COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, May 7, 1998 11:22 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHN F. STREET COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN ANNA CIBOTTA VERNA COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILWOMAN HAPPY FERNANDEZ COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK DICICCO COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO MARIE B. HAUSER, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 STATED MEETING - GREETING, INVOCATION P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. The Chair notes that the hour has come and that a quorum is present. Council will come to order. Members will take their seats, visitors will retire to their seats outside the rail. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Councilman W. Thacher Longstreth. Members and guests will please rise. (Applause.)
How sweet it is. The question is, Will you love me in September as you do in May? (Laughter.)
It is my honor today to offer the prayer with which we start Council each Thursday. And I wanted to put in just a couple of extraneous remarks before I get into the formal part of my presentation. I once played basketball, as you might suspect, on the Haverford school team, where I was the seventh man. I was the seventh man who only got a chance to play when we were either so far STATED MEETING - GREETING, INVOCATION ahead that we could lose, or so far behind that no one cared. (Laughter.)
And so ended the season. We were undefeated, so I got a chance to play very little, indeed. I've had a somewhat similar experience during my 20 years in Council. And to be given an opportunity to address this large, enthusiastic crowd is a privilege beyond belief. In my own way, I'm so nervous and so at a loss for words, that I'm going to turn, in my desperation, to a Quaker prayer. I am a Quaker. My family has been eighth generation -- we're eighth-generation Philadelphia Quakers. And we have a rather unique way of putting on our points when we wish to engage in some form of religious discussion. This morning, I am going to give the Quaker prayer of silence since, it seems to me, that with all of the verbiage that has taken place in these halls over the years, that this would not be an improper way for us to communicate each in turn with own God. So for about 60 seconds, I will stand here in front of you, praying, as you will be praying, that this body where we are now will always do the right thing, and praying that all of you may enjoy the mercy and love of almighty God. (Brief pause for silence.)
The Chair thanks Councilman Longstreth for his inspiring invocation.
Our next order of business is the approval of the journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 30, 1998. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the journal of April the 30th, 1998 stands approved. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. STATED MEETING - LEAVES OF ABSENCE REQUESTS The ayes have it. The journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 30, 1998, stands approved.
The next order of business is leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. A leave of absence is requested for Councilwoman Clark.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Mr. President, no leave of absence is requested for the Republicans.
At this time, we will dispense with our regular order of business to recognize visitors. STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS To all of our visitors and guests with us this morning, the Chair welcomes you here and applauds your interests in the civic affairs of our City, and certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo for the purpose of introducing a visiting guest.
Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, with us today is Keaton Kovach, and he's here with his dad, Kevin. And Keaton's a student in Springfield Elementary. That's in upper Bucks County. And I'd like to welcome Keaton and his dad. Kevin. (Applause.)
At this time, our first presentation honors Senator Hardy Williams. To make this presentation, the Chair appoints Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Verna. The Chair invites Senator Williams and those with him to receive this resolution. (Applause.)
Only Senator Williams could get a crowd like this to come to STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS his presentation. (Laughter.)
Let me certainly also welcome Senator Williams to be -that's State Representative Anthony Hardy Williams. (Applause.)
A brother of the Senator. And also mom, Francis Williams, whom we all know and love as well as. (Applause.)
We also have with us Joe Harvey, who all of you know from the old PAC days. And he's been with the Senator before and since. So we welcome all of you and thank you for allowing us to have this honor to present a resolution to someone whom we love and respect, and whom all of us would not be here -- so many of us not be here had it not been for his leadership STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS and his willingness to be an independent person to fight many, many years ago. With that, let me read the City of Philadelphia citation honoring and commending Senator Hardy Williams on the occasion of his retirement from the Pennsylvania State Senate. Whereas Hardy Williams was born and reared in West Philadelphia. He showed promise early in life as an honor student at West Philadelphia High School, and Penn State University, where he was the first African-American player and team captain on the school's championship basketball team; and Whereas Hardy Williams served as a first lieutenant the Korean conflict. He received a doctorate of jurisprudence from the University of Pennsylvania; and Whereas known as the "Father of Black Independent Political Movement," Hardy Williams served five terms in the Pennsylvania House. He organized the Legislative Black Caucus. And in 1982, he was elected to his first term in the Pennsylvania Senate where he has served in a dedicated as Chair of the Senate Public Health and STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS Welfare Committee. The Senator has also served as member of the Urban Affairs and Housing Committee, Appropriations, Local Government, and the Judiciary Committees; and
Whereas Senator Williams has been a champion of society's most vulnerable members. His proudest legislative achievement was the enactment of a bill providing that all children are legitimate, including those born out of wedlock; and Whereas the Crisis Intervention Network Black Family Services, Inc., Blacks Networking are Progress, Inc., the Delaware Valley Ecumenical Council, African-American Delaware Port Corporation, Urban Economic Strategies Task Force, 8th District AIDS Task Force, and the Organized Anti-crime Community Network are just a few of the organizations that he has been involved with. Therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby congratulate, honor, and commend State Senator Hardy Williams on a distinguished career as one of Philadelphia's most prominent elected Black officials. STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS He has served proudly and effectively in the Pennsylvania House and Senate, representing the interests of senior citizens, youth, and the needy -- society's most vulnerable citizen.
Resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to State Senator Hardy Williams, further evidencing the respect, love, admiration, and appreciation of this legislative body. To this distinguished gentleman and great humanitarian, we extend our best wishes for a retirement that is happy, healthy, and rewarding, and that he has certainly earned. Thank you. (Standing ovation.)
The Chair recognizes Senator Williams. SENATOR WILLIAMS: Thank you, Mr. President and Councilwoman Vern, Councilwoman Blackwell, both of whom I love dearly and have spent a number of years knowing, so that when I speak -Mom, would you please step up. Don't know why you're leaving me now. STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS (Laughter.) SENATOR WILLIAMS: It was my mom that got me into all of this.
Get her a chair. Senator WILLIAMS: The only reason I got elected was because she knew everybody in the City. But frankly, Mom, I just wanted to wish you a happy Mother's Day ahead of time. So -(Applause.) SENATOR WILLIAMS: It does say to honor thy mother and thy father, and to listen to the instruction of thy father and not depart from the lessons of thy mother. And so you'd do me a great honor -- you would honor me if you would stay and wish my mother, now going on her 87th year, a happy Mother's Day. I would certainly appreciate that. (Applause.) SENATOR WILLIAMS: Thank you. Thank you. (Standing ovation.) SENATOR WILLIAMS: I do not wish to prolong these proceedings, but I have been a very STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS lucky man since my childhood. There are two punctuations in my career, and both were my retirements. I was in a down-period where no one wanted to elect Hardy Williams, and I was really low. So I helped my mother get the recognition that she got, and that was a Citywide birthday party or something because it was just so great to be able to recognize my mother as I knew I was finished my career. But as God had it, I had more to do, and I'm retiring again. And she works eight and a half hours every day, no pay in cash, and she does it. And so it's a real pleasure for me to arrive at this point in my life and be given this honor. And she's here, and that means a lot to me no matter what. Finally, just let me say that not many people get witness to a dream of a young poor boy who happened to have gone to the Wilson School, mostly all black teachers. And, buddy, they taught you. You may be poor, you may be this or that, but you left that school, you had a STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS function. And I'm just saying that I also did go to Cheyney University four years. That was left out -- I wanted that to be said. But I had dreams and uncertainties and fears, all of that -- in the gang, all of that. Somewhere along the line and through the schooling was this scene, Mr. President. I'm talking about America, I'm talking about where you bring your problems, and where you hash it out. Well, this is my dream, and I've enjoyed it. And for to you join with the Council today in saying something nice about me, I deeply appreciate that. I have lived my dream and I thank you for coming here today to witness it. Now, I know the crowd is an extra crowd today, largely due to the fact that you knew I was going to bring my mother. But I just wanted to say that here is the place and here is the time for us to debate the issues that come before us as men and women all born under -Mom's nudging me to not legislate, so I just want to sit down and end by saying thank you very much. STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS (Standing ovation.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will be standing in for Councilwoman Clark, who, most of you know, is not with us today. She had a death in the family. Her mother passed. But Council Blackwell will introduce the three winners of the African-American Oratorical Contest, who will share those winning speeches with us today. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'm certainly honored to read the names and congratulate the winners. This is an annual affair, as you mentioned, that Councilwoman Clark takes great pride in. We regret that due to her mother's passing, she is not here today. I will read the names of the first-, second-, third-, and fourth-place winners. And, of course, the first-place winners will read their oratories. STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS The elementary-level Citywide winners, grades 4, 5 and 6, are: 1st Place - $1,000 bond and computer to Dominica Bridges, Lamberton School, Grade 6, Overbrook Cluster. 2nd Place - $500 bond - Allona Holland, Blaine School, 6th Grade, Strawberry Mansion Cluster. 3rd place -- I'm sorry. Would all of you please stand as I read your names. (Winning students stand as their names are read.)
3rd Place $200 bond - NiKiesha Dorsey, Shawmont School, Grade 4, Roxborough Cluster. 4th Place - $100 bond - Kojo Marfo, Pepper School, Grade 6, Bartram Cluster. Middle-level Citywide winners - Grades 7, 8, 9: 1st Place Winner - $1,000 bond and computer - Maya McGeathey, GAMP, Grade 9, South Philadelphia Cluster. 2nd Place - $500 bond - Raymond Lynn, Beeber School, Grade 7, Overbrook Cluster. STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS 3rd Place - $200 bond - Carmen Rosa, Carver High School, Grade 9, William Penn Cluster. 4th Place - $100 bond - Janelle Kennedy, Dobson School, Grade 8, Roxborough Cluster. And, finally, the upper-level Citywide winners - Grade 10, 11, and 12: 1st place - $1,000 bond and WDASsponsored trip to Africa - Jamilia Hicks, CAPA School, Grade 11, Furness Cluster. 2nd Place - $500 bond - Sabriah Bilal, Parkway Northwest, Grade 12, West Philadelphia Cluster. 3rd Place - $200 bond - Courtney Richardson, Girls High, Grade 11, Germantown Cluster. And, finally, 4th Place - $100 bond Bereniece Mulubah, Gratz High School, Grade 12, Gratz Cluster. So we will now ask that the first-place winners of each category -- elementary, then middle, then upper school -- would come and certainly make your presentation. Thank you, Mr. President. ) MISS BRIDGES: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Dominica Bridges. I'm a 6th-grade student at Robert E. Lamberton School. " Now more so than ever, we must begin to set goals for ourselves in order to reach our prize. African-Americans of today and in the past reached their prize through hard work and education. Many of them now are our teachers, lawyers, doctors, and entrepreneurs. The materials for success are all around us, and we must take advantage of them while seeking our prize. We must use selfdiscipline, respect, and be as ambitious as our ancestors were when they were fighting for freedom, equality, and the right to vote. That's why it's as important for us to decide if we are going to be an asset or a liability to our communities. If we are to be an asset, we must map out our futures and nurture our minds to envision STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS ourselves really fulfilling our career choices. In doing so, let the spirits of our ancestors guide us to the fruits of hard labor. For it was Dr. " We must seek in that identity a chance for challenge, rather than sadness. We must first decide what path we choose to take. The blueprints for our goals can be parallel to that of a famous person, a respected relative, and people from our communities who have beat the odds and succeeded at doing something positive for themselves and for their communities despite the opposition. Our road maps to success must be organized and thoroughly investigated. We must choose our cheerleaders very carefully, for they will be on our sidelines, cheering us on to our victories. Many negative forces will try and destroy the various routes on your map as you STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS progress. Therefore, take time to view and praise the accomplishments you have reached thus far. Don't get sidetracked by your peers who do not have thoughts of visible dreams. Take control of your environment by not letting those negative forces take control of you. Dr. Benjamin E. Mays said it best when he wrote, "It is not your environment, it is you, the quality of your mind, the integrity of your soul, the determination of your will. " Taking a glance at our past 400 years ago, our people were hunted down in Africa and forced into slavery. Millions of our ancestors took a ride to America, laying flat on their backs, side by side. But today, we march here in America side by side at the request of our brothers and sisters to answer the roll call of one million men and one million woman, strong, taking a pledge of helping mankind, humankind, our kind, at all times.
As we move forward into the next millennium, let's recall and embrace the STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS contributions that African-Americans have made to society. Let's take the courage of Harriet Tubman, the faith of Fredrick Douglas, the imagination of Paul Lawrence Dunbar, the hope of Jessie Jackson, the love of Dr. ) and the determination of Dr. Betty Shabazz, as tools to reach our prize. I thank you. ) MISS MCGEATHEY: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Maya Shendell McGeathey. I am a 9th-grade student attending the Girard Academic Program. " The survival of our ancestors who lived through the middle passage and through the horrors of slavery is a story of the triumph of the spirit, the power of the divine. These are the words written by author and editor of Essence Magazine, Susan Teller. Teller's quote stresses the importance of the African-American spirits. STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS This spirit has been giving our culture faith, encouragement, and strength for over 400 years. This spirit has allowed African-Americans to withstand all manifestations of oppression, whether it was the middle passage, slavery, mistreatment, Jim Crow laws, or the noncompliance to affirmative-active legislature. This spirit endowed Harriet Tubman with the courage to lead over 700 slaves to freedom. It provided Mary McCloud Methune the will to receive and give education. It empowered Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to boldly speak for the justice of African-Americans. " The spirit motivated the late Roxanne Jones to represent her people for many years in State legislature. It convinced one million African-American men to pledge themselves to the betterment of their community and over one million African-American women to take a similar stand. STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS Our indomitable spirit has remained strong as we have made the traditions of a people who were African kings and queens chattel property of a slave-owner to people who are and continue to be great contributors to the American society. It is our spirit and faith that determine whether we as African-Americans as well as African-American businesses, churches, educational institutions, and culture will continue to flourish into the 21st century. In order to maintain our spirits, we must never abandon our heritage. ) who said, and I quote, There are two things all of you must care about -- never to forget where came from and always praise the bridges that carried us over. We must not allow the pigmentation of our skin to be a reason for exclusion from opportunities that we well deserve. We must maintain the strength of our spirits and remember the words of Mary McCloud Methune, who said, Use your blackness as a challenge, not an excuse. We cannot refer to or depend upon STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS statistics or polls as the determinating factor of whether or not we will succeed in the 21st century. We must heed the encouragement of our inner spirits and be mindful of the of Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, who asserted, It is not your environment; it is the quality of your mind, the integrity of your soul, and the determination of your will that will decide your future and your lives. My people, our spirit is our support. It is the rope that is bound to the top of the mountain and reassures us that we are safe as long as we hold on to it. All of our life is spent in climbing this mountain. When we allow racism to possess our minds and souls, when we permit setbacks to lead us to our failure, we are abandoning our spirits. ) foremost in our hearts and our minds: The wealth of our spirits is the lights of the world. My brothers and sisters, I admonish you to live, walk, talk, and stay truly in the spirit. Thank you. ) MISS HICKS: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Jamilia Hicks, and I attend the High School for Creative and Performing Arts.
" I have just been sent here by the Department of Health and Human Services to inform you that you have been just been tested for a virus that may prove to be more dangerous and deadly than any other epidemic that has hit the African-American community. This virus has taken the place of the chains and shackles that held our ancestors in check for over 400 years. Instead of caging our minds, instead of caging our hands and our feet, it unconsciously implants the feeling of dependency on White society for better jobs, education, and social environments. This virus has become so widespread that it is almost impossible to tell the infected from the healthy. The virus that I am speaking about is none other than AIDS. Now, I'm not talking about the virus STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS that attacks the human immune system, despite a person's race color or gender, no. This virus is very specific. It is infects only African-Americans, and its name stands for assimilation, integration, desegregation, and separation -- the four words that have brought the Black community to its knees. Now, in order to understand this virus's devastating effect on the Black community, you must first learn to appreciate the words that make up its name. The most horrible symptom of this virus is none other than assimilation. You see, assimilation creates a feeling of self-hatred in the infected African-American, 'cause in order for a Black person to assimilate into White society, they must think, act, and talk like their White counterparts. In other words, they must deny the very thing that makes them who they are, their rich history, and heritage. Integration, a word that has given the Black community a full sense of security. It has infected us with the mentality that the war between the races is almost over. Yes, we are STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS allowed to go to schools with White children, but I ask you, what good is this when our youth live here in the City, and White schools are in the suburbs? Integration was put out as a quick fix for the inequality of funding between Black schools and White schools. Instead of creating a budget that could support both schools' financial obligations, we were given the ability to go to schools that had top-of-the-line books and equipment, which was then, and still is now, predominantly White schools. Integration was like trying to put a Band-Aid on a bullet wound. It was too small and unsatisfactory for the size and seriousness of the wound. Now, here's an interesting word: Desegregation. The problem with desegregation was not desegregation itself, but the attitude of Black America after it was achieved. What I mean is that after desegregation, so many African-Americans felt that they had formed this ultimate form of equality with Whites, forgetting that desegregation was merely a step towards our STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS goal, where all people are created equal, despite their race or color. Instead of using desegregation, we have let it stop us from sticking our necks out. So many Black people no longer see the need for putting themselves or their jobs at risk by speaking out against the racism that plagues our lives. The desire to maintain the little that we have has made us turn on each other and contract the last symptom and most deadly of this disease -- separation. Because, you see, my people, in our race to assimilate or to maintain the petty possessions we have achieved, we have separated ourselves from each other. We despise the voice of the Black youth calling for help through, quote/unquote, gangsta rap. They scream out their rage and their hopelessness, and we comfort our deaf ears with the thought that they would have grown up to be nothing more than a bunch of gun-toting junkies anyway. How many of us walk by the homeless and their empty cups, thinking only that they are STATED MEETING - VISITORS AND PRESENTATIONS polluting our air with their stench.
We don't even look twice at the child on the corner because he isn't anything but a chalk outline waiting to happen. We have lost the understanding that from the homeless person to the millionaire, from the child on the corner to the child that sits across from you at the dinner table, we are all connected. We are all one body despite our material possessions. We find ourselves dying in a world of economic distress, partly because we failed to support our Black businesses, as we should. We complain of possibly paying five or ten cents more; yet how many of us take pride in purchasing Tommy Hilfiger, Nautica or Ralph Lauren garments that have a 100 to 150 percent markup? That five our ten cents extra is likely to be revisited in our communities to support our cause. My people, this virus is making us tear away at the foundations of our communities. We must find a cure or we will destroy the cornerstone upon which we have built our worlds. The cure for this deadly and dangerous virus is STATED MEETING - COMMUNICATIONS not found in moving to the suburbs. It cannot be found in some beautifully upholstered office in the White House. No, this cure lies here, in you and me, in all of us together. It is time to eradicate that which is out to destroy us -- AIDS, the virus of self-hate, hopelessness, and apathy. Its cure lies within this room. And we must find it, or we will all. . perish. Thank you. )
I think it's the tradition to take photographs with the awardees. At this time, Council will stand at ease.
The next order of business is communications. The Chair recognizes the Sergeant-At-Arms for the purpose of delivering the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. (Sergeant-At-Arms delivers messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk.)
The Chief Clerk will read the messages from the Mayor. STATED MEETING - COMMUNICATIONS
May 4, 1998, to the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that I have today signed the following bill, which was passed by Council at its session, on April 30, 1998, Bill No. 980234. An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Director of Commerce, on behalf of the City, to amend a certain lease agreement dated May 1, 1976, between the City and the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia ("RDA") wherein the City leases to the RDA for further sublease to the Penns Landing Corporation all that certain parcel of land known as "Penns Landing Stage I." And an ordinance amending Sections 13-101 and 13-201 of The Philadelphia Code relating to standards pursuant to which the Water Department fixes and regulates rates and charges for supplying water and sewage disposal services by further specifying the special rates and charges that are to be established for properties owned by the Philadelphia Housing Authority. And an ordinance authorizing the STATED MEETING - COMMUNICATIONS Streets Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to execute an intergovernmental agreement for a Southeast Pennsylvania Regional Household Hazardous Waste Education Collection and Management project, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance declaring it desirable for the health, safety, and welfare of the people served by Greater Philadelphia Health Services II Corporation, a nonprofit corporation, organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, which operates a long-term care facility, known as Northwood Nursing and Convalescent Center.
The Chief Clerk will read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Mr. President, I have three bills and one resolution. And may I note that the resolution is signed by every Member of Council, save Councilwoman Clark, who is out, and it is cosponsored by Councilman Cohen, Ortiz, Councilwoman Fernandez, and Councilwoman Miller.
An ordinance granting permission to the trustees of the University of Pennsylvania to construct, own energize, maintain, operate, replace, and remove the poles, electric conduit, and appurtenances for pedestrian lights within the public right-of-way and City streets to illuminate public right-of-way adjacent to the area bounded by Walnut Street, 36th Street, 37th Street, and the former Sansom Street. And an ordinance granting permission to the trustees of the University of Pennsylvania to construct, own, energize, maintain, operate, replace, and remove poles, electrical conduit, and appurtenances for pedestrian lights within the STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS public right-of-way and City streets to illuminate the public right-of-way adjacent to the area bounded by Walnut Street 34th Street, 38th Street, and Chestnut Street, the Sansom Commons Phase III. And an ordinance granting permission to the trustees of the University of Pennsylvania to construct, own, energize, maintain, operate, replace, and remove poles, electrical conduit, and appurtenances for pedestrian lights within the public right-of-way and City streets to illuminate the public right-of-way adjacent to the area bounded by Chestnut Street, 36th Street, 37th Street, and Walnut Street, Sansom Commons Phase II, all under certain terms and conditions.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution introduced by Councilwoman Blackwell.
A resolution calling on the City Council Committee on Education to hold immediate public hearings to discuss the proposed State takeover of the Philadelphia School District, and how it affects approximately 217,000 STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS public school students.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
The Chair thanks Councilwoman Krajewski. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna. STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer four bills by request, one resolution on behalf of Councilwoman Clark, six bills, and one resolution on your behalf.
An ordinance authorizing the Streets Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to execute an intergovernmental agreement for a Southeast Pennsylvania Regional Household Hazardous Waste Education Collection and Management project, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance amending Section 13-101 and 13-201 of the Philadelphia Code relating to the standards pursuant to which the Water Department fixes and regulates rates and charges for supplying water and sewage disposal services by further specifying the special rates and charges that are to be established for properties owned by the Philadelphia Housing Authority. And an ordinance amending an ordinance STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS approved May 9, 1997, Bill No. 970168, which authorizes the City to sell certain delinquent real estate tax claims, identified on Exhibit A to the ordinance, to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development ("PAID") by adding to Exhibit A certain tax claims which were the subject of now defaulted payment plan agreements entered into by the taxpayers in May and June, 1997. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved May 9, 1997, Bill No. 970168, which authorized the City to sell certain delinquent real estate tax claims, identified on Exhibit A to the ordinance, to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development ("PAID") by adding to Exhibit A certain 1997 delinquent real estate tax claims which affect the same properties affected by the tax claims sold to PAID for the sole purpose of allowing the additional claims to be available for substitution for sold claims pursuant to the terms of June 30, 1997 tax claims purchase and sales agreement between the City and PAID. And an ordinance authorizing the STATED MEETING - INTRO. 417 acres, more or less. And an ordinance relating to benefits provided to City employees, in particular amending Chapters 20-300 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Compensation" by adding provisions relating to the provision of health and other benefits to City employees and to other persons to be designated by City employees, and amending the retirement system ordinance approved December 3, 1956, as amended, and amending the Municipal Retirement Benefit Plan 1987 Ordinance, which became effective January 8, 1987, as amended, by, in the case of both retirement ordinances, amending sections related to the designation of survivor and beneficiaries. STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 123 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Watts Street from Susquehanna Avenue to Diamond Street, by reserving and placing on the City Plan certain rights-of-way for drainage purposes. And an ordinance authorizing the University of Pennsylvania to construct and maintain an electrified marquee attached to the property 2010 through 12 Sansom Street and projecting over the south footway of Sansom Street, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Rosewood Street from Spruce Street to Delancey Street. , a Nevada corporation registered to do business in Pennsylvania and it's successors, assignees, and agents to construct, maintain, and operate, replace and remove a telecommunications system in, under and across the STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS public rights-of-way and City streets and/or to place such telecommunications system within the existing facilities owned by Bell Atlantic Pennsylvania, PECO Corporation, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance granting permission to IXC Carrier, a Nevada corporation registered to do business -- I think I read this one before.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair inquires to Councilwoman Fernandez's light.
The Clerk will please read the titles of the resolutions introduced by Councilwoman Verna.
A resolution STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS recognizing the centennial of the Philippine Declaration of Independence.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted.
The Clerk will please read the title of the next resolution.
Oh, okay. I have two. Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
An ordinance STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS congratulating the Philadelphia Wings on winning the National Lacrosse League Championship on April 28, 1998, their fifth league championship in the past ten years.
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
The Chair thanks the STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Fernandez.
Mr. President, I have no bills or resolutions this morning.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolutions.
A resolution declaring May 23rd through 25th "Cherokee Heritage Weekend," in celebration of the Fifth Annual Cherokee Festival.
I move for the STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS adoption. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted read.
The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution saluting Gladys Rawlins and the 40th anniversary of Green Circle Program, Inc.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the next resolution. STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
A resolution declaring May as "National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month."
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution commemorating the life of Paulo Freire for his lifetime work and achievement in redefining educational therapy and methods in order to increase literacy, knowledge, and empowerment of STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS the poor and those suffering oppression of all kinds.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines grades and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by relocating the southerly curb line of Rodman Street from Ninth Street to Tenth Street, under certain terms and conditions. STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS And an ordinance establishing parking regulations on East Passyunk Avenue from Wharton to Latona Street, both sides, and on Ninth Street from Wharton Street to Federal Street, both sides.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code relating to sidewalk sales by adding a new provision prohibiting sidewalk sales on Veree Road, from Oxford Avenue to Bloomfield Road and on Rhawn Street from Pine Road to Algon Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Mr. President, one bill and one resolution. STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
An ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health safety, and welfare of the people in the area served by Greater Philadelphia Health Services II Corporation, a nonprofit corporation organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania which operates a long-term care facility known as Northwood Nursing and Convalescent Center, located at 4621 Castor Avenue, Philadelphia.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution introduced by Councilman Mariano.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds for properties situated in the 7th, 18th, 19th, and 23rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Mr. President, I STATED MEETING - INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS motion to approve. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Our next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for report of the Council Committee on Finance.
Mr. President, the STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Committee on Finance reports Bill No. 980228 out of committee, with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 980228, entitled "An Ordinance" authorizing the Mayor on behalf of the City to file an application with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") for a community development block grant, as required by Section 104 of Title 1 of the Housing and Community Development Act, as amended, including all understandings that assurances contained therein and designating the Mayor and the Director of the Office of Housing and Community Development as the authorized representatives of the City.
Mr. President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 980228. STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The rules are suspended, and Bill No. 980228 will be added to our first-reading calendar today. Will Councilwoman Verna please approach the Chair. (Councilwoman Verna approaches the Chair.) (Councilwoman Verna assumes the Chair.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski for a report on the Appropriations Committee.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred Bill No. 980193, entitled "An Ordinance" authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 1988 within the Healthchoices Behavioral Health Revenue Fund for STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES the Department of Public Health to the Department of Public Health and to the Department of Human Services Office of Emergency Shelter and Services and the Director of Finance contribution to School District, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madame Chair, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 980193. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The motion is so carried. The Chair recognizes the Committee on Public Health and Human Services for a report from the committee. Councilwoman Tasco.
Madame Chairwoman, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports one bill out of committee, with a favorable recommendation. STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services, to which was referred Bill No. 960367, entitled "An Ordinance" amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions" by adding a new chapter prohibiting cigarette vending machines and providing penalties, respectfully reports that it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The will be placed on the first-reading calendar for next week. (President Street returns to chambers.)
The next order of business will be the consideration of the calendar. The Chief Clerk will read the bills on the first-reading calendar.
Bill 970742, an ordinance amending section 19-201 of The Philadelphia Code relating to City depositories by clarifying and updating the list of institutions STATED MEETING - REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES in which the City is authorized to deposit funds and by amending certain conditions.
Bill No. 980228, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to file an application with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") for a community development block grant ("CDBG"), as required by Section 104 of Title 1 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.
Bill No. 980193, an ordinance authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 1998 within the HealthChoices Behavioral Health Revenue Fund from the Department of Public Health to the Department of Public Health to the Department of Human Services Office of Emergency Shelter and Services and the Director of Finance contributions to School District.
The Chair agrees. The bills read by the Chief Clerk will be added to our second- and final-reading passage STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 960823-AAA calendar for our next meeting
The next order of business is consideration of the calendar. The Chief Clerk will read the bills. Council will now consider the bills on the secondand final-reading passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. All bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar are being called for consideration -- with the exception of Bill No.'s 960633, 960629, 970272, and 970794.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The first bill for consideration will be Bill No. 960823-AAA. The Clerk will please read the tile of the bill.
An ordinance Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code amending entitled "Contracts and Procurement" by amending Section STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 960823-AAA 17-107 entitled "Labor Management Relationships" by revising the prevailing wage ordinance, including extending the prevailing wage requirements to certain service contracts, revising administrative and reporting requirements, providing for payments to persons who file complaints and prohibiting discrimination against persons who file complaints.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilman Kenney. STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 960823-AAA
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970692 Tasco.
Aye. The ayes are -- I have 15. Did someone not vote? The ayes are -- should be 16. Seeing that the nays are 0, the majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. -- Councilwoman, are we holding Bill No. 970794?
Thank you. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 970692. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved June 15, 1997, m Bill No. 970047 entitled an ordinance granting STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970692 National Fiber Network a Delaware corporation registered to do business if Pennsylvania, and its successors, assignees, and agents, to construct, maintain, operate, replace and remove a telecommunication system in, under and across the public right-of-way.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970692 Krajewski.
Aye. STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970745
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 970745. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending the Retirement System Ordinance approved December 3, 1956, as amended, and amending the Municipal Retirement Benefit Plan 1987 Ordinance, which became effective January 8, 1987, as amended, to, in the case of both ordinances, allow members of the retirement system to name as beneficiaries and survivors any person designated by the employee, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970745 is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
No. STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970745
No. The ayes are 10, and the nays are 6. The majority of all Members of Council having STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970749 voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. (Applause.)
The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 970749. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1400 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Realty Transfer Tax" by further providing for excluded transactions and requiring the signing of an affidavit, a certification affidavit, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970749 Fernandez.
No. The ayes are 9, the nays are 7. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. (Applause.)
The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 970750. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill the bill passes.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-1100 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Fair Practices" by adding a new definition and amending certain definitions and by prohibiting discrimination in employment and STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970750 places of public accommodations on the basis of marital status.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Councilman Longstreth. STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970750
Councilwoman STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970750 Verna.
Aye (sic). The ayes are 6, the nays are -- I'm sorry, the ayes are 10 and the nays are 6. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. (Applause.)
The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 970403. The Clerk please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-601 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Garages, Parking Lots, Sales Lots and Sales Show Rooms" by deleting the existing provisions and enacting new provisions regulating valet parking; in particular, requiring a valet parking operator's license for persons who provide valet parking services.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970750 If we could have your attention, please. If we could have your attention, please. We have one last bill. I would like the record to reflect that on Bill No. 970750, the vote was 10 -- 9 to 6. Do you have that?
Sorry, Mr. President. Mr. President, may we have the vote again? We have a difference of opinion as to whether the vote was 10-6 or 11-5. Would you announce again the vote on the last -- on Bill No. 970750.
10-6. 'Cause I thought I heard the President say "aye," but I assume that was an error and he voted no.
The vote should be STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970403 10-6.
That's an error that I would hasten to clean up. The last bill for consideration is Bill No. 970403. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-601 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Garages, Parking Lots, Sales Lots and Sales Show Rooms" by deleting the existing provisions and enacting new provisions regulating valet parking.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
I'm sorry, Mr. President. My light is on inadvertently.
Councilwoman Blackwell. STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970403
Councilman STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970403 Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This completes our consideration of the calendar. Council will now consider Resolution STATED MEETING - 2ND, FINAL READING CAL. - 970843 No. 970843. The Clerk will please read the title of this resolution.
A resolution authorizing the City Commissioners, in their capacity as the Philadelphia County Board of Elections, to submit to the qualified registered electors of Philadelphia the question whether an electronic voting system shall be used at polling places in Philadelphia.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. That brings us to ends of our consideration of the calendar.
Are there any speeches on the part of the Members of the STATED MEETING - SPEECHES, ADJOURNMENT Minority? (No speeches on the part of the Minority.)
Are there any speeches on the part of Members of the Majority? (No speeches on the part of the Majority.)
I move that this Council stand adjourned till Thursday, May the 14th, 1998. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. This Council stands approved until Thursday, May 14, 1998, at 10 o'clock a.m. (Adjourned at 12:43 p.m.) C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, May 7, 1998, were reported and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, RPR