Councilman Phillips. Stated Meeting 176 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you. The ayes are 14; the nays are one. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, we will now consider any additional resolutions on Stated Meeting 177 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING today's Calendar. I would ask you to please read the 38 privileged resolutions that were introduced today on my behalf honoring various individuals in the 5th Council District. As you know, I rarely do privileged resolutions, so I'm making up for lost time. So I would ask that you please read those.
A resolution honoring and recognizing Asia Cooney; A resolution honoring and recognizing Audrey Coles; A resolution honoring and recognizing William Greenlee; A resolution honoring and recognizing Charles Lanier; A resolution honoring and recognizing Connie Little; A resolution honoring and recognizing Cynthia Barnes; A resolution honoring and recognizing Darnetta Arce; Stated Meeting 178 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING A resolution honoring and recognizing Dennis Boylan; A resolution honoring and recognizing Derrick Ford; A resolution honoring and recognizing Diane Monroe; A resolution honoring and recognizing Donnell Deans; A resolution honoring and recognizing Dr. Kenneth Scott; A resolution honoring and recognizing Ed Flythe; A resolution honoring and recognizing Harriett Williams; A resolution honoring and recognizing the Honorable Jewell Williams; A resolution honoring and recognizing Justino Navarro; A resolution honoring and recognizing Keith Harris; A resolution honoring and recognizing Larry Lane; A resolution honoring and Stated Meeting 179 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING recognizing Larry Reynolds; A resolution honoring and recognizing Lenora Jackson Evans; A resolution honoring and recognizing Bishop Lewis Nash; A resolution honoring and recognizing Lisa Maiello; A resolution honoring and recognizing Louise Bundy; A resolution honoring and recognizing Maggie O'Brien; A resolution honoring and recognizing Matt Ruben; A resolution honoring and recognizing the Honorable Michelle Brownlee; A resolution honoring and recognizing Ms. El Amor M. Brawne Ali; A resolution honoring and recognizing Muriel Taylor; A resolution honoring and recognizing Nita Wroten; A resolution honoring and recognizing Patricia Freeland; Stated Meeting 180 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING A resolution honoring and recognizing Patti Mosser; A resolution honoring and recognizing Priscilla T. Bennett; A resolution honoring and recognizing Priscilla Woods; A resolution honoring and recognizing Richard Gross; A resolution honoring and recognizing Rose Gray; A resolution honoring and recognizing Ruth Birchett; A resolution honoring and recognizing the Honorable Shirley Kitchen; 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. (Applause.) Stated Meeting 181 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you. Thank you for your indulgence, colleagues. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion to suspend the rules of Council to permit consideration of these resolutions by a single vote. Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the suspension of the rules to permit a single vote for these 38 resolutions presented on your behalf. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It's been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of these resolutions by a single vote. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? Stated Meeting 182 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion to adopt the 38 resolutions just read by the Chief Clerk.
Thank you again. I move for the adoption of the 38 resolutions presented on your behalf today. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you, Councilman. Moved and seconded that these resolutions be adopted. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and these resolutions have Stated Meeting 183 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING all been adopted. Thank you very much. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional resolutions on today's Calendar?
A resolution also naming the 2500 block of West Sharswood Street as "Honorable Thomas McIntosh Sr. Way" to honor the life and legacy of Thomas McIntosh Sr. in the City of Philadelphia, introduced today by Councilman Jones on behalf of Council President Clarke.
On your behalf, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
Stated Meeting 184 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Those opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And a resolution calling on the School District of Philadelphia to review and enhance school safety policies regarding students, teachers, parents, and staff, as well as provide a report to City Council on their findings, introduced today by Councilman Jones.
Thank you again, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.) Stated Meeting 185 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And a 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, introduced today by Councilwoman Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have remarks for this too. We have been celebrating Kwanzaa here in Philadelphia for over 50 years, and thanks to the great work of Mama Maisha and the Kwanzaa Cooperative, this year for the first time with the Stated Meeting 186 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING help of Visit Philadelphia, Welcome Philadelphia, the Department of Parks and Recreation, we will be bringing Kwanzaa to the heart of our city with a beautiful Kinara sculpture for all of us to enjoy. The City of Philadelphia has displayed a Christmas tree since 1913, menorah since 1974. Starting this year, a Kinara will take its place as part of the Philadelphia holiday experience that attracts thousands of our visitors each winter. I hope that families will take advantage of the many opportunities through the Free Library of Philadelphia and the African American Museum of Philadelphia and organizations to celebrate and embrace the love and the perseverance and the hope that Kwanzaa represents. In the midst of the holiday madness, our traditions, whatever, it's lighting candles and preparing a special meal and saying sacred words guide us Stated Meeting 187 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING towards a deeper meaning. Our traditions allow us to tap into the wisdom and strength of the people who came before us and pass on that wisdom and strength for the next generation. With that, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
And Resolution Stated Meeting 188 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING 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," introduced by Councilman Jones for Council President Clarke.
On your behalf, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And Resolution 230803, entitled a "Resolution Stated Meeting 189 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING reappointing Angela Val to the Board of Directors of the Center City District," introduced by Councilman Squilla on behalf of Council President Clarke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And Resolution No. 230804, entitled a "Resolution appointing Dan Killinger to the Board of Stated Meeting 190 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Directors of the Center City District," introduced by Councilman Squilla on behalf of Council President Clarke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And Resolution No. 230805, entitled a "Resolution reappointing Jack Sokoloff to the Board of Directors of the Center City Stated Meeting 191 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING District," introduced by Councilman Squilla on behalf of Council President Clarke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And Resolution No. 230806, entitled a "Resolution appointing Jamal Johnson to the Board of Stated Meeting 192 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING Directors of the Center City District," introduced by Councilman Squilla on behalf of Council President Clarke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And Resolution 230807, entitled a "Resolution reappointing Randall Scott to the Board of Directors of the Center City Stated Meeting 193 12/14/2023 12/14/23 - STATED - 2ND READING District," introduced by Councilman Squilla on behalf of Council President Clarke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President. Stated Meeting 194 12/14/2023
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. That concludes our Calendar for today, and we now move to our speeches. Are there any speeches on behalf of the minority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I usually don't have much to say, but just for you, I just wanted to say thank you so much for your leadership. And I said I was going to get through this without like a little tear or anything. But thank you for making my first term in Council memorable, being a supporter behind the scenes and just helping me navigate this process. Mayor-elect said about your authenticity, and from one North Philadelphia person to another, I really appreciate the leadership that you have Stated Meeting 195 12/14/2023 words when times were hard. You would just say a thing and I knew exactly what you were talking about to get me through, and I just wanted to let you know that you are appreciated. And I had to say this publicly as the resident activist. And, you know, the folks that usually stand for me usually don't stand for you, and I just want to let you know publicly that I appreciate you and all that support and guidance that you have shown me in my role, and you will be missed. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much. I just want to forewarn you all if I start to cry, I'm going to leave. Councilman Jones, I'm going to Stated Meeting 196 12/14/2023 up here and take my place. I'm not going to cry in public, right? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. Dr. Maya Angelou said, "Always say thank you. It's the greatest gift you can give someone, because thank you is what you say to God." So today, Council President, as I address you as our President for the final time, I cannot miss the opportunity to thank you -(Brief pause.)
-for your dedicated years of service to this city and to this body. You have served Philadelphia with distinction in many ways, from organizing your community, our community, Stated Meeting 197 12/14/2023 me, beginning as a staffer in Philadelphia City Council, becoming a member of this body, and then for more than decade as our Council President. I can say confidently that no one, no one knows and understands this body like you. You have earned a Ph.D. in Philadelphia City Council. Your experience and knowledge are a part of what has made you such a great leader. You've demonstrated that hard work, perseverance, and learning are just a few keys to success. When we have lacked consensus, you have worked diligently to guide us. When we faced unimaginable challenges, you have remained a steadfast presence, supporting new ideas and never giving up on our most entrenched problems, like your moon shot Poverty Action Fund, Councilmember Sanchez, or like creating the Philadelphia Energy Authority and the historic $400 million Neighborhood Preservation Initiative. Stated Meeting 198 12/14/2023 lasting impression on the many people who have served in this body as members and staff over your 42 years of service. When I was a staffer, you took the time to get to know me and support the work I was doing under my mentor, Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown. Please stand. (Applause.)
And when I decided to run upon her departure from this body, you supported me. I will never forget the picture we took at my last session of Council as a staffer on Thursday, January 31st, 2019. When I arrived as a member, you took the time to teach me about the job, even when it was hard, as I know you have done for so many of us here. You have been our friend, our colleague, and for most of us, our Stated Meeting 199 12/14/2023 know how you keep all of that information, all of that stuff in your head and yours too. And to know that when we spoke, it stayed right there. That's a rare quality these days, but it's part of the reason why you've been here so long. While this may be the last time I address you as the leader of this body, I know you will always be here to support our work and to serve the residents of Philadelphia. As former Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown says, you'll be gone out the E. But, finally, I could not conclude my remarks without a few words for my friend Councilmember Sharon Vaughn. Sharon has also spent decades serving the residents of Philadelphia as a ward leader, a Council staffer under three members of Council. We know how difficult that could be. (Applause.) Stated Meeting 200 12/14/2023
She served under former Councilmembers Derek Green, Marian B. Tasco, and Augusta "Gussie" Clark, and now as a Councilmember. Sharon, you have taught me the importance of understanding the needs of our community and how to work diligently to meet them. You have taught me that bringing joy, fun, and laughter to this work is crucial. And I can't miss saying that when things hit the fan, you had my back, and you know what I'm talking about. You have been a dedicated friend, constantly reminding me that we are all here to make our city a better place. You will both be greatly missed, and I wish you health and happiness in your next chapter. Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for your service. Thank you Stated Meeting 201 12/14/2023 journey will certainly continue. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Thank you. Thank you, Council Lady. Thank you so much. The Chair recognizes Councilman Thomas.
Good afternoon, colleagues. I talked about Sharon last week. You know I love you, Sharon. But, Council President, like so many people that are in this room today, I just want to say thank you. You've taught us a lot of lessons. I know the one lesson that you taught me was the importance of putting your name on a bill, and I know you remember that conversation we had. And, you know, me being young and being new, Stated Meeting 202 12/14/2023 done, whatever it takes to get it done, and you had to sit me down like, "bro." And you know when you here "bro," right, like I did something wrong. So it's like, "bro." And I appreciate that, but I think a lot of people don't know that every bill that I've gotten passed this year -- this first term in City Council, I couldn't have done without you. I echo the sentiments of everybody about your humility, your leadership and being a teacher, but I remember one time I was talking to Councilmember Johnson, and we both got little kids and, you know, I know his kids, my kids know him and his family. And he was talking about how, you know, if you're going to just keep it politics, let's keep it politics, but once we cross that line and we make it personal, it just becomes different. And that's all I've been sitting here thinking about. A lot of people know this was Stated Meeting 203 12/14/2023 my life, right? I joined a club that nobody wants to be a part of. And at the end of the day, I'm never going to forget how you were there for me and my family and how you helped me get through the most difficult thing that I think any person could ever go through. So I'm going to stop right there so I don't have to walk out, but thank you, Council President. I appreciate you. I truly love you, and I will never forget everything you've done for me both in Council, which is great and is important, but just personally as a man. So thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. Appreciate you. (Applause.)
Appreciate you, Councilman. Thank you so Stated Meeting 204 12/14/2023 Councilman Harrity.
So, Council President, you know, it goes without saying, being one of the freshmen here in Council, I've made a lot of mistakes, to say it -- you know, to downplay a little bit, but you were always patient with me and, you know, I appreciate that, because you get here and some of us who are also freshmen, like Quetcy, had worked here before, so knew some of the rules. I came in not knowing any of the rules. So I'm glad that you took the time to show me your patience and to try to guide me when I was veering off the path, and I've learned a lot from you, so I thank you. To my colleagues, I've learned something from every single one of you. You are all good people with big hearts, and I will cherish this term for the rest of my life, especially since some of us Stated Meeting 205 12/14/2023 in the next term. So, Sharon, I love you, baby. Onward and upward. I know you're not leaving government. You're going to be doing something else, working on that other pension. And, Council President Clarke, I hope that you get to actually enjoy some of your time before -- I know you're going right back into the fire also. But that's what you guys are. That's who you are. You are of the people. So I thank you, and I appreciate you allowing me to learn. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. It's been my pleasure. (Applause.)
And my pleasure to work with you. Stated Meeting 206 12/14/2023 Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I think I echo the sentiments of everyone in this Chamber when they say that they're extremely grateful for your leadership. As this special election term comes to an end for me, I can't express -- thank you is not enough to say how grateful I am for your leadership, for your example of what confidentiality really means, and for your advocacy for not just the residents of the 5th Councilmanic District but for the City in general. And so I just wish you the best on your next journey. I look forward to seeing you around in this Council Chamber. I know you said "I'm not coming in here," but I think we will see you here. We're going to need to reach out to you often, at least I know that I Stated Meeting 207 12/14/2023 want you to know that I am rooting for you in what you do next, and I look forward to being able to continue to reach out to you in the future of course for guidance. To my colleague Sharon, girl, I'mma miss having you back there being extremely honest and forthright. I appreciate everything that you've done for me. I look forward to working with you as a ward leader in the 7th Council District and continuing the work that we have done together to move the residents of the 42nd Ward forward. To all of you, you know, I am grateful for all of your support to the 7th Council District office and to me individually. I can't express how grateful I am, and I'm looking forward to working with all of you in the next four years. Thank you. Stated Meeting 208 12/14/2023 (Applause.)
Thank you. Thank you so much, Councilwoman. I'll see you up in our 'hood. All right? Real quick, I just want to recognize City Commissioner Lisa Deeley, Chair Lady. (Applause.)
A lot of work next year, so get ready. I know she'll be in here asking you all for more money for her budget. Councilwoman.
I just want to recognize Councilmember Maria Quinones-Sanchez and I also want to say thank you to her for laying the groundwork for the residents of the 7th, for teaching me and giving me an example. Stated Meeting 209 12/14/2023 (Applause.)
For teaching me and for being an example to me in my life as I started this journey. I want you to know publicly that I'm extremely grateful for everything that you have done for me and for the residents of the 7th. (Applause.)
Awesome. Thank you. Uh-oh. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Vaughn.
Thank you very much, Council President. You know, just hearing all the Stated Meeting 210 12/14/2023 you, I can sincerely second. I remember working here when we both were doing constituent services, and as you began to rise the ladder into who you are today, I grabbed you up and said, don't you forget the little people like us. And I said, from now on when we see each other, we got to bump shoulders so that I can remind you where you came from. I thank you for your leadership. I thank you for your friendship. And I know I worried the heck out of you as Derek's Chief of Staff as well as in my current position. I just want to tell you when I look around this room, who could not help but feel overwhelmed. I am -- I have been experiencing amazing feelings. I think I'm about to tear up.
First time. Even devils cry. I'm trying to find the words to Stated Meeting 211 12/14/2023 35-year journey. It has been interesting, rewarding, challenging, more challenging than I could ever have imagined. To finally be at this point is surreal, but ultimately a blessing. I owe this moment to all of you who have supported me, empowered me along the way, and really pushed me to think bigger. From the moment I became a registered voter at age 18, public service, politics has been a major part of my life. I haven't missed an election since. Sitting in this seat is something that I could not have ever imagined even in my wildest dreams. This past year I have introduced resolutions pertaining to issues like reform of our penal system, championed initiatives surrounding gun violence prevention, supported this legislative body with bills and resolutions to make Philadelphia a better place to live, as well as spent my time Stated Meeting 212 12/14/2023 during various events hosted by my staff, which I affectionately refer to as the Vaughn Jawns, like our Feltonville Community Day sponsored by Coopers Bar and Grill, our Autism Play Date, which was a tradition that I held on from my predecessor, Derek Green, and most recently our Holiday Harvest Festival where we celebrated and a lot of you got to sample my famous apple pie. Despite a short time in this role, I pray that I have truly made a difference in our city, whether it was big or small. To the citizens of Philadelphia, I thank you for believing in me and trusting me to serve you this year. Although my mother, Faye Treadwell, didn't live to see this, I know and feel how proud she must be. Anyone that knew her got an earful about her baby, Shari baby, whenever you Stated Meeting 213 12/14/2023 fact, both her and my brother I believe were convinced that I am the Wizard of Oz, all seeing and knowing. As I come to the end of my career here in City Hall, I must thank many people whom I have met along the way. Please blame it on my head and not my heart if I miss someone. I must begin by thanking the late "Gussie" Augusta Clark, the woman who gave me my start in government, and the late Julius J. Williams. Honorable mention to his wife, Geri, for saving me. I can't tell you how many times I knew I was going to be fired by Gussie for something that I had done in these halls. I also want to thank the incomparable Marian B. Tasco; Teresa Comer, who always made sure to tell me I was beautiful; Connie Little, who always let me know that whatever I wanted to do, I could make it happen, and she also let people know that they better not mess Stated Meeting 214 12/14/2023 had me. Marlene Goff, who welcomed me into the Hudsy (ph) Club, along with Zenobia Harris; Ellie Brown. Believe it or not, that woman made my wedding dress 30 years ago. The Bowen family; Joann Bell, who was Julia's sister-in-law married to Jerry, always coaching me and saying, don't pay that man any mind, he knows he's crazy. Last, but certainly not least, my dear friend Derek Green. He's my friend for life, who we are celebrating his birthday today. Happy birthday, Derek Green. (Applause.)
I know that he's watching and he hears us, because he had the audacity to scold me for not being in the Chambers for a little while not too long ago. Stated Meeting 215 12/14/2023 complete without my devoted husband, Kevin Vaughn Sr., our children, Kanika and Kevin Jr., who grew up in City Hall, and our grandchildren, Aaron and Khloe, who pop up often because they know this place like home. Some of my other cheerleaders who always have and continue to support me include my brothers, Mike and Reggie Treadwell; my BFFs -- if y'all don't know what that means, it's best friends forever -- Wayne Coles, Tonya Woods, Michelle Gordon, Candace Presley, Perty Forth (ph). I shared in the joy of the birth of many children who call me "Auntie" that were born to their parents here in City Hall, or even "Mimi." I can't begin to tell you how fond I am of these who refer to me as "Mama Sharon" also. I love each and every one of you dearly. My most recent quote I am Stated Meeting 216 12/14/2023 is, "I'm going to be just like you, watch." Some folks know when a certain culture of people say "watch," we mean business. On that note, the time for me to move on has arrived. Only I can define what moving on looks like for me, and I have made the decision to seek the positives that progression offers. Heck, my new boss compared me to LeBron James. This year I have been challenged by my level of patience, because actually being a boss is work, which has helped me grow though and to meet people where they are and not where I want them to be. Lastly, I want to thank the Vaughn Jawns, my colleagues, the ward leaders that joined me here today that helped me get into this seat for hanging in there with me this year. I want to give a special shout-out to my Office Manager, Rochelle Gordon; my Director of Communications, Kyra Harris; my Director Stated Meeting 217 12/14/2023 Services, Tonya Woods; and of course my Legislative Advisor, Duwanye Terry; honorable mention to Frank Iannuzzi, who came to join me today. He said to me one time, we would have never met if not for Council, but I'm extremely glad that we did. You all kept me grounded and held things down in a way no one else could. And often, we all know, that I can get out of hand. I hope you all know how grateful I am for you. I'm super excited for my next chapter. I have no idea what I'm going -- what I was going to be 35 years ago, but I always end up where I belong. Colleagues, I hope you all remember me for the fun times, especially in our group texts. You all can go ahead and delete me now. Y'all work too hard and all day and all night. Mr. President, go ahead and breathe. I didn't say anything to make Stated Meeting 218 12/14/2023 this time. With that being said, goodbye tension. Hello pension. I'm outta here. (Applause.)
I know. I know. I'm going to miss you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. I wanted to take a moment to also add my thank you and my well wishes to you. I've learned so much from watching you over the past four years. I've learned so much of what I know about Stated Meeting 219 12/14/2023 learned how Council does not work and what not to do. I got my hands slapped a few times. I've learned about what true power and influence looks like and what dignified leadership looks like. I can't think of too many things that might be harder than leading 16 other independently elected officials with different ideas and ideologies, but you've done that, like our Mayor-elect said, masterfully and through one of the hardest times that I can imagine to be an elected official if we just think about what has happened over the past four years. And so I just wanted to thank you for every lesson that you've taught me personally, but also for how well you've led this body to accomplish what we needed to on behalf of the people over my first four years in office and over your entire history, and I hope that we make you proud as we move forward. Stated Meeting 220 12/14/2023 much.
Thank you so much, Councilwoman. Appreciate you. (Applause.)
Before I begin my remarks on Council President Clarke, I just have to say a few words about Councilwoman Sharon Vaughn or Sharon Vaughn or Ms. Vaughn, depends on what day it is. I just want to say that Sharon Vaughn, when we first met -- and we've told this story a number of times -- I was nervous as heck to meet this woman. I had heard some things, and I was like -- when she said a D word earlier, and I said -- I was meeting her to try to garner her support so I can get through the special election, and at that time, Stated Meeting 221 12/14/2023 there, she was probably the only person that didn't have my -- give me her support yet. And so by that time, it was breakfast, I came with like a notepad of why we should go forward with this, and I think that she's not really listening and taking it seriously, and by the end of the conversation, she said, I got you, baby, and she showed me in that conversation that she is one of the most sweetest people in the City of Philadelphia. And I remember even calling Kathy before the meeting and nervous as heck, I was like, you know this lady? And she said, she's a sweet, wonderful woman, Anthony. You'll be fine. And sure enough, I was fine by the end of that meeting. And ever since then, you have served as this woman that is just loving and caring and thoughtful for me. Stated Meeting 222 12/14/2023 important thing that Sharon Vaughn brings to the City of Philadelphia and to this body is honesty. If there's one thing I can say about Sharon Vaughn, she will tell you the truth, how she feels. If she doesn't like something, she's going to tell you she doesn't like it. If she doesn't like someone, she's going to tell you I don't like someone. But she also does it with grace. "Baby, I don't like you, but how you doing?" So that is difficult, and that's why, you know, in our Council group chat, she's always delivering some of the greatest, honest comments and remarks of all time. I call it Council After Dark. But -- oh, I shouldn't have said that. But long story short, Sharon Vaughn, I just want to say thank you for all that you've done in terms of loving, caring, and being thoughtful to myself, Stated Meeting 223 12/14/2023 Philadelphia. Because when Sharon Vaughn says "I got your back," she's ready to fight for you and make sure that you are good, and I can always -- I'll tell you this one thing, she even tells you when -like told me many times when you're out of line. I was like -- one day I had forgot something. She said, hey, do you remember sending the e-mail to somebody about this? I said, I don't remember nothing like that. She said, well, let me find that you're a BS'er. And I said, oh, my God, I did send that e-mail. And so she will tell you when you mess up, and that's what I love about this woman. And I'm looking forward to seeing you and connecting with you as our ward leader and also in your next life, and keep me encouraged, keep me in your Stated Meeting 224 12/14/2023 the best. Thank you, Sharon Vaughn. (Applause.)
Council President, colleagues, I just want to say this: There's a Black man in leadership that I was able to watch for over a year stand there and show me what resolve, what calm and being intentional for your community means, and that meant a lot for a man who did not grow up with his father entirely in his life. I have been always trying to find people in my life that I can look to and emulate. And one thing I will tell you about Council President Clarke is that even when things got tough, I watched it over and over again, public comments and people and things and legislation, he stood there and listened with his suit and said, got you. There was never a moment where Stated Meeting 225 12/14/2023 was also resolved in the fact that I know what I'm here for. I'm here to serve the community. This man, believe it or not, Philadelphia, y'all may not know this, he came to work every day, unless there was some other obligation. He was in this building every single day. That is not heard of from every Councilmember. And so he models work ethic and a level of excellency like no other. And then also I just have to say thank you to Wendy. She's also going to be retiring soon, I believe. (Applause.)
I mean, those two working together has been like, I mean, a thing. You can see it from the outside. They have a relationship. She keeps -- it's like Council President, as people mentioned, they keep things, you know, inhouse. That doesn't always Stated Meeting 226 12/14/2023 world, and I just want to say thank you. And to all of the other Council staff members that I've worked with, Council President, thank y'all so much. Lastly, I'm just going to say today is bittersweet, and it's bitter for me because today I lose a Council colleague, the only Council President I've ever served under, and because of the era of legislative position, civic responsibility, and strong leadership, that's going to come to an end, and that's sad. All of my adult life and, yes, when I walked in and met you, I was shocked to see and like I'm sitting in the room with Darrell Clarke, and that was just like crazy as a young man growing up in this world. President Clarke has wielded the gavel of this body with grace, strength, humility, and steadfastness. His hand will be surely missed. Stated Meeting 227 12/14/2023 12 years, Mr. President, you have been a fixture in the pillar of poise and strength. I am certain that in you and in our next Council President, incoming President Johnson, we will find a foundation of what and how it looks like to lead. We are all in your debt and we walk in your footsteps. And I might add that your 40 years of City Hall started six years before I was ever born. So today -- I just had to say that. That's why when I see you, I'm like he's my elder, like I listen. No. I mean it in a good way, in a great way, great way. That was a good thing. Y'all know me. I met President Clarke when then-Councilwoman Parker asked me to consider serving on City Council, and at first he didn't know who this man was, this young man was before, but as he will tell you, we left as strong supporters Stated Meeting 228 12/14/2023 other, and even more, he became a mentor of mine, and I mean a mentor, calling him all types of days and nights with questions. I join the thousands of Philadelphians, maybe even millions at this point, that have been impacted by his decades of service he has shown to our city. And I want to say today is also sweet because you trusted me from the outset and for good measure, because it was our former colleague and our future Mayor who walked me in to meet you. Not one minute, not a single second have you ever doubted me because of her reassuring introduction. I owe you on both ends debts of gratitude. Mr. Council President, I do not wish to say good-bye, because we know you're not going anywhere, you're going to be around. We just won't see you up there, which is going to be strange. I just wish you Godspeed as you Stated Meeting 229 12/14/2023 and raise the bar even after you leave this body on how we should lead, legislate, and live. I love you, Black man. Thank you for doing what you've done for the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Councilman. Thank you so much. I knew there was a reason why I left, you know, I made the decision to leave. That fact alone, that you weren't even born when I came in this field, it's time to go. It's time to go. But, Councilman, thank you so much. I really enjoyed you. And those words last night at your event, man, I really meant them. You're welcome. You know, you really, really have learned this job and learned your folks, and Stated Meeting 230 12/14/2023 that those big shoes that you had to fill -- those big high heels that you had to fill with Councilwoman Parker, you've hit the ground running. So thank you. Thank you so much, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Well, Mr. President, I'm going to be brief. I just wanted to say a couple of things. You know, Councilmember Phillips -- I know you said earlier like if you got emotional, you were going to leave and, you know, step out, but I think that makes you emotional for a whole 'nother reason, the idea of that. Thanks, Councilman. But I just wanted to say just a couple of things, and the first thing is that I want to thank you for your service. You know, people don't realize how hard your job is. I'm not talking Stated Meeting 231 12/14/2023 jobs; your job is as Council President, because you make it look easy, and in making it look easy, people have no idea that it's almost like trying to keep 16 kittens in a basket at the same time. This is not, you know, an easy thing. You have such institutional knowledge that you really didn't have to be a member of City Council. There are so many other avenues and options and opportunities that you could have taken other than serving the public. And so I just really wanted to say thank you so much for all that you've done. And I just wanted to also say for those who may not know, that our Council President I think is probably one of the funniest people that I've ever worked with. And, you know, I just want to thank you for bringing laughter and light and enjoyment into some very, very difficult situations. And I know that we haven't always -- listen, I haven't Stated Meeting 232 12/14/2023 and you haven't always agreed with me and, you know, we've had our very challenging moments, but at the end of the day, I've always had respect for you, love for you, and that's going to continue on. And so I just want to again just say thank you. Thank you is such an important word, I know Councilmember Kathy Gilmore Richardson mentioned earlier, and just so much gratitude for all that you've done and for helping each and every one of us through our way here in City Council.
And I just wanted to add to my partner in -- I want to say crime, but I'm going to say partner in all things good over here, Councilwoman Sharon Vaughn. You know, listen, talk about having a good time and fun, the party never stops. And so I just want to say thank Stated Meeting 233 12/14/2023 always just being joyful and friendly and when serious, you know, as someone earlier mentioned, letting people know exactly where you stand. I think that is such an important quality, that people know where you stand at all times. There's no guesswork. There's no mistaking. There's no double talk. But having that fortitude to be able to say exactly what you think, exactly how you feel, exactly what you mean is just such an important quality to have, and God bless you. I'll be seeing you around. I'll be seeing you around. It's not exactly a good-bye, because we'll be seeing each other, I'm sure, pretty regularly anyway. But, you know, just thank you both for your service. God bless you both.
Thank you so much, Councilwoman. Stated Meeting 234 12/14/2023 (Applause.)
Thank you. Thank you so much. Appreciate having had an opportunity to work with you like way back. We appreciate you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I don't know where to start. The age thing, I'll just put that aside for a minute.
One good thing is wisdom comes with it, so my colleague has a lot more wisdom coming to him. That's all he can -- should focus on. But no, no, I immensely enjoy working with Councilman Phillips, but I just went through a campaign that was Stated Meeting 235 12/14/2023 been serving and da-da-da-da, and my voters are really smart. I'm glad to be not leaving. Of course, it wouldn't have been a voluntary retirement. But, Darrell, I want to say to you, I don't know -- I've been here a year longer than you, so here about the same time. I don't remember the first year, second year, third year. You know, they're long in the past. But somehow you have followed two really strong Council Presidents who elevated and began the elevation of this institution and this body. You have somehow, best way I can say it, is perfected the job. I wouldn't have one -(Applause.)
I would not have one suggestion to do something different than you have done. For instance, in addition to Stated Meeting 236 12/14/2023 with 16 unruly cats, you have a lot of staff, and over the years you were staff for 20 years or so, right? There was always Council President staff who had favorites, were easy to work with, difficult depending on who you were or -- you know, sometimes they were just miserable. You know, it didn't have anything to do with that. Your staff has been incredible, top to bottom, Wendy, Donna, everyone who has worked with you. (Applause.)
And it's from what we might call the lowest level to the highest level. Whether I'm talking to John Fenton, one of the Sergeant-At-Arms, whether I'm talking to John Christmas, whether I'm talking to Wendy, it is -- they're incredible people, but they treat everyone the same. And that brings me to you. I Stated Meeting 237 12/14/2023 -- I just don't know how you do it. You treat everyone the same. Whether they're close to you personally, whether they're close to you politically, there's no difference in how you treat people. I never follow the term "emotional intelligence," but it was the equivalent of IQ. You should be in that group that has the highest. There's a name for that group. I can't think of it right now. I don't know how you do it, but starting with your own staff and then coming to your job with us and the Administration, how you deal with the State Legislature, Governor's Office. The thing that comes to mind is DEI. It wasn't very long ago that there was no DEI that anybody talked about. You didn't have to say diversity, inclusion -- equity, inclusion. You just say DEI now. Everybody has got a DEI officer. You are our DEI officer. You Stated Meeting 238 12/14/2023 You make sure that everything is equitable, spread around, no one feels different, no one feels less or more, and you're as inclusive as a leader can be, and I just want to thank you, because I have so much admiration for you. But you've elevated this institution to where you can honestly say we are a strong Mayor, strong Council, strong Council President. There was a time when we were just strong Mayor. Then it became, before I got in here and at the beginning of my time, strong Mayor, strong Council President. No one ever talked about Council. We are now a strong Mayor, strong Councilmember, strong Mayor [sic], and it makes all the difference in the world to be a member here. It's one of the reasons I like still being here, is that you can get so much done if it's your first day, your first year, or your 44th year because of what your Stated Meeting 239 12/14/2023 began, starting with Council President and then Mayor Street, Councilwoman Verna and what you have taken to the highest level, I think, that can be done. Challenge to my colleague here if he can take it higher, but I didn't think you could and you darn well did. So thank you. And I know you're still going to be around, and so will I, and the biggest thank you I could ever imagine giving somebody. Thank you.
Thank you. Thank you so much, Councilman. I appreciate you. I appreciate the long relationship that we've had both as a staffer and then a colleague. I appreciate that. Stated Meeting 240 12/14/2023 Jones.
First to my colleague, Member Vaughn, you are proof positive that the best Councilpeople were former staffers. That is a fact. You are mature and educated in that process and assumed the role of a Councilperson gracefully because of it, and thank you for your service. And as a fellow ward leader, I'm glad I endorsed you. (Applause.)
Bro, all I can tell you is, there are several things you taught me. The first one was just when you shake your head like that does not mean yes. In your negotiations, all that means is you're listening, which I've always appreciated. Secondly, I want to talk about the first time I met you. You were sitting at that table having a hearing Stated Meeting 241 12/14/2023 that?
You and a West Philly guy named Nutter. And what you were talking about was a demonstration project on security cameras that just might help keep crime off of the streets of Philadelphia. And I remember that we applied for it. The first cameras in the City of Philadelphia were on 54th Street. At one point they didn't work, got me in some trouble. So I checked today, make sure they were working, and they are. Three thousand cameras later, 3,000 cameras later, the City is safer because of it. One time, Zaire Jones, no relation, on Simpson Street was murdered. Not to make it a somber piece, but the reason they apprehended the murderers is because cameras that you got us to do. So I thank you, Mr. President, for that. The second thing I'm going to Stated Meeting 242 12/14/2023 I don't know if you were in here the other day. He had over -- how many was it, 100 and --
-- 150 shovels. And I remember as a freshman you taking the time to drive around and I wanted to know the secret to development, how can I get that in the 4th District, how can I get those shovels. So you rode around with me half a day and we went to maybe six potential sites that I wanted to develop, and when I got back, I was under the impression, because this don't always mean yes, it means I'm listening, I get in here and I said, I want all of mine that year, all of my projects. And it was Councilmember Rizzo that explained to me as a freshman, you got to wait to get in the pipeline in order to get the funding, in order to get the City's support, in order to get those done. Stated Meeting 243 12/14/2023 to you today, Mr. President, those six sites all have been developed. Thank you for that. (Applause.)
You have changed the skyline of the City of Philadelphia as well as many, many neighborhoods, and we thank you. Three thousand properties that you have identified later thank you for that. Then, finally, I want to say to you that you taught me judgment. Just because you can, doesn't mean you should. When we were faced with a dilemma of budget deficits, one of the bright ideas of some others was to sell the Gas Works, and you caught hell. The papers talked about us. The Administration at the time called us immature and didn't understand. We were going to go off a fiscal cliff, and you said no. You said, this asset may turn around. Stated Meeting 244 12/14/2023 going to sell it to six months later went bankrupt. Just because you can, does not mean you should.
And as the last surviving elected member of the freshmen three, I want to thank you for that. And I'm one of the presentations that will be done today, and if Member Squilla, Member Bass representing this leadership group, and we welcome the next leadership group, I want to ask you to join us here. Now, this will be framed at your party tomorrow, but in the meantime, former members, please join us. Thank you. Former members, members, please join us for this picture. That's right. It's in a nice frame too. And I remember when you first Stated Meeting 245 12/14/2023 of President. It has been value added ever since. I mean, future President Johnson, you got big shoes to fill. So with that, we want to thank you for the service and say as you move on to the South of France tasting wine on behalf of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, don't forget where you came from, and this is here. Thank you.
Thank you, my friend. (Councilmembers taking pictures.)
A fully framed picture will be presented tomorrow. We ain't done with you yet. We're going to get a tear out of you.
Thank you so much, Councilman. All right. Folks, we're not finished yet. We actually still have Stated Meeting 246 12/14/2023 -- we got a couple more members. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Council President Clarke, and I do want to say something about Sharon too right before we get into you. But, you know, Sharon was always a staffer and you appreciate a staffer working in the Council office because they actually do all the work, right, and we show up. But when you see Sharon's progression and then become the Councilmember, she still just does all the work, right? So she still is still a staffer and working for that, but it's her honesty, as you heard before, her integrity, but also her humor that she brings that really lightens the day when you are going through challenging times. And, you know, we're going to miss that. So you're not leaving the chat. You're not leaving the text messages, because those comments that you make, Stated Meeting 247 12/14/2023 to make sure we keep reading them to keep us on our toes. But thank you so much for your service and everything you've done. We really appreciate what you bring here to Council. Council President Clarke, I remember we came in 2012 --
Councilman, hold on one second. Folks, can we still have a little quiet, please. We still have a session going on. Thank you.
There was six of us that came in in 2012. There's three still here, Cindy, KJ, and myself. Helen, David Oh and -- who else was that? Bobby Henon, yes. And we came in here as freshmen, and as you heard, we're freshmen speaking and we come to meet you, and as you heard also, how you treated everybody the same, how you looked at everybody and asked them what they needed and how you could help. But Stated Meeting 248 12/14/2023 also, as Councilmember O'Neill said, your staff, how your staff was also our staff. They were able to help us and work for us, whether it was resources needed for the budget, whether it was doing newsletters or whatever else, communications, that you were able to provide us. Your staff was our staff. You hired the best and brightest, and that's true knowledge. And when you see people who stay with somebody for a long time, it shows you that their boss is a great person and somebody you really want to work for. And there's no better compliment than have somebody stay with you a real long time, and knowing that they are proud to work for you. And then some of them even leave when you leave, right? And that's also another sign of how great you are as a leader and as a person to work for. And in 2012 when we came on and again you heard people want to change the world and do things, but it was your Stated Meeting 249 12/14/2023 guidance, your leadership, the information that you shared, the ability to listen and, as Curtis Jones says, that when you nod doesn't mean yes, but you nod because you listen. We could never figure out where you were going on things. You always held it very close to the vest, right? But you would listen to everybody, and I think the reason why you didn't let everybody know what you thought or where you were going was because you wanted everybody's input in that decision-making process, and that's a sign of a true leader. A leader is somebody who listens to everybody, makes a decision at some point, knowing that half the people will be upset and the other half may be happy, but you make that decision after listening to everybody. And it's not always a popular decision. It's not always the majority decision, right? And that's something we learned, at least I've learned, from following you, looking at you, listening Stated Meeting 250 12/14/2023 you, that the main key is to first listen and then when you do make that decision, it's made and you made it based on information that you received, data, and the ability from your staff to make that happen. And, you know, working on Council, our colleagues here have been great assets to me. When I first came in working with all of them, you know, from Bill Greenlee, Derek Green, Blondie, Helen Gym, Parker, David Oh, and my partner in Kensington was Maria Sanchez, who she was always the bad guy and I was the good guy early on, and she would berate everybody, and I would say, hey, let's try to fix this and we'll do it. Then all the sudden I became the bad guy and she became the good guy, and I started jumping up and down and screaming. But I now have a new partner in Mike Driscoll and Quetcy Lozada in Kensington that take a lot of that on. Stated Meeting 251 12/14/2023 that maybe do two man's yeoman's work, and it's still not an easy challenge, but what I hear commitment from this body and even the leadership that's coming in is the commitment to Kensington and looking at resolving that issue working together as a whole. It's not just one Councilmember's problem or another Councilmember's problem. It's all our issues, because what we see is if we could resolve that issue, we could resolve issues throughout the City of Philadelphia, and the leadership of the Council President is key.
And we're going to have new leadership and, you know, we look at that as new opportunities. We're sad for the people that are leaving and we understand we have big shoes to fill moving forward, but I believe that our new Administration and our new Council leadership will take that focus and bring us even to new heights and new levels. Stated Meeting 252 12/14/2023 you provided. Thank you for your guidance, for your friendship. Thank you for what you gave, that steady hand to Council, knowing that we need to listen to everybody, but also know that sometimes if you do the wrong thing, you might get a little punishments here and there. That was also important, right? Knowing that -- you let us know that this is not how it runs and you're going to understand there's a consequence to that action, right? That is also key, because we learn through efforts and we learn by sometimes being challenged on what we do and what we say. And I just -- it's been a pleasure and an honor to serve with you, under you, by your side, and it really was a wealth of information and knowledge that you presented to us that we can learn from and now hopefully be able to share to others as they come in. Thank you for your work, your efforts, and it's just been an honor to Stated Meeting 253 12/14/2023 and all the members of Council here today. Have a great, happy holiday.
Thank you so much, Councilman. It's been a pleasure knowing you for such a long time. It's been awesome working with you and my good friend. That's more important than anything else. The Chair recognizes Councilman Driscoll.
Thank you, Mr. President. Before some brief good-byes, one order of business. We are in the holiday season, and I've been involved with Toys for Tots for a long time and this is the first year that we're short on toys. Stated Meeting 254 12/14/2023 do an appeal to my colleagues here, to those that are watching. We're going to do a final push this week. We have the Eagles bus that's going to drive up to Gallo's at 8101 Roosevelt Boulevard, and we're going to ask everybody to see if they can come fill that bus this Sunday, December 17th from 1 o'clock to 6 o'clock right at Roosevelt Boulevard, 8101. Because every child deserves a toy this Christmas. I want to make sure that nobody gets left behind. So that's this Sunday, 1:00 to 6:00, fill that Eagles bus. Secondly, to all my colleagues, all our staff, all our elected officials that are here, former elected officials that are here, happy and healthy holiday season to each of you all. To Sharon Vaughn, Sharon always says to me, hey, Driscoll, why do you laugh every time you look at me? Because I don't know what's coming out of that Stated Meeting 255 12/14/2023 mouth, girl. You will be missed, and I know we're going to keep seeing you, and it's an honor to have served with you, and I wish you a healthy and happy retirement. And, lastly, to you, Mr. President, I've known you for a long time, as a businessman, as a member of the House of Representatives. I now know you under your leadership as my President, and I can tell you I've always admired you in all those capacities that we interacted. You were always a humble man, a caring man. And if you can tell a man's character by the people he surrounds himself with, just look at his staff and who you assembled yourself with. You did an outstanding job with your staff. You've done an outstanding job with all of us. We truly are -- you're esteemed in our eyes, and we wish you health and happiness in your retirement and Godspeed. Stated Meeting 256 12/14/2023 this: With our next leadership team that comes in, when the Eagles win the Super Bowl in February, can you get former Council President on that bus? Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Councilman, that's the best thing I've heard all day. Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. Thank you for your long friendship both in and out of government. Appreciate you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson, my man.
Thank you, Council President. Well, first and foremost, I just want to just congratulate you on your years of service to the City of Philadelphia. Most of the people may or may not know, when I served as a State Stated Meeting 257 12/14/2023 running for Council President -- well, preparing to run for Council President, you so smoothly and strategically began recruiting me to come to City Council. And I remember sitting down and having a conversation with you in your office on the fourth floor, and I'm like, I'm not coming down to City Council. I'm a State Rep. I'm probably going to run for Congress, run for Governor. I don't want to come here to the City of Philadelphia to be a Councilperson. You said, listen, with all due respect to the State Legislature, right, City Hall is where the rubber meets the road. It's where you can have an impact on people's lives immediately. And then you started coming down to my neighborhood participating in my events and really started to take me under your wing. And when I talked to you a couple weeks ago, Darrell going to say I was praying -- Darrell was praying Stated Meeting 258 12/14/2023 me, you know, past two years. And I would call, and he would say, you know, I'm just praying for you, making sure you're all right. So when I go to see him the other day, he say, well, you know, I'm glad -- I'm so happy things turned out for you, because obviously, man, if it don't, I'm responsible for bringing him down here. He said, so I'm happy you're good. But I want to say this: I got a brief presentation I would like to do. I appreciate you for being a big brother, right? And me and you talk more about life than politics. We talk about you and your grandson -- I mean, you and your grand-kids, right, more than we talk about the politics, right? And that's what I always appreciate about our relationship. And also I look forward to exceeding those big shoes I have to fill, and I'mma tell you why I say that, right? Stated Meeting 259 12/14/2023 you, and you taught me about the importance of this institution but also, most importantly, having my members' back at all costs.
We are an independent body at the end of the day, and I've taken that from -- I've taken those lessons from your leadership and, most importantly, how to exercise power on behalf of the people, especially in the face of special interests. And so I just want to say, listen, I appreciate you. I have a little small presentation, actually two of them that we would like to do real quick so we can wrap this day up. Is that all right, big bro?
All right. Come on down. So I just wanted to give you a Stated Meeting 260 12/14/2023 to you for just your mentorship, always having my back, putting the politics aside and just calling me and just checking on me, making sure I'm okay just in terms of how I'm doing as a Councilperson representing the 2nd Councilmanic District. And so this is official. It's a gavel, right, holding, and it says, "Recognizing Darrell Clarke, City Council President 2012 to 2023, for your unwavering dedication and distinguished service as President of Philadelphia City Council." Now, it says from Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, President of City Council 2024, because there can only be one Council President at a time. We learned that, right?
Close, right? But I want to show you Stated Meeting 261 12/14/2023 Now, this gavel says, "Darrell L. Clarke, Council President 2012 to 2023." So I just want to pass this gavel along to you and just say thank you. I appreciate your hard work and your dedication on behalf of the City of Philadelphia. Appreciate you, big bro. (Applause.)
I'm going to say this, though -- now, can some of the staff come and get this now. That's the cute stuff, right? I'm talking to Wendy. She said, what y'all going to do for Darrell? We got a couple little things, right, Kath? What y'all going to do for Darrell, right? She said, well, it don't matter, because he like into that racing stuff. All that other stuff is cute. So we have some individuals Stated Meeting 262 12/14/2023 like to come on out, give you your props. (NASCAR members approached.)
So, Anthony, can you tell everyone who we have here as we do this official presentation to Council President Darrell Clarke?
So we have Mr. John Cohen, who owns New York Racing, one of the NASCAR teams, who is here. (Applause.)
We also have Mr. Lavar Scott, who is a NASCAR driver. (Applause.)
So he's one of three African Americans who is driving in NASCAR, and he's going to be a superstar. So the main guy is Bubba now, but he's coming up the ranks right now as a star, Stated Meeting 263 12/14/2023 have him there. (Applause.)
And then I have one of my students who was in our documentary. His name is Marlin Alvarez. He's going to be a NASCAR driver too, and he's here too. (Applause.)
Then I have my staff member also that's here too. So, Darrell, I know you're a big racing fan, no doubt about it, and I wanted to bring out the best for you, no doubt about you. I'm going to make a presentation to you. So we're going to start with John. JOHN: So I appreciate you coming out for the Grand Prix last year and you talked about how much you like racing. So I know when you retire, Stated Meeting 264 12/14/2023 man caves, so I wanted to give you your first gift for your man cave. This is official U.S. Racing. (Applause.)
This is the real deal. No. I'm going to wear this on the track. Thank you, man. Appreciate you, man.
Also we have some stuff that was signed by Rajah Caruth, who couldn't be here today, but he signed a helmet for you. That's for you, Darrell, also. Rajah Caruth, he's one of those up-and-coming young stars. He signed some racing gloves for you too. Are they in there? Gloves that he raced in. (Applause.) Stated Meeting 265 12/14/2023
Absolutely. Absolutely. And then he brought up a diecast car for you too, one of the trucks he actually raced in, right? JOHN: Wendell Scott.
That's right. Lavar, you want to say a few words for Mr. Clarke?
Well, first and foremost, congratulations on an amazing career. It meant a lot to me when I found out you were a NASCAR fan. So I was very honored that I got to come up here and kind of wish you well, a farewell and just be a part of this. So it means a lot, and I brought you some hero cards that I'm going to sign for you. Stated Meeting 266 12/14/2023
Thank you. And thank you, Kenyatta Johnson, for inviting us out.
Now that I'm retiring, I can go down to Daytona.
So, Darrell, again, thank you for all your hard work over the years, and you've been supporting us for many, many -- you've been to the racing school numerous times too, so we thank you for that for sure. And continued success. And we got to go some races together, no doubt about it, now that you're retired, no doubt about it.
Could we get members to take a quick picture real quick before the next presentation. Is that all right? (Applause.) (Brief pause for pictures being taken.)
So we were conspiring as well to try to like show you a lot of love and give you your flowers today and talking to the next Majority Leader in City Council regarding some ideas regarding what we can present you to memorialize you when you go home and you can look inside your man cave or look --
For a good thing. Yeah, for a good thing. For a good thing. Stated Meeting 268 12/14/2023 to have Kathy say a few remarks.
Thank you to our incoming Council President. Council President, you know that we love you, we appreciate you, and we want to give you a few tokens to show our love and appreciation that you can keep in your home forever. So on behalf of this term, we present to you, Council President Clarke, and the plaque says, "Thank you, Darrell L. Clarke, Philadelphia City Council President, for 42 years of steadfast leadership." You have been a dedicated, thoughtful public servant, and both the City of Philadelphia and City Council as an institution are greater because of your leadership. We thank you. (Applause.)
We're not Stated Meeting 269 12/14/2023 yet, though. Just getting started.
Council President, we're trying to make you cry. So we just want to again recognize you for your great work. This plaque, Darrell, says for you, "Council President Darrell Clarke, recognizing you for your unwavering dedication and distinguished service as Council President, December 14th, 2023." The gifts keep coming. Thank you, CP. (Applause.)
Now, Councilmember Squilla, we need that parade. CP is going to need a shirt to wear on the float. So starting with our Philadelphia Eagles, a personalized jersey for the year 2023. And we know we just had a Red Stated Meeting 270 12/14/2023 Councilmember Bass. And we know the Sixers are hot and the Flyers are as well. (Applause.)
And, CP, we know after all of this, you're not going to go home and cook, so this is for you. Thank you, Council President. (Applause.)
Could we give him a real big round of applause, y'all. (Applause.)
All right. I'm getting close, so I'm going Stated Meeting 271 12/14/2023 First, I'd like to recognize my good colleague, Councilwoman Blackwell. (Applause.)
Guys, I don't know what to say. I'm going to make it brief, because I know we got food over there. As I said, it's either getting overcooked or it's going to be cold. So, first of all, being an elected official and being in public service is the best opportunity in life. I know people do a lot of different things and they choose different ways that they want to -- different directions that they want to go, but at the end of the day, there's nothing more rewarding than being in public service. And actually as Councilman Johnson said, being an elected official on the local level, you are always able to make an Stated Meeting 272 12/14/2023 life, mostly positive. Every now and then, you know, we take a vote that doesn't necessarily work, but at the end of the day, on balance, this is the place to be. People asked me, well, what are you going to do when you retire? My response is, I don't know. I never retired before, right? So we'll figure that out, right? January the 3rd, you know, when I get up in the morning and go to put my suit on, right, and realize I don't have anywhere to go, right, I'll figure it out. But at the end of the day, as I said, I'll still continue to be involved in public service, you know, one way or another, be it supporting an organization or be it supporting any of my colleagues and former colleagues that want to do some things or simple advice to the Mayor. Probably I'll have some official capacity somewhere, be it state or city, more than likely state. Stated Meeting 273 12/14/2023 -- I'm just overwhelmed with the love that's being shown, not just today, because as I said, the conversation that I had with you all on a confidential basis, the trust that you all put in me. If you talk to me about stuff, right, sometimes every now and then I'm like, yo, I don't really want to hear all that. That's like your personal life. I don't want to hear that, right? I'm just saying, right? But you show me the faith and the confidence in me that you know that it's not going anywhere, and that means so much to me to have that kind of a relationship with you all. I say this a lot. You all are the best group of Councilmembers that I've ever worked with, but I want to say one caveat. With the exception of the ones sitting over there, right? I'll include you all. I mean, when you were here, I was saying the same thing about you all, right? And anybody looking at Stated Meeting 274 12/14/2023 64 or listening to WURD, with the exception of you all. But on a serious note, though, you know, having the level of relationships and the collegial relationships and responsibility means more. I was just recently asked on an interview why didn't I run for Mayor and would I have been a good Mayor. You know, I didn't hesitate. Absolutely, right? But at the end of the day, the Mayor's thing, it's not about having a consensus. It's not about having to talk to different diverse individuals and populations and people representing all different types of neighborhoods on a very personal level. And to be able to get a consensus, and we've been fortunate that we usually get, you know, 15-2, 15-1, 17-0 votes, which means that we've had that conversation and we got everybody to be a part of that decision and ultimately we pass bills, and when Stated Meeting 275 12/14/2023 the Mayor every now and then, we were together. So that just means so much to me. I want to thank the staff of City Council, and I'm glad you all talked about that, understanding the importance of good staff. I was taught that early on as a staffer myself. See the expansion of the skill set that were brought into Council. I love the Mayor-to-be-elect, refer to her affectionately as my little sister.
I'm going to have to stop calling her that, because she's going to be the Mayor. I'm going to call her my younger sister, right? But at the end of the day, you got to be in a position to have a thoughtful debate. At the end of the day, the legislative branch and the executive branch are at some point going to have a conversation about them, because there may be some disagreements or -- you know, we hope that it's always Stated Meeting 276 12/14/2023 civil, but at the end of the day, you got to be on par, you know. You can't be in a position where you got to call the Planning Commission to get a map because you want to do some things in your district and they can slow-roll you, and you don't have the ability to make a map upstairs, right? So you're at a loss. Or you can call the City Solicitor. And I know they claim -- and I love all the City Solicitors we have. Oh, the City Solicitor is the Mayor's lawyer and the Council lawyer. But every time, you know, there's some disagreement, they tell City Council, well, we'll get you an outside lawyer. They don't ever say we'll get the Mayor an outside lawyer, right? But you have to have tech staff and lawyers on staff that can put you in a position to do what you need to do. So that's why I'm so proud of the staff that we have, that we're always in a position to craft legislation. We're always in a position to have a Stated Meeting 277 12/14/2023 about balanced budgets, you know, consistently even through the pandemic, you all took some tough decisions and you all got together and you crafted to minimize the level of layoffs that we had in the City and move the City forward and still being able to deliver service. You all made a decision that we have to move this city to another level when people were pulling back and people were saying, no, we don't know what's going to happen with the pandemic, we're afraid to do anything, right? And instead we went out there and borrowed $400 million, right, to invest in neighborhoods, and now we're sitting with, as the Mayor said earlier, the most significant fund balance that we've had in recent history. So I just want to say to the staff, to our colleagues how much I appreciate having had this opportunity. The best job in the world, as far as I'm Stated Meeting 278 12/14/2023 concerned, to have had the opportunity to meet and work with you on a consistent basis. I see you all way more than I see my blood family. And I get it, right? And as a result of that, we formed a special bond. So I'm going to miss you all. Councilwoman Lozada is trying to suggest that I should come to City Hall every Thursday. I can say that ain't going to happen, Councilwoman. I'll call you every Thursday, but I'm not going to be coming in here, because you all -- I feel more than comfortable that you all will be able to take this to the next level. You all will be in a position to handle the Council of the City of Philadelphia and work with the executive branch on taking us to even a higher level. So to you all today, I want to thank you. Last, but not least, I want to thank the residents of the 5th Councilmanic District. )
A long time ago, the guy that I used to work for, also known as John Street, Council President, decided he wanted to be the Mayor. I'm like, dude, seriously? Right? Because I'm cool. I'm Chief of Staff, making more money than the Councilpeople. I had no intention, right -- I had to take a pay cut to become a Councilman. I'm like, yo, Street, what are you doing? Well, no, Clarke, I think I -you know, he made that decision, right? And, you know, everybody was like, oh, Street is leaving. Who is going to represent the 5th District? And people are nervous. And we're all standing there, and I didn't get the memo. Everybody took a step back and I was the last one standing up front, right? So they said, well, it's you, Clarke. And it was the best thing that I've ever Stated Meeting 280 12/14/2023 done, other than, you know, my family, because it gave me an opportunity to do some things, and I have the people in the 5th Councilmanic District to thank for their support over these years, understanding there's a Council President and I got a little broader of an agenda, but they've always been there and supported. So I will be remiss if I didn't thank them, because as Councilwoman said, don't forget where you come from, right, and I truly didn't do that. So to all of you, I want to thank you all. I love you all. We're going to do what we need to do to take this city to the most ridiculously high level that people have ever seen. To the leadership and to the colleagues, God, I'm rooting for you. I'm not going to change my phone number, Anthony, right? You can call me at 10 o'clock at night. No, but, folks, on a serious Stated Meeting 281 12/14/2023 note, I appreciate you so much having been given this opportunity, and I thank you and I love you all, and God bless you all. Thank you. (Standing ovation.)
And one last thing. I do want to say one last thing. I'm sorry. I'm going to stop, because that food, as I said, is getting overcooked or cold. There are a lot of friends that I have out here that aren't on staff, right, that aren't a part of public service, but they have been helpful and supportive, you know, some of my ward leaders and some of the other individuals. But I want to say -- he's going to hate this, right? I want to say that -- I'm going to point him out, and I know he's going to hate the hell out of this, right? Charlie, stand up, man. I know you hate that. Come on, man. Stated Meeting 282 12/14/2023 (Applause.)
This is my youngster, man. I got a lot of youngsters. But, Charlie, I just want to thank you, man, in a public way, because you've been there behind the scenes. Every now and then I'm getting ready to do something crazy, you know, and I have to call you, and you gave me good advice, man. So I just want to recognize you today, because I know you're not one that's always out there like that. So, guys, thank you all. God bless you. We're going to call for an adjournment. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Council -- Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned to sine die. If anybody don't understand that, that means Stated Meeting 283 12/14/2023 not been set yet. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned sine die. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)