COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, January 31, 2013 10:40 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
The hour has come. It's clear we have established a quorum. I'd ask all visitors and guests to please reside behind the rail. Thank you. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes the Reverend Robert Paul, Pastor of the Piney Grove Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Bass. Will all guests and visitors and members please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Shall we pray. Eternal and Gracious Father, we come now in the mighty name of Jesus. God, we thank you for Philadelphia. We thank you, God, for our illustrious Mayor and his entire cabinet. We thank you, God, for our President of the City Council and all the constituents, all of you, God, for Sister Cindy Bass and all those that you have appointed their hands to do. God, we pray that you will make us cognizant and conscious of the fact that you've given some authority, but, Lord, you are still the chief authority. You have all powers, and, Lord, you can do all things but fail. So, Father, give us wisdom from on high. Help us to deliberate. Help us to be conscious and knowing that you're holding us all with accountability. We pray for the sick and afflicted. We pray for the orphans. We pray for the destitute, Father. Make us more like thee and less of us. And, Lord, however you do the things that you're going to do, we will surely give your name all the praise, all the glory, and all the honor. This is our prayer. In Jesus' name, amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you again, Pastor. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 24th, 2013. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 24th, 2013 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 24th be approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill for request for leaves of absence.
On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you, sir. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to welcome and thank all of the individuals who to City Council today. We hope that your experience today will be a pleasurable one so you feel like coming back again. So I want to thank all of you. We really look forward to enjoying the wonderful experience of having our citizens watch us in action today. So thank you all so very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present a resolution honoring the outstanding lifetime musical achievements of Peter Nero. Would Mr. Nero and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And the Councilman is joined by Councilman Squilla and Councilwoman Bass and Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is a resolution honoring the outstanding lifetime musical achievements of Peter Nero, and recognizing his innumerable contributions to arts and culture in Philadelphia as an founding conductor and Artistic Director of the world renowned Peter Nero and the Philly POPS Orchestra. Whereas, born in Brooklyn, New York, Peter Nero began his formal training at age seven. By the time he was 14, he was accepted to New York City's prestigious High School of Music and Art and won a scholarship to the Juilliard School of Music;
And whereas, Mr. Nero's early career included appearances on many national variety and talk shows including 11 great appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show and numerous appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson; and Whereas, Mr. Nero recorded his first album in 1961 and won a Grammy Award that year for "Best New Artist." Since then, he has received another Grammy, garnered 10 additional nominations, and released 68 albums; and Whereas, recognized as one of America's premier pops orchestras, Peter Nero and the Philly POPS was founded in 1979 under his musical leadership. They are now recognized as the official pops orchestra of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and have remained a vital part of Philadelphia's cultural pulse; and
Whereas, Mr. Nero's long list of honors include: the American Federation of Musicians' Lifetime Achievement Award; the Abraham Lincoln Foundation of the Union League of Philadelphia's Lincoln Award; the Mario Lanza Award, in recognition for outstanding achievements in the field of music; six honorary doctorates; the prestigious International Society of Performing Arts Presenters Award for Excellence in the Arts; being named on the Philadelphia and Miami historic walks of fame; and the Pennsylvania Distinguished Arts Award; and Whereas, Peter Nero's enthusiastic and seemingly endless talents have gained him invitations to perform during numerous nationally-televised concerts and with symphonies from around the globe. He has collaborated with musicians and celebrities of every stripe, and his successful "The Summer of '42" became a million-selling single album; and
Whereas, Mr. Nero and his eponymous orchestra continue to elicit international attention while strengthening Philadelphia's cultural significance domestically and abroad. In addition to critical acclaim, their standards of excellence enrich the lives of Philadelphians through: an active role in our City's Fourth of July celebrations for over 25 years; its establishment as a resident company of The Kimmel Center for Performing Arts; and frequent performances as the Philadelphia -- and Philadelphia landmarks such as the National Constitution Center and Independence Hall; and Whereas, Mr. Nero is an active supporter of many important causes, including the funding of school music programs, funding for the building of new arts centers across the country, as well as research for cancer, dystonia, and autism; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council does hereby recognize, honor, and thank Peter Nero for his lifetime of contributions to musical excellence and his commitment to preserving Philadelphia as a national focal point for arts and culture. We wish him and the Philly POPS continued success. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Artistic Director Peter Nero as evidence of the sincere sentiments of (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Mr. Nero for remarks. Thank you, sir.
Thank you, Councilpersons. Thank you, Councilman Kenney. Did I really do all of those things? No wonder I'm so tired. Actually, I did all that in less time than it took for the completion of the Blue Route. I learned that when I got here, that that was the local joke. That was 1979. Actually, I'm really energized and flattered and appreciative, and I thank you, Councilman Kenney and the rest of the members of the Council, for bestowing this honor on me. After traveling the country on tour since 1961, which included Philadelphia by the way, the opportunity arose for another orchestra in this great city, and since Boston had the Boston Pops, why not Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Pops, in this case the Philly Pops. Moe Septee, the founder, had a vision that he was able to bring to fruition. I got the call in 1979 to be the music director and have been here ever since. Made Philly my home in 1988, leaving California to make Philly home base. On one of my concerts when I was Pops' music director of the Tulsa Philharmonic, I had the great trumpet player "Dizzy" Gillespie as guest artist. On a rehearsal break we got into a rap about where we lived. I told him I had just moved from California to Philly. He took a step back and stared at me. He said, You moved to Philly? I moved to California from Philly. Now, I had been told by the natives here that Philly being in the shadow of New York City was a constant irritant to the locals, and it manifested itself in a civic inferiority complex. Well, it didn't take long for this city us, and a renaissance began here, not necessarily coincidental but it did, with new highly rated restaurants, renovations of historic edifices, expansion of the waterfront, a new convention center and new hotels. I found a strong sense of community here that I had never felt in other mega cities. People would stop me on the street, and it wasn't for an autograph or for any semblance of celebrity. They wanted to tell me how much they enjoyed the concerts and actually thanked me for what really amounted to me just doing my job. Sometimes I had to wonder if I was getting paid or doing a benefit. Granted, it takes 24/7 to make each series and concert better than the last one. So I thank you, Councilman Kenney and other members of the Council, for this honor and hope I can live up to the expectations of this citation. (Applause.)
Mr. President, if I may, we're going to do a little something different while we take the official photograph. We will be playing his Grammy Award -- Mr. Nero's Grammy Award-winning music "Mountain Greenery." So we'll have a little interlude while we take our picture.
Thank you so much. Councilman, I think you started something. I anticipate getting additional requests for music during the presentations. Before we call for our next presentation, I would like to acknowledge and welcome a good friend of ours, State Senator Anthony Williams, who is joining us today. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Brown, who will present a resolution recognizing the 30th Anniversary of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, also known as DBE, Programs in the City of Philadelphia. Would Angela Dowd-Burton and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And I see we also have Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilman Goode, Councilwoman Tasco, and Councilman Johnson joining us and also Councilwoman Bass.
Mr. President, before we move to the formal remarks and presentation of this extremely important milestone in leveling the playing field, we need to be mindful that this morning we stand here on the shoulders of champion, former Congressman, Councilman, activist Lucien Blackwell.
We stand on the shoulder of one of his partners, the father of State Senator Anthony Hardy Williams, Senator Hardy Williams. (Applause.)
So us newbies need to be forever mindful that there were people on the front line, carrying the baton, getting the marathon done to level the playing field for women, minorities, and those that are disabled. I'm going to ask Councilman Goode and Councilwoman Blackwell to offer remarks first also before we move to the formal proceeding.
Thank you very much. Good morning. (Good morning.)
As always, I thank God for each day and each privilege of service as we try to perform our duties, and it is an honor for me. remember, last week we mentioned it was the 10th anniversary last Thursday of Lucien's passing, and I'm honored that we get a chance to mention him again today. Yes, it was he given the information by John Macklin when he introduced the legislation that minorities were getting less than one-tenth of one percent of all contracts let in the City of Philadelphia, and that started it. And even though we're not where we could be and should be, we're not where we were. So we thank God for his service. We thank God that we realize that we have to champion the causes of all people who live, work, and visit our city. And, again, thank you very much. (Applause.)
My colleague is a bit modest about his father's accomplishment, but we would be remiss without stating, memorializing, and Mayor by the name of W. Wilson Goode took this cause upon his shoulders and moved this important public policy issue to its forefront, and $583 million under his watch later, minorities and females made progress in this town. (Applause.)
A huge thank you as well to every person on this stage who played some role in this thread of trying to level the playing field. Recognizing the 30th Anniversary of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Programs in the City of Philadelphia.
Whereas, in 1980, a small group of Philadelphia business people formed the BrainTrust, selected Beverly Harper as President, and set as its goal the passage of legislation in Philadelphia that would guarantee minorities and women a share of City contracts; and Whereas, Dr. Edward Robinson, working under then Managing Director Wilson Goode, produced documentation that minorities and women were being awarded less than one percent of City contracts; and
Whereas, City Councilman Lucien E. Blackwell introduced legislation that amended Chapter 17-500 of The Philadelphia Code, thanks to the work of John Macklin who gave us the information, and Council overrode a mayoral veto by a vote of 16:0, and the Administration promulgated regulations and guidelines; and Whereas, the Minority Business Enterprise Council (MBEC) was in service from 1982 to 1989 to ensure that minority, women and disabled owned enterprises are afforded equal access and opportunity to compete for and secure contracts within the City of Philadelphia; and
Whereas, the first MBEC Council consisted of Dr. Lorraine Brown, Barbara Daniel Cox, Kemel Dawkins, Angela Dowd-Burton, John Smith, Geri Swift and Joe Young; and Whereas, past Executive Directors of the Office of the Minority Business Enterprise Council and Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) are Melvin LeGrande, Al Childs, Curtis Jones, Jr., Marla Hamilton, James Roundtree, Mike Williams, Carolyn Nichols, Michael Bell, Curtis Gregory and the current director, Angela Dowd-Burton; and Whereas, in 1990 until 2003 MBEC existed under several executive orders; and
Whereas, in 2008, the Office of Economic Opportunity was created through executive order and the legal/legislative framework established Section 6-109 of the Charter in Chapters 17-1500 and 17-1600 of the City Code; and Whereas, Mayor Michael A. Nutter signed Executive Order 3-12 in September 2012, regarding Anti-Discrimination related to DBE's participating in City contracts; and
Whereas, Michael A. Nutter -- I'm sorry. Whereas, the Office of Economic Opportunity seeks to promote economic development through its certification program, contract review and monitoring activities, and ongoing interaction with other City departments, quasi-public agencies and the local marketplace; and Whereas, the Office of Economic Opportunity works with the Philadelphia business community to build internal and external alliances with minority business enterprises, women business enterprises, disadvantaged business enterprises and disabled business enterprises; and
Whereas, over the past five years, more than one billion dollars has been awarded to minority, women and disadvantaged business enterprises, due in no small part to the efforts of the Office of Economic Opportunity; and Whereas, Philadelphia has benefited tremendously from the incalculable efforts of legislative and executive action over the last 30 years which has encouraged increased DBE participation in City contracts; now, therefore, be it resolved
By the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby recognize on this day the 30th Anniversary of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Programs in the City of Philadelphia, the legislation that created it, the many minority business people who worked tirelessly to make it happen as a reality in our city. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the representatives from the Office of Equal Opportunity as evidence of this legislative body. Let's congratulate every single person on this stage. (Applause.)
Thank you so much. I have to tell you, we did serious business in the sandbox 30 years ago, because we were all about five or so. So good morning, President Clarke, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, members of City Council, elected officials, City administrators, former MBEC legacy leaders, I'll call you, friends, and guests. It is an honor to accept this resolution on behalf of those who served MBEC and OEO over 30 years ago. Thirty years ago, City Council built an intersection between public policy and the business imperative. They knew that when businesses rise, employees When businesses rise, our youth find hope in the role models of their communities and seek education to pursue attainable dreams. When disadvantaged businesses rise, our region prospers. To the ancestors recognized in this resolution, we thank you for your vision. To the legislators that guide the spirit of economic inclusion today, we thank you for your focus and your tenacity. To Mayor Michael Nutter, his Economic Opportunity cabinet, leadership team, and City employees who engage in our mission every day, we appreciate your dedication and your commitment. And to our alliance partners, many who serve on the OEO Advisory Board, the Mayor's Advisory Commission on Construction Industry Diversity, and the Economic Opportunity Review Committee, we are grateful for your investment in the your assistance in adding to the transparency of City government. Today the OEO staff, the OEO officers and colleagues within City government, and our predecessors can be proud of this milestone and celebrate the achievements thus far. Today we collectively reaffirm our commitment to building businesses and putting people to work. Time will not allow me to acknowledge all of you for the contributions you've made to the success of the MBEC and OEO. However, I would like to publicly thank members of the OEO team, and they're somewhere around here. Where are they? They're all behind me in here, cloaked in the spirit of economic opportunity. I want to thank them publicly for their dedication to our effort and the recent transformation of this organization. The Commerce Department is OEO, thanks to Alan Greenberger, Kevin Dow, and the Commerce team and their staff. I would also like to mention just two people who have made OEO their life's work. Michelle Flamer, our attorney, has provided us with invaluable legal guidance and helped us navigate over the past few decades. And Julie Simmons, a specialist on the OEO staff, has provided continuity to this organization over the last 30 years. When small businesses rise, we are uplifted, invigorated, and inspired. And with the help of this august body, they will continue to rise and one day reach that pinnacle where business relationships will be driven by innovation, collaboration, and a competitive spirit far beyond the intersection of public policy and the business imperative. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
I would like to have Beverly Harper, if she could, make a few brief comments from the BrainTrust.
Thank you. To Council President Clarke, Councilperson Reynolds Brown, and all of the City Council, it's hard for me to believe that it's been 30 years since an extraordinary group of minority business people came together. Among them, Greg Wheeler, Earl Pace, who is here today, Wayne Levy, Doris Burrell, Walt Hutchins, Dan Winoker, and many others. Many of us are still in business. I've been in business in Philadelphia for 43 years. (Applause.)
I can't say enough about the work that Councilman Lu Blackwell, the role that he played in making this legislation a success. (Applause.)
In the early days, almost every city that tried this kind of legislation was challenged. We had so many challenges, and the amazing thing was that this city, this Council, and the Administration met every challenge. If part of the legislation was knocked down, they went around it and put something else in place. Atlanta used to be the gold standard for this kind of legislation and making sure that the playing field was somewhat level for minority and women-owned businesses. Philadelphia has the longest-running track record in this, and we continue to go strong today and continue this effort to help minority firms, because we employ people, we pay taxes, and we're in Philadelphia. It's gratifying to know that you remember the history and that you honor it. I'd like now to introduce State Senator Anthony Hardy Williams to make a few remarks. I've known him and his long time. (Applause.)
Great supporter. Thank you very much. SENATOR WILLIAMS: I want to thank the President for allowing me to interrupt this process, but I cannot tell you how much my heart is touched by the opportunity to express what I saw as a child, and, that is, not politicians, because frankly there were not a lot of African American or Latino or frankly Asian politicians at that time. There were people who were huddled in communities across the City of Philadelphia who felt it most appropriate and fair that all Philadelphians should have an opportunity to participate in the economic climate and activity of the City of Philadelphia. Certainly while I'm proud of my father, Bill Gray, there's a whole legacy, Wilson Goode, there's a whole generation that participated. Lucien designed, fought, struggled -- and, by the way, Council did not look like it looks today -- and struggled with Council with its conscience and drove them to the point of when they signed a document that frankly many in the public didn't understand at that time. The older I get -- I'm 55 years old -- the more history is no longer distant memories, but frankly a blueprint for the activities that provide a course of action. And I will tell you for as far as you've come, for every time an unfortunate set of circumstances where a young boy is shot down in the City of Philadelphia because he may be doing something that he doesn't know anything else, a young girl decides to make an inappropriate decision about her life or an ex-offender comes home, they look to one body; that is, government, maybe fairly or unfairly. But they look to the body government to define how the course change to become better. This piece of legislation has done multiple levels of good for generations of people that have gone in the past, but frankly for generations who will not get the opportunity to meet Lu Blackwell in person but only will feel the benefit of his good and blessings through the work that he has done on this earth. God bless you and God bless Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Folks, thank you very much. Folks, I'm going to ask you to please keep your voices down as you leave. We have one more presentation. Thank you very much. time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez, who will present a resolution recognizing and honoring Philadelphia's leading Spanish-language newspaper, Al Dia, on the occasion of its 20th Anniversary, the publication of its first book "200 Years of Latino History in Philadelphia." Would Hernan Guaracoa and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman. And I see we have Councilman Jones, Councilwoman Brown, and Councilman Oh also joining the Councilwoman.
Good morning. It is only fitting after that last presentation around how we celebrate milestones that we continue with this particular recognition. Many folks don't realize how long Latinos, Puerto Ricans have been in Philadelphia. On this particular occasion, we want to pay tribute to an important part of documenting our history so that we can and, more importantly, remind us of the challenges still in front of us. So I want to thank my colleagues for joining me this morning. Many of them have traveled the streets of my district, of my neighborhood. They have visited my homeland and understand the culture and the struggle by which Puerto Ricans and Latinos come to the United States, and therefore I've asked them to join me today. Recognizing and honoring Philadelphia's leading Spanish-language newspaper, Al Dia, on the occasion of its 20th Anniversary and the publication of its first book "200 Years of Latino History in Philadelphia." I want especially highlight the artistic work of my good friend David Cruz as part of this. Whereas, Al Dia was founded in 1992 by Hernan Guaracoa, a journalist who was told he was overqualified to work in newspapers; and Whereas, Hernan and his wife, Elizabeth, started Al Dia in their second floor apartment in the Olney neighborhood; and Whereas, Hernan and Elizabeth quickly distinguished their paper with an uncommon level of professionalism and deep commitment to the principles of journalism; and
Whereas, Al Dia quickly grew in popularity, establishing itself as the most trusted source of news in the Latino community. By 2000, the growing paper moved its offices to Center City; and Whereas, Al Dia has grown from humble beginnings into a premier news organization, recognized nationally for its coverage of Latino issues, and distinguished locally by its success in expanding the political discourse to include issues of importance in Philadelphia's Latino community; and Whereas, Hernan's contributions have been recognized by his peers and he has served as the former president of the National Association of Hispanic Publications; and
Whereas, Al Dia has distinguished itself with coverage of immigration reform issues, with exceptional coverage of events of national importance such as those in Shenandoah and Hazleton, PA, and mass immigration demonstrations in Philadelphia; and Whereas, on August 8th of 2011, Al Dia was one of only five Spanish-language newspapers invited to the White House to interview President Barack Obama; and Whereas, Al Dia has created the national Felix Varela award, known as "The Spanish Pulitzer Prize," to recognize and support exceptional Spanish-language journalism; and
Whereas, Al Dia leading Spanish-language newspaper in the region; and Whereas, Al Dia provides the Latino community with coverage of both local and national news, as well as coverage of news events in Puerto Rico and throughout Latin America; and Whereas, Al Dia has published its first book, "200 Years of Latino History in Philadelphia"; and Whereas, this 229-page book is divided into four sections: "Our Shared History," "Putting Down Roots: 1940 to 1980," "Eye on the Community: 1980 to 1992," and "Al Dia: 20 Years, 1992 to Present"; and
Whereas, the first section chronicles the arrival of the first Latino settlers to Philadelphia, including Felix Varela, a Cuban priest and journalist who came to Philadelphia in 1824 and founded the El Habanero newspaper; and Whereas, "Putting Down Roots" Latino families who came over in major waves of immigration to Philadelphia in the 1940s and made the City their home; and Whereas, the "Eye of the Community" depicts the photography of celebrated photojournalist David Cruz, as he captures images that chronicle the diverse aspects and events that make up Philadelphia's Latino life in the 1980s and 1990s; and
Whereas, Al Dia captures the defining images -that "Al Dia: 20 Years" captures the defining images of the coverage of 20 years of the Latino community; and The 20th anniversary of Al Dia and the publication of this historic book were celebrated in the ceremony gala at the Constitution Center last November. Be it resolved, that the Council of Philadelphia recognizes the incredible achievements of Al Dia newspaper and its founder, Hernan the Latino community, Philadelphia and the field of journalism have been truly exceptional. We wish you many years of continued success with both your paper and future publications. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy will be presented to Mr. Guaracoa. This is signed, introduced by Councilwoman Sanchez and sponsored by all members of City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
Well, I'm here to say gracias, first of all. Thank you so much for this recognition. I think it's the recognition of myself, the recognition of the staff that have believed in the mission of Al Dia that have been simple over the past 20 years. For those who don't know much Dia, you know, know just the paper that you see in the streets and the car that drive around in the City, this was yet another idea born in the neighborhood 20 years ago. This, for those who don't know, was a one-man operation, homemade business 20 years ago, putting out of our home, which used to be my home in North Philadelphia, a newsletter that evolved to be, through many efforts, the publication that you know today. So I'd like to recognize the people that are here standing with me who are part of our staff or part of the staff that put together that book, which was a true labor of love, where we attempted to put together in the covers of -- hard cover of a book like this the work that we did for 20 years. But beyond that, to record the history of the Latino community that have been part of the City of Philadelphia for the past 200 years. We found the photo albums of the before even any Hispanic media existed in the '40s and the '50s and the '60s and the '70s. There's no Hispanic media. Now we have media that is beginning to tell that story that is largely in the shadows. We have to -- I want to thank Councilwoman Maria Sanchez for buying the book for each one of you. I encourage you to take a look at that and find the very beginning of this experience, started the very birth of the republic in 1780 when we had the first Latino who came to Philadelphia and was part of the life in the City for a couple of years. And we have other name that you will find in the book who attempted to put together basically the reality that have been in the shadows in this city. Now it turns out we have a media, and the work is largely undone, Maria. I think we have just begun to show, and this book is simply a modest punctuation to enlightenment on Latino issues. Where to be in a big question mark in the City and in the country and our immigration reform is been discussed, I think it's for all of us to have a better understanding of what the Latino experience has been. I'm personally grateful for the recognition, and to us it's a challenge to continue in the work that we need to do. I just want to say thank you so much for the support we have received so far. And keep in mind that we are a media that was born in the neighborhood as a disadvantaged business. We are not corporate-owned media. We're media that was born in the neighborhood. It's a truly grassroots media that attempts to say what their distinct goal is what the Latino experience is in the City and what are the Latino perspective on the issues of the City. So thank you so much. And to Maria, thank you, Council President you members of City Council. And, of course, I would like to highlight the people that went through the big challenge of putting that work together. I have here with me David Cruz, who is the photographs of Al Dia for the past ten years. (Applause.)
I also have the person that helped me craft the words, the imaginary Sabrina Vourvoulias. (Applause.)
And then the person that put the torch of the sign on the art, our art director, Yesid Vargas. (Applause.)
I have here with me also for those that I met in the North Philadelphia many years ago and he was before David the one who was taking the pictures for us working part time with paper picture. So Peter Fitzpatrick is here with me. He's a friend of Al Dia and also a contributor to the book. (Applause.)
Thank you so much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, do you have any messages?
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. Councilman, do you want to be recognized now? The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Mr. President. I must leave on business and ask that I be recorded as voting aye on all bills.
Leave shall be granted. Thank you. Councilman, all bills and resolutions, correct?
Thank you, Councilman. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two resolutions, which I would like to be considered today.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee of the Whole to hold public hearings to examine the current state of gun violence in the City of Philadelphia, and review how effectively the City spends its resources combatting the issue.
That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring the Philadelphia School on its forty-year anniversary for continuing its unique commitment to excellence in education and cultivating lifelong learners with pride in their city and country.
That resolution will also be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce one resolution co-sponsored by everyone, and this is one of the leaders of MBEC and the minority program in our city.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Kemel W. Dawkins, Sr. for his extraordinary service and dedication to the development of the minority business community in Philadelphia.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill and one resolution on your behalf.
An ordinance amending Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Health Code," by adding a new Chapter providing for the regulation of tanning facilities; amending Section 6-102, by adding definitions; and making technical changes.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Eighth, Twenty-Ninth, and Thirty-Second Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
That that resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one bill co-introduced with Councilman Kenney and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and one non-privileged resolution co-introduced with Councilman Kenney.
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Refuse and Littering," by requiring the recycling of construction and demolition debris.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold hearings on the actions of the Civil Service Commission as it pertains to terms imposed on AFSCME Local 2186 District Council 47.
That resolution will be referred to committee -- that will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
A privileged resolution honoring, recognizing and commending 100 Black Men of America, Inc. - Philadelphia Chapter for its extraordinary service focused on mentoring, education, health and wellness, and economic development.
Thank you. That will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two resolutions and one bill.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled "Referenda Approved by the Voters," by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia urge the United States Congress to propose, and the Pennsylvania General Assembly to ratify, an amendment to the United States Constitution that would defend democracy from the corrupting effects of undue corporate power by overturning the decision of the United States Supreme Court; fixing the date of a special election for such purpose; prescribing the form of ballot question to be voted on; and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election.
That will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled "Referenda Approved by Voters," by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia urge the United States Congress to propose, and the Pennsylvania General Assembly to ratify, an amendment to the United States Constitution that would defend democracy from the corrupting effects and undue corporate power.
That resolution will also be referred to committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer one resolution this morning.
A privileged resolution honoring the African American Children's Book Project on the occasion of the 21st Annual African American Children's Book Fair.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Four bills, one privileged resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Belmont Avenue, Monument Avenue, Ford Road, and Edgley Avenue (extended).
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Overbrook Avenue, 54th Street, Woodbine Avenue, Wynnefield Avenue, and 56th Street.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by City Avenue, Cardinal Avenue, Overbrook Avenue, and 59th Street.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by City Avenue, 52nd Street, Overbrook Avenue, and 54th Street.
And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Philadelphia's living legends, Henry Nicholas, Nellie Reynolds, Madeline Dunn, John White, Jr., Reverend Albert F. Campbell, Acel Moore, Audrey Johnson-Thornton, Will Daniels, Dr. Bernard Anderson, and Emma Chappell in the areas of government, business, labor, journalism, religion, academia, athletics, and activism, as part of the commemoration of Black History Month.
That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
An ordinance amending Section 6 of an Ordinance (Bill No. 120396) approved September 13, 2012, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Northern Liberties Auction to construct, use and maintain various encroachments within the right-of-way on the north sidewalk of Spring Garden Street between North Third Street and Bodine Street."
Thank you. That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two bills and one privileged resolution today.
An ordinance amending Title 16 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Property," by providing for a prohibition on firearms and deadly weapons in or around City-owned or City-occupied facilities.
Thank you. That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement," by providing for an online publication of concession agreements and related information, and by requiring the preparation and distribution of certain reports concerning concessions.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring, recognizing and commending Philadelphia Police Officer Kimberly Lyons, Officer Antonio Soto, Officer Gregory Giacomelli, Officer Michael McCormick, Officer Jerome Joseph, and Officer Evelyn Reyes for their extraordinary acts of bravery and courage named 39th Police District Officers of the Month for December 2012.
Thank you. That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, sir. That concludes our introduction. The next order of business is reports from committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee of Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
you, Councilman. Mr. Decker, please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 120958, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Allegheny Avenue, American Street, Lippincott Street, Second Street, a railroad right-of-way and 5th Street"; and Bill No. 121033, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Grant Avenue, Lavender Street, Primrose Road, Holyoke Road and Academy Road," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 120958 and 121033. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day to permit the reading of Bills No. 120958 and 121033. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The 2ND READING ayes have it. Those bills will be placed on the First Reading Calendar today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with suspension have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions for today's Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 121013 and 121039. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you so much, Councilman. Before considering these resolutions and bills on the Final Passage Calendar, we will have public comment. The public comment will go as follows: There will be a podium placed in the middle of the Council. You will have three minutes to speak. We have these guidelines in place to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to speak. The bills and/or the resolutions that you speak of today must be on the Final Passage Calendar. So we ask you to please adhere to those particular rules. At this time, Mr. Decker, can you please read the name of the first witness.
Mr. Ed O'Donnell, commenting on 120232. (Witness approached podium.)
Yes; the resolution on reducing crime in the Philadelphia Housing Authority. And, first, if you read St. Matthew on what we're judged on, helping the people at the bottom of society, the poor, the prisoner, the homeless, mentally ill, unemployed, sick, I want to thank Councilwoman Blackwell for always working to help the people at the bottom of society. She's doing what Martin Luther King and the late Senator Robert Kennedy did, and I've come to see she gets this commitment from an unshakeable faith in God and her church, and I appreciate that. Now, Philadelphia Housing Authority, reducing crime. The police have a saying "gateway drugs," meaning cigarettes, alcohol, caffeine, pills can lead to illegal drugs. We had a beautiful seminar in Wilmington at the Grand Opera House creating livable communities. If we make Philadelphia Housing Authority litter free, you know, immaculate, clean, beautiful outside, inside, if we have everybody be friendly, we eliminate rudeness, if we eliminate the second-hand cigarette smoke making people sick; in other words, if we create a livable community at Philadelphia Housing Authority and throughout the City, cleanliness, friendliness, help, when people feel good physically and mentally, they don't commit crimes. So let's work to create the pre-conditions that make people healthy and happy. Then they don't want to commit crimes. So this hearing would be very important to do that, create a livable community. Thank you.
Robert Taylor, commenting on 120340-AAA. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, President Clarke, members of Council, ladies and gentlemen. I'm Robert Taylor, President of Local 700 with the Transport Workers Union. I'm also a commentator on WPEB 88.1, the Jasper Jones Show. I am commenting today on Bill No. 120340-AAA. I want to thank Councilmembers Jones, Clarke, Oh, Goode, Tasco, Greenlee, Kenney, Henon, Johnson, Blackwell, O'Brien, Sanchez, O'Neill, Brown, Squilla, and Bass. This is an ordinance that is going to amend The Philadelphia Code authorizing and granting of tax exemptions to longtime owner-occupants of certain properties in Philadelphia. I'm in favor of all tax relief, especially relief to homeowners. It is terrible to see anyone put out on the street because they couldn't afford to pay their taxes. So I think that this is great. Of course, I would like to go further to say that I hope that these lower taxes can be extended generally, for the power to tax is also the power to 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING destroy. We should, of course, as a city be enabling our people to create new businesses and to hold on to their properties. Thank you.
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you so much, Mr. Decker. We will now have our Calendar. Mr. Decker, can you please read the title of Resolution 121013.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Models Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 1415 North Fourth Street and 1419 North Fourth Street.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilwoman Sanchez for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. 121013 has been adopted. Mr. Decker, would you please read the title of Bill No. 121039.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Income and Receipts Taxes," by further revising the "Special Tax Credit Opportunity for Job Creation."
This bill having been read on two separate 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional resolutions?
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee of the Whole to hold public hearings to examine the current state of gun violence in the City of Philadelphia, and review how effectively the City spends its resources combatting the issue, introduced by Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)
And a privileged resolution honoring the Philadelphia School on its forty-year anniversary for continuing its unique commitment to excellence in education and cultivating lifelong learners with pride in their city and country, introduced by Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.) 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Kemel W. Dawkins, Sr. for his extraordinary service and dedication to the development of the minority business community in Philadelphia, introduced by Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
Those opposed? 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
And a privileged resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold hearings on the actions of the Civil Service Commission as it pertains to terms imposed on AFSCME Local 2186 District Council 47, introduced by Councilman Henon.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it. The resolution is adopted.
And a privileged resolution honoring, recognizing and commending 100 Black Men of America, Inc. - Philadelphia Chapter for its extraordinary service focused on mentoring, education, health and wellness, and economic development, introduced by Councilman Johnson.
Mr. President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
And a privileged resolution honoring the African American Children's Book Project on the occasion of the 21st Annual African American Children's Book Fair, introduced by Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Philadelphia's living legends, Henry Nicholas, Nellie Reynolds, Madeline Dunn, 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING John F. White, Jr., Reverend Albert F. Campbell, Acel Moore, Audrey Johnson-Thornton, Will Daniels, Dr. Bernard E. Anderson, and Emma Chappell in the areas of government, business, labor, journalism, religion, academia, athletics, and activism, as part of the commemoration of Black History Month, introduced by Councilman Jones.
Mr. President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. 1/31/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
And a privileged resolution honoring, recognizing and commending Philadelphia Police Officer Kimberly Lyons, Officer Antonio Soto, Officer Gregory Giacomelli, Officer Michael McCormick, Officer Jerome Joseph, and Officer Evelyn Reyes for their extraordinary acts of bravery and courage resulting in all being named 39th Police District Officers of the Month for December 2012, introduced by Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President.
Thank you so much. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there any speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you so much, Mr. President. Most of us watched in horror the news when the five-year-old young lady Nailla Robinson was abducted. We also sat riveted in terror when we watched the young lady that was thrown from the platform at 8th and Race. What these two seemingly common, what was the common denominator? Surveillance cameras. Fortunately we were able to apprehend one and are still on the trail of the other perpetrator. But I want to make that common denominator note, because you took a delegation of Councilmembers down to Baltimore a couple of weeks ago to look into how we can use those technological tools to help law enforcement, to help police work, to not circumvent what good citizen and good police work should do, but to aid it in its swift delivery. Your leadership, along with Councilman Greenlee, Councilwoman Bass, myself, and more recently intriguing conversations by the freshman Councilman Johnson on public-private partnerships with cameras is encouraging in that effort. I applaud you for having hearings that will discuss how we roll out a comprehensive strategy to use that. What we learned in Baltimore use of cameras, through networking, through Department of Defense, Department of Transportation cameras, they were able to reduce crime in Baltimore by 25 percent. And one of the key ways they did that was eyes on criminal activity, communications to law enforcement who had boots on the ground. And that was a critical component of their success. Working with partnerships is fine. Having stagnant cameras is not as good as having good police work using technology in a well-thought-out manner. So I look forward to working with you and our colleagues in Council to help the Administration, to assist the Administration, to work along with the Administration to use this tool to deal with Philadelphia's problem. So, again, thank you for your leadership in taking us down there, and I look forward to the results of that endeavor.
you, Councilman. It was a very productive road trip, and thank you all for coming along and providing much-needed input. We look forward to continuing such road trips to ensure that we can enhance the City of Philadelphia at its lowest possible cost. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to commend and I look forward to the hearing that was introduced, resolution introduced for a hearing on the issue of gun violence in the City of Philadelphia by Councilman Kenney, and really -- although we are a local government and we can't have so much impact on state-related laws relating to gun violence in the City of Philadelphia, I still think it's important to make sure that rather it's the Administration or us as a body really take a hard look at what we're doing in the City of Philadelphia as it relates to also making sure when acts of gun violence takes place, we are addressing it appropriately. Last night when I was on one of my favorite apps, which is the CNN app, I know it noted that Philadelphia is in the top three of African American young men being murdered by homicide, and the number one tool in their homicide is a gun. And so I'm looking forward to that discussion to make sure that we keep this issue on the forefront, we keep it on the burner as it relates to making sure we keep our young people safe, but also giving young men other options regarding picking up a gun. And I think that's a real conversation that needs to take place, but I'm also interested in looking at when we do -- when the Philadelphia Police Department confiscates a gun in a homicide, in a shooting, what happens after those guns department? Do they do the CSI work and kind of trace where the gun come from, or it's just a homicide and it's a shooting and then nothing happens? So I'm looking forward to actually see what's the followup with these guns, because I think the assault weapons ban, I understand that policy, but the majority of homicides that take place in the City of Philadelphia and the majority of shootings that take place in the City of Philadelphia are by handguns. And so my biggest concern is choking that pipeline of illegal guns that come through neighborhoods throughout the City of Philadelphia. And so I wanted to acknowledge that hearing that will be taking place and look forward to that discussion. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman, and thank you for those very, very creative ideas that you gave to us a couple of days ago during public safety measures across the City of Philadelphia, and we look forward to adopting that and implementing that in the City of Philadelphia. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to say a few words relative to Councilman Johnson's comments. First of all, I want to thank you and thank Councilman Jones and Councilman Johnson for all the work you've been doing over the years relative to gun safety, gun violence, crime, and gun control, and I admire all that you've done. One of the things that I would like to accomplish in this resolution is that while we wait for the national debate on gun control, assault weapons, multi-clip magazines, and background checks and the like and mental health issues, is that while we're waiting for that and while we're urging it and while it, we still have resources here that the District Attorney employs and that the Police Commissioner employs and that the mental health community employs. And while we're waiting for the changes, I think going into our budget cycle, I think we need to examine what's successful, things like GunStat, the 2.0 program. Those kinds of issues may need to be bulked up a bit while we wait for national assistance or state -- I doubt state assistance, but we'll always hold out some hope for that. So that's where I want to concentrate on that particular hearing as to what our law enforcement, mental health folks need to do a better job within the confines of the existing laws that we have to live with. So I appreciate your help with that. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman. Thank you for your continued good work. speeches. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown for a motion for adjournment.
Surely, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 7th, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 7th, 2013, 10:00 a.m. All those in favor? (Aye.)
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