Stated Meeting, December 14, 2023

Stated Meeting 1 12/14/2023 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, December 14, 2023 11:04 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILWOMAN SHARON VAUGHN MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting 2 12/14/2023

Good morning. Good morning. We're going to get started. Sorry for the late start. A few things going on this morning. If the folks will retire behind the rail and the members will take their seats, we'll get started. We have clearly established our quorum, so we are going to get started with our invocation. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Father Paul Galetto of St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Squilla. I would ask all members, guests, and visitors to please rise. Folks, can we keep it down over there a little bit, please. Thank you. Father. (Councilmembers, guests, and visitors rise.)

Good morning, everyone. Let us pause for a moment and Stated Meeting 3 12/14/2023 us and the work that is done here. Heavenly Creator, in this world you have made for us, we have fashioned what we call Philly things. And among Philly things, there is a specialized subset called South Philly things. One of our South Philly favorites is the phrase "I got a guy." This phrase means, among other things, that I have someone who will help you, take care of you, and make sure things go favorably for you. Many of the guys in "I got a guy" are the women and men assembled before you today. The elected and appointed officials of this City of Brotherly and Sisterly Love are tasked with caring for and helping out their constituents. Help us to remember that there is something and someone better than "I got a guy," and that is "I got a God." Saint Augustine of Hippo says, do what you can and then pray to God to Stated Meeting 4 12/14/2023 When we, the "got a guy" people find ourselves at an impasse to solve the problems that we humans make, such as gun violence, homelessness, poverty, racism, and the other sins of human beings, help us to remember that we got a God, a God who loves us and will heal the wounds that humans cause. You, God, our creator, will do what we cannot. Only you, God, can make something great out of the mess that we human beings make. On this last meeting day of this calendar year, bless those whose service comes to an end. Reward them for the sacrifices they have made and the good they have done. And as the new year and the newly elected leaders begin their work among us, help them to remember that they always got a God who will do what they cannot. We ask all of this in your name who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen. Stated Meeting 5 12/14/2023 (Amen.)

Father, thank you so much for the invocation this morning. We really appreciate it. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

Thank you very much. Thank you very much, Father, for your invocation this morning. And our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 7, 2023, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass. Folks, I'm going to have to ask you all please keep it down a little bit, please. Thank you.

Don't let him say it again.

Thank you, Councilman.

Thank you, Stated Meeting 6 12/14/2023 that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 7th, 2023 be approved. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 7, 2023 stand approved. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and our Journal is approved. And our next order of business is request for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the members, there are no requests for leaves of Stated Meeting 7 12/14/2023

Thank you. Thank you so much, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla 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 our session today.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that 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 the 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 Stated Meeting 8 12/14/2023 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 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 published and included in the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilman Squilla may be added to the agenda for today, should those matters arise during the course of the Council session. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Stated Meeting 9 12/14/2023 opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. And our next order of business is communications, and I would ask the Clerk to please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications that he may have in his possession today.

From the Mayor to the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, 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 Nos. 230828, 230829, 230835, 230836, 230848, 230849, 230850, 230853, 230860, 230861, 230862, and 230863. And I am pleased to advise you that on December 13, 2023, I signed all of the bills which were passed by Council at its session on November 30, 2023, except Bill Nos. 230510 and 230740, which Stated Meeting 10 12/14/2023 I have returned without my signature.

Thank you, Mr. Decker. Before we proceed with our introduction of bills and resolutions, I would just like to take a moment to welcome everyone that has come down here today. I understand that there's going to be something going on a little differently today, but I appreciate the fact that you all are here witnessing your government in action, and we genuinely thank you for being here so you can participate in today's Council session. Mr. Decker, we will now move to our introduction of bills and resolutions. And the Clerk will read the titles of the legislation that's being offered by our members today.

Councilman Jones offers 38 privileged resolutions, honoring and recognizing Asia Cooney, Stated Meeting 11 12/14/2023 Audrey Coles -- and a resolution honoring and recognizing Audrey Coles; and A resolution honoring and recognizing William Greenlee; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Charles Lanier; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Connie Little; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Cynthia Barnes; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Darnetta Arce; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Dennis Boylan; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Derrick Ford; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Diane Monroe; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Donnell Deans; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Dr. Kenneth Scott; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Ed Flythe; and Stated Meeting 12 12/14/2023 A resolution honoring and recognizing Harriett Williams; and A resolution honoring and recognizing the Honorable Jewell Williams; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Justino Navarro; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Keith Harris; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Larry Lane; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Larry Reynolds; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Lenora Jackson Evans; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Bishop Lewis Nash; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Lisa Maiello; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Louise Bundy; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Maggie O'Brien; and A resolution honoring and Stated Meeting 13 12/14/2023 recognizing Matt Ruben; and A resolution honoring and recognizing the Honorable Michelle Brownlee; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Ms. El Amor M. Brawne Ali; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Muriel Taylor; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Nita Wroten; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Patricia Freeland; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Patti Mosser; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Priscilla Tee Bennett; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Priscilla Woods; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Richard Gross; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Rose Gray; and A resolution honoring and Stated Meeting 14 12/14/2023 recognizing Ruth Birchett; and A resolution honoring and recognizing the Honorable Shirley Kitchen; and A resolution honoring and recognizing Tonnetta Graham, all for their loyal and dedicated service in enhancing the lives of the citizens of the 5th Councilmanic District and the City of Philadelphia.

Thank you, Mr. Decker. That will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Also on behalf of Council President Clarke, Councilman Jones offers a non-privileged resolution also naming the 2500 block of West Sharswood Street as the "Honorable Thomas McIntosh, Sr. Way."

You want to request a rules suspension? The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion to suspend the rules Stated Meeting 15 12/14/2023 to allow reading today.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading of this resolution today. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And on his own behalf, Councilman Jones offers a non-privileged resolution calling on the School District of Philadelphia to review and enhance school safety policies regarding students, teachers, parents, Stated Meeting 16 12/14/2023 and staff, as well as provide a report to City Council on their findings. Council President, Councilman Jones would like to be recognized for a motion on this resolution.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for a rules suspension to allow this resolution to be heard this day. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.

Councilwoman Stated Meeting 17 12/14/2023 resolution congratulating the Kwanzaa Cooperative for inaugurating the first City Kinara in Philadelphia history and organizing Kwanzaa programming at the Free Library to uphold the traditions of Kwanzaa in Philadelphia for years to come.

Thank you. That will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.

There are no other bills or resolutions being offered today by the members, Mr. President.

Thank you very much. We will now have our reports from committee, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a report from the Committee of the Whole.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Committee of the Whole, we offer six resolutions with a favorable recommendation. Stated Meeting 18 12/14/2023

Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Resolution No. 230788, entitled a "Resolution confirming the appointment of Valerie I. Harrison as a member of the Board of Ethics, to serve in the term ending November 16, 2024"; and Resolution No. 230803, entitled a "Resolution reappointing Angela Val to the Board of Directors of the Center City District"; and Resolution No. 230804, entitled a "Resolution appointing Dan Killinger to the Board of Directors of the Center City District"; and Resolution No. 230805, entitled a "Resolution reappointing Jack Sokoloff to the Board of Directors of the Center Stated Meeting 19 12/14/2023 District"; and Resolution No. 230806, entitled a "Resolution appointing Jamal Johnson to the Board of Directors of the Center City District"; and Resolution No. 230807, entitled a "Resolution reappointing Randall Scott to the Board of Directors of the Center City District," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you again, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the six afore-read resolutions be considered in today's Calendar. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and Stated Meeting 20 12/14/2023 of Council be suspended to permit the consideration of Resolutions No. 230788, 230803, 230804, 230805, 230806, and 230807 on today's Final Passage Calendar. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, the motion carries, and these resolutions will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. Our next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar today, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion concerning the resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today.

Thank you, Stated Meeting 21 12/14/2023 President. I move that the use of a Consent Agenda be permitted to consider the resolutions on today's Final Passage Calendar. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

I'm sorry. Thank you. It's been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended -as usual, Mr. Decker always picks it up. Just reference the numbers on the resolutions, Councilman.

Resolutions No. 230917, 230918, 230919, 230920, 230921, 230924, 230925, 230926, 230927, 230928, and 230929.

Can I get a second. (Duly seconded.) Stated Meeting 22 12/14/2023

Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the resolutions just read by Councilman Jones. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, the motion carries, and we will consider the Resolution Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion concerning the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today.

Thank you again, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit a Consent Agenda for the following bills on Stated Meeting 23 12/14/2023 Final Passage Calendar: 200658, 230579, 230586, 230714, 230716, 230744, 230745, 230571, 230776, 230651, 230741, 230742, 2306 -- 230764, 230771, 230778, 230780, 230782, 230783, 230403, 230512, 230773, 230774, 230827, 230830, 230831, 230833, 230832, 230835, 230839, 230840, 230844, 230851, 230854, 230855, 230857, 230858, 230859, 230864, 230763, 230769, 230772, 230775, 230777, 230781, 230784, 230828, 230834, 230836, 230841, 230842, 230843, 230848, 230849, 230852, 230853, 230856, 230860, 230861, 230862, 230863, 23053 -- no; 2306 -- 230653, 230900, 230838, 230701, and 220905.

Can I get a second. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bills just read by Councilman Jones. Stated Meeting 24 12/14/2023 2ND READING All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, the motion carries, and we will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.

Thank you once again, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being brought up from Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 230922, 230698, 230765, 230766, 230767, 230768, 230649, 230690, 230700, 230770, 230829, 230364, 230746. All other bills and resolutions are being held.

Stated Meeting 25 12/14/2023 Thank you very much. Thank you very much. So before we consider the resolutions and bills, we will consider our public comment session. The public comment will go as follows: If you have not already done so, you may sign up at the table outside in the hallway with the Sergeant-of-Arms. When your name is called, it will be called in the order in which you signed up. When your name is called, you will go to the podium in the middle of the Council Chambers. There's a device on that podium. There's a light. When that light turns green, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks, and when the light turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to our guidelines and conclude your remarks. Today, given the volume of individuals that we have who wish to have public comment today, we're going to Stated Meeting 26 12/14/2023 limit the speech to two minutes. We would really appreciate it if you adhere to our guidelines, as we want to make sure that everybody has an opportunity to speak in a timely way. So with that, Mr. Decker, can you please call the first name on the list.

The first speaker is Kenneth A. Jacobson, commenting on 220905. (Witness approached podium.)

Thank you so much. Mr. President and members of Council, my name is Kenneth A. Jacobsen. I am a practice professor of law at Temple University Beasley School of Law. I also am the Director of the Sports Law program there. Thank you. I'm honored to speak today in support of the youth name, image, and likeness protection bill. While I'm doing that, I want to commend Councilmember Thomas for his vision and Stated Meeting 27 12/14/2023 his wisdom in recognizing the need for this kind of legislation in order to protect our high school youth. Name, image, and likeness is as its name suggests, our persona. It's what we own. It's our name. It's our image. And it has become a very controversial topic both on a collegiate level and on a high school level. In Pennsylvania, high school students are able to monetize their name, image, and likeness. The problem is that the name, image, and likeness environment is a muddy water. It's very complicated. Rules are inconsistent. There are traps for the unwary. The consequences of not following those rules are that our high school athletes could lose their eligibility to play sports. There also, where there is money, where an athlete could receive money for his or her name, image, and likeness, there also are bad actors in this space. Whenever there is Stated Meeting 28 12/14/2023 money, then you are going to have sharks swimming in those same muddy waters, and this bill addresses various components to protect, educate our high school students and their families in the name, image, and likeness space so that they could have confidence going forward that if they are entering into these deals, they are doing it with their eyes open, that they're not jeopardizing their eligibility. We at Temple Law School have been very proud to have worked with the Councilmember and his staff for the past several months on this bill, and I stand to wholeheartedly support this. I am an expert in NIL on the local, national, and regional level. I've studied this. I do programs on name, image, and likeness, and I think that this bill is worthy of final passage and we ask that Council do so. Thank you so much.

Stated Meeting 29 12/14/2023 Thank you for your testimony. We appreciate it. (Applause.)

The next speaker is James Dykman, commenting on 220905. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning, Council President, Councilmembers. My name is James Dykman. I'm a third-year law student at Temple University Beasley School of Law, and today I am speaking in support of Bill No. 220905. It should go without saying that Temple Law students love Philadelphia. They love this city and this community so much that they dedicate their time during law school to help Philadelphia residents. They do this through clinics and practicums that include helping low-income earners with Stated Meeting 30 12/14/2023 their tax filings, mediating disputes between tenants and landlords, and representing families in Family Court. In my personal experience, I had the opportunity to serve constituents of District 4 for Councilmember Curtis Jones, along with Anthony here, just last fall as a legislative aide. Temple Law students want to serve the public, and Temple Law gives them that opportunity. This bill gives Temple Law students another opportunity to help a very specific set of Philadelphia residents, young Philadelphia athletes and their families. When this bill passes, Temple Law, in partnership with the City of Philadelphia, will develop an educational program that helps young athletes understand the ramifications of name, image, and likeness and national letters of intent. Temple Law students will be on the ground floor of this program, Stated Meeting 31 12/14/2023 developing educational materials, talking with students and their families about NIL and NLI deals, as well as guaranteeing students understand the important decisions they're making for their future. Temple Law students want to help. We want to serve. We want to give. In passing Bill No. 220905, you give Temple Law students another opportunity to help the City that they love. Thank you.

Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.)

The next speaker is Clarence Milton James, commenting on 220905. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning. Stated Meeting 32 12/14/2023

Good morning, members of the City Council. I am speaking on behalf of the name, image, and likeness bill. My name is Clarence Milton James and I'm a proud Central High School graduate, Class of 280, and a Temple University junior. I grew up playing youth sports in the City and I also played both varsity baseball and football all four years I attended Central High School. Playing at the collegiate level was something that I had hoped to do and had the opportunity to. However, I did not think I was fully prepared for the commitment it was to put yourself out there and reach out to different schools for the opportunity to play in the future. I am forever thankful to the great coaches I've had and the effort they've put into preparing me for the next level, but there was no support from the Philadelphia School District in Stated Meeting 33 12/14/2023 helping myself or any of my teammates to further our athletic careers. COVID also played a big factor, because there were so many restrictions given out by the School District. A lot of the recruiting process for me involved going to football camps that different colleges hosted and sending my film to different coaches on Twitter, but I never knew where to go after that or how to properly approach a coach without coming off too strong or the correct way to address a coach online. The educational benefits offered by this bill would have gone a long way towards helping me understand the college recruiting process and pursuing an opportunity to play sports in the collegiate and possibly obtaining an athletic scholarship. Thank you. (Applause.) Stated Meeting 34 12/14/2023

Thank you for your testimony.

The next speaker is Ed McColly, commenting on 230927. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning. MR. McCOLLY: Good morning. My name is Ed McColly, Director of Project Planning at Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia. Since 1985, Habitat Philadelphia has partnered with families in need to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. To date, we have built and sold 260 energy-efficient homes to first-time homeowners and strategically partnered with more than 850 homeowners and their families to provide critical home repairs. The proposed Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia project on North 40th Street will allow four more families Stated Meeting 35 12/14/2023 to experience the transformational power of home. Each single-family row home includes at least three bedrooms and one and a half bathrooms and, with an eye towards increasing equity for potential homeowners, one unit wheelchair accessible. Home is medicine. Home is education. Home is generational wealth. Together, we will keep working toward our vision of a city where everyone has a decent place to live. I would like to thank the Redevelopment Authority for the opportunity to move forward with this project and Councilmember Gauthier for her support. Thank you.

Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.)

The next speaker Stated Meeting 36 12/14/2023 is Kirsten Brit, commenting on 230851. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. My name is Kirsten Brit. I am speaking on Bill 230851. Real proven solutions to problems should not have to be fought for when they are in the best interest of those that are harmed. However, we are standing here today in every step of the way fighting for and against the injustices that are happening in sections of our city that are heavily populated by people of color, particularly those that look like me. It took years of fighting to get to a place where we are talking about a lease for a building that has been operated by its current tenant, Parks and Rec. Formalities and technicalities like these hold up the real processes of doing the work necessary to reopen a closed Stated Meeting 37 12/14/2023 pool. Though I stand here in support of this bill, I'm asking Council to do what is necessary to move the process of opening this pool, along with the other indoor pools, Marcus Foster, Pickett, Motivation, and others. There is a continued lack of lifeguards to maintain outdoor pools because the pools they were formerly trained in year round are closed. Council has an obligation to their constituents to do what is necessary to reopen all of these pools swiftly in partnership with the School District. We either want to save our children and our elderly or we want to keep pretending like we do. We can't do both. We can keep allowing this issue to grow and continue to not serve or we can change. Currently, there are three rec centers within a mile of me closed due to maintenance issues and Rebuild projects. Stated Meeting 38 12/14/2023 Who thought that was a good idea? When Sayre begins, that will make four. This is unacceptable. Violence is exacerbated when resources are continuously shut down. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you for your testimony.

The next speaker is Charisma Presley and Phoebe Dougherty, commenting on 230851. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. MISS DOUGHERTY: Good morning. My name is Phoebe and I am eight years old. Last summer I learned to swim at Mander pool. I didn't pass the swimming test until the last week of the season, and that was the best week. I was no longer in the crowded baby section. I Stated Meeting 39 12/14/2023 was able to stretch and jump and float without people splashing water in my face. Once the pool closed, I told my mom that I wanted to swim some more, so she said that I will try -- that she would try to take me to Lincoln pool, but that is very far and the gas is expensive. All this year we testified at the School District to rebuild Marcus Foster and fix up Pickett, which would allow me and my grandparents to swim all year long. We collected signatures and brought them to each of your offices in May. People signed from our neighborhood asking the same thing that people in the Northeast have and people in the West. Philadelphia will soon have public pools for year-round swimming. I am told to ask questions rather than assume when I don't know something. So here are my questions: Don't I deserve what other Stated Meeting 40 12/14/2023 people in Philadelphia have access to? Can someone here tell me that I deserve these same resources? Can someone here tell me why I'm not given these same resources? Can someone here speak up for our indoor neighborhood public pools? (Applause.)

Good morning, Council President --

Morning.

-- and all Councilmembers. My name is Charisma Presley and I'm here with members of our community in support of Bill 230851 for Sayre pool and to ask what about our two indoor pools, Marcus Foster and Pickett pool. Are not the Nicetown, Logan, Tioga, Olney, North Philadelphia, Allegheny, Germantown, Mount Airy, Roxborough, and West Oak Lane residents deserving year-round swimming and Stated Meeting 41 12/14/2023 opportunities like those in the Lincoln pool and Sayre community? What about us? Our country's motto is E pluribus unum, which means out of many comes one. In the preamble to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, it states all qualified citizens may participate equally without distinction based on race, color, religion, or national origin. Do we need to add neighborhoods to this list of criteria? Do we not qualify as citizens of this city? Will someone speak for us? Do our children and seniors not deserve to have access to better quality of life and a public pool to walk to in their neighborhood and to use, especially during these cold days? What about us? We submitted over 500 signatures to all of your offices in May asking for support for Marcus Foster and Pickett pools, and not one of you have proposed to bring this bill up in your Stated Meeting 42 12/14/2023 communities or at Council. We mailed over 70 letters to our District Councilwoman and still received no response. I'm reminded of Sojourner Truth's question of 1851 Women's Rights Convention in which she asked, ain't I a woman? As I sit and reflect on her words, our community too feels the sense of not being seen, heard, or invested in. Aren't we citizens too? Don't we deserve to participate equally as you give the School District funds to rebuild Marcus Foster and renovate Pickett? Are you Council for one or two neighborhoods or Council for the entire city? We are asking for a commitment from you all to support a bill funding the rebuild of Marcus Foster and the renovation of Pickett pool. I thank you. Stated Meeting 43 12/14/2023 (Applause.)

The next speaker is Sterling Scott. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. My name is Sterling Scott, former committee person, presently block captain for the 4600 block of North 16th Street, and I'm here to support Bill 230851 in support for Marcus Foster Aquatics Group and the Friends of Marcus Foster Aquatics Group. I also represent and hold daily the Citizen Congress of Nicetown, who I have partnered to keep the neighborhood clean and safe. We have senior citizens that need services and the Marcus Foster Recreation Center and pool to be rebuilt for the youth and the people in the domiciliary in this area. We've been neglected for so long, and we need the Stated Meeting 44 12/14/2023 City Council to fund to have this building rebuilt totally. Thank you again.

Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you for your testimony.

The next speaker is Queen Judith Robinson. (No response.)

Queen Judith Robinson. (No response.)

The next speaker is Veronica Holman. (Witness approached podium.)

My name is Veronica Holman.

Good morning.

Good morning, City Stated Meeting 45 12/14/2023 Council President, Councilmembers, and attendees. I am here in regard to Bill No. 230851. My name is Veronica Holman and I'm here with Philly Aquatics and the residents of Nicetown to request that you reopen Pickett pool, rebuild Marcus Foster pool, and that they maintain School District pools. This will not be a long testimony. We have been before you previously and before the School Board numerous times in regard to making these pools available to us, the children, elders, taxpayers of Nicetown. We have presented petitions with more than 500 names asking that the pools be reopened and remain under the School District of Philadelphia. We have presented documentation to support the reason our pools should reopen and be made available to us again. If you do not have the packets with the documentation, we will deliver a packet to each of you upon request. Stated Meeting 46 12/14/2023 I am here today as your constituent asking that you do the right thing for all the residents in this underserved area of the City that will use these pools. We are being denied access to these pools because the gatekeepers have allowed Pickett pool, Marcus Foster to deteriorate to the point that Marcus Foster may need to be rebuilt. Collectively you are providing for constituents, taxpayers, and their children in other areas of the City. What about us? What will your legacy be? We see that you can work together. We are officially asking you to remove the barriers to the immediate restoration of the Marcus Foster pool, building, and Pickett pool. Residents of Nicetown and Philly Aquatics have already shown that we are committed to working together. Reopening these two School District pools will improve the quality of life for the Stated Meeting 47 12/14/2023 residents in our community. Thank you for allowing me to present this testimony. (Applause.) (Audience members chanting.)

Thank you for your testimony.

The next speaker is Raymond Alvarez, commenting on 230746. (Witness approached podium.)

I am Raymond Alvarez, founder of A&I Security, a family-owned private security firm established in 2016. I work with many small business owners and have been part of the community all my life. Today I'm here to share my perspective on Bill 230746. I'm here to express opposition to this bill, as we believe it sidesteps essential democratic processes, goes beyond legal boundaries, and lacks Stated Meeting 48 12/14/2023 inclusivity or equity. This bill imposes unwarranted and likely unenforceable burdens on businesses by dictating how they should structure their workforce. It introduces unnecessary barriers that could push enterprises away, especially at a time when we're just getting over the pandemic. Beyond the substantive issues with this bill, we find the process unsettling. The lack of input from businesses like ours is not only a disservice to the business community but also a departure from the democratic values our elected officials are responsible to uphold. In crafting legislation of this magnitude, it is imperative that those who will be directly impacted are given a seat at the table. It is our firsthand experiences, insights, concerns that should shape the policies that govern our businesses in our community. Elected officials have a Stated Meeting 49 12/14/2023 responsibility to engage with a diverse population of community members and business owners to understand how legislation may affect them. Unfortunately, in this instance, City Council failed to reach out to the Hispanic community, which represents many businesses that could be impacted. This bill will undoubtedly have broad implications, and lack of outreach to diverse business communities is troubling. Analysis after analysis, report after report indicates that Philadelphia's business environment is not suitable for small businesses. This city is too unsafe, too costly, too cumbersome for entrepreneurs to start, grow, and scale their businesses. In spite of this, we chose to operate here. We love our city, and we're committed to it, but regulations such as this one makes it increasingly hard. It's crucial that regulations Stated Meeting 50 12/14/2023 are not imposed without our input and consideration for experiences, and this bill adds yet another layer of difficulty for us. As business leaders and community members, we're ready to work with City Council to build a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Philadelphia. We hope for a genuine dialogue that considers the challenges we face and leads to policies that support our businesses in the local economy. Thank you, Council, for allowing me to present.

Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.)

The next speaker is Mayra Soto, commenting on 230746.

Thank you. Please state your name and begin your testimony. Stated Meeting 51 12/14/2023 (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning. I am Mayra Soto, the Member Engagement Coordinator of the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce representing our President and CEO. I would like to address the Chamber's stance on Bill 230746. Over the past two decades, the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has played a pivotal role in fostering, promoting, and advocating for the interest of 12 current Hispanic businesses in Philadelphia. Our commitment extends to addressing the economic growth of the Hispanic community. We firmly believe that entrepreneurship is a key competent in addressing disparities hindering the process of underrepresented communities, and it should be focal point for our government. Our opposition to Bill 230746 Stated Meeting 52 12/14/2023 is twofold. First, we believe it circumvents essential democratic processes. Secondly, its viability if the face of legal scrutiny is questionable. Moreover, the bill neglects the diverse perspective of business owners most directly impacted by it. This proposed legislation imposes undue and potentially illegal barriers on businesses across various sectors by dictating the specifics of the workforce composition, dictating who to hire and how. It adds unnecessary processes and costs to businesses that are still recovering from the impact of the pandemic. Thank you.

Thank you for your testimony. Mr. Decker.

The next speaker is Regina Hairston.

Stated Meeting 53 12/14/2023 Ms. Hairston, state your name for the record and please begin your testimony. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning, Majority Chair.

Good morning.

My name is Regina Hairston. I am here speaking on Bill 230746. Again, my name is Regina Hairston, President and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce for Pennsylvania and New Jersey, where we represent over 180,000 business owners. I stand before you today in opposition of this bill because there was not a democratic process or even a process to determine how this bill will impact Black businesses. We come before this body quite often to talk about the disparities that Black businesses face. We hear time and time and time about the commitment to Stated Meeting 54 12/14/2023 Black businesses. Yet we have a bill that dictates whom businesses can choose to hire. However, when we look at our procurement in the City and we look at tax dollars, we're talking about private enterprise money, but now when we look at tax dollars for the City of Philadelphia and we look at the low amount of tax dollars that go to procurement services for Black businesses, we say that's illegal. We must have a disparity study to set goals, but yet we have a bill before us that tells us it's legal to say where we must point those dollars. We oppose this bill because it has not been properly researched and vetted to determine how it really impacts small businesses. We oppose this bill because there was no democratic process. Just as Council represents everyone in the City of Philadelphia, I represent the businesses, the Black businesses, that joined the Chamber, whether or not they pay or not, but I can't come before this Stated Meeting 55 12/14/2023 body and say, City of Philadelphia, mandate anyone that does business in Philadelphia must join the Chamber of Commerce. We would be in an uproar. This is the same bill that you're putting before our business owners to say that they must mandate who they hire. For the Team Cleans of the world who started working on one house in the Main Line and growing her business to 1,000 or more employees, I say no. We are not voting for this bill today. I say for the Blane Stoddarts, who started with one apartment building and built a construction firm and now you're telling him who he must hire, the African American Chamber of Commerce says no to that. So I implore you to vote no for this bill.

Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.) Stated Meeting 56 12/14/2023

Mr. Decker.

Mr. Chairman, the next speaker is Daisy Cruz. (Applause.) (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning, Ms. Cruz. Please state your name for the record and please begin your testimony.

Good morning. My name is Daisy Cruz. I'm the District Leader for SEIU Local 32BJ. We represent over 10,000 workers here in Philadelphia in the tri-state area. Seven thousand of them work here in Center City. A lot of our members find themselves in danger of losing their jobs due to no fault of their own. Our union members are cleaners, security officers, and building engineers who make sure that these buildings are clean, well Stated Meeting 57 12/14/2023 maintained, and secure so that businesses are able to function properly. Our workers can easily be taken for granted and are the unseen workers. During the pandemic, our members became highly recognized in ways that they had never been before. While the rest of the world were able to work from home, not our members. They were celebrated and honored as essential workers when it was still unclear exactly how the virus was spreading. They did deep cleaning, constantly kept the buildings running, and helped enforce social distance and mask mandates in an effort to keep all of us safe and healthy as possible. Now that we're coming out of the worst of it and into the time of recovery, we find that our businesses and that our members who worked so hard to help stay afloat are making adjustments themselves. While we expect that social and economic times change, businesses Stated Meeting 58 12/14/2023 will adapt, but we cannot sacrifice the jobs of low-wage hard-working people so that billionaires can continue to get richer. (Applause.)

We fought for displaced worker laws in the past to close loopholes and left workers vulnerable to job loss for irresponsible businesses trying to avoid the living wages and benefits that our members fought so hard in their union contracts over the years. This language is not a new concept. It's simply adapting to an already existing law to address the changing circumstances. Passing the commitments to the existing law will give workers a chance to hold onto their wages, their healthcare, their pension, when they are the ones who need all the stuff the most. Businesses should not benefit at the Stated Meeting 59 12/14/2023 expense of poor, hard-working people while they live paycheck to paycheck if this bill is not passed this year. We cannot put big businesses above low-wage workers. We ask that you continue to support us by voting yes on displaced worker Bill 230746. By doing so, you will be sending a clear message that we're all in this recovery process together. If you vote no, you will be voting no of poor, hard-working people and voting yes for billionaires to continue to get richer. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you for your testimony. Mr. Decker.

The next speaker is Aisha Al-Muid, commenting on 230851. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning, Stated Meeting 60 12/14/2023 everyone. Thank you for having me. My name is Aisha Al-Muid and I am here to speak on behalf of Bill 238 -- the bill that's for the recreation centers and the pools, because I can't bring it up right now. But I am here as a voice from the community to state that I am a product of Sayre Recreation Center being open all year long. I participated on the PDR Swim Team, which gave me the skills and confidence to become a champion in life. I also gained critical life-saving skills as a lifeguard. Sayre is a hub for community and positivity for all families and children not only in West Philadelphia, Southwest Philadelphia and surrounding areas. So I am here to say that you need to open and repair and make them accessible for the present community so that they are able to thrive and be successful in life such as I am. Thank you. Stated Meeting 61 12/14/2023 (Applause.)

Thank you for your testimony.

The next speaker is Jeron Williams II, commenting on 220905. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning -- good afternoon. Sorry.

Yes. It's 12 o'clock. Thank you, Council President Clarke, Councilmember Thomas, honorable members of this body, and of course the residents of Philadelphia. My name is Jeron Williams II, the Vice Chair of Communications for the Philadelphia Youth Commission, commenting on Bill 220905. Just for some context, I helped bring about the resolution that honored our Executive Director, Jeanette Bavwidinsi, last week and her leadership Stated Meeting 62 12/14/2023 for the Commission in the Millennial Advisory Committee. So we are here and have been having conversations about how important youth are, but not often do we see bona fide, well thought out, and intentional work to support them. The Commission saw this bill on the Council floor, and we wanted to make sure that we showed up for the youth. The Commission discussed at length the bill and its benefits, and Councilmember Thomas attested that this bill can serve as a pathway out of poverty for young people who are talented in their own rights but don't necessarily have the tools and resources to navigate this very predatory and complex system that is an NIL agreement. Our own research concluded the same. It emphasizes education and guidance, offers financial relief and support, and even more specifically, it targets low-income neighborhoods, Stated Meeting 63 12/14/2023 households, and families, which aligns with the priorities of the City, this body, and of the Commission of making Philadelphia a more equitable and inclusive city. The Commission agrees that these youth would only benefit from extra supports from our government, academic, and non-profit partners to ensure that their best interests are served, and we're excited to stand in support of this bill. Thank you to Councilmember Thomas as well as Councilmembers Driscoll, Squilla, Bass, Brooks, Gauthier, Gilmore Richardson, Jones, and O'Neill for co-sponsoring this bill. The work that this Council has done over the past four years, including the former members, has been amazing, and we are appreciative of your efforts. Once again, my name is Jeron Williams II of the Philadelphia Youth Commission, and I thank you for allowing Stated Meeting 64 12/14/2023 me to comment on this bill. This concludes my testimony.

Thank you. Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.)

The next speaker is Lisa Hastings, commenting on 230770. (Witness approached podium.)

Good afternoon.

Hi. My name is Lisa Hastings. Hello.

We hear you.

Hi. My name is Lisa Hastings and I strongly oppose overlay Bill 230770, as do hundreds of my neighbors. I live one block from the overlay area and within the area the neighborhood nearby it which will be strongly impacted forever by the precedence it sets. Stated Meeting 65 12/14/2023 The bill would endanger the integrity of the Parkway and the neighborhoods near it by destroying the protected Parkway area height limit, undercutting neighborhood involvement in zoning, and doing so many years before construction of the project is even started. For the bill itself -- for the project itself, the bill is really unnecessary, because most things can be done through variances, and at best premature. The developer told us last month at a neighborhood meeting that the plans for what he would ultimately build there and how he would do it would not be final for several more years. So basically the project is not being delayed because this bill has not passed, and passing this bill will not change that. It also won't guarantee that the current vision becomes a reality, but it does allow by the open-ended changes, Stated Meeting 66 12/14/2023 it does allow the project to deteriorate without public involvement. If the City wants to pay the Family Court building developer in part by giving them public property to develop privately, at least the existing Parkway area zoning should be respected. There's plenty of room there. Sacrificing the Parkway area height limits, ignoring the public and the real consequences of this overlay bill is not going to help anything. Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you so much for your testimony. We appreciate it.

The next speaker is Bonita Cummings, commenting on 220364 and 230764. (Witness approached podium.)

Good afternoon.

Good morning or afternoon. My name is Bonita Cummings. Stated Meeting 67 12/14/2023 I'm the Director of Strawberry Mansion Community Concerned and a registered RCO. I'm here in reference to Bill No. 220364. Maybe some of us forgot the trip to the supermarket where mom has two children in the cart, two around her ankles, and two pulling at her skirt tail and not one extra penny to pay for anything that wasn't in that budget. The bill is about the plastic industry and injuries to unsuspecting families. Mandating a fee for bags changes even how the cashier can relate to the customer. A normal courtesy of giving a bag is now legislated to be a cost. We cannot talk about poor people, then make them poorer. There has to be an exemption for the people on food stamps or access cards. The present fees for bags are exploitive, especially in the poppy or corner stores in poor neighborhoods. So we ask that you hold this bill from your Consent Agenda. No one Stated Meeting 68 12/14/2023 will be injured if this bill does not pass today, but poor people will be injured and including those working in the bag industry. So Council President Clarke and Councilmember Squilla and all the Councilmembers, this bill needs more protections for both the poor, food stamp, and access card families and workers in the bag industry. In reference to Bill No. 230764, an event space for many neighborhoods acts like a nightclub. The request in this bill is too broad, and the impact to neighborhood commercial corridors is different for every neighborhood. What would happen in Chestnut Hill is very different than behavior from an event venue on Ridge Avenue at 29th Street. This bill needs more community input, and no one would be injured if the bill does not pass today. So I want to thank you for Stated Meeting 69 12/14/2023 allowing me to have a voice today and for not taking my voice. Thank you.

Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.)

The next speaker is Wick Savage, commenting on 230836. (Witness approached podium.)

Good afternoon -

Good afternoon.

-- President of City Council and Councilmembers. I'm here speaking on Bill 230836. That is Councilmen Curtis Jones' bill about outside cafes. Cafes are beautiful. They are enjoyable by many, many people and many visitors, but just recently with the killing of an employee in Macy's department store and the shooting of two Stated Meeting 70 12/14/2023 officers in my dear friend Councilman Driscoll's district, if we don't get a handle on this violence from river to river, from the Greater Northeast to the Navy Yard, we won't have to worry about outside cafes because people will be scared to death to go in these cafes. And these cafes are not just in Center City. They're in Councilman Curtis' district, they're in Councilman Squilla's district, they're in Councilman Kenyatta's district and throughout the City, because it's an enjoyable way to enjoy your evening when you want to go out with your loved one. I will plead with this Council body and the newest Council body that is coming into session, we have got to get our arms around this violence. Thank you very much.

Thank you for your testimony. (Applause.) Stated Meeting 71 12/14/2023

The next speaker is Maurice Sample, commenting on 220364. (Witness approached podium.)

My name is Maurice Sampson actually and I am speaking here on behalf -- in support of Bill 220364, and I'd like to address very directly the concerns that were raised several speakers ago. In fact, adding a fee to the plastic bag bill, not only does it not hurt the poor, I submit to you that without the fee, what we have right now is more damaging to the poor, and I will tell you why. Right now there are 29 stores in the total low-income community that are discount stores, Aldi's, Leidy's, Shop N Bag. They have always charged a fee. In fact, charging a fee is the way to keep their prices down. These are the stores that have been most convenient to the poorest Stated Meeting 72 12/14/2023 residents in the City. If you don't add a fee, what happens basically is -- I'm sorry; add an exemption, they then have to charge for the bags, which will cause them to raise their price. What does that mean? A study done this year indicates that of 183 products at these stores, they are 20 to 40 percent lower in cost than at a Walmart. So we need to be -- this bill is -- the fee is not for the purpose of increasing the cost to people. What it is is revealing the fact that we are already paying for these bags and the cost of those bags buried in the cost of all of the groceries. By having a fee, you isolate that cost. You know what you're paying. And the first question you're going to ask is, do I really need this bag. The experience in Chicago, San Jose and others is that there is an immediate 50 percent decrease in the use of all bags, because I don't want to pay the fee, I don't need it. Stated Meeting 73 12/14/2023 You want to avoid the fee entirely? Bring your own bag. And that's the whole point of this bill, is to provide that incentive to use what we have learned. In Chicago where they had a plastic bag ban, it was this measure that corrected it. Now, in that case, they put in a tax. A tax is regressive. This leaves the fee to the stores, not to gouge us, but you're not going to buy a bag if you don't need a bag. And I think that's the end of my time, but I hope my point has been made, and a lot of the information has been provided to City Council. If there any other questions, I'm your guy to ask. Thank you very much.

Thank you for your testimony. We appreciate it.

The next speaker is Wanda Walker, commenting on 230859. (Witness approached podium.) Stated Meeting 74 12/14/2023

Good afternoon, beautiful people. My name is Wanda Walker. I was here last week, and I'm here this week speaking pretty much about the same thing, President Darrell Clarke, generational wealth and how important it is. I'm starting to see a pattern in only two visits where property is being given to PHA for development, and I'm going to ask again that you all make it possible for those properties to be accessible to the families that might be entitled to those properties. Set up some type of program where they get a second chance at those properties. It should not be that just because someone didn't write a will or they lost a property to taxes, that family members that would be deserving those properties or would be left deeded those properties or inherit those properties not get them. If we can give it to PHA, we can give it back to the Stated Meeting 75 12/14/2023 family. Generational wealth is everything in Philadelphia. We know that a lot of people are struggling. We know the median income is 35,000 in Philadelphia. And being that I am a property owner, landlord, daycare owner, I have a lot that I want to give back, and with this pattern that I'm seeing, I'm in fear that the lot that I'm trying to get back will be then given to PHA, and that's not fair. People have worked for these properties. Their families deserve them, and it should be a way for them to get it back. So I'm going to keep coming here to make this ask of you all that you consider community people first before giving property to PHA or private developers. We worked for it, we earned it, and it's our legacy. Thank you very much.

Stated Meeting 76 12/14/2023 Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you for your testimony.

The final speaker today, Mr. President, is Julie Carnegie, commenting on 230838. (Witness approached podium.)

Thank you. Good afternoon. My full name is Julie Audrey Ward Carnegie. Respectfully, greetings to Council President, greetings to our honorable members and honorable President, as well as the assembly of all of us here. I am speaking in regards to introduction from Councilmember Jones 230838, an ordinance renaming and designating the area of land bounded by Parkside Avenue and Belmont Avenue as "The Miller Parker Philadelphia Stars Negro League Memorial Park." Stated Meeting 77 12/14/2023 I'm all in favor of this ordinance. However, I do suggest that you put some protection to it. Having heard earlier, if I may state on the record, that earlier I heard today that there is a resolution coming out of Harrisburg that our Governor Shapiro can veto. I suggest that you put the protection of John Quincy Adams funding to this for the reason being he is our one President that believed in paid labor and there probably would not be as many arguments against that because he had no slaves. Thank you.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gauthier.

Thank you, Council President. I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of the advocates that came here to speak about Bill 230851, which Stated Meeting 78 12/14/2023 establishes a lease between Parks and Recreation and the School District of Philadelphia to operate the Sayre pool. We are excited about this step forward, and it was many of these advocates in the room and beyond that got us to a place where we have the commitment of funding from the School District and the City of Philadelphia to repair and reopen the pool and move this forward. But, you know, I hear what they're saying loudly and clearly. First, it took years of advocacy to get us to this point where we have the funding and the agreement to reopen Sayre, and we still have indoor pools across the City that are closed to our communities and children like the wonderful little girl that we heard speak here today. That means that they don't have access to aquatics education in many instances or safe recreation. And I know that my colleagues agree with me that Stated Meeting 79 12/14/2023 it's important that we reopen the pools. I got the support of my colleagues in the fight for Sayre, and I know that folks also care about this issue. I also want to thank the School District of Philadelphia, because with Dr. Watlington coming on board and with Board President Streater's appointment, it was easier to have this conversation. And so I just hope that we can do what we did for Sayre with all of the other indoor pools across the City, because that's what our children deserve.

Thank you.

Thank you so much.

Thank you, Councilwoman. Councilman Driscoll. The Chair recognizes Councilman Driscoll.

Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank you for your Stated Meeting 80 12/14/2023 leadership on the Philadelphia Plumbing Code bill that we'll be voting on Consent Agenda today and also recognize the Kenney Administration for all their hard work, but we also have a few members of the Plumbing Advisory Board that are here, Walt Kryzanowski and Brian Gilbert. I can tell working with Walt and my staff over the last year how much time and effort that they have put into this very important legislation that we'll be voting on today. So I commend you for all your efforts and thank you for your contributions to the City of Philadelphia. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you, Councilman. And -(Applause.)

-- Stated Meeting 81 12/14/2023 the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Yes. Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to provide some clarity as well. And I heard my colleague Councilwoman Gauthier regarding Sayre pool, and I just wanted to be on the record and state with all transparency that the two pools which were mentioned primarily -- because this was a discussion not really about Sayre pool. It was really about Marcus Foster and it was really about Pickett, which are owned by the School District of Philadelphia that we've been trying to wrangle loose and get to another entity. You know, some of the folks who spoke today, all of the folks are very passionate supporters of pools. We want pools open. We want access. We know that swimming is something that particularly African American children are particularly not as much exposed to of not only having access to a pool but Stated Meeting 82 12/14/2023 having access to quality swim instruction. And so I created in my district an 8th District Pool Commission, and some of the folks who were here earlier were actually on that Pool Commission to participate and to try to work together as a community to get those pools open and online for all of our residents. Some folks decided, during the Primary Election, decided not to further participate in the Pool Commission for whatever reason, and that's okay, because folks have the right to decide where they spend their time and how they volunteer their time. But I just wanted to make it absolutely clear that we heard those folks who spoke today. We've been working on it regardless of folks, if they're active on the Pool Commission, active in other things that they wanted to do and participate on. No matter what it is that they're interested in doing, Stated Meeting 83 12/14/2023 we want to see resources directed towards our community and will continue to work towards that part. And we thank you, Mr. President, because we know you have been very, very helpful in this regard. So thank you for your leadership on this issue and so many others as well. Thank you.

Thank you so much, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

No.

No? You're good? Okay. All right. At this time, I would like to suspend the regular order of business to recognize a special guest today. Mr. Mayor, thank you. (Standing ovation.) Stated Meeting 84 12/14/2023

Thank you. I must say that's the first time I ever saw Councilmember Jones not give a speech. That's funny. Well, here I am back to the future. Good afternoon, everyone. I want to thank you for the opportunity to address the City Council during a very full day, and congratulations on another year of service to our beloved city. I'd like to thank you for your commitment and your partnership throughout our Administration. It has been an honor and privilege to work with past and present Councilmembers, both as the Mayor and as a Councilmember here for 24 years. In recent weeks, I've had many opportunities to reflect on the last eight years, and I'm proud to have shared many of the high points with my colleagues in Council. Together, we passed historic legislation to invest in our city's children and rebuild our parks Stated Meeting 85 12/14/2023 libraries. We made record investments in education and public safety and have taken many historic steps to advance equity, inclusion, prosperity, and the quality of life for all of our citizens. We also endured dark days together, and I want to acknowledge everyone here who rolled up their sleeves to work with us and shepherd Philadelphia through the pandemic. I remember standing in an empty Liacouras Center looking at a 150-bed hospital we had to build, with oxygen, electricity and all the amenities of a hospital, and thought to myself I've never imagined either as a Councilmember or as Mayor that we would have to actually do that. But we did it. And I also want to take a moment to thank -- and I've been doing this for the past number of interviews and things that I've had to do -- Black Doctors Consortium. Stated Meeting 86 12/14/2023 (Applause.)

And one of the things -- one of the many things I'm proud of is that we delivered both testing and vaccines with neighborhood equity, because people of color often don't trust the medical community because of historical wrongs that were done to them, but I walked into the Liacouras Center one night and the entire place was filled with people of color, mostly older, waiting to get their vaccinations, and I knew then that we were going to get through this. Today we are in a far different place, thankfully, and I credit all of the local leaders for getting us here. I also want to recognize the new and incoming Councilmembers who saw the unprecedented challenges that public servants faced in the last four years and rather than shy away raised their hands Stated Meeting 87 12/14/2023 share in that responsibility. Philadelphia is moving in the right direction, and I'm confident that this City Council and Mayor-elect Parker will indeed build on our accomplishments over the last eight years. One of the other things I am very proud of, and with your help this happened, we are in the best financial shape in the City's history. We've got the highest fund balance in the City's history, almost a billion dollars. Our bond rating went from junk to 1A. Our Pension Fund was funded at 40 percent when we came into office. It just went over 60. I know you like that. (Applause.)

As someone who is facing that lovely check too, I'm happy for it too. Thank you. But we're over 60 percent now. Stated Meeting 88 12/14/2023 Rainy Day Fund is robust. And, look, we have really serious challenges when it comes to violence and opioids and addiction and guns, but we are making -- we're turning the corner on the gun issue. We're over 20 percent down from where we were last year. Certainly not enough. I think one homicide is one homicide too many. But we're getting there, especially in a state like Pennsylvania that it's easier to get a gun than a driver's license. So that's something we need to work on. Philadelphia is moving in the right direction. I'm confident City Council and Mayor-elect Parker -- I said that already. I'm a little nervous. I'm sorry. There are many exciting moments ahead for our city, an historic inauguration, the World Cup, the 250th anniversary of our country, and I will be cheering for you every step of the way. I also want to take this moment Stated Meeting 89 12/14/2023 recognize and thank Council President Clarke, who has served in this role for the entirety -(Standing ovation.)

He's been a great friend and colleague for longer than he's been Council President when he was a staffer here and I was a Councilmember. And one thing I am proud of our relationship is that we had our differences, but we never had them in public, and we were partners and we worked it out and we moved forward. And I am so proud of our relationship, and the fact that we're leaving together I think is pretty -- so thank you for everything, and congratulations, Darrell. I know that we've got a packed agenda today, so thank you again for the time. Thank you for your partnership and service. Happy holidays. And I just want to say Stated Meeting 90 12/14/2023 before I leave. When I first came to this body in 1992, I was 32 years old. I knew everything. I had the answer to every problem. I was just going to fix everything, blah, blah, blah. And I sat over there and Gussie Clark sat over there, and I remember making a speech during comments after a session or before session ended, and I looked over and she said to me (indicating), so I went over. She said, I knew what you were trying to say, but you just didn't say it the right way, and let me explain to you how you should say that. And I learned. Marian Tasco, Gussie Clark, Jannie Blackwell schooled me in how to be a public official for an entire city, not just for South Philadelphia, not just for 2nd Street, but the entire City. And I learned the cultural differences and the cultural familiarities with each other, what we all want and what we've all been through and the history of the City, and Stated Meeting 91 12/14/2023 want to thank -- and I want to say this -- I want to thank Black women for actually -(Applause.)

I've been heckled out of a car window by a lot of people, none of them Black women, and what I experienced in my contact is prayer, encouragement, energy. "I know you're doing your best, honey. I know you're trying." And I always felt encouraged by those words. So I just want to thank you all. I will be watching you. I won't be waiting for phone calls from Tumar Alexander at 10 o'clock at night, which is the worst phone call you can get. It's like, oh my God, what's going on. And I look forward to watching you progress and make this city a better place than it is today, and I wish you all well. Stated Meeting 92 12/14/2023 all, and I thank you all for your service to our city. God bless. (Standing ovation.)

Thank you, and thank you, Mayor, for your years of dedicated service. We really appreciate particularly given some of the challenging times that we have had here of late, but we move on and we got a good crew coming in to take care and continue the awesome, awesome work that's been done over the last several years. We're going to return back to the regular order of business and I would like to recognize Councilman Jones for a motion to suspend the rules of Council so we can permit the consideration of an additional communication at this time. I'm sorry. Hold on one second. Mr. Decker, hold on one second. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting 93 12/14/2023 okay?

I'm going to wait.

So we can move on the Calendar, we got some information from the Planning Commission. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit additional correspondence at this time. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that we permit an additional communication at this time. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The Stated Meeting 94 12/14/2023 The motion carries. At this time, I would like to recognize Mr. Decker.

From the Mayor to the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, 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. 230765 and 230766. The City Planning Commission at its meeting of December 14, 2023 recommended Bill Nos. 230765 and 230766, as amended, November 30, 2023 for approval.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Decker. We will move to our regular order of business. Real brief explanation, one of our Capital Budget bills needed to have authorization by the City of Philadelphia Planning Commission before we voted for the final passage Stated Meeting 95 12/14/2023 was done at today's Planning Commission session. So we're now ready to go on our Capital Budget. Thank you. That includes additional money for swimming pools. I know that's very important to a number of people here. All right. Thank you very much. We have concluded our special order of business and we have concluded our communications, so we will now move to consider today's Resolution Calendar, today's Resolution Consent Agenda. I'm going to ask Mr. Decker to read the titles of all the resolutions on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read -- I'm sorry. The Chair recognizes Councilman Thomas. I'm sorry.

Good afternoon, Council President. Good afternoon, colleagues. Today on the Consent Agenda I have three bills that's on the Consent Agenda, and I want to first start by Stated Meeting 96 12/14/2023 colleagues for allowing these bills to be on the Consent Agenda and supporting each one of these important pieces of legislation. As I look to close out my first term in City Council, I'm so proud of the body of work that we've been able to do as far as Team Thomas, but I'm really proud of these three bills today, because they're going to have a huge impact on a lot of different demographics across the City of Philadelphia. The first bill, of course, is the NIL Protection Act, and we heard a number of different witnesses come in and testify to the importance of having resources and services for young people as we transition into this new phase of high school and collegiate athletics. I'm really proud to partner with Temple for this specific initiative. This is another example of the public-private partnerships that we talk about very often in this legislative Stated Meeting 97 12/14/2023 I'm excited for all of the young people that we'll be able to serve when this bill is passed into law. The second bill is the "define the night" bill, and we were proud to work with the Commerce Department to put us in a position to allow businesses to better strategize with the City and understand the new code of enforcement to help further promote positive activity and help grow the business sector in the City of Philadelphia. And of course last, but not least, is the Exoneration Protection Act. A number of people have been exonerated from the City of Philadelphia. We know that our District Attorney was here earlier. And we understand that when people are exonerated, which means they are not guilty of the actual crime, there are actually less resources currently when someone is exonerated than there are for someone who actually was guilty of a crime, served their sentence, and now is Stated Meeting 98 12/14/2023 Of course we need more resources for both demographics, but today was a step in the right direction, a small step in the right direction, to further support and provide resources for people who have been exonerated from jail. Unfortunately, we cannot give them that time back, but at least we can assure that the transition out of prison is one that's as smooth as possible. So, Council President, I want to say thank you to you but, more importantly, thank you to all of my colleagues for supporting these three bills, and I truly believe that these bills will help make Philadelphia a better place. Thank you, Council President. Thank you, colleagues.

Thank you very much, Councilman. Thank you very much, and thank you for your Stated Meeting 99 12/14/2023 will now consider today's Resolution Consent Agenda. I would ask Mr. Decker to again 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 Resolution Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection and without debate, the resolution will be immediately removed from the Resolution Consent Agenda and placed on today's regular Final Passage Calendar. I would now ask the Clerk to please read the titles of the resolutions.

Resolution No. 230917, entitled a "Resolution calling on the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association to remedy discrepancies in athletic eligibility and team classification caused by the placement formula known as the 'Competitive Balance Rule'"; and Stated Meeting 100 12/14/2023 230918, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1755 West Thompson Street located in the 5th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 230919, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 1010, 1012, 1014, 1123, 1220, 1222, and 1224 West Somerset Street, 2720, 2726, 2728, 2729, 2730, and 2738 North Warnock Street, 1135, 1137, and 1139 West Silver Street, 2830, 2834, and 2836 North 11th Street, 2727, 2729, 2731, and 2732 North 12th Street, 2735 North Marvine Street, 2741 North Marvine Street, 3001 North 10th Street, 3003 North 10th Street, and 3112 West Dakota Street in the Fifth Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 230920, entitled a "Resolution also naming the 1200 block Stated Meeting 101 12/14/2023 Street, from Girard Avenue to Thompson Street, as 'Robert 'Curtis' Chinnici Way' to honor the life and contributions of Curtis Chinnicci to Shackamaxon Street and the Fishtown community"; and Resolution No. 230921, entitled a "Resolution also naming South 20th Street, between Porter Street and Shunk Street, 'Judge Anthony J. DeFino Way,' to honor the life and legacy of lifelong South Philadelphian, the Honorable Anthony J. DeFino, and to recognize his years of committed service to Philadelphia's judicial system"; and Resolution No. 230924, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 3716 through 26 Brown Street, 770, 772 through 74 North Dekalb Street, 777 through 85, 787 North 38th Street located in the 3rd Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 230925, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Stated Meeting 102 12/14/2023 Bank to dispose of 1221 South Saint Bernard Street located in the 3rd Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 230926, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to various properties located in the Third Councilmanic District, including on the following streets: Brown Street, North Dekalb Street, and North 38th Street"; and Resolution No. 230927, entitled a "Resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 805 North Fortieth Street, 809 North Fortieth Street, 815 North Fortieth Street and 817 North Fortieth Street"; and Stated Meeting 103 12/14/2023 230928, entitled a "Resolution approving the Third Amendment to Lease of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Independence Mall Urban Renewal Area, Unit No. 4, bounded generally by Eighth Street, Vine Street and Race Street, also identified by house number and street address as 820 Vine Street"; and Resolution No. 230929, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 5803 Knox Street located in the 8th Councilmanic District, all under certain terms and conditions."

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion to adopt each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda.

Thank you, Stated Meeting 104 12/14/2023 I move that we consider the Consent Agenda and vote for the Resolution Consent Agenda. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda be adopted. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. Each resolution on the Resolution Consent Agenda has been adopted. We will now consider today's Bill Consent Agenda. I would ask Mr. Decker to please read the titles of all the bills on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read, again, any member may object to the inclusion of a Stated Meeting 105 12/14/2023 the Consent Agenda and it will be immediately removed, without debate. Mr. Decker, please proceed with the reading of the bills on the Consent Agenda today.

Bill No. 200658, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Upland Way and Berks Street"; and Bill No. 230579, entitled "An ordinance continuing the Aramingo Avenue Shopping District beyond its termination date, in an area that generally includes the east and west sides of Aramingo Avenue from 3300 Aramingo Avenue to 3995 Aramingo Avenue and certain blocks and streets that intersect that portion of Aramingo Avenue and for which Impact Community Development Corporation, a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation, serves as the Neighborhood Improvement District Management Association"; and Bill No. 230586, entitled "An Stated Meeting 106 12/14/2023 the Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District in the area that generally includes both sides of Germantown Avenue from 7640 to 8705, and on certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Germantown Avenue, plus on Bethlehem Pike between 10 and 105 and within the district boundaries 200 blocks of West Evergreen Avenue and West Highland Avenue; Benezet Street, East Springfield Avenue, 7600 block of Winston Road, unit block of East Willow Grove Avenue, unit block of Moreland Avenue, unit block of East Mermaid Lane, unit block of East Moreland Avenue, unit block of East Chestnut Hill Avenue; approving an extension to the boundaries of the District to include the 7700 block of Crittenden Street and the 400 block of East Mermaid Lane between Crittenden Street and Stenton Avenue; continuing Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District, Incorporated, a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation, as Stated Meeting 107 12/14/2023 business improvement management association for the District"; and Bill No. 230714, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Pratt Street, Darrah Street, Dyre Street, and Frankford Avenue"; and Bill No. 230716, entitled "An ordinance to approve amendments to the University of Pennsylvania Master Plan in the area bounded by Walnut Street, 33rd Street, Spruce Street, and 34th Street, related to the Stuart Weitzman Hall at 220 South 33rd Street"; and Bill No. 230744, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Dickinson Street, 23rd Street, Cross Street and 24th Street"; and Stated Meeting 108 12/14/2023 230745, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Wharton Street, Newkirk Street, Reed Street, and 29th Street"; and Bill No. 230571, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-3500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards,' to add provisions regarding the consideration of convictions that result in exoneration and make related technical changes"; and Bill No. 230776, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 7-202 of Title 7 ('Housing Code') of The Philadelphia Code to modify the definition of 'affordable housing property'"; and Bill No. 230651, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land Stated Meeting 109 12/14/2023 an area bounded by Westminster Avenue, Mantua Avenue, 40th Street, Aspen Street, and 44th Street"; and Bill No. 230741, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Basic Utilities and Services use on a certain location within a section of East Fairmount Park bounded by the right-of-way of the CSX Railroad, Girard Avenue, and 33rd Street"; and Bill No.

230742, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Basic Utilities and Services use on a certain location within a section of West Fairmount Park bounded by Wynnefield Avenue (extended), Belmont Avenue, and Parkside Avenue"; and Bill No. 230764, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' to revise definitions and rules governing nightclubs and private clubs; create the event assembly facility use category and identify the commercial districts where the use is allowed"; and Stated Meeting 110 12/14/2023 230771, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by revising certain provisions of Section 14-524, entitled '/FDO, Fourth District Overlay District'"; and Bill No. 230778, entitled "An ordinance to approve amendments to the University of Pennsylvania Master Plan in the area bounded by Chestnut Street, 33rd Street, Walnut Street, and 34th Street, related to the Student Performing Arts Center"; and Bill No. 230780, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Emerald Street, Ontario Street, Braddock Street, and Cornwall Street"; and Bill No. 230782, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land Stated Meeting 111 12/14/2023 an area bounded by Clearfield Street, Witte Street, Ann Street, and Amber Street"; and Bill No. 230783, entitled "An ordinance approving the plan, estimated costs and proposed method of assessment and charges of the South Street Headhouse District of Philadelphia for and concerning business improvements and administrative services to the eastern South Street and Headhouse areas of the City of Philadelphia"; and Bill No. 230403, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 16 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Public Property,' by adding a new Chapter requiring the creation of lactation spaces"; and Bill No. 230512, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire, on behalf of the City, fee simple title or a lesser interest, by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu Stated Meeting 112 12/14/2023 or otherwise, for the purpose of making, enlarging, connecting, extending, operating, and maintaining public parks for recreational use, certain parcels of land, generally bounded and located between Vine Street, Fairmount Avenue, 8th Street and 12th Street"; and Bill No. 230773, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to grant to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, an easement on a portion of the parcel or parcels of land in and about the area bounded by Race Street, 24th Street, Spruce Street and the Schuylkill River"; and Bill No. 230774, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Director of Aviation to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest in all or a portion of a parcel or parcels of land in and about the area bounded by Executive Avenue, Enterprise Avenue, I-95 and Stated Meeting 113 12/14/2023 Avenue, more commonly known as 8350 Enterprise Avenue"; and Bill No. 230827, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for use by the City, of all or a portion of the premises located at 1000 East Comly Street"; and Bill No.

230830, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with The Leon Sullivan Charitable Trust, for use by the City, of all or a portion of the premises located at 1415 North Broad Street"; and Bill No. 230831, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for use by the City, of all or a portion of the premises located at 1628 through 40 John F. Kennedy Boulevard"; Stated Meeting 114 12/14/2023 No. 230832, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, as sublandlord, for use by the City, as subtenant, of a portion of the premises located at 216 North Broad Street"; and Bill No. 230833, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a lease with Crown Two Penn Center Associates, for use by the City, of all or a portion of the premises located at 1500 John F. Kennedy Boulevard"; and Bill No. 230835, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest to all or a portion of certain parcel or parcels of land from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority"; and Bill No. 230839, entitled "An Stated Meeting 115 12/14/2023 the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into an amendment to a lease agreement with AC HSS Office Ventures II, for use by the City of an additional portion of the premises located at 1930 South Broad Street"; and Bill No. 230840, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for use by the City, of all or a portion of the premises located at 1221 through 23 Bainbridge Street"; and Bill No. 230844, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for use by the City, of all or a portion of the premises located at 2844 Frankford Avenue"; and Bill No. 230851, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation and the Commissioner Stated Meeting 116 12/14/2023 Property to lease or sublease a portion of the premises owned by the School District of Philadelphia bounded by Walnut Street, South 59th Street, Spruce Street, and South 58th Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and more commonly known as Sayre Morris Recreation Center, from the School District of Philadelphia or from the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development"; and Bill No. 230854, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a lease agreement with NF 6601 New State Road Partners, for use by the City, of all or a portion of the premises located at 6601 New State Road"; and Bill No. 230855, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a lease agreement with Orthodox Street Properties, for use by the City of all or a portion of the premises located at 3150 Stated Meeting 117 12/14/2023 Street"; and Bill No. 230857, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to modify certain easements and enter into an easement agreement with Farnell, LLC for a portion of the parcel or parcels of land in and about the area bounded by Noble Street, 12th Street, Callowhill Street, and 13th Street, more commonly known as 411 through 19 North 13th Street"; and Bill No.

230858, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into an amendment to a sublease with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for use by the City, of an additional portion of the premises located at 1327 through 29 Chestnut Street"; and Bill No. 230859, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into an amendment to a sublease with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Stated Meeting 118 12/14/2023 Development, for use by the City, of all or a portion of the premises located at 1101 Market Street"; and Bill No. 230864, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a lease agreement with LIM SIV HOUY for use by the City of all or a portion of the premises located at 3724 North Broad Street"; and Bill No. 230763, entitled "An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Warnock Street and Nedro Avenue; North 11th Street and Champlost Avenue; North 13th Street and Chew Avenue; and North 13th Street and Nedro Avenue"; and Bill No. 230769, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 63 by striking from the City plan and vacating Carlton Street from Twentieth Street to its terminus eastwardly therefrom"; and Stated Meeting 119 12/14/2023 230772, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 15-S by placing on the City Plan Alter Street from Fifteenth Street to Sixteenth Street"; and Bill No. 230775, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the plotting upon City Plan Nos. 157 and 226 of two certain drainage areas, located on either side of Erie Avenue, between Third Street and Lawrence Street, and the relocation of portions of the curblines of said Erie Avenue"; and Bill No. 230777, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 226 by placing on the City Plan an irregularly-shaped area along the easterly side of Fifth Street, between Hunting Park Avenue and Bristol Street"; and Bill No. 230781, entitled "An ordinance authorizing encroachments in Stated Meeting 120 12/14/2023 of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 743 South 4th Street"; and Bill No. 230784, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 11-708 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Traffic Calming Measures for Schools,' by authorizing the Department of Streets to additionally install traffic calming measures in the vicinity of senior housing"; and Bill No. 230828, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the opening of the northerly ten feet wide portion of Vine Street from Eighteenth Street to Nineteenth Street and from Nineteenth Street to Twentieth Street"; and Bill No. 230834, entitled "An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Crease Street and Wildey Street; Lawrence Street and George Street; North 3rd Street to Fairmount Avenue; North 3rd Street to George Street; North 6th Street and Brown Street; Wildey Street and Marlborough Stated Meeting 121 12/14/2023 Street"; and Bill No. 230836, entitled "An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 4317 Fleming Street"; and Bill No. 230841, entitled "An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of projecting canopies in the vicinity of 200 South Broad Street"; and Bill No. 230842, entitled "An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Ellsworth Street and South 16th Street to South 20th Street; Latona Street and South 16th Street to South 20th Street; South 20th Street and Federal Street to Dickinson Street; South 21st Street and Annin Street; Mole Street and South Dickinson Street"; and Bill No.

230843, entitled "An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: South 64th Street and Woodland Avenue; Cormorant Place and 66th Street; 65th Stated Meeting 122 12/14/2023 Woodland Avenue; 58th Street and Woodland Avenue"; and Bill No. 230848, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 98 and 130, in the area lying north of Market Street and Powelton Avenue and west of 42nd Street, by placing on the City Plan Melville Street from Mandela Way to Holden Street, Holden Street from Melville Street to 45th Street, Nehemiah Way from Melville Street to Powelton Avenue, Busti Street from Nehemiah Way to Haverford Avenue, Mandela Way from Melville Street to Busti Street, 45th Street from Mandela Way to Holden Street, and St. Malachy's Way from Melville Street to Busti Street"; and Bill No. 230849, entitled "An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 3231 Powelton Avenue"; and Bill No. 230852, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of Stated Meeting 123 12/14/2023 from Mandela Way to Holden Street, Holden Street from Melville Street to 45th Street, Nehemiah Way from Melville Street to Powelton Avenue, Busti Street from Nehemiah Way to Haverford Avenue, Mandela Way from Melville Street to Busti Street, 45th Street from Mandela Way to Holden Street, and St. Malachy's Way from Melville Street to Busti Street"; and Bill No. 230853, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the striking from City Plan Nos. 98 and 130 and vacating of Busti Street, extending northwardly from Holden Street to a cul-de-sac, and Holden Street, extending westwardly from Powelton Avenue to a cul-de-sac"; and Bill No. 230856, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Commercial Activities on Streets,' by designating a neighborhood business district in the 6th Councilmanic District for authorized sidewalk vending"; and Stated Meeting 124 12/14/2023 230860, entitled "An ordinance repealing an Ordinance (Bill No. 230486) entitled 'An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Addison Street from a point approximately eighty feet east of Fifth Street to its terminus further eastwardly therefrom'"; and Bill No. 230861, entitled "An ordinance authorizing an encroachment in the nature of a staircase in the vicinity of 1446 South 8th Street"; and Bill No. 230862, entitled "An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 2620 East Allegheny Avenue"; and Bill No. 230863, entitled "An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 2636 East Ann Street"; and Bill No. 230653, entitled "An Stated Meeting 125 12/14/2023 various provisions of Subcode 'P' of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'The Philadelphia Plumbing Code,' by making additional additions, deletions and amendments to the City's adoption of the 2018 edition of the 'International Plumbing Code,' as published by the International Code Council"; and Bill No. 230900, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner to enter into agreements to purchase electricity, natural gas and motor fuel for use by the City in City facilities and vehicles, including agreements that obligate payment for delivery of such energy supplies in future fiscal years"; and Bill No.

230838, entitled "An ordinance renaming and designating the area of land bounded by Parkside Avenue and Belmont Avenue as 'The Miller Parker Philadelphia Stars Negro League Memorial Park'"; and Stated Meeting 126 12/14/2023 230701, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the City Solicitor to enter into a multi-year contract with a provider of codification, editing, and marketing services to produce printed and electronic versions of The Philadelphia Code and related services and material"; and Bill No. "

Okay. Thank you. (Applause.)

Stated Meeting 127 12/14/2023 do it like Mr. Decker. These bills having been read on two different days, the question for each bill now is shall the bill 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. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye on all bills.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye on Stated Meeting 128 12/14/2023

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye on all bills.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Harrity.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Jones.

Aye on all bills.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye on all bills. Stated Meeting 129 12/14/2023

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye on all bills.

Councilwoman Vaughn.

Aye on all bills.

Council President Clarke.

Aye on all bills. Stated Meeting 130 12/14/2023 members having voted in the affirmative for each of the bills, the bills on the Consent Agenda are passed. At this moment, I would like to suspend the regular order of business one more time. First, I want to thank the Mayor for coming up today and talk about all those wonderful things that happened over the last term, and it was a lot of good stuff, but a lot of that couldn't have happened obviously without you all. But I got three special guests over here that kind of set the template before they decided to leave for one reason or another. And I get it, right? I'd like to recognize our good friend Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez. (Applause.)

And I'd like to recognize Councilwoman Stated Meeting 131 12/14/2023 Gilmore Richardson's mentor, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown. (Applause.)

And I'd like to recognize the Mayor-elect. (Standing ovation.)

The Mayor-elect, don't sit down. I'm going to ask you, because, you know, you got to practice doing these budget messages every year, so if you can come up here, please come up here and say a couple of words. (Applause.)

I'm sorry. You know I had to do that, right? MAYOR-ELECT PARKER: Everyone, and I've got to tell you the truth, when Stated Meeting 132 12/14/2023 walked into the Chambers, I sat down. As usual, Maria and Blondell started telling me what to do, and I did what they were telling me to do, and someone -- and all of the Councilmembers know exactly what I'm about to say, because you felt it before. Someone came over and whispered in my ear and they were trying to talk to me while the Council President was talking, and I was like yeah, yeah, yeah, thank you, thank you, thank you, but it's like the principal is in -- you know, you're trying to talk while the principal is in the room. And, Mr. President, I didn't want you to gavel me or anything like that. So I do want you to know it's an honor and a privilege to be here on today, the last day of session that will be presided over by someone for whom I have a great deal of admiration and respect and love, quite frankly. Stated Meeting 133 12/14/2023 don't always like you, Council President Clarke.

I get it. MAYOR-ELECT PARKER: Councilmember Johnson, did you just hear me just now? I don't always like the Council President, right? Nevertheless, on this last day, most people here, they know that I'm a teacher by profession. How many of you have ever heard of the author named Caro? " It is about the culmination, the power, the influence of President Lyndon Baines Johnson and how he learned to master the rules of the institution in order to deliver for us and the nation what a whole lot of people promise. They talked a whole lot about it. But LBJ learned the rules, the protocol. He understood that the institution was more venerable, more Stated Meeting 134 12/14/2023 than any one individual. So on this day, I walked in these shoes that I take off in a few minutes, Mr. President, to give honor to someone who to me is the Master of the City Council. Stand with me and give him a round of applause. This is the Master of the City Council. ) MAYOR-ELECT PARKER: Three quick things, three quick things that I learned from watching him as a staffer in this body, as a staffer, then as a member of the State House, and then coming back as a member. First things first. First thing I learned about you, I did not learn from anybody in this body. I learned that Big Myrt's (ph) house at 31st and Lehigh. When you're like me and you come from where I come from and then you get in this revered Stated Meeting 135 12/14/2023 building, everybody in here is powerful, but when I saw him in here, he wasn't different when he got to 31st and Lehigh. And if he was different, my family would have told me about you, but they didn't. Oh, what are you talking about, Darrell? No, you don't know. He's in line. He's going to be elected Councilmember, then he's going to become the Council President. And then he was the Council President. I say, well, I know Council President Darrell Clarke. No. In the neighborhood, he is and was who he is. Never had to worry about him. No matter the role, if he was a senior staffer for Council President John Street, if he was a member of this body, or the leader, he never forgot from whence he came. That is the firm foundation that you want to be grounded on. There is something very exceptional about a person who achieved some semblance of power and then they Stated Meeting 136 12/14/2023 get hoity. Not Darrell Clarke. Second thing, master of the institution. Don't go in and do it halfway. Hard, because he had just been mentored by a man who people said had mastered the Council. So how do you come in in your own right, Katherine Gilmore Richardson and Quetcy Lozada, and walk in your own shoes to build your own legacy and do things your own way? And he took the Council to another level that people had never imagined. The technical staff, the best and the brightest in the City, when this Council can stand on its own, researching its own homework. He studied under the master, but sometimes the master can master the master. That's what Darrell Clarke did. Authenticity, and he mastered the legislative body. This final part, Mr. President, I wouldn't learn this until I was in Harrisburg. When then-Council President Stated Meeting 137 12/14/2023 and I began interacting with each other in my role as Chair of the Philadelphia Delegation, he would come to Harrisburg on many occasions and we would have to go -- sometimes I needed him, because, Councilmember Johnson, you know this, in Harrisburg, you can't get anything done by yourself, right? You've got to go visit legislators on both sides of the aisle. You've got to go visit the administration.

I had never seen a man who was so powerful learn how to just acquiesce and not be presumptuous about who he was when we were asking for some help for the Council. And I remember thinking to myself, how can you be powerful and humble all at the same time? But it's possible for those two things to exist in one place. And, Mr. President, I want to say this out loud. The platform, the entire platform that people heard me advocate for during the last year, Stated Meeting 138 12/14/2023 since I resigned from this body on September the 7th, 2022, and I want to admit this publicly and say it out loud to everyone, none of it gets accomplished without this Council President being by my side. When you heard me talk about making Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, greenest big city in the nation with access to economic opportunity for all and I gave examples on how we can do it, I knew we could do it because I had been working in partnership with him to get most of it done. Council President Clarke, the Master of the City Council, I love, like, and respect you. Thank you for never getting cute with me, even when you were in that office, Councilmember Jones, with that unprecedented level of shovels that I thought was just -- it was not equity. That was an inequitable distribution of shovels. Squilla and O'Neill and Jones and Johnson know exactly what I'm talking Stated Meeting 139 12/14/2023 But most of all, you can't be the master of any institution if you're not willing to teach. Thank you for not hoarding. He's a teacher. ) MAYOR-ELECT PARKER: I love you, Mr. President, despite what any and everybody thought when you got elected, talking about the big shoes you had to fill. Sir, you walked in your own. You earned your spot. And when Cherelle Parker refers to you as the Master of the City Council, know that it is because of you, the work you did, the relationships you've built and, quite frankly, the intellectual prowess that you had to build the strength of an institution out with the technical supports that would allow for it to stand on its own. On today, I'm what I call a beneficiary of the movement. The BTM Stated Meeting 140 12/14/2023 is what I refer to it as. I'm a beneficiary of your lessons, and for that, sir, I say thank you. To all of the team who has been with him along the way, if I start calling names, I'mma get in trouble, but Christmas and Herb and the entire team who was in Harrisburg guiding us when we were getting that work done, Wendy, none of it happens without assembling a team that stays together, and it's a team of the best and the brightest. Hats off to you, sir. Love you. Peace.

Thank you. (Standing ovation.)

Oh, hey, how you doing? I'd like to recognize Councilwoman Gym, another one that was here rocking the floor. Stated Meeting 141 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING (Applause.)

Councilwoman Gym, if the next 5th District Councilman doesn't take care of your neighborhood, let me know. You hear that, Jeff? All right. As long as we're square. All right? All right. Thank you. Thank you all. We love you guys. Thank you so much for your work. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. And, Mr. Decker, I would ask you to read the title of Resolution No. 230922.

A resolution calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to issue a recall of Kia and Hyundai models lacking immobilizer technology that are Stated Meeting 142 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING vulnerable to theft.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brooks for a motion.

Thank you, Council President. I do have some remarks.

Sure.

As you may have seen in the Inquirer this week, more than 21,000 vehicles have been stolen in Philadelphia so far this year. That's more than ten times higher than the number of vehicles stolen in just a few years ago in 2017. This surge in vehicle theft has been fueled in large part by a viral trend that shows viewers how to steal Kia and Hyundais with just a screwdriver and a USB cable. According to the Police Department data, more than 61 percent of Stated Meeting 143 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING the vehicles stolen in Philadelphia were Hyundais or Kias. Today I'm introducing a resolution calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to issue a recall of the Kia and Hyundai models that are vulnerable to this type of theft. Kia and Hyundai are offering a free software update for affected vehicles, but many people are not aware of this solution. The best way to address the problem is a national recall. When the recall is issued, all owners are notified by mail and reminded to bring their car in for a free software update. This is an urgent problem in cities across the country and it deserves national-level solutions. City Councils in Baltimore and Seattle have already passed similar resolutions, and I believe that Philadelphia should join our fellow cities in calling for the National Highway Safety Administration to address this problem that has been impacting so Stated Meeting 144 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING many urban residents. Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor of the resolution indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 230698.

An ordinance to approve amendments to the Temple University Master Plan in the area bounded by Norris Street, Broad Street, Montgomery Avenue and 15th Street related to Klein College of Media and Stated Meeting 145 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Communications and Center for the Performing Arts and Cinematic Arts building at 1830 North Broad Street.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye.

Councilman Stated Meeting 146 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Councilwoman Vaughn. Stated Meeting 147 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 230765.

An ordinance amending Bill No. 230144, entitled "An Ordinance To adopt a Capital Program for the Six Fiscal Years 2024 through 2029 Inclusive," by revising various appropriation amounts and totals to conform to amendments to the FY2024 Capital Budget Ordinance.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass. Stated Meeting 148 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye.

Councilman Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye. Stated Meeting 149 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Councilwoman Vaughn. (No response.)

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 230766.

An ordinance Stated Meeting 150 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING amending Bill No. 230145, entitled "An Ordinance To adopt a Fiscal 2024 Capital Budget," by revising various appropriation amounts and totals.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye. Stated Meeting 151 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Councilwoman Stated Meeting 152 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Vaughn. (No response.)

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 230767.

An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024 from the General Fund and the Grants Revenue Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, to the General Fund, the County Liquid Fuels Tax Fund, the Municipal Pension Fund, and the Transportation Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.

Thank you. This bill having been read on Stated Meeting 153 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks.

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye.

Councilman Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye. Stated Meeting 154 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Councilwoman Vaughn. (No response.)

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are Stated Meeting 155 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 230768.

An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2023 from the General Fund, the Water Fund, the Grants Revenue Fund, and the Aviation Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, to the General Fund, the Water Fund, and the Aviation Fund to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Brooks. Stated Meeting 156 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilman Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.

Aye.

Councilman Harrity.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilwoman Lozada.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye. Stated Meeting 157 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman Phillips.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilman Thomas.

Aye.

Councilwoman Vaughn. (No response.)

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 230649.

An ordinance amending Chapter 6-400 of The Philadelphia Code, to end the unlawful Stated Meeting 158 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING deportation of noncitizen patients by hospitals to patients' countries of origin without their consent.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.