even though they do not work for the city, they have gone above and beyond in helping to build, test and fix and refine the portal, making the program work better for tenants, landlords and shareholders, and ultimately keeping the thousands of Philadelphians in their homes. So thank you, Susan, Nancy and Leo. We are grateful for your work. Can you please stand? (Applause.)
Thank you for your service. Welcome to City Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today we also have joining us is representation from Covenant House Pennsylvania on the occasion of its 25th anniversary. They'll be having a celebration soon. And we wanted to commend them and the organization for its commitment to serving young people who are experiencing homelessness, trafficking and instability across the City of Philadelphia. They do an outstanding job in Germantown, and we just wanted to welcome them and say thank you for your service.
Welcome to City Council. Thank you for your service. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, who will present a resolution honoring the compassionate, outgoing, brilliant, empowering hearts on the sleeve, wearing boots on the ground every single day, speaking truth to power for those who are just to impact it, advocating to improve the quality of life of our great city, the extraordinary Jane Golden, for 42 years -- (Applause.)
-- 42 years of visionary leadership of the Mural Arts Philadelphia program, doing where she championed countless murals and public art initiatives that have stretched the cultural fabric of the City of Philadelphia. Would Jane Golden and all those accompanying her and Member Thomas come to the podium. Joining Member Thomas are the following members: Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Jim Harrity, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips, Councilmember Kendra Brooks. And I'm going to ask also if Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young and Councilmember Mike Driscoll also join us at the podium please. For 42 years of dedicated service, Ms. Jane Golden. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Good morning, everybody. And, Council President, they only say good morning back when you say good morning. So good morning, everybody. (Good morning.)
At least my colleagues got my back, Council President. First of all, thank you for having a vision and a leadership to highlight somebody who means so much not just to the City of Philadelphia, but really to the entire country. If you look at what has been done with murals and art in the City of Philadelphia, we actually are one of the leaders as it relates to large cities with phenomenal art work, amazing murals and a great display of different images that's reflective of how amazing our city is. And for me as a Board member of Mural Arts, along with my colleague Councilmember Landau, we get an opportunity to see firsthand not just the work and the final product, but how the ingredients is put together in a pot, and everyone knows that Philadelphia would not be the leader it is without the work of Jane Golden. I had an opportunity to speak at Jane's retirement party a little while back. And I started by jumping up and down, and everybody's like, well, what the heck is he doing. Well, if you know Jane, you know that before she starts speaking, right, she's going to give you about three or four good jumps, and that really speaks to the energy that Jane Golden has brought, not just to mural arts but to the entire City of Philadelphia. As I go into her 42-year history and pass it to my colleagues, the one thing that resonates with me is the idea of her legacy. And when you're in public service and you decide to work for people, the ultimate dream is to be able to walk away from the work you've done and know that the work will be there beyond your time there. Every elected official, every city employee, every public servant with a great heart, that's the dream come true, and Jane is the example of the dream come true. So with that being said, today in City Council we're introducing a resolution honoring Jane Golden for 42 years of visionary leadership of Mural Arts Philadelphia, during which she championed countless murals and public art initiatives that have strengthened the cultural fabric of the City of Philadelphia.
Whereas, the amazing Jane Golden has served as the driving force behind Mural Arts Philadelphia since its inception; and
Whereas, in 1984 Mayor Wilson Goode hired Jane to address the City's widespread graffiti epidemic through the Philadelphia Anti- Graffiti Network, where she worked with graffiti writers to channel their creative energy and talent toward mural collaborations that revitalize neighborhoods long affected by disinvestment; and
Whereas, in 1997 under Mayor Ed Rendell, the Anti-Graffiti Network -- formerly led by Tim Spencer, I got to add that name in there, Blondell Reynolds Brown -- was restructured, paving the way for the formal creation of the Mural Arts Program under Jane's leadership; and
Whereas, under Jane's leadership, Mural Arts Philadelphia has developed groundbreaking programs that have transformed practice and policies related to youth education, restorative justice, environmental issues and behavioral health, redefining how art intersects with public policy and community well-being; and
Love you, Jane, baby. You know that. That's right. She deserves every bit of it. (Applause.)
Whereas, throughout her decades with Mural Arts Philadelphia, Jane Golden has helped build the nation's largest public art program and build that into a globally recognized model for how art can transform public spaces and strengthen communities, resulting in the creation of more than 4000 works of public art, and there we go, she gave us the jump, baby public art, and remaking Philadelphia into the "Mural Capital of the World"; and
Whereas, we'd also like to thank Tony for allowing Jane to be such a big part of our City of Philadelphia, her husband, who's allowed her and give his time. We know how hard it is for what we call the other half of this team. So thank you, Tony, for allowing Jane to be such a great part of our city. Whereas, Jane's work has earned her numerous honors, including Governor Shapiro's 2025 Keystone Award, the Philadelphia Award, and the Hepburn Medal from the Katharine Houghton Hepburn Center at Bryn Mawr College; and
I also want to say, not many people can make a nonprofit organization become an institution that will be here forever, and that's thanks to you. You have changed Philadelphia forever. Whereas, Jane Golden has dedicated her career to beautifying the City of Philadelphia and uplifting its communities, this legislative body, along with the resident of this great, the residents of this great City, are internally grateful for her decades of service; now, therefore, be it
I'm grateful for your work too. Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, Hereby honors Jane Golden on her 42 years of visionary leadership of Mural Arts Philadelphia, during which she championed countless murals and public art initiatives that have strengthened the cultural fabric of the City of Philadelphia.
Further Resolves, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Jane Golden as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. (Applause.)
Congratulations. The Chair recognizes Jane Golden for remarks.
I love City Council. I love being in City Hall. I'm going to start crying. This is -- first of all, it has been such a privilege and an honor of a lifetime to do this work, to wake up every day and to do work that has meaning is just a gift, and to work with the incredible people here that you see, President Johnson. It's just -- I can't -- I'm without words really. My gratitude is huge. And this work has changed me. Like over the years when I started out, and I'm very grateful to former Mayor Goode and to Tim Spencer for hiring me, and I didn't know Philadelphia, I had never met a graffiti writer and they just took a chance. And I felt like an anthropologist and I got to meet these amazing young people who had extraordinary talent and then we started meeting block captains and community leaders in Philadelphia, and it was suddenly like people wanted art, and like art was a lifeline for so many. And then I've really been a witness, a witness to the ever-changing power of art. And I've watched generations of mural artists, of young people, of participants, starting from anti- graffiti to when we became mural arts, like thousands and thousands. 6000 artists have been hired since 1998. And then besides artists, they're all our participants in all the different programs and they have contributed to making our city beautiful. And people sort of -- they feel an ownership with Mural Arts. So from Uber drivers to business owners to people who work in libraries or rec centers, like everybody, citizens, they feel in a way that this collection is theirs, and they are right. And when visitors come to town, nothing makes my heart sing more than hearing people say, well, one day I went to the Barnes or PMA and then one day I took a mural tour, which is wonderful because then people can get out and see all of Philadelphia for all it has to offer. It's an amazing city. And this is a city that loves Val Gay -- thank you for all you do -- loves art, the arts and artists. Artists and local artists stay here and other artists move here, because we're a city that supports the arts. And artists have changed our city. Artists working together with community leaders and block captains and people who are so committed to Philadelphia through decades of community mural-making. They've enriched Philadelphia and they have brought stories to life, extraordinary stories allowing generations of residents to express who they are, where they come from and who they can become. Artists work closely with neighborhood groups, businesses, wherever, to talk about struggles and triumphs in history and memory. But wherever we are working, it is about people who are here. I remember a group of City councilpeople came from Atlanta and they went on a tour. And at the end of the tour, the head of city council looked at me and she said, when I look at this collection, I want to cry. And I'm like, oh my goodness, why? She said, because the work looks like the people who live here. And I was like, that is absolutely 100% right and that is exactly how it should be. And we have had the privilege, thanks to all of you, to push the boundaries about what art is, what murals are, that we've worked with choreographers and theater artists and writers and photographers, like so many people, to do community-based public art, and our work in restorative justice or in our Porchlight program is so deeply meaningful. And then we have an art education program, and it's like art should be everywhere. It is like oxygen. We deserve it as citizens of the City of Philadelphia and that is non-negotiable. And I just want to say that seeing art permeate every walk of life in Philadelphia has been a dream come true. And it is wonderful to be in a city where the visions and dreams of residents can be seen everywhere. So when you look at the murals around the city, don't just look at that image as beautiful it is.
Go beyond that mural and think of all the people who helped to create it, and that includes all of you who have contributed mightily to this collection as public art. And moving on is incredibly sad. It breaks my heart. But I know this program will live on in wonderful ways because it was really never about one person. It was always about what we could imagine, build and dream together. And the good news is the work is on thousands of walls and no one can ever, ever, ever take that away. And it's really the relationships that we formed. It is the trust that we have generated and it is in the lives, the thousands and thousands of lives that have been changed. And it is in the love of art and each other that have been nurtured as we move through these dark and sometimes confusing times in our world, and certainly it seems that way. I want you to remember that the arts bring us light and they bring us hope. They help us express our commitment to freedom and to democratic values. They celebrate our diverse and beautiful country cultures and they unite us in joy, they unite us in joy. I always say that art ignites change because I've had the privilege and the honor of being a witness to profound change all over the city, on individuals and on communities. And think about it for a moment. There's been a huge impact on the civic life of our city, as we have turned Philadelphia into an outdoor museum, but one that lifts up and shines a light on diversity and equity, on people's voices, their dreams, their hopes, their wonder, their magic. Support the arts, everybody. )
And again, I want to be clear. We could not do this work without the support of the public sector, and you are looking at individuals here who are magicians, along with the Administration, who with sort of pixie dust, with their support and love, they have helped bring all of this to fruition. Thank you. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity, the man of the people, who will present a resolution honoring and recognizing the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, on the occasion of its 85th anniversary, for extraordinary service, advocacy and dedication to the students, educators, and schools of Philadelphia. Will Arthur G. Steinbeck, President of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers and those accompanying him please join the Councilmember at the podium. Joining Member Harrity at the podium are the following members: Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Mike Driscoll, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Kendra Brooks, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke, Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
The floor is yours, Chair of Labor Mr. Jim Harrity.
Power to the people. Right on. Just for you, Council President. First off, let's give it up for the PFT. Let's give it up for the people who protect the people who are teaching our children. We all respect and honor them. (Applause.)
Listen, the work they do for our teachers, again, the ones that have our kids for eight hours a day, it's just beyond, beyond imagination. What they have to go through every day and what they have to work on, and I'm glad that with this Council we show our support for them. A resolution 11 honoring and recognizing the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers on the occasion of its 85th anniversary, honoring its extraordinary service, advocacy, and dedication to service to students, educators, and schools of Philadelphia. Whereas, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT Local 3) was chartered on June 10, 1941 and has for 85 years served as the representative voice of the thousands of educators, paraprofessionals and school employees committed to high-quality public education throughout our City of Philadelphia; and
I just want to take a moment of personal privilege as somebody who was raised in a PFT household, my father, a PFT member, who actually taught with President Steinberg -- I'm not going to say the year because it's going to give away their age -- but I am gracious to the PFT, my father, and all of the teachers across the City of Philadelphia who mold our young people. Whereas, the charter -- and I also apologize if I mess up anyone's name. Whereas, the charter signatories Joseph Cottler, Anne Edelmann, Harry Ferleger, Woolf Goldberg, Alice Hanson, Israel Pincus, Harry Rantz, Margaret Root, Olivia Taylor, and Lydia Worthington organized the PFT Local 3 out of the remnants of previously dissolved AFT Local 192, and elected Cecilia Pincus as the first president; and
Thank you so much. And I also want to say thank you to the PFT for always keeping us on their toes about what we need to do for our children in the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, the Teacher Tenure Act of 1937 was passed through the organizing efforts of many of the founding members of PFT Local 3; and
And I also want to say thank you so much. As a public school graduate from Washington Rhodes Middle School, M. Hall Stanton Elementary School, John Greenleaf Whittier Elementary School, and Parkway, for those of us who all had those teachers that made an incredible difference in their lives and their trajectories, thank you. Whereas, the PFT became the sole bargaining unit for Philadelphia teachers and education professionals in 1965 after a collective bargaining drive supported by Bayard Rustin and Martin Luther King, Jr.; and
Whereas, PFT Local 3 advocated for Act 19, the Public Employees Relations Act of 1970 which codified the right to strike by public employees, including teachers, into Pennsylvania state law and established the processes of negotiation with established and recognized collective bargaining units; and
Whereas, over the course of its distinguished history, the PFT has continued to champion equitable school funding, safe and healthy learning environments and professional respect for the educators who shape the minds and futures of Philadelphia's children; and
Whereas, the PFT has played a vital role in advocating for policies that strengthen public schools, including initiatives to reduce class sizes, expand access to essential services, improve instructional resources and address school infrastructure needs; and
As a daughter of an educator who I saw sacrifice and the commitment she made to her students, I thank the PFT for all you do. Whereas, the Federation's members, teachers, counselors, school nurses, librarians, paraprofessionals, food service managers and other dedicated staff have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the academic success and well-being of students in every neighborhood of Philadelphia over its 85-year history; and
My point of personal privilege is saying thank you to PFT for pushing me to be here. Shout out to Yvette Young who got me started and politicized me as a parent, a PFT leader. Whereas, through collective action and community partnership and steadfast civic engagement, the PFT has helped elevate public education as a cornerstone of opportunity, equity and social progress; and
Whereas, June 10, 2026 marks the 85th anniversary of the establishment of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 3, presenting an important opportunity to honor its enduring legacy, celebrate the contribution of its members and recognize its continued advocacy on behalf of Philadelphia Public Schools; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we Hereby honor and recognize the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, on the occasion of its 85th anniversary, naming June 10, 2026 as PFT Local 3 Day in the City of Philadelphia and expresses deep appreciation for its dedication, decades of service, leadership and dedication to advancing high- quality public education for all students; and Be it Further resolved, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers President, Arthur G. Steinberg, as a token of our respect and admiration. (Applause.)
Congratulations. The Chair recognizes Mr. Art Steinberg.
Thank you, Council President, Members Harrity and Thomas, for introducing this resolution and the entirety of Council for signing onto it. It is my great privilege to help lead the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, which has grown to almost 15,000 strong educators working in the School District of Philadelphia. As this resolution 10 notes, our Union charter was really birthed during the Civil Rights Movement. In fact, our lore has it that it was a last-minute endorsement from Dr. Martin Luther King that pushed us over the edge and helped us win the bargaining election. Bayard Rustin, of course, was involved as well. There were no cell phones or social media back then. Demanding respect, dignity and liberty as a worker was not just risky, it was dangerous. You put your job at risk because of the bravery and sacrifices of those who came before. Our members today enjoy predictable salaries, raises affordable health coverage and paid leave, including for the first time paid parental leave that we negotiated in our last collective bargaining agreement. The School District of Philadelphia is in no 12 small part able to compete with surrounding school districts for teachers and educational talent because of what our collective bargaining agreement provides. Amid nationwide teacher shortage, aspiring educators are drawn to Philadelphia public schools specifically because our students deserve the world. I can't not mention the elephant in the room. Just two days ago, I stood outside City Hall with future PFT member Ryan Rutledge, who is attempting to become employed by the School District of Philadelphia, just completed his student teaching at GAMP, and desperately wants to work here. For those of you old enough to remember the commercial, he could have gone anywhere, but he chose Temple, he wants to work in the School District of Philadelphia, but that is really at risk in being jeopardized now by the 340 position cuts that are being proposed. Let me be clear: The district needs new recurring revenue sources to address the structural deficit, not providing this will accelerate the exodus of teachers and exacerbate the shortage. One-time fixes will not cut it, due in part to out-of- control charter school obligations, and no imminent help from the General Assembly to rein those in. We need to rely on our local government to do that for us and help us provide the quality education that our kids need. Only local solutions can address it. In closing, I want to once again thank Council for marking the 85th anniversary of the PFT. Our members can't be here to accept this honor because they are in schools helping our students continue to achieve. I am humbled and honored to accept this resolution on behalf of our nearly 15,000 members. Thank you once again. (Applause.)
Thank you. And for the record, members of Council, Mr. Steinberg, we are committed to make sure we address the reoccurrence revenue source for the School District of Philadelphia, sir. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
And welcome back to City Council, Ms. Jane Rho. How you doing, Jane? Let's give Jane a round of applause. Outstanding member of City Council body, former member. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions -- I'm going to run that back for a second. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in his possession.
To the President and the members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I'm transmitting for the consideration of your Honorable body the following proposed: A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 4152, 4154, and 4220 Viola Street; 4153 and 4157 Leidy Ave; 1703 and 1711 North 42nd Street; and 1129, 1135, and 1137 North 41st Street located in the 3rd Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to display disposed of 1425 South Paxon Street, located in the 3rd Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 214 Hermit Street, located in the 4th Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1438 Poplar Street, located in the 5th Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. And pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 260238 not for approval. Bill No. 260239, Bill No. 260297, Bill No. 260298, Bill No. 260340 all for approval. Bill No. 260342, Bill 7 No. 260343, Bill No. 260344, Bill 8 No. 260345 and Bill No. 260379 not for approval. Bill No. 260383, Bill No. 260422, Bill No. 260425, Bill No. 260426 and Bill No. 260427 for approval. Bill No. 260429 not for approval. Bill No. 260462, Bill 15 No. 260463, Bill No. 260515, Bill 16 No. 260516, Bill No. 260517, Bill 17 No. 260518, Bill No. 260519, Bill 18 No. 260520 and Bill No. 260530 all 19 for approval. 20 There are no further 21 communications in my possession, 22 Council President. 23
Thank you very much. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
10 Thank you, Council President. Good 11 morning, everyone. 12 I have no bills and 13 resolutions for today. 14
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, Council President. Today I have three non-privileged resolutions and one privileged resolution. And on behalf of Minority Whip O'Rourke, I have one privileged and one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring civilian oversight of policing in Philadelphia, emphasizing that mutual respect and cooperation are essential for improving public safety and police- community relations, further proclaiming June 9th as "Civilian Police Oversight Day," and recognizing the fifth anniversary of the creation of the Citizens Police Oversight Commission in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution 4 condemning the Trump Administration and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for ending the Restore Rebuild program, one of the strongest tools available to public housing authorities nationwide, for expanding and preserving deeply affordable housing.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
A privileged resolution honoring the West Powelton Steppers and Drum Squad on the occasion of their 35th anniversary and designating them as the official steppers and drumline of the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
A non-privileged resolution also naming the 3600 block of Market Street "Walt Palmer-Black Bottom Way" to honor Dr. Walter Palmer and his services and contributions to the Black Bottom and the City of Philadelphia.
Very well done. This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution 22 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 4152, 4154, 4220 Viola Street; 4153, 4157 Leidy Avenue; 1703 and 1711 North 42nd Street; 1129, 1135, 1137 North 41st Street, located in the 3rd Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution 16 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1425 South Paxon Street, located in the Third Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. I also have one privileged resolution on behalf of Councilmember Gilmore Richardson, on your behalf for today.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee of the Whole to conduct hearings to explore new revenue proposals to address the School District of Philadelphia's historic underfunding.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good afternoon, Council President. Good afternoon, colleagues. Today I have three resolutions and one amendment.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing June 15th as "Elora Joyce Kahn Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day" in the City of Philadelphia, honoring the life and legacy of Elora Joyce Khan.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings examining preschool pushout, the practice of suspension, expulsion and informal methods of exclusion of our youngest learners, to provide a space to hear stories from impacted families and identify solutions to ensure a bright future for all our young people.
This resolution will be placed from today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the urgent need for Pennsylvania to advance pediatric brain cancer awareness support and support increased research funding for children and families affected by pediatric brain cancer tumors.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill 16 and two non-privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bill and resolutions.
An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Designation of Bicycle Lanes," to authorize a bicycle lane and removal of parking on Roberts Avenue from Henry Avenue to King Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution 14 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 214 Hermit Street, located in the 4th Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution 5 authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank a deed conveying title to 1718-26 North 52nd Street, located in the 4th Councilmanic District, pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thanks, Council President. I have today one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution declaring June 2026 LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I offer one privileged resolution co-introduced with Minority Leader Brooks.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing the work of land stewards and supporting transparency in land disposition and the long-term preservation of steward land in the City of Philadelphia.
This bill will be -- this resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer four non-privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution 2 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 3902 Delhi Street, located in the 5th Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be 11 placed on the Final passage 12 Calendar for consideration at our 13 next session of Council. 14
And a 15 non-privileged resolution 16 authorizing the Philadelphia Land 17 Bank to dispose of 1438 Poplar 18 Street, located in the 5th 19 Councilmanic District, in 20 accordance with the terms of 21 Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia 22 Code. 23
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
A non-privileged resolution also naming the 1400 block of Green Street as "Coach Ken Hamilton Way," in honor of Kenneth "Ken" Hamilton, affectionately known as "Coach Ham," for his extraordinary record of leadership, mentorship and service to generations of young people in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming the 2900 Block of Ogden Street as "Councilman Bill Greenlee Way," in honor of former Philadelphia Councilmember William K. "Bill" Greenlee, and in recognition of his decades of dedicated service to the people and neighborhoods of Philadelphia.
Very well-deserved. This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution and two non-privileged resolutions to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution declaring the month of July as Disability Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia, and affirming the City of Philadelphia's commitment to advancing equity, access and opportunity for people with disabilities in our city and beyond.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council -- this resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution declaring the month of July as Disability Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia, and affirming the City of Philadelphia's commitment to advancing equity, access and opportunity for people with disabilities in our city and beyond.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I want to make a motion for this resolution to be read at the next Council session.
All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
This resolution will be held until next week. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
A non-privileged resolution 23 establishing a vision for reproductive freedom, family and the American promise in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar -- this resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
A privileged resolution honoring Leo Elliot, Susan Layne and Nancy Geist Giacomini for their skillful and committed work in making the eviction diversion program portal possible, and their nationally recognized success in keeping thousands of Philadelphians in their home.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution today.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring June 30th as Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenital Awareness Day in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I had one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution today that was introduced by Councilmember Gauthier, and I appreciate her for that. In that spirit though, I just want to acknowledge Councilman Jones for his work to help bring about the CPOC. Thank you for your time.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Afternoon, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Covenant House Pennsylvania, on the occasion of its 25th anniversary celebration, and commending the organization for its commitment to serving young people experiencing homelessness, trafficking and instability across the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The next order of business is reports from committee. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports out seven bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, would you please read the report.
To the Committee of the Whole, to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 260199 as amended, an ordinance adopting the Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2027. Bill No. 260200, as amended, an ordinance to adopt the Fiscal Year 2027 Capital Budget. Bill No. 260201, as amended, an ordinance to adopt the Capital Program for the six Fiscal Years 2027 through 2032 inclusive. Bill No. 260203, as amended, an ordinance amending Subcode “A” (The Philadelphia Administrative Code) of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code (The Building, Construction and Occupancy Code), by adding and revising Zoning Board of Adjustment fees and provisions regarding hearing scheduling, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260204, an ordinance amending Title 3 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Air Management Code," to modify the amounts of license and permit fees, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260205, an ordinance amending Section 19-1806 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Authorization of Realty Use and Occupancy Tax," to clarify the imposition of tax on the use or occupancy of real estate with respect to cell towers; all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260206, an ordinance amending Chapter 600 of The Philadelphia Code, ("Asbestos"), by adding and revising provisions related to various fees, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee of the Whole, Council President.
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Deputy Whip Cindy Bass for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports out bills with a 14 favorable recommendation.
There is no second at the moment, sir. Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee on Rules to which were referred the following bills: Bill 2 No. 260165, an ordinance amending Section 14-545 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled /SEV, Seventh District Overlay District by adding provisions from the /AME, American Street Overlay District, and the /NCA, Neighborhood Commercial Area Overlay District, North Delaware Avenue, removing the /AME, American Street Overlay District from the Zoning Code, and making related changes, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260211, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Erie Avenue, Front Street, Lippincott Street, and 2nd Street. Bill No. 260239 as amended, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Baltimore Avenue, Cobbs Creek Parkway, a SEPTA Regional Railroad Right-of- Way, and Cobbs Creek. Bill No. 260241, an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions,” and amending Section 14-604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Accessory Uses and Structures,” to provide for notice to owners and residents of a building regarding dwelling units licensed for limited lodging on the property, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260381, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Zoning and Planning,” by adding a new chapter to require specific permit applicants to provide notice of the presence of particular murals on the property to the Department of Licenses and Inspections, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260422 as amended, an ordinance amending Section 14-524 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “/FDO, Fourth District Overlay District” by authorizing Basic Systems and Utilities in the SP-PO-A zoning district in an area bounded by Ridge Avenue, Calumet Street, the Schuylkill River, and the Wissahickon Creek all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260517, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Zoning and Planning,” by revising certain provisions of Section 14-513, entitled, “/TOD, Transit-Oriented Development Overlay District” to rename it “/TOC, Transit Oriented Communities Overlay District,” to expand its applicability radius, and amending various sections to make changes to applicable use, dimensional and parking standards, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260518, an ordinance to amend Title of the 14 Philadelphia Code, entitled “Zoning and Planning,” by revising certain provisions relating to the Transit Improvement Bonus, to clarify its parameters and revise the bonus structure, and by making related changes, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260519, an ordinance amending Section 14-513 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “/TOD, Transit-Oriented Development Overlay District” by exempting certain districts from ground floor use requirements, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260520, an ordinance amending Section 14-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Use Regulations,” to allow Transit Station use in Commercial zoning districts, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260523, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Roberts Avenue, Wissahickon Avenue, Hunting Park Avenue, and Fox Street. Bill No. 260530, an ordinance amending Section 14-702 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Floor Area, Height, and Dwelling Unit Density Bonuses,” to clarify the terms of the public street enhancement bonus and make related technical changes, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No.
260534 as amended, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Kensington Avenue, Clearfield Street, Tulip Street, and Lehigh Avenue. Bill No. 260536, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Zoning and Planning,” to amend certain provisions of Chapter 14-500, entitled “Overlay Zoning Districts,” by creating the “/WCS, West Chestnut Street Overlay District,” all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Rules, Council President.
Chair recognizes Chair of the Committee on Rules Councilmember Cindy Bass for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Chair recognizes the Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Finance reports out bills with a 7 favorable recommendation. 8
Council will be at ease. 10 (Council at ease.) 11
Thank you, Council President. I wanted to be marked aye on all bills and resolutions. I need to leave on official Council business.
Thank you very much. Aye shall be recorded and leave is granted. Chair recognizes the Chief Clerk to please read the report of the Committee on Finance.
Committee on Finance, to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 7 260299, an ordinance amending Section 9-803 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled “Fair Housing Commission,” and Section 20-304 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Compensation for Members of Boards, Commissions, Committees and Councils," to amend the compensation paid to members of the Fair Housing Commission and delete superfluous provisions, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260507, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Parking Tax”, to amend the definition of parking facility to exclude bus loading facilities from imposition of the Parking Tax, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260508 as amended, an ordinance authorizing an increase in the non-electoral indebtedness of the City within the Pennsylvania constitutional limit; authorizing the Bond Committee to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale, to provide funds toward various capital municipal purposes; providing for appropriations to the Sinking Fund Commission for the payment of such bonds; and authorizing agreements to provide credit or payment or liquidity sources for the bonds in connection with issuance of the bonds, and certain other actions. Bill No. 260509, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property of The City of Philadelphia, on behalf of The City of Philadelphia and in cooperation with The Philadelphia Municipal Authority, to undertake a Project to promote the health, safety and welfare of the residents of The City of Philadelphia; authorizing and approving (i) a project including the refunding of bonds issued to refinance the New Youth Center Facility, (ii) one or more amendments to an existing Ground Lease, as previously amended, between The City of Philadelphia and The Philadelphia Municipal Authority, (iii) one or more amendments to an existing Prime Lease, as previously amended, between The City of Philadelphia and The Philadelphia Municipal Authority and the assignment of such amendments to a trustee and (iv) the obligation of The City of Philadelphia to pay rent under the Prime Lease, as amended, when due; approving the issuance by The Philadelphia Municipal Authority of bonds, in one or more series, from time to time, to pay the costs of such project; authorizing certain officers of The City of Philadelphia to enter into such lease amendments and to take such other actions as may be necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intent and purpose of this Ordinance; agreeing to be bound by each and every provision, covenant and agreement set forth in the Ground Lease and Prime Lease, each as amended; covenanting that The City of Philadelphia will make necessary appropriations in each of The City of Philadelphia’s fiscal years to provide for, and make, rental payments when due under the Prime Lease, as amended; all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260510, an ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer, on behalf of the City, to enter into a provider agreement with Citizens Bank National Association for provision of payroll banking services to the City, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260511, an ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2027 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works, including the supplying of funds in connection therewith, and acknowledging receipt of the Revised Forecast of Capital Budgets for Fiscal Years 2028 through 2032, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260512 as amended, an ordinance approving the amendment of the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works (including the supplying of funds in connection therewith) subject to certain constraints and conditions and acknowledging the receipt of the Revised Forecast of Capital Budgets for Fiscal Years 2027 through 2031, as amended. Bill No. L.
1449, Section 8 4, as amended, to prevent and eliminate blight; authorizing the Director of Planning and Development and the Director of Commerce to file applications to obtain other grants from the Commonwealth; authorizing the Director of Commerce to use the Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program; and authorizing the Director of Planning and Development and the Director of Commerce to enter into all understandings and assurances contained in such applications and take all necessary action to accept the grants; all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260521 as amended, an ordinance amending Title of The Philadelphia Code, 5 entitled "Public Employees 6 Retirement Code," by modifying the 7 circumstances when certain City of 8 Philadelphia employees are entitled 9 to service-connected death 10 benefits, all under certain terms 11 and conditions. 12 Bill No. 260527, an 13 ordinance authorizing and approving 14 the execution and delivery of a 15 Service Agreement between The City 16 of Philadelphia and The 17 Philadelphia Municipal Authority 18 relating to the financing of the 19 acquisition of 400 North Broad 20 Street and 1501 Callowhill Street 21 (together with certain ancillary 22 property rights), which premises the City has sub-leased for use as the City’s police headquarters and certain other uses; approving the issuance by the Authority of bonds, notes or other evidences of indebtedness (including reimbursement obligations related to lines or letters of credit) in one or more series to finance or refinance such acquisition costs and authorizing and approving the obligation of The City of Philadelphia to pay in full when due the Service Fee and other amounts payable under the Service Agreement; authorizing certain City officers to take certain actions required to issue such bonds, notes or other evidences of indebtedness; covenanting that The City of Philadelphia will make necessary appropriations in each of the City’s fiscal years to provide for, and will make timely payments of, the Service Fee and other amounts due under the Service Agreement; and authorizing and approving the Director of Finance of the City and other City officials to take other necessary or appropriate actions to effectuate the purposes of this ordinance; all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 260564, an ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 2351 South Front Street, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and return the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Finance, Council President.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended throughout the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of Public Property and Public Works reports out five bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the report.
The Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which were referred the following bills: Bill 5 No. 260382, an ordinance naming and designating 60th and Baltimore Park, located at 5961 Baltimore Avenue, as "Tyrone 'Cakes' Sims Park." Bill No. 260423 as amended, an ordinance amending Chapter 16-400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Surplus Properties," by adding methodology for disposition by property exchange, and making other technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260528, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to convey fee simple title to all or a portion of property known as 5501 Tacony Street, for less than fair market value, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260529, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement, including a lease amendment, for a portion of the premises at 1341 North Delaware Ave. for general office and administrative use by the City, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260530, an ordinance amending Section 14-702 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Floor Area, Height, and Dwelling Unit Density Bonuses,” to clarify the terms of the public street enhancement bonus and make related technical changes, under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 260531, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 701 Market Street, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works, Council President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on the First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports out bills 13 with a favorable recommendation. 14
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the report.
The Committee on Streets and Services, to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 260164, an ordinance amending Section 23 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Designation of Bicycle Lanes,” to authorize bicycle lanes and the removal of travel lanes on portions of Ridge Avenue, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260300 as amended, an ordinance amending Section 9-208 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Sidewalk Cafés,” to authorize additional locations for sidewalk cafés, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260378, an ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Lawrence Street between Tabor Road and Olney Avenue; Sparks Street between Front Street and Mascher Street. Bill No. 260380, an ordinance amending Section 10-710 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Dumping of Debris and Short Dumping,” to change the standard for determining violations, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260383 as amended, an ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260384, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Acorn Street between Hazelwood Lane and Ridge Avenue; Martin Street between Mitchell Street and Pechin Street; N. 66th Street between Haverford Avenue and Media Street; Rector Street between Manayunk Avenue and Terrace Street; Lawnton Street between Fountain Street and Gorgas Lane; Scotts Lane between Ridge Avenue to 3540 Scotts Lane (Trestle). Bill No. 260390, an ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Commercial Activities on Streets” to make certain changes to permissible locations for farmers’ markets, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260425, an ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 3601-7 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260461, an ordinance amending Section 9-208 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Sidewalk Cafés,” to authorize additional locations for sidewalk cafés, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260506, an ordinance regulating the direction of the movement of traffic on the 6500 block of Pine Ridge Road between Cheltenham Avenue and Fariston Drive, and removing the “No Parking Anytime” restriction on the 6500 block of Pine Ridge Road, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260522 an ordinance amending Title of The 10 Philadelphia Code, entitled 11 “Traffic Code,” to designate East 12 Memorial Hall Drive and West Memorial Hall Drive in Fairmount Park as one-way streets, under certain terms and conditions and authorize and/or empower the Department of Streets for the City of Philadelphia to take any and all necessary actions to enforce this Ordinance pursuant to Chapter 21 12-600 of The Philadelphia Code. Bill No. 260524, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 120 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Cleveland Street from Girard Avenue northwardly to Stiles Street, and striking from the City Plan and vacating Stiles Street from 18th Street westwardly to 19th Street, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260532, an ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 1639 South 10th Street, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260533 is amended, an ordinance amending Section 9-208 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Cafés," to revise remedies and provide for enforcement of sidewalk cafés provisions, all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 260535, an ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 2101 South 3rd Street, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Streets and Services, Council President.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll for a report from the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities reports out seven bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the report.
The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to which were referred the following bills:
One second. Excuse me, Councilmember. Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'm requesting a leave of absence to attend official business, but I would like to be recorded as aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you very much. It shall be recorded. Leave is granted. Thank you very much, sir. Council will resume. Chief Clerk, please read the report.
The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities, to which were referred the following bills: Bill 18 No. 251020, an ordinance amending Section 19-1604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Charges Where Water Meter Has Become Defective," by authorizing the reduction of customer water bills due to defective or inaccurate water meters, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 251021 as amended, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Water and Sewer Rents" by revising income eligibility standards for rate discounts and installment payment agreements, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260426, an ordinance authorizing the Director of Aviation, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to modify a certain easement and acquire additional easement interest in connection with a portion of the parcels or parcels of land commonly known as 8350 Executive Avenue, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260427, an ordinance authorizing the Director of the Department of Aviation to acquire, on behalf of the City, fee simple title or a lesser interest by purchase, amicable negotiation, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu of condemnation or otherwise, in and to all or portions of a certain parcel of land known as 8800 Tinicum Boulevard in Philadelphia County, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260428, an ordinance authorizing the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems and the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to execute separate multi- year concession agreements with It’s Electric Inc. and Positive Energy Inc. in connection with a City electric vehicle charging program to site, design, install, own, operate and maintain a network of publicly available electric vehicle charging stations throughout the City at curbside locations and surface parking lots; amending Chapter 11-604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Encroachments Upon and Obstructions of the Street” to provide for discontinued approval of Electric Vehicle Charger encroachments; and amending Title 12 , entitled “Traffic Code,” to authorize the installation, use, administration and enforcement of electric vehicle parking spaces, provide for administrative enforcement of violations of electric vehicle parking violations, including camera-based enforcement and towing, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260431, an ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into a concession agreement with Positive Energy, Inc. for the procurement, construction, installation, operation, and maintenance of Direct Current Fast Chargers in the cell phone lot at Philadelphia International Airport, under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 260464 as amended, an ordinance authorizing the Procurement Department, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with the Philadelphia Energy Authority to purchase electricity and certain attributes and benefits related to the generation of such electricity from a solar energy facility be built and owned by Reactive, LLC, located at Northeast Philadelphia Airport, for use at and connection with the City facilities, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same, and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities, Council President.
Thank you very much. Chair now recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed in our First Reading Calendar for the day. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a report from the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
The Committee on Public Health and Human Services, to which was referred the following bill: Bill 16 No. 260303, an ordinance amending Title 21 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Miscellaneous," to add a chapter, entitled "U-Visa and T-Visa Certifications," providing for a process for Certifying Agencies, including timely responses to requests, confidentiality of requests, guidelines for the grant or denial of a request, and other procedures, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Public Health and Human Services, Council President.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bill 22 just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bill just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committees, but 2ND READING the suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. I ask for a leave of absence to attend to other Council business outside of chambers. And I ask to vote aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you very much. It shall be duly recorded, and leave is granted. The Chair recognizes 2ND READING Councilmember Mike Driscoll for a motion regarding Bill No. 260464 reported out of committee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit an amendment to Bill No. 10 260464. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the amendment to Bill No. 260464 at this time. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilmember O'Neill, I would like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 13 260464. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council. I move for the adoption of the amendment.
Second -- I mean, is there a second? (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment to Bill No. 260464 be 2ND READING adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bill has been amended. This bill 12 will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following bill on the First Reading Calendar is being 2ND READING held: Bill No. 260298.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar: Nos. 260569, 260571, 260572, 260573, 260574, 260575, 260576, 260577, 260582, 260588, 260589, 260590, 260591, 260593 and 260595. The following resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 260481. (Duly seconded.) 2ND READING
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the resolutions just read by Councilmember Majority Katherine Gilmore Richardson. All those in favor please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries and we will consider the Resolution Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Majority Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning the bills on the Second 2ND READING Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar: Nos. 250644, 260645, 260207, 260238, 260302-A, 260385, 260386, 260391, 260392, 260393, 260394, 260395, 260424 and 260430. The following bills on the Calendar are being held: 250807. (Duly seconded.)
I'm just asking for all visitors to please put your phones on vibrate and/or silent. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of 2ND READING Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bill as just read by Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson. All those in favor please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries, and we will consider the bills on the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up any additional resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. 2ND READING
The following resolutions are being called up from the Final Passage Calendar and the following bills are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today. Resolution Nos. 260094, 260467, 260594, 260602; Bill Nos. 260076, 260162, 260163, 260457, 260458, 260459 and 260460. The following resolutions and bills on the calendar are being held: Resolution No. 260270; Bill 250768. Bill Nos. 260264 and 260465 are being amended.
Before considering the bills, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name and Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters each will have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session to session. Due to the time limit and the repetitious comments for today, the time limit will be one minute. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the one-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow, which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once one minute has passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. Please respect our Sergeant-at-Arms. He's just only doing his job at that point. Please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not already done so. I also reserve the right, pursuant to our rules of City Council, to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.
Alexia Clarke, Jeremy Blatstein, William Small, John McCauley, Javonnie Newton, Lynn Landes, Joseph Jampel, Sue Wasserkrug, Tiffany Stair and Jacqueline Mahon, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good afternoon, Council President, esteemed members of Council. My name is Hugh Organ. I'm here representing Covenant House, Pennsylvania on behalf of Alexia Clarke, who unfortunately had a medical emergency this morning. We're here to thank you for recognizing Covenant House for our years of service. Covenant 23 House has made many accomplishments 24 in our 25 years, all of which could not have been done without all the amazing staff, a portion behind me today. We are serving over 57,000 youth in the years that Covenant 6 House has been in existence through 7 all of our continuum of services. 8 Our youth, who are often 9 discarded by society, go on to 10 become doctors, police officers, 11 social workers, you name it. We 12 work with young people regardless 13 of their money, and our services 14 are open 24 hours a day, 365 days 15 out of the year. And we've 16 continued to provide these services 17 throughout the 25 years of our time 18 in Germantown as well as in 19 Kensington. 20 Our goal is to continue 21 to fight human trafficking as well 22 as end youth homelessness, and we 23 appreciate your support, and it can 24 be done. So if you'd like to join our team at www.covenanthousepa.org. Thank you very much for your time today. (Applause.)
Hello, Philadelphia City Council. My name is Jeremy Blatstein. Happy Pride Month. Thank you, Councilwoman Landau. As my friend CJ would say, the gays are gaying this month, so it's very important to support the LGBTQ+ community in Philadelphia. And thank you for doing that. We're also talking about the Philadelphia Land Bank. Thank you, Councilmember Young, for moving all this land for Turn the Key. It's great to see. I know Councilwoman Bass got her photo op this week with the Mayor for some Turn the Key houses, so that's good to see, 22 houses. Not just a photo op. That wasn't a dig. I know, I know. That wasn't a dig, Councilwoman. Thank you for supporting Turn the Key and building affordable housing in Philadelphia. And last but not least, we're talking about SEPTA, we need to upzone our transit corridors. We need to build more housing around our SEPTA stations and we need to make sure that we're funding it properly so that all visitors can properly ride SEPTA while they're visiting the City of Philadelphia. Ride the ride. Fund SEPTA. Thank you. MR. McCAULEY: Good morning, everyone. My name is John Alonte McCauley. I'm with a grassroots organization called Flip Philly Red. We're here to offer you something different because you've been voting Democrat for the Mayor's office for the past 70 years. In regard to Resolution 4 260602, I want to thank the United States Supreme Court for standing with the Constitution and protecting America from racial gerrymandering. Drawing maps based on race is unconstitutional under the 14th and 15th Amendments. It treats people as racial groups first and not as individuals. And the reason this is important is because Black people aren't monolithic. We don't all think the same. Case in point, believe it or not it's Black men who don't celebrate Pride Month. It's Black men who don't believe in Drag Queen Story Time. All of the Black representation in Philadelphia and kids are graduating with reading proficiency levels at 35% and arithmetic levels at 25%. All of this Black representation and Kensington looks like The Walking Dead. The way I see it, with all of the illegal aliens Democrats counted in the 2020 census, you owe the GOP congressional seats. Thank you for your attention.
Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Javonnie Asante Newton. I'm one of the newest members of the organization called Flip Philly Red. Resolution No. 260594, the reason I'm opposed to that resolution is that I can't get hired. I'm a Black man in Philadelphia, and I put in nothing but job applications and I have all the credentials and qualifications to apply and to get these jobs but I haven't been hired. And on top of that, I can pass a background check any day of the week. I have a high school diploma. I have an updated resume. I have a cover letter. I also, more importantly, have references, so I don't know if it's because of my political beliefs or is it because it's the way everything is set up in the city with the illegal immigrants taking up everything in our neighborhood, in our community. Thank you.
Good morning. I'm Lynn Landes of Phillies Republican Network. Oh, it's not -- good afternoon. I'm here regarding the resolution that is recommending applicants for appointment by the Mayor to the Parks and Rec Commission. It appears that there was a public hearing on the subject. However, the fact remains that Parks & Rec normally does not hold public hearings, but instead conducts community outreach events. In fact, Parks & Rec has been sued on more than one occasion for violating the Sunshine Act by not holding public hearings before making important decisions. A recent example is the FDR Park expansion, which included massive tree cuttings, filling in the floodplain and a plan to use reportedly toxic artificial turf on proposed soccer fields. It should be noted that that turf continues to be used at other parks with no health and safety warning for the public. And despite Mayor Parker's claim to be the clean and green mayor, she is still not enforcing the Healthy Outdoor Public Space Act, which was passed unanimously by City Council. And as a result, toxic chemicals are still being sprayed on our parks and other outdoor spaces, contaminating both people and the planet. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Good morning, Council. My name is Joseph Jampel and I am the Director of Eviction Prevention programs with the Department of Housing and Community Development. I want to thank Councilwoman Brooks and her office for introducing the resolution today to recognize Leo Elliot, Susan Layne and Nancy Giacomini. As you heard, they took on the work of building our new eviction diversion portal on top of their full-time jobs, Leo with a tenant advocates' perspective, Susan with a relentless focus on speed, accuracy, and clarity, and Nancy with a deep care for the experience of the landlords and the integrity of the mediation process. There were many other people who contributed to this portal effort too, and I want to quickly recognize them as well. At the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation, Ayanna Sims, and Kenyatta Miller at Philadelphia Legal Assistance, Katherine Anderson, at CORA Good Shepherd, Sue Wasserkrug and Ashley Hogan at Community Legal Services, Rachel Garland, Liz Freed and Elena Hilliard. And finally, I wanted to recognize two of my colleagues at DHCD, Michal Billick(ph) and Svi Carnosevich(ph). Thank you, (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Sue Wasserkrug and I'm the Director of Mediation at CORA Services, a nonprofit resource center that has served the Philadelphia community for over 50 years and partners with the City of Philadelphia and several other nonprofits to implement the Eviction Diversion program. Susan Layne and Nancy Giacomini, who are two of our staff, did not hesitate to roll up their sleeves to test drive the new Eviction Diversion portal that Joseph just mentioned. They identified issues that not only were tripping up users but that were hindering our staff's ability to do their jobs. They worked with the city to ensure that the portal now provides not only a new but also an improved experience for everyone who uses it. It's truly no exaggeration to say that without the incredible efforts of Susan, Nancy and Leo, the Eviction Diversion program would not be the successful program that it is, improving lives in the city of Philadelphia by helping tenants maintain housing stability and helping landlords recover from unexpected financial losses. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hi, everyone. My name is Tiffany Stair and I'm here today on behalf of Revolution Philadelphia, a grassroots animal rights organization here in the city. I am here today to urge Philadelphia City Council to pass Bill No. 20 260465 finally banning horse-drawn carriages in our city. Thank you to Councilmember Mark Squilla, who is not here right now, but thank you, Councilmember Mark Squilla, for introducing this long-awaited bill. Horse-drawn carriage rides are not a harmless tourist attraction. They are an outdated industry that forces horses to work in dangerous, stressful and unnatural conditions. These horses are made to pound pavement for hours at a time, surrounded by loud traffic, construction, extreme weather and unpredictable city environments that no prey animal should be subjected to. In other cities, we have seen time and time again horses in this industry collapsing and dying, horses spooking and bolting into traffic, horses hit by cars and many countless tragedies that Philadelphia is not immune to. I'm asking that City Council please support Bill 260465 to finally ban horse-drawn carriages in our city. Thank you. (Applause.)
Will Janet White, David Jenkins, Patricia Wilson Aden, Melissa Resnick, Chelsea Perez, Tina Caroway, Sterling Johnson, Daniel Fond, Lindsay Coleman and Katherine Anderson, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Landau.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I am asking for leave of absence to do some official Council business. I can also be back at 2:30, if needed. I'd like to be recorded as aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you. Leave will temporarily be granted.
Hi. My name is Jackie Mahon and I'm here in support of Bill 260465 to ban horse-drawn carriages in Philadelphia. I wanted to share with you, three years ago I never noticed or really thought about horse-drawn carriages. If I saw them, I just thought how colorful. And just in the past three years, I've learned so much about the suffering these animals endure. Councilmember Mark Squilla has been working on this bill for several years. Chicago banned horse carriages five years ago. Several other cities have as well, as we know. New York City is behind the times in this regard, and we can show them the way these animals suffer terribly. It's obvious. It's documented. In addition, there's a long history of injury to humans and property associated with this supposed entertainment. I suggest that eco-friendly elective carriages are the way forward. The main purveyor of this supposed entertainment closed years ago, so action to ban this practice is long overdue. And thank you so much for your time. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Janet White. I am the founder and Director of Carriage Horse Freedom, which is a solution-oriented animal advocacy group in Philadelphia. We are seeking a ban on horse-drawn carriages. I'm here to address the amended Bill 260465 which is to restrict operation of carriage horse businesses, but what we are requesting with the amended bill is to also consider the so-called noncommercial horses that are being worked as carriage horses, unfortunately problematically recently on South Street, unlicensed and so on. So what we want to make sure is that they have protections as well in this bill, and they do, and we really believe it would be good for the city because of public safety and animal welfare. And we ask that you please support this bill. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, Madam Chair. David Alexander Jenkins. And I rise to speak to Member Squilla's bill on the horse-drawn carriages. It may surprise you, but I am also a Black man who happens to also be gay, so I don't know what the other gentleman was thinking when he said there were no Black people who were gay, but I wish I could speak to you about things that are humanities, right, hunger, poverty, people crawling in the street not knowing where to sleep at night. But I have to speak to you about horses, as a person who owns six of them, has an acquiring place where they can live and understands how they are bred to do specific things. Let me tell you what happens when you retire a horse, which draws carriages. Its musculature begins to atrophy. It gets sent to auction. And when it begins to get too fat and can't stand on its own, it collapses and then it is killed and sent to a slaughterhouse to be made glue of. Let me tell you how many people have been killed in Philadelphia by horse-drawn carriages? Oh, we can't name one this year because it hasn't happened. Let me tell you what history does get preserved and what jobs are lost when people are unable to use their horse-drawn carriages to do things like give tours in Philadelphia. We're talking about places, I don't know, like the First City Troop. Every woman who's ever dreamed to be Cinderella on her wedding day, every single person who is Amish. If you don't believe they exist, just go to the Reading Terminal and see how many people will no longer be able to get your cheesesteak next week if you ban something which actually doesn't affect Philadelphians today. Hear what affects Philadelphians today. Homelessness, food, poverty, lack of job, I don't know, not having 17 schools to send their kids to, but we want to discuss things like foie gras and horses. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Chelsea Perez and I'm here representing Humane World for Animals and in support of Bill 260465, banning horse-drawn carriages in dense urban environments. Horse-drawn carriages belong to a different era. Modern cities are crowded, noisy and fast-moving. It is a world far removed from the one that supported horse-drawn transportation. In city after city, horses pulling carriages have collapsed and died, been struck by vehicles, injured, killed or become so frightened that they run blindly through traffic with passengers still on board. These are not isolated incidents. They are recurring examples of the risk created when horses are used for transportation in busy urban environments. Equine activities are recognized under Pennsylvania law. Thank you. (Applause.)
Tina Caroway, kratom user. I stand in opposition to Bill 260163. I believe a complete ban would be a blatant and intentional act of ignorance. It is imperative in making a decision that would affect the lives of this city's constituents that you learn and follow the science behind the plant. There are many smear campaign articles lumping pure kratom leaf with the more dangerous subalkaloids that are being extracted. These subalkaloids are only found in the plant in minute amounts naturally. Rather than using the city's time and resources to put a complete ban into existence, I feel the same resources, if not even more, should be put into learning what pure natural powder does to the nervous system in comparison to the extracts like 7-OH and MGM-15. I believe putting regulations in place would be far more effective than a complete ban, which would take the plant away from responsible users. Many other areas have implemented restrictions targeting high potency formulas, and I believe a complete ban would just be impossible for some people to deal with. Thank you.
Good afternoon, Councilmembers. My name is Daniel Phan. I'm here to express my opposition to Bill 20 260163, which is the proposed ban on kratom products. I believe that evidence-based regulation benefits the greater good far more than a complete ban, primarily for chronic pain patients and people in recovery. I'm a chronic pain patient. And in 2024, I was diagnosed with a degenerative disc disease, which leaves me in constant pain. My experience has been that it's incredibly difficult to get meaningful pain management in the current medical climate. In the beginning when I was bedridden and could barely walk, I was given five pills for an entire month. I felt abandoned, like I was slipping through the cracks of medical care. However, through kratom 7-OH, I have been able to find that meaningful relief and get some quality of life back. I've regained my mobility and I can go out and do things and be present with my family. Losing access to these products would greatly impact my life for the worse and there are many chronic pain patients just like me. I've sent to your office scientific literature regarding these substances -- it doesn't look like I'll have time. Regulation over prohibition. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, Councilmembers. My name is Lindsay Colman and I'm speaking in opposition to Bill 260163 regarding the ban on kratom and 7-OH in the City of Philadelphia. There is a great deal of misinformation in the news regarding both kratom and 7-OH, which refers to them as dangerous opioids. The truth is that they are very safe substances. As partial agonists of the mu-opioid receptor, kratom and its alkaloids do not cause dangerous respiratory depression. Stated simply, there is insufficient evidence to indicate that kratom or 7-OH pose a public health risk, and a ban would greatly hurt many Americans, myself included. Over the last several years, I have suffered from chronic pain and have found it extremely difficult to manage my symptoms. All this changed when I was introduced to kratom. Occasional doses have afforded me the pain relief, energy and focus to excel in my career and live up to the expectations of my peers and myself. Therefore, I ask you to consider responsible adults like myself in this legislation and pursue regulation rather than an all-out ban. This could take on the form of dedicated age restriction, locale or protected online sale. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Catherine Anderson and I'm here from Philadelphia Legal Assistance. I'm here to speak about the resolution 11 that was offered by Councilperson Brooks, honoring Leo Elliot, Susan Layne and Nancy Giacomini for their work on the Eviction Diversion program. Philadelphia Legal Assistance runs a hotline for tenants who are participating in the Eviction Diversion program. We first opened this hotline at the very end of 2020. There were two paralegals, and Leo Elliot was one of them. He has spent the entire length of the program dedicating himself to better serving the tenants of the City of Philadelphia. I'm so glad that you are honoring and recognizing him today, especially because he's the sort of person who thinks that his exceptional work is just kind of what everybody does, and it really is not. He is truly exceptional. Thank you so much for supporting the Eviction Diversion program, and also thank you for allowing Philadelphia Legal Assistance to run the hotline for it. We love the program and appreciate your work. Thank you. (Applause.)
Will Rich Garella, Fatimah Ford Bradshaw, Christina Saxton, Gloria Cartagena, Shannon Dancy, Gloria Hawkins, Adam Suib, Reverend Malika Rahman, Tonya McClary and Neil Felver, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
My name is Rich Garella. I live in South Philadelphia and I'm with Save the Meadows. I'm speaking about Bill 12 260430 on leasing the FDR Park Welcome Center to the Fairmount Park Conservancy. The city can't lease city property without specific authority from City Council, but this bill doesn't include the lease. You haven't seen the lease and the public hasn't seen the lease. It's a blank check. It doesn't require the Conservancy to provide any public benefits at all with this public property, not visitor information, not affordable food, not community use, nothing, not even public restrooms. Commissioner Slawson even described it as an upscale event space that provides revenue from the Conservancy accessible to the public all of to days a 10 year, and the bill doesn't require 11 the Conservancy to share any of 12 that revenue. This is not the specific authority that the Charter requires. It's a blank check and Council shouldn't sign it. Any Councilmember who votes for this is voting for a massive privatization of park facilities. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Taussy Valcarcel. I'm a proud, proud member of the Philadelphia Land Steward Union. The union is a group of members who care for our green spaces. I'm here on the support of the resolution to recognize the union and all the hard work of land stewards in the city. I want to thank the Council recognizing that we deserve formal recognition. This resolution is an important step to start crossing over our barriers with the land control and get the transparency accountability we deserve from the Philadelphia Land Bank. We look forward to working with the City Council of Philadelphia and the Parker Administration. Thank you so much. (Applause.)
My name is Christina Saxton. I live in North Philadelphia. I'm a member of the Land Stewards Union. The union is a group of residents who steward side yards and vacant lots. I'm here to give comment in support of the resolution recognizing the Philadelphia Land Stewards Union and the work of land stewards in the city. I have stewarded a green space composed of 10 empty lots three doors down from my house for 17 years. The lots are used 365 days of the year by local children who climb the trees, who make their own swings, who play sports in those lots, who put up and maintain donated trampolines and help to raise flowers and vegetables. In the fall of 2025, a house was built on the space the teens used to play volleyball. The Land Stewards Union is asking the city and the Land Bank to recognize the rights of land stewards like myself to have priority voice over outside developers and what happens in the plots land stewards use. Thank you for your attention. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, everybody. My name is Gloria "Smooches" Cartagena. Thank you. When you see me, it's because I'm fighting for something that's truly dear to our community, something that I believe in. I imported the POJSU. We have our supporters behind us. I just want to be recognized. I'm going to give Quetcy Lozada your flowers for supporting us in this fight. It's just we want, the respect and the courtesy of people that have been taking care of a land that's been abandoned and making something beautiful for the community where people enjoy. I have a butterfly lot garden that I'm working on. I've been doing it for the past 5 years. 6 Yes, I educate these 7 children in our neighborhood. I do 8 community events. Sometimes I pay 9 out of my own pocket because I 10 believe the children deserve better 11 than what they see now. And this 12 is a fight that I believe in. Just 13 give us the courtesy and the 14 respect. I believe in affordable 15 housing. If it's taken from us -- 16 excuse me. I believe in affordable 17 housing because I fight for that as 18 well, but I just want to be respected in our community and just acknowledge us. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Gloria Hawkins. I live on 5th Street. They destructed a building on 5th Street, an apartment building, and they messed up 2152 North 5th Street. The address of that apartment building is 2155 North 5th Street. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hi. My name is Adam. I'm here in opposition to Bill 260163. 10 years ago I overdosed right here in Philly. Pure natural kratom saved my life after years of heroin and fentanyl addiction. I've been clean for 10 years. This bill would ban lawful natural kratom by requiring full FDA pharmaceutical approval under Section 505. This is not how supplement laws work under the 1994 DSHEA Act. Botanical supplements, like natural kratom, are regulated as being part of the food supply, not as new drugs. The FDA does not approve them in advance. Its job is post-market enforcement. If a product is proven unsafe, it has not taken that step against natural pure leaf kratom. The FDA and HHS have instead focused on enforcement on dangerous synthetic derivatives like 708 research from NIDA, Johns Hopkins, the University of Florida. University of Florida continues to support access to pure leaf. I respectfully urge you to amend this bill to prioritize age restrictions for and older, consumer safety 18 standards, mandatory product 19 testing and accurate labeling and 20 targeted enforcement against 21 adulterated illegal products. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, everyone. I am Reverend Malika Rahman. And I have the pleasure and privilege of serving as the Vice-Chair of the Citizens Police Oversight Commission. I am here today to thank, first and foremost, Councilmember O'Rourke for recommending the resolution for us to recognize June 9th as CPOC Day here in the City of Philadelphia. The role of CPOC is to ensure that we have transparency, accountability across the board in this city. And I want to say that thus far we have done that. We have been the agency to show up and show out, to stand in the gap-creating systems. And I just want to say that as we move forward, it is our goal. As we celebrate five years in 2026 to continue those efforts to ensure that we don't just say what we can and cannot do, but that we show up in support of our community. So, thank you again, Council, and we appreciate your support in issuing this resolution for June 9th to be CPOC Day. Thank you. (Applause.) MS. McCLARY: Good afternoon. My name is Tonya McClary. I'm the Executive Director for the Citizens Police Oversight Commission, CPOC. And I also want to thank Councilmember O'Rourke for introducing the resolution for June 9th to be Citizens Police Oversight Day. I want to say that I'm really excited. We want to obviously acknowledge Councilman Jones during that time for his courageous and forethought in putting forth some of the most ambitious legislation for police oversight in the country. And I want you all to know that we bring a national spotlight to this city. People around the country, when they are thinking about police oversight, call our office. We are in advising roles to many cities when they are trying to set up police oversight, because people want to do the Philadelphia model. We have done workshops across the country for people in police oversight. And I want you all to know that National Spotlight, our organizing model and outreach is called the Philly model, and is used across the country. So we're excited about these first five years. Looking forward to the next five years continuing to bring phenomenal police oversight to the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Will Nick Reeder, Carrera Allure Wilson, Ewuare Osayande, Rosaland McKelvey, Ogbonna Paul Hagins, Sharon Anthony and Elova Khar, Zane Knight, Ashley Robinson, Allison Smith, Jackson Essex, Felice Masso, and Kathy Welsh, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.) UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: Bill 260163, we're blaming the wrong thing. Kratom and hemp products have helped more people than you can imagine. Kratom and hemp, in their natural form, save members of my family's lives. Before we were in the kratom business, we used this plant to benefit our lives. The effects from my family are focused, pain relief, and energy. How many state- licensed liquor stores are in this city? How many beer stores? How many porn shops? How many tobacco outlets? Crime happens at almost every one of them. Kratom and hemp aren't the cause. They're the scapegoat. Your crime will still be here. An entire generation of culture needs change for that to change. I am a business owner, an employer. There are dozens of businesses on their mind who employ people, all of which got into the industry to help people. I take kratom. I've been a daily user for almost 20 years. My natural leaf kratom, not 708 not MGM-14, 15, 16 or 17, not (inaudible) or other synthetics. We need to crack down on those lab-created products. We walked around this city last night and witnessed people in fentanyl transits all over the place. A woman fell right on her face in front of us. Thank you, Council. Thank you, Mrs. Richardson, for being the youngest elected Councilwoman Majority Leader. Please reconsider the ban. (Applause.)
Good afternoon. My name is Carrera Allure Wilson. I'm a proud mother of three children at John Berry Elementary, a member of Lift Every Voice Philly and a 634 local union member working as climate staff at Henry C. Lee Elementary School. I'm speaking today on the connection between preschool pushout and the ways we push children out of school all along their educational journey. Parents across Philadelphia organized and delivered over 1000 petitions, signatures from families at 95 schools and every council district. As both a parent and climate staff member, I know budget lines are not numbers. They're people. Public reporting says that 50 million has been passed. That funding will protect my position, but parents organize for 75 million because we know what our kids need. Building substitutes exist because hundreds of classrooms open every year without a teacher. I know what it's like to send my kids to school without having a teacher. It's paying for a robbery. Kids can't afford to lose more adults. If Mr. Higgins isn't there, that will cause a lot of stress in the school. Please fund the full 75 million, the very least, an additional million 7 needed to protect the school 8 substitutes. Children do not need 9 to be robbed more of their people. 10 They need the school's teachers and 11 building substitutes. Thank you. 12 (Applause.) 13
Good afternoon, members of City Council. I am Ewuare Osayande and I have the privilege of serving as the Deputy Executive Director for the Citizens Police Oversight Commission. Five years ago this body established one of our nation's most comprehensive acts of civilian police oversight. Since our agency has been about that work, we remain mindful that we also exist because millions across this nation said enough after Minneapolis police took the life of Mr. George Floyd. We also exist because the people of this city said enough following the police killing of Mr. Walter Wallace, Jr. in a neighborhood in West Philadelphia. Our work is based on the premise that the police are not a law unto themselves, but are to be held to the rule of law on behalf of the staff investigators, 15 complaint intake community 16 relations and professional 17 auditors. We are here to say 18 simply thank you for not just 19 passing legislation that enables 20 the people of the city to put eyes 21 on the police, but to envision what 22 public safety ought to look like. Thank you. (Applause.) MS. McKELVEY: Hello, everyone. I'm Rosaland McKelvey from Germantown Deaf Ministries Fellowship. (Spanish translation.) I'm using different languages to let you know that the Police Oversight Commission and the (inaudible) they want to use for recognition. Next Tuesday is very important. They come and meet us on our level. They reassure the people in the community in different languages and different ways that they are willing to support them in communication and improve relationship with the police in our area. So I thank you and want you to see the need to appreciate them and to become supports for them as they improve relationships between the people in the community, different cultures. No matter your disability, no matter what is happening in your life, they're concerned and they support us in building better communities. Thank you so much.
Hello. My name is Nicholas Reeder. I'm in opposition of Bill 260163. The pharmaceutical companies, they offer you side effects. Kratom offers relief. I ask that you regulate, not ban kratom. Thank you.
Ogbonna Hagins, fourth generation chattel slavery survivor. I rise in support of this effort to move Philadelphia towards a $25 an hour wage. For too long, working people have watched the cost of living rise while wages have failed to keep up. A full-time job should not leave a person struggling to survive. This proposal represents the type of aggressive economic intervention our city needs. Putting more money directly into the hands of working people strengthens families, neighborhoods and local businesses. As Council considers this legislation, I urge you to also move forward on Resolution 250781, the Office of Freedmen Affairs. A $25 wage is an important step, but wages alone will not address generations of economic disparities and disinvestment. We need immediate economic relief and long-term economics. We ask that if you need help, contact the Philadelphia Reparations Coalition for American Freedmen. Over and out. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, Councilmembers, and thank you for giving us this time. We are sincerely thankful for your service and dedication to the public here. My name is Anthony Kahn. I'm Elora's dada. That's what she called me. We represent the Elora J. Khan Foundation, and we'd like to just give a little bit about Elora. She is faith, hope and joy. She was the kind of child who filled every room with joy so abundantly, you can just reach out and grab it. She loves soccer, music, dancing and being a miracle in other people's lives. She taught us more in seven years than people learn in a lifetime. As a father, nothing prepares you to hear the words that your child has a disease without a cure, and nothing prepares you to say goodbye or to bury your child. If there's one thing the Lord taught us, even in the hardest moments, there can still be faith, hope and joy. Today, we're grateful for Philadelphia for allowing June to be Pediatric 11 Brain Cancer Awareness Day. We 12 thank Councilmember Isaiah Thomas 13 and the members of Congress for 14 allowing that to happen. Thank 15 you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Sharon Khan. I'm Elora's mom. Thank you for your time, Councilmember Isaiah Thomas. Thank you very much for leading this. I never imagined I would be standing in front of City Council for a day named after my daughter. Like most parents, I imagined Elora growing up, graduations, milestones and possibilities. Instead at 6-and-a-half years old, she was diagnosed with DIPG, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, a terminal pediatric brain cancer in the brain stem. There is no cure. We were told it's universally fatal and go home and make memories. This is the child I had prayed for. She was my answered prayer. Seven months later she passed at CHOP. Today I stand here as a voice for many kids we lose every year to pediatric brain cancer. It remains one of the most underfunded and resource- starved childhood diseases. Yet brain tumors remain the leading cause of cancer-related death in children under the age of 10. This year, June 15, through City Hall, Senate and state, recognizing Elora Joyce Khan Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day and Philly Lights Up for Elora Movement is for every single child. This is a historic first. Those lights are beautiful. But what comes most is after those lights, awareness, advocacy, research, action, because awareness itself cannot save a child. That must inspire action and research and eventually a cure, because no parent should ever have to bury a child simply because the cure did not come soon enough. As parents, this is the future we're fighting for. Thank you so much. (Applause.)
My name is Zane Knight. My public comment is against Bill No. 260163. I want us -- and sorry for my speed here. I want to stress that I support the principle of protecting the health and wellness of individual users, which I see as an attempt to do with the regulatory aspects of this bill. However, if my understanding is correct, the bill, as it's currently written, would broadly ban kratom products and extracts, also known as mitragyna -- I'm sorry. I can't do this right now. Speciosa and hemp derived cannabinoid products by tying local legality directly to compliance with federal food, drug, and cosmetic act. The City of Philadelphia is leveraging a regulatory framework that inherently favors consolidated capital over traditional or lower cost herbal remedies to secure FDA approval or recognize compliance under the FD&C Act, as substance typically requires millions of dollars in clinical trials and institutional backing, which existing bans only further block. The framework disproportionately favors multinational pharmaceutical corporations. Historically, prohibitions don't work and we should consider who will be impacted by this in a majority minority city, Black and Brown individuals, etc. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hi. My name is Ashley Robinson. I'm a 41-year-old small business owner, and I'm here to oppose Bill 260163. I had a whole thing written out, but I'm just going to kind of let it rip a little bit. I use kratom and 7-OH myself. I'm a chronic pain patient and an advocate with Seven Hope Alliance and other groups. I'm a productive member of my community. I've lived in Pennsylvania on and off for the past years, in Dauphin County, 9 York County and in Philadelphia at 10 different points in my life. 11 I'm a productive member 12 of my community. I give back a 13 lot. I'm from Baltimore, so I'm 14 not only just familiar with 15 Kensington and the issues here, but the issues that are happening in Baltimore City as well. We are in the middle of an opioid epidemic. And by the grace of God, have been clean for 14 years. But I was part of it as well. So harm reduction saves lives. Kratom and 7-OH save lives. I think we need to be a little less worried about that and a little more worried about, you know, the bigger issues that are going on at play in our communities. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, members. My name is Allison Smith and I'm here speaking on Ordinance 260173 on behalf of the Global Creating Coalition. We appreciate the Council's attention to consumer safety, youth access and commonsense regulation. It is no question whether dangerous, intoxicating products should be regulated. They should be. However, the proposed regulatory framework needs to be tailored to address the products that are actually driving public health concerns. With that in mind, some of the bill aspects are good. It prohibits synthetic alkaloids, establishes a 2% limit on 708, requires testing, certifications, labeling, institutes age restrictions. These provisions directly target adulterated high potency synthetic substances, but then it goes on to make overly broad requirements that make this bill a de facto ban on natural kratom products. That's why I'm here on behalf of the million 15 natural kratom consumers and the 16 percentage of those that live here 17 in Philadelphia. 18 We ask that you refrain 19 from passing this bill and instead 20 hold the legislation to amend it to 21 remove natural kratom products from 22 the intoxicating definition and 23 remove the unregulated FDA requirements. This issue is too complex for 60 seconds. And I ask that you educate and modify this bill to ensure access to natural kratom products. Thank you. (Applause.)
My name is Jackson Essex. I'm a resident of West Philadelphia. I manage a store in Wynnefield Heights that sells whole leaf kratom and whole leaf kratom products. I believe that this bill was brought with good intentions. However, as many others have said, it will become a de facto ban on those whole leaf products. Many of the users of those products are invisible. You would not know them if you walk past them on the street, because it is not a heavily intoxicating substance. It's something people take to get through their day to avoid relapsing on other addictions. And I think as the bill stands, it is overly draconian and should be revisited. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, Council. My name is Felix Masso. I'm representing CBD Kratom. I'm the area manager for our Philadelphia stores. A significant misunderstanding exists regarding the substances addressed in this bill. Numerous minor cannabinoids are non-intoxicating and provide daily relief for a variety of conditions our constituents face. By banning all hemp derivatives, this legislation would effectively eliminate access to minor cannabinoids, such as CBG for pain management or CBN for sleep assistance. THCA products contain the legal limit of 0.3% Delta-9 in accordance with federal regulations. Additionally, this bill broadly and unfairly targets kratom, despite important distinctions within the category. There is ongoing confusion between natural relief kratom and highly concentrated 708 products, which are fundamentally different. Rather than a total ban, we propose a robust regulatory framework. This should include mandatory third-party lab testing and strict labeling requirements for all market entries. And I welcome any one of you guys to come visit one of our stores so we can help you and educate you on what we carry. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good afternoon to City Council. My name is Katherine Welsh. I'm a Philadelphia resident and I am here in support of Resolution 260094 and Bill No. 260076 regarding the proposed Child Welfare Commission. I began my career in child welfare in 1985 and have had a variety of positions over the years, including a contracted position with the Department of Human Services from 2005 to 2010. During the administration of John Street, a child welfare oversight committee was formed in response to the tragic death of Danieal Kelly. Oversight committees continued under the administration of Michael Nutter and Jim Kenney, and these expert committees and community stakeholders helped DHS form the Improving Outcomes for Children Initiative, which included the creation of community umbrella agencies. DHS has made improvements and dramatically reduced the number of children in out-of-home care families impacted --
DHS has made improvements and dramatically reduced the number of children in out-of-home care and diverted families to prevention services. Families impacted by DHS involvement and community stakeholders continue to demand transparency and accountability over the time that the CUAs have been in place over a decade. Some of the agencies are no longer providing services because of liability issues. And 40% of the CUAs currently have an issue with unsatisfactory or critical ratings in their workforce domain, which is dealing with recruitment and retention. So I'm supporting this Commission to help improve child welfare throughout the city. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, members of the Council. One of the justifications offered for this ordinance is that some smoke shops are selling illegal drugs, firearms and other --
Sean Zamorano. If that is true, then those activities are already illegal and should be addressed through enforcement of existing laws. Natural kratom should not be swept into a ban because some businesses may also engage in criminal activity. The presence of illegal drugs in a store is an argument for prosecuting them crimes, not for banning products that are otherwise lawful and have been proven safe by the FDA, NIDA, the World Health Organization and the DEA. The DEA has not scheduled natural kratom because the gold standard for scheduling is an eight factor analysis. Kratom does not meet any of the natural kratom for scheduling and is therefore a supplement and does not need to be approved by the FDA. Federal agencies are already recognized and distinguished between natural kratom and highly concentrated or synthetic products. I ask that you go back to the drawing board on Bill 260163 and make some amendments for natural kratom. Thank you.
My name is Corey Kilhini. I'm here for Bill 14 260163 Council. I know this has been a long day. I just ask if I could get my minute. I see a lot of people on phones and things. I'm coming to you as your brother, your father, your son. I'm a productive member of society. I've been employed -- kratom has helped me in the last 10 years, more than I can explain. This kid, when he was 13 years old, watched me overdose, dead. I've been sober years. So I just 4 want my personal experience to show 5 you and the many people around here 6 that it saved lives. 7 I believe that there 8 needs to be regulation. These 9 synthetic things are killing 10 people. That's not what we're in 11 this for. We're in it for the 12 natural stuff. We're not in it to 13 be in pharmaceuticals or that era. 14 So I absolutely believe that we 15 need regulation and we need to look 16 at the 7-OH in these things. But banning natural kratom will do nothing but put a bunch of us back where you don't want us to be. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council President, this concludes our listing for public comment today.
Thank you very much. Let's rock and roll. We will now consider today's Resolution Consent Agenda. I will ask that the Clerk read the titles of all the resolutions on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the resolution on the Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection, without debate the resolution will be immediately removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on our regular Final Passage Calendar. The Clerk will now read the titles of the resolutions on the Consent Agenda.
Resolution 22 260569, a resolution nominating 25 individuals for consideration by the Mayor's appointees to the Commission on Parks and Recreation. 260571, a resolution 4 appointing Patrick Christmas to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority. 260572, a resolution 8 confirming the reappointment of Sophia Lee as a member of the Board of the Philadelphia Energy Authority. 267573, a resolution 13 confirming the reappointment of Barbara Moore as a member of the Board of the Philadelphia Energy Authority. 260574, a resolution 18 confirming the appointment of Matthew Bowman as a member of the Board of the Philadelphia Energy Authority. 267575, a resolution 23 confirming the appointment of Guarav Mehta as a member of the Board of the Philadelphia Energy Authority. 260576, a resolution 5 confirming the appointment of Sonte Reavis as a member of the Board of the Philadelphia Energy Authority. 260577, a resolution 9 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1304 and 1310 South 28th Street and 1314-20 South 28th Street (including 1313-23 South Newkirk Street) located in the 2nd Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. 260582, a resolution 19 adopting the 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan as the official hazard mitigation plan of the City of Philadelphia. 260588, a resolution 24 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1802, 1804, 1808, 1810, 1812, 1824, 1826, 1828, 1830, 1831 and 1835, 1837, 1839, 1850 North Ringgold Street; 1812, 1839, 1844 North Taylor Street; 2411, 2427 West Montgomery Avenue, located in the 5th Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. 260589, a resolution 13 authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 916, 920, 924 West Auburn Street in the 5th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia, and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land bank fee simple title to such properties, pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code. 260590, a resolution 5 authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 855 North Orkney Street in the 5th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia, and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code. 260591, a resolution 20 authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to various properties located in the 5th Councilmanic District, including on the following streets: North 6th Street, North 15th Street, North 30th Street, Parrish Street, Seybert Street, West Stiles Street, West Somerset Street, North Marshall Street, North 9th Street, North 27th Street, North 19th Street, North 23rd Street, North Bucknell Street, West Norris Street, North Ringgold Street, North Etting Street, North 16th Street, and West Auburn Street, pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act. 260593, a resolution 18 confirming the appointment of Layla Bibi to serve on the Zoning Board of Adjustment. 260595, a resolution 22 authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank a deed conveying title to 1941-47 East Huntingdon Street, located in the 1st Councilmanic District, pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act. There are no further resolutions on the Consent Agenda, Council President.
Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion to adopt each of the resolutions on the Resolution 16 Consent Agenda.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that each of the resolutions on the Resolution 5 Consent Agenda be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. And each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda has been adopted. We will now consider today's Bill Consent Agenda. I will ask the Clerk to read the titles of all the bills on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the bill on the Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection and without debate, the bill will be immediately removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on our regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. The Clerk will now read the titles of the bills on the Consent Agenda.
250644, an ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code,” by adopting the 2021 edition of the “International Energy Conservation Code” and the “International Residential Code- Part IV Energy Conservation” as published by the International Code Council, with previously adopted amendments thereto, as authorized by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Act, all under certain terms and conditions. 250645, an ordinance 4 amending Title of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code,” by adopting the 2021 edition of the “International Plumbing Code” as published by the International Code Council, including introduction of new amendments and maintenance of previously adopted amendments to the 2018 International Plumbing Code, as adopted under the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Act, all under certain terms and conditions. 260207, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by I-76, the Schuylkill Expressway ramp, Hartranft Street and the Conrail Right-of-Way. 260238, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Ludlow Street, South 41st Street, West Girard Avenue and North 48th Street. 260302-A, an ordinance 13 to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Lippincott Street, 20th Street, Toronto Street and 22nd Street. 260385, an ordinance 20 authorizing the Chief Information Officer, on behalf of the City, to enter into a multi-year agreement to purchase support for mainframe and database software protocols and applications, under certain terms and conditions. 260386, an ordinance 5 authorizing the Chief Information Officer, on behalf of the City, to enter into a multi-year agreement to purchase licenses for email, cloud services, enterprise software, data services, security software, and other related computing products and services, under certain terms and conditions. 260391, an ordinance 15 amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code,” by amending Subcode “M” (The Philadelphia Mechanical Code) and adopting the 2021 edition of the “International Mechanical Code,” as published by the International Code Council, with amendments thereto, as authorized by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Act, all under certain terms and conditions. 260392, an ordinance 6 amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code," by amending Subcode "G" (The Philadelphia Fuel Gas Code), Subcode "PC" (The Philadelphia Performance Code for Buildings and Facilities), and Subcode "EB" (The Philadelphia Existing Building Code), and adopting the 2021 editions of the "International Fuel Gas Code," "Performance Code for Buildings and Facilities," and "International Existing Building Code," as published by the International Code Council, with amendments thereto, as authorized by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Act, all under certain terms and conditions. 260393, an ordinance 4 amending Subcode “A” (The Philadelphia Administrative Code) of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code (The Building, Construction and Occupancy Code), by revising and clarifying certain provisions; making corrections for compliance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Act; and making technical changes; all under certain terms and conditions.
260394, an ordinance 16 amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code,” by amending Subcode “B” (The Philadelphia Building Code) and adopting the 2021 edition of the “International Building Code,” as published by the International Code Council, with various amendments thereto, as authorized by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Act, all under certain terms and conditions. 260395, an ordinance 7 amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code,” by amending Subcode “R” (The Philadelphia Residential Code) and adopting the 2021 edition of the “International Residential Code,” as published by the International Code Council, with amendments thereto, as authorized by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Act, all under certain terms and conditions. 260424, an ordinance 21 establishing temporary parking regulations, and enforcement thereof, and temporary residential and guest parking permits for the vicinity of: the area bounded by the intersection of North 21st Street and North College Avenue, North 21st Street, Master Street, North 25th Street, Cecil B. Moore Avenue, North 33rd Street, West Oxford Street, West Glenwood Avenue, North 32nd Street and continuing along the railroad boundary south from North 32nd Street at West Thompson Street to the intersection of Aspen Street, Pennsylvania Avenue, Hamilton Street, North 21st Street, Fairmount Avenue, Corinthian Avenue, Brown Street, North 21st Street, Poplar Street, Corinthian Avenue, South College Avenue, Poplar Street, West College Avenue, North College Avenue to the intersection of North College Avenue and North 21st Street, all under certain terms and conditions. 260430, an ordinance 3 authorizing the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a multi-year lease agreement with the Fairmount Park Conservancy, under which the City would lease to the Conservancy portions of the City-owned premises known as Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park for the Conservancy’s use, operation, management, maintenance, and repair, all under certain terms and conditions. There are no further bills on the Consent Agenda. Council President.
Thank you very much. These bills having been read on two different days, the question for each bill now is shall the bill 24 pass finally. The Clerk shall call the roll. And upon being called, each Councilmember shall vote aye on each of the bills, nay on each of the bills or indicate those bills for which the member is voting aye and those bills for which the member is voting nay. Chief Clerk, please call the roll.
Councilman Jones was aye on all bills. Councilmember Landau was aye on all bills. Councilmember Lozada.
Councilmember Young was aye on all bills. Councilmember Brooks was aye on all bills. Councilmember Harrity.
Aye on all bills. The majority of all the members having voted in the affirmative for each of the bills, the bills on the Consent Agenda are passed. We will now consider 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 8 260094.
A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, providing for the creation of the Philadelphia Child Welfare Commission; and providing for the submission of the proposed amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a motion regarding Resolution No. 22 260094.
Thank you, Council President. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution No. 260094 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Resolutions adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 22 260467.
A resolution proposing an amendment 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to change City procurement procedures and requirements, and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion regarding Resolution 12 No. 260467.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution 22 No. 260467 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 13 260594.
A resolution urging the General Assembly to pass legislation allowing cities of the first class to raise the minimum wage to $25 an hour, an essential step toward ensuring that all Philadelphians are able to keep up with the rising cost of living and have the opportunity to build a better future. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity for a motion regarding Resolution No. 6 260594.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the immediate adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution 15 No. 260594 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 5 260602.
Resolution 7 condemning the U.S. Supreme Court's further majority's further gutting of key Voting Rights Act protections in Louisiana v. Callais, thereby making it more difficult to establish majority- minority districts, weakening minority voting power and undermining our democracy.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau for a motion regarding Resolution No. 20 260602. Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion on behalf of Councilmember Landau.
6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Landau, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution 10 No. 260602 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 260076.
An 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the creation of the Philadelphia Child Welfare Commission; and authorizing and directing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election.
This bill having been read on two different dates, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Chief Clerk, please call the roll.
Councilman Jones was aye. Councilmember Landau was aye. Councilmember Lozada.
Councilmember Young was aye. Councilmember Brooks was aye. Councilmember Harrity. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
And, Council President Johnson. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are and 4 nays are 0. Majority of all 5 members having voted in the 6 affirmative, the bill passes. 7 Chief Clerk, please read 8 the title of Bill No. 260162. 9
An 10 ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of 11 The Philadelphia Code (“Service And 12 Other Businesses”) by adding a new 13 Section 9-631.1 to establish 14 requirements for commercial 15 landlords to take certain remedial 16 action against commercial tenants who engage in tobacco retailing without a required tobacco retailer permit and establishing penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING question now is shall the bill pass finally. Chief Clerk, please call the roll.
Councilman Jones was aye. Councilmember Landau was aye. Councilmember Lozada. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
Councilmember Young was aye. Councilmember Brooks was aye. Councilmember Harrity.
Aye. The ayes are 16. The nays are 0. Majority of all members having voted in the affirmative the bill passes. Chief Clerk, please read the title of Bill No. 260163.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Business, Trades, and Professions," to establish restrictions and regulations related to the sale of certain intoxicating substances and provide for associated penalties and enforcements, all under certain 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question is shall the bill pass. Chief Clerk, please call the roll.
Councilman 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING Jones was aye. Councilmember Landau was aye. Councilmember Lozada.
Councilmember Young was aye. Councilmember Brooks was aye. Councilmember Harrity.
Aye. The ayes are 16. The nays are 0. Majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 260264.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation of a creative Philadelphia, to provide for powers and duties of such office, and to otherwise provide for incorporation of the office into city government, and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election, all under certain terms and conditions.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas for a motion.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption.
Thank you, Council President. One 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING second, Council President.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 260264. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council and I move for the adoption of amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment to Bill No. 260264 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Anyone opposed? 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it. And the bill has been amended. This bill 6 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. Would the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 260457.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to change City procurement procedures and requirements, fixing the date of a special election for such purpose, prescribing the form of ballot questions to be voted on, and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING election.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Chief Clerk, please call the roll.
Councilman Jones was aye. Councilmember Landau was aye. Councilmember Lozada.
Councilmember Young was aye. Councilmember Brooks was aye. Councilmember Harrity.
Aye. The ayes are and 14 the nays are 0. Majority of all 15 members having voted in the 16 affirmative the bill passes. Chief Clerk, please read the title of Bill No. 260458.
An ordinance amending Section 17-103 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Bonds Relating to Procurement Contracts," to amend requirements related to performance and payment 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING bonds on certain contracts, and providing for disclosure and monitoring of the bond acquisition cost, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Chief Clerk, please call the roll.
Councilman Jones was aye. Councilmember Landau was aye. Councilmember Lozada.
Councilmember Young was aye. Councilmember Brooks was aye. Councilmember Harrity.
Aye. The ayes are 16 and nays are 0. Majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Chief Clerk, please read the title of Bill No. 260459.
An ordinance amending Section 17-109 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Local Bidding Preferences,” by establishing a new category of bid preference for businesses that are both local and small, and amending definitions, certification, goal setting and reporting requirements, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Chief Clerk, please call the roll.
Councilmember Gilmore Richardson. COUNCILWOMAN GILMORE 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING RICHARDSON: Aye.
Councilman Jones was aye. Councilmember Landau was aye. Councilmember Lozada.
Councilmember Young was aye. Councilmember Brooks was aye. Councilmember Harrity.
Aye. The ayes are 16. The nays are 0. Majority of all members having voted in the affirmative the bill passes. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING Chief Clerk, please read the title of Bill No. 260460.
An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Noncompetitively Bid Contracts; Financial Assistance," by updating references and exclusions, all under certain terms and conditions. (Duly seconded.)
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Chief Clerk, please call the roll.
Councilmember Gilmore Richardson. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
Councilman Jones was aye. Councilmember Landau was aye. Councilmember Lozada.
Councilmember Young was aye. Councilmember Brooks was aye. Councilmember Harrity.
Aye. The ayes are 16 and these are 0. Majority of all members having voted in the 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING affirmative the bill passes. Chief Clerk, please read the title of Bill No. 260465.
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-100 (“Animals”) of The Philadelphia Code to restrict the operation of carriage horse businesses and to provide for penalties for violations, all under certain terms and conditions.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 260465. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council. I move for the adoption of the amendment. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. The amendment of Bill No. 260465 will be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bill has been amended. This bill 16 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. Will the Clerk please read any additional resolutions on today's Calendar.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee of the Whole to 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING conduct hearings to explore new revenue proposed rules to address the School District of Philadelphia's historic underfunding. Introduced by Councilmember Phillips on behalf of Council President Johnson.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Anyone opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring civilian oversight of policing in Philadelphia, emphasizing that mutual respect and cooperation are essential for improving public safety and police- community relations, further proclaiming June 9th as "Civilian Police Oversight Day," and recognizing the fifth anniversary of the creation of the Citizens Police Oversight Commission in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember O'Rourke. COUNCIL PRESIDENT 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of that resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the next resolution. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
A privileged resolution honoring the West Powelton Steppers and Drum Squad on the occasion of their 35th anniversary and designating them as the official steppers and drumline of the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Gauthier.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing June as "Elora Joyce Khan 15 Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day" in the City of Philadelphia, honoring the life and legacy of Elora Joyce Kahn. Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion on the resolution.
6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings examining preschool 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING pushout, the practice of suspension, expulsion and informal methods of exclusion of our youngest learners, to provide a space to hear stories from impacted families and identify solutions to ensure a bright future for all our young people. Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. And thank you, colleagues, for supporting it.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing the urgent need for Pennsylvania to advance pediatric brain cancer awareness and support increased research funding for children and families affected by pediatric brain cancer and tumors. Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion on the resolution. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Council President. And thank you to the Khan family. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution declaring 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING June 2026 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Landau.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Anyone opposed? 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing the work of land stewards and supporting transparency and land disposition in the long-term preservation of stewarded land in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Lozada.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. And the resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the next resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring Leo Elliot, Susan Layne, and Nancy Geist Giacomini for their skillful and committed work in making the Eviction Diversion Program Portal possible, and their nationally recognized success in keeping 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING thousands of Philadelphians in their homes. Introduced by Councilmember Brooks.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion on the resolution on behalf of Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. And thank you to Minority Leader Brooks for her leadership. With that being said, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.) 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring June 30th as Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenital Awareness Day in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Harrity.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. And I move for the adoption of the resolution. 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Covenant House Pennsylvania on the occasion of its 25th anniversary celebration and commending the organization for its commitment to serving young people 6/4/26 - STATED - 2ND READING experiencing homelessness, trafficking, and instability across the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Bass.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the next resolution.
There are no further resolutions in my possession, Council President.
That completes our Calendar for today. Are there any brief speeches on behalf of the part of the Minority? (No response.)
Are there any brief speeches on behalf of the Majority? Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I will be brief. I just wanted to thank all my colleagues for voting on this Child Welfare Commission to be put on the ballot, and this really is about making sure our most vulnerable and precious constituents, our children, are taken care of and that their families can stay whole as conditions allow. For too long, residents of Philadelphia have navigated a Department of Human Services that lacks some transparency and a child welfare system without much accountability and impacted families and caregivers have been telling me that they need this body to be able to have a clear and accountable way of knowing how DHS does business. Philadelphians deserve to understand how their tax dollars are spent, and I look forward to this getting on the ballot and hopefully passing so we can serve our children and families. And finally, I also want to say that today we had a first reading of Bill 260303, legislation that establishes basic guidelines for T and U visa certification requests, including timely response to applications, written explanation for denials and protections against applicants' immigration status being shared without consent. These visas provide federal immigration protections for crime victims and trafficking survivors. And to qualify for a U visa, applicants need certification from certified government agency, which includes our DA, our police and DHS -- Human Services, not the federal DHS. And these certifications are not necessary for T visas. But if they're given, they're very helpful with the final process that happens at US CIS. This is really a public safety measure and I'm pleased that we have come this far. I hope at our next stated meeting this bill 10 will pass. And I thank you all for your support on all the resolutions and bills thus far. Thank you so much, Council President.
Thank you very much. Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduced a resolution honoring Covenant House Pennsylvania on the occasion of its 25th anniversary and recognizing its extraordinary service to the young people of Philadelphia. At a time when youth homelessness is increasing at alarming rates, the work of Covenant House is more important now than ever. The fact that more than 10,000 children and youth in Philadelphia were identified as experiencing homelessness during the last school year should be a call to action. Behind every number is a young person who deserves safety, dignity, opportunity and the chance to build a brighter future. What makes Covenant House so remarkable is that it understands a simple but powerful truth: Before a young person can thrive, they must feel safe. That fact was brought into sharp focus yesterday during the shooting near Fitler Academics Plus School, a school slated to be closed in the school district's new facilities plan. During a scary situation, which was a shooting outside the school, the school's staff and administrators acted swiftly and effectively, implementing a lockdown to help keep students safe. Parents, teachers, school personnel and first responders all came together with one shared goal: protecting children. The successful response at Fitler demonstrated the critical role our schools play not only as places of learning, but as places of safety, stability and support. Every day schools serve as anchors in our communities, especially for children who may be facing challenges beyond the classroom, including homelessness, housing insecurity, trauma and violence. That is why it is impossible to discuss organizations like Covenant House without also acknowledging the importance of protecting and supporting our schools. The same children who rely on organizations like Covenant House often rely on their neighborhood schools for meals, counseling, trusted adults and a sense of belonging. These institutions form a network of care to help young people navigate adversity and find hope. It is particularly pointed that Fitler, a school that recently demonstrated its value as a safe haven for children during a community crisis, is among the schools currently being considered for closure. As we make decisions about the future of public education in Philadelphia, we must remember that schools are not simply buildings. They are community lifelines. They are places where children are protected, nurtured and connected to services and support systems that they need to succeed. Organizations like Covenant House remind us that when we invest in young people, we strengthen our entire city. When we provide shelter, support, education, and opportunity, we interrupt cycles of poverty, homelessness, violence and instability. When we stand with our youth, we build safer and stronger communities for everyone. So today, as we celebrate years of 24 Covenant House Pennsylvania and their service, let us also recommit ourselves to the broader mission that Covenant House embodies, ensuring that every young person in Philadelphia has a safe place to turn, a supportive community to rely on and a real opportunity to reach their full potential. To the leadership staff, volunteers, supporters and most importantly, the young people whose lives have been transformed through Covenant House, thank you. Your work has changed tens of thousands of lives and has made Philadelphia a more compassionate, more equitable and a more hopeful city. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Very quickly, Council President. I just want to remind my colleagues of the street renaming after our former colleague, Councilmember Sharon Vaughn, tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. and the 300 block of East Rockland Street, between B and C. All are welcome to attend. Thank you.
Thank you very much. Very well done. Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you. Thank you very much, Council President. I rise this morning to say thank you to you as our Council President, for your leadership throughout this budget process. We are deeply grateful as a body for how you have shepherded us through this process, for taking all the calls, answering all the emails and really hearing the concerns of our members as shared by our constituents and community residents across the City of Philadelphia. Today we passed the Fiscal Year 2027 budget out of committee, which included an additional $50 million for the School District of Philadelphia, and we offset some of that increase with spending reductions. City Council's job, per the Home Rule Charter, is to appropriate funds in an annual budget that is balanced, and that is what we did today. I'd like to reiterate, we did our job. So for anyone who's asking us not to do our job, don't ask us not to do our job. The Five Year Plan is required to ensure the City is on stable financial footing and that is managed by the Administration, and they will now present their plan to the PICA Board for approval. It is at their discretion if they choose to include the additional funding approved by City Council today across that plan. For the record, Council President, I'd like to add that from FY18, Fiscal Year '18, to Fiscal Year 2026 the City of Philadelphia has increased its annual contribution to the School District of Philadelphia by $686 million. 7 million in eight years. None of these increases were considered one-time funds. They were all included in the annual budget and across the plan as reoccurring revenue. I'd also like to remind everyone that the School District of Philadelphia used one-time federal COVID relief dollars to hire new positions and expand school staff and services. Those funds were not considered detrimental to the district's financial position. Additionally, the School District of Philadelphia receives an annual grant from the City of Philadelphia, and typically when the City and the District finalize their respective Five Year Plans, the annual funding level of the contribution for the adopted fiscal year is maintained across the plan, despite the contribution only being approved as an annual line item. It is at the discretion of the Mayor and the school district if they decide to maintain the funding level for the contribution. In addition to that, Council President, I'd like to share from the School District of Philadelphia's five year financial plan, wherein they sent us a graph notating their projected fund balance for Fiscal Year 2026 as $406 million. Projected fund balance for Fiscal Year 2027, $200 million. Projected fund balance for Fiscal Year 2028, $83 million. Projected fund balance for Fiscal Year 2029, $20 million. Projected fund balance for 2030, $54 million. Projected fund balance for FY2031, $113 million. Council President, I reject anyone who will rise anywhere to say that this Council did not stand up to do what we needed to do for our children. Because you want to know what, my children go to public school, two of them currently in 3rd and 5th grade at two different schools. I am a graduate of the public school system. I previously worked in the public school system. Yes, we have to make difficult decisions and choices, and that is what negotiations are. They're a two-way street, not a one-way street. So I reject anyone who will purport that this Council has not stood up for our children, because that is what we have done year over year. And I especially take exception to it as a mother with children in the public school system and a graduate of this system. I wanted to ensure that we got that on the record because we also have to balance the delicate needs of our constituents and what they are telling us that they want us to do. This is not about any of us. This is about the people we serve and about our children and the legacy that we will leave to them. So anything else is just that, nothing.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Council President, my energy is the exact same. First of all, thank you for your leadership. I want to say thank you to all of the District Councilmembers who sacrificed so much to make sure that we passed a budget that felt good for the citizens of Philadelphia. I know At-Large members sacrificed too, but nobody sacrificed like District Councilmembers because they looked at what was going on and they said I can't do this to the people I represent. Let me add a little more clarity. I'm not going to repeat any of those numbers because I agree with all those numbers. Those numbers are facts, but let's add a little more clarity to where we are. I think it's very disingenuous for us to sit up here and give up everything that we did and sacrifice everything that we did for children in schools that we care about. I think the only thing we should be hearing from the School District of Philadelphia and the School Board is thank you. That's all we should be hearing. Some of the communication that's been sent to this legislative body is not only disrespectful. We haven't even finished the session yet and they're disrespecting us. Not only is the communication disrespectful, it proves the point that we've been saying for a long time, that these folks don't respect this legislative body. Well, guess what? They learned today. Now, you want to talk about recurring revenue. That's what we want to talk about, recurring revenue. Last I checked I've been fighting for recurring revenue. Last I checked, on this same floor last year, I begged for recurring revenue and I was told no. 23 Actually, if I remember correctly, I was told you can't tell everybody yes. That's exactly what I was told. So now, if you look at where we are, right, recurring revenue, I submitted ideas around recurring revenue. I've been asking for recurring revenue for years. Every recurring revenue idea I have presented since being a legislative member of this body, since being the Education Chair of this Committee, has been shut down. Now, I'm no dummy. I ain't saying my ideas are the best, but they can't all be bad. So now, for us to be in this moment where we should be, we should appreciate the fact that legislators were willing to give it all up for children and not tax people. That was our biggest goal today. It is offensive for anyone to pretend that this legislative body does not care about recurring revenue, does not care about children, and we did everything in our power to make sure that staff don't have to be moved and/or laid off. If staff gets moved and/or laid off, that's not on us. That's a choice. There is money and we put more money on the table. That is a choice. I'll close out by saying this, Council President. Even after all these issues around operating dollars, we still have a facilities plan that we don't agree with. What I want to be very clear about sending over communication to this legislative body, after getting the funding you got, is not only offensive and disrespectful. This is my question, Council President: When the school district and the school board did get reoccurring money last year, did they send a letter to the Mayor? Did they complain to the Mayor? Hey, Madam Mayor, the legislative body asked for recurring revenue last year. Was there a letter sent? Was there disrespectful communication to the Mayor? No, it wasn't. At some point, them folks over at 440, they're going to recognize they do not work for me, they do not work for the Mayor. They work for the citizens and the people of Philadelphia. That's who we work for. And everything we do and everything we fight for, that's who it's for. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you very much, sir. I want to take a moment to welcome my friend, District Attorney Larry Krasner, for joining us at our session as we wrap up the day. Thank you for being here, sir. Came at the right time. You know how you got family squad when you like, yo -- let me stop. We airing out the laundry. Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President, for your indulgence. Real brief. The Trump administration and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which we know as HUD, announced that they are winding down and effectively ending the Restore Rebuild program. I want to make sure I get this on the record. This is really important. Restore Rebuild allowed public housing authorities to create new, deeply affordable housing units while accessing both Section 8 rental assistance and private financing tools. It essentially allowed for more units with Section 8 financing arrangements than the number of Section 8 vouchers that HUD gives the City. I don't want to sugarcoat this. This regulatory change will be debilitating for some public housing authorities who are relying on this program even more than we were. PHA will forge on. But as we think about budgeting, as we think about allocating dollars and colleagues, we're talking about that today. Please understand that there is a new burden on us to contribute to the preservation and production of truly affordable housing, that's if we actually want to meet the goals we have set or the goals that we signed on to, and I know this body does. If we're serious about preventing displacement of long- term citizens across the city, this change in D.C. has changed the game for us here at home. It should change how we're thinking about the H.O.M.E. Plan going forward. Over 20% of the City's affordable housing complexes that rely on the federal low-income housing tax credit and Section 8 subsidies, about 100 out of 450 complexes are set to expire over the next decade, 100 or 450. If we want to talk about maintaining public trust in this institution, much less our individual places in it, we've got some rethinking to do as it relates on that front. I just want to make sure I got that on the record. Thank you for indulging, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. Thank all the members for their hard work through the budget process, as we advocate for not only the children here in the City of Philadelphia, but also the citizens, the overburdened citizens who are sick and tired of being sick and tired of being taxed. And so, I just want to thank all of you for your hard work and listening to your constituents. Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Council President. I move that Council stands adjourned until Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that City Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Thank you all very much. - - - (Stated Meeting adjourned at 1:45 p.m.) - - C E R T I F I C A T I O N I, hereby certify that the proceedings and evidence noted are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me in the foregoing matter, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. ________________________________ TANEHA CARROLL