Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 28, 2019 11:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
Good morning. We're going to get started. Thank you. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Steven Wilson of Fifteenth Street Baptist Church. The pastor is here today as the guest of Councilman Allan Domb. I would ask all guests, visitors, and members to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests, and visitors rise.)
Let us pray. Our Father and our God, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, God of all glory, we come because we know you to be a God who answers prayers. We come before you because we understand that apart from you, we can do nothing that is meaningful, nothing that is everlasting. We invite your presence into this place. We pray right now that you Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 with your presence. We pray for such a time as this. We need your wisdom. We need your strength. We need your power. Open our eyes that we might see solutions to the problems that we find before us. Open our ears that once again we may hear the clarion call of Malcolm, once again we may embrace the dreams of Martin, once again we may move in the spirit of Dr. Henry Moskowitz. We need you, oh great Jehovah. We need you right here and right now to lift us up. Lift us up above our mortal concerns. Lift us up above our pride, our prejudice, our partisanship and bring us to a place of unity. Help us to shape and fashion and make this city what it ought to be. We pray right now in the matchless name of Jesus, the Christ. Amen and amen. (Amen.)
Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 you, Pastor. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you for those inspiring words, Pastor. We genuinely appreciate it. Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 21st, 2019, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 21st, 2019 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 21st, 2019 stand approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it, and that Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests of leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with our regular order of Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 like to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to come down to witness their government in action. We genuinely appreciate you being here to witness what we do here in City Council and, again, thank you, and please feel free to come back whenever you have time. We really appreciate you being here. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones, who will present a resolution honoring Philadelphia's Living Legends. Would Joan Myers Brown; Grace Clarke, on behalf of Stanley Clarke, great family member, if I say so myself; Bill Jolly; and Solomon Jones and those accompanying them please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining folks at the podium, we have Councilman Greenlee, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilwoman Blackwell, Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 Taubenberger, Councilwoman Parker, Councilman Johnson, and Councilwoman Bass and also Councilman Derek Green.
We're going to wake up in here. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
There we go. A little energy, because the people behind me have a lot of energy, and they want to share it with you today. Today is February 28th. It is the last day in the shortest month on the calendar. It is also Black History Month. And I want you to know that before I go into the Carter G. Woodson Park, why Black History Month is important to me and little boys and girls throughout the City of Philadelphia is because of my great-grandfather, William Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 Now, as a kid -- he was from South Philly too, from the P. We as kids used to play in my grandfather's basement, and he had a wood shop and one of the favorite things for the grand-kids to find was a saber. It was a sword. It was like you could get hurt. And we would grab a pipe and grab a sword and we would cling the things together. My grandmother would have had a fit had she known what we were doing. But I had no idea what that saber was from or for, and at the time, when you watched cowboy movies and stuff like that, the role of the African American men and women were diminished roles. We were the cook, we were the butler, we were the guy who handed the general the sword, and in my mind, that's who my grandfather was, until I read his obituary, until I understood that he was a Rough Rider, until I understood that he went up those hills himself. He was not the cook. He was the soldier at the Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 a hero after that to me. But I am but one of tens of thousands of Philadelphia young people who probably had that same opinion about their ancestors, not knowing the truth of their contributions. So Carter G. Woodson understood that too, and he was an African American historian, author, journalist, convinced that the role of his own people in American history was diminished. The history of other cultures were also being ignored, but he realized he needed to do the research to make sure that our place in history was memorialized. And so here today the evolution of that going from a week to a month to our own is here today. We have to recognize people in our culture, in our city that have made not just local contributions but international contributions that will ripple throughout international history, and we are proud Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 you, and we're here to tell you that today. All right? So what we want to do is propose this resolution honoring and celebrating Philadelphia's Living Legends: Joan Myers Brown, Stanley Clarke, Bill Jolly, my neighbor, and Solomon Jones, who ain't no hustler. That's an inside joke. He gave a speech and it was a line he used. It was good. So I told him I was always going to remember that. These are people who communicate in dance, music, literature, journalism throughout Philadelphia and then historically throughout our nation.
Note of personal privilege. But for this lady to my left, 40 years ago when I was 30 pounds thinner, she gave me an opportunity to live my dream as a professional dancer. Because in her time as a black ballerina, she didn't have the opportunity to exhibit her craft. She Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 dancers across the nation that go on to Broadway and Vegas and travel around the world. So I am eternally grateful to this woman by the name of Joan Myers Brown. Whereas, Joan Myers Brown has made significant contributions to the national and international dance communities. She is the founder of The Philadelphia Dance Company, affectionately know as Philadanco, and the founder of The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts. In 1988, Brown founded the International Conference of Black Dance Companies, and just a few years later, founded the International Association of Blacks in Dance; and
Whereas, Brown has received a host of accolades throughout her lifetime, including awards from The Philadelphia Tribune, the African American Museum in Philadelphia, and membership to the Distinguished Daughters of Pennsylvania, which is a Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 huge deal in the Commonwealth. In 2012, she was designated as one of the "Ten Best Philadelphians" by Philadelphia Magazine, and received the National Medal of the Arts, the nation's highest civic honor for artistic excellence, which was presented to her by none other at the White House than President Barack Obama; and
Whereas, Stanley Clarke is a four-time Grammy winner winning recording artist, performer, composer, conductor, arranger and producer, as well as one of the most eminent figures in the world of acoustic and electric bassists. Clarke's esteemed presence in the music industry was celebrated when he was named Rolling Stone Magazine's very first "Jazzman of the Year"; and
And you know, not to go back, but they're getting ready to build a school in Joan Myers Brown's honor. So that's going to be a special, special gift to us as well. Whereas, Clarke is also the recipient of Bass Player Magazine's Lifetime Achievement Award, is a member of the Guitar Player Magazine's "Gallery of Greats" and has been honored with the addition of his hand impressions to Hollywood's, quote/unquote, "Rock Walk." To ensure that other young, talented artists can follow in his legacy, he established The Stanley Clarke Foundation, a charitable organization which awards scholarships to aspiring musicians each year; and
Whereas, Bill Jolly is a three-time Emmy Award winning composer, arranger, musical director and keyboardist. Jolly's compositions have been featured across Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 networks like NBC, ABC, CBS, MTV, HBO and Showtime. And he went to Overbrook, Curt just told me. And he has appeared in endorsement ads for major companies, such as Verizon, Hyatt, and Bose; and
Whereas, Bill Jolly has also used his talents in directing large-scale award ceremonies, including The Emmy Awards, The Marian Anderson Awards, and the Rhythm and Blues Foundation Awards. In addition, he has arranged musical tributes to Earth Wind and Fire, Billy Joel, Queen Latifah, Bon Jovi, Nina Simone, and Chaka Khan, and has performed musically for five U.S. Presidents; and
Whereas, Solomon Jones is an Essence bestselling author and award-winning journalist who has been featured nationally on NPR's Morning Edition and CNN's Headline News. Jones is currently a columnist for the Philadelphia Daily News and a host for Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 107.9. In addition, he is a blogger and frequent on-air commentator for NPR affiliate WHYY; and
Whereas, an instructor at the Philadelphia School District's Parent University, Jones has served as Spokesman for the District's Read for Your Life program. Jones has also served on the board of the Philadelphia Committee to End Homelessness, visited each of Philadelphia's municipal prisons to promote reading, and served on the Community Advisory Board of The Doe Fund, an organization that helps homeless men reclaim their lives;
Whereas, all of these living legends, in great and diverse ways, have positively impacted the City of Philadelphia via the enrichment of Philadelphia's culture through the arts, through the mentorship of Philadelphia youth, and the provision of valuable information to our citizens. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 have, and continue to make, the lives of Philadelphia citizens better; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby honors and celebrates Philadelphia's Living Legends: Joan Myers Brown, Stanley Clarke, Bill Jolly, and Solomon Jones, who are leaders in the areas of dance, music, literature, and journalism in the Philadelphia area, as part of the commemoration of Black History Month. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to every one of our Living Legends as further evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of our legislative body. Thank you. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Joan Myers Brown, Grace Clarke, Bill Jolly, and Solomon Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
Well, anyone that knows me, any time they ask me to speak, I say I wish they had asked me to dance. But now that I've gotten a little older, I guess I have to say something. First of all, I'd like to thank Blondell for being a wonderful dancer and a wonderful City Councilwoman. You know, the arts in Philadelphia sometimes get pushed aside and not accounted for, but what we do, we do all year long, not just Black History Month, not just every week. So we invite you to support us even more, support our youth and make sure that the arts continue. The vote today for the school, I'm not worried about the school being in my name. I'm worrying about the school happening. So we want to make sure the schools continue to do their work and that the new school that the vote will be for it, that we can move on. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 you, and I thank you on behalf of everyone in Philadelphia that has benefited from the arts, because it has to continue. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning. I wanted to say thank you so much for honoring my brother. He couldn't be here today, but I know that he's extremely grateful and thankful with your gratitude, and I am so proud of him. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you so much. I am so honored by this award today that I almost had to check the spelling to make sure this wasn't meant for Billy Joel. I'm very thankful, first of all, to God; secondly, to my mother Rowena Jolly, my father Elton Jolly, and Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 Those are the inspirations in my life. And I want to thank my good friend and my neighbor, Curtis Jones. He doesn't know, but I used to watch him back in Overbrook High School when he was in Student Government and I used to see him get up and speak and then watch the women chase him down the hall. So naturally that when it became my chance, I became the president of the school, thanks to him. Thank you so much, and very much appreciate this award. (Applause.)
Well, thank you so much for this award. It's interesting, when I was listening to them read my bio, they read the parts about me working on behalf of homelessness, and I do that because I rose out of homelessness to become who I am to work in this Philadelphia City Council, to work for a Congressman of the United States, and to realize my dream of becoming a Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 city because its streets shaped me. I love this city because this is where I live and raise my family. I love this city because it has taught me so much. And as I watch members of City Council, sometimes I'm on you, and y'all know that, right, but if you're doing the right thing, I'm with you, because I love this city because this city is my family. And so, Councilman Jones, I'm with you when you fight against prisons. Councilwoman Blackwell, I'm with you when you fight for the homeless. Councilwoman Bass, I'm with you when you fight against the tax abatement. Councilwoman Parker, I'm with you when you fight against the marijuana facility. Councilwoman Gym, I'm with you when you fight for a fair workweek. Councilman Clarke, I'm with you when you fight to make sure that black Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 develop properties in gentrifying communities here in Philadelphia. Councilman Oh, I'm with you when you fight for homeowners' rights. Councilwoman Sanchez, I'm with you when you fight to get people out of addiction, because that is where I come from, and you never know who these people are going to become. And so I want to thank you so much, not only for honoring me, but honoring where I come from in this City of Philadelphia and all the people who are going to rise up to be so much more than I will ever be. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you, and congratulations to our Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 to go off script a little bit and take a moment to recognize one of our own, who has been a longtime member of the City Council family, Joyce McKeown, the Veterans Coordinator. (Applause.)
Stand up, Joyce. Always shy, but always putting the work in. And she's retiring after 35 years in City Council. (Applause.)
When did you start, when you were like 5? Because I know you're only like 39 or something like that. MS. McKEOWN: We're the same age.
We're the same age? All right. Good comeback. But Joyce, of those 35 years, 31 of those were working for the Veterans Advisory Commission. I see we have some Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 the military here, and I want to thank them so much for their service, for making sure that we stay safe and we continue to be able to practice democracy in the way that we do. I actually see a Commission member here. Thank you. So Joyce actually was here since 1984, and she started out working for Al Pearlman, Councilman, way, way back. I didn't know that. But, Joyce, we just want to say on behalf of the City Council and its family, we really appreciate what you've done, not only your commitment to City Council and the citizens but, more importantly, your commitment to our wonderful, wonderful members of the service. You've been great. You'll be missed, but I'm sure that you'll be coming back and volunteering and telling Carlo and Wanda, keep a space for me, because I'm going to come in. I'm still going to collect my pension, but I'm Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 All right. Joyce, thank you so much. MS. McKEOWN: Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. So awesome. Our next order of business is communications, and the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on February 27, 2019, I signed all the bills which were passed by Council at its session on February 14, 2019; and I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance constituting the Twenty-Second Supplemental Ordinance to Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 and Wastewater Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1989, as supplemented; authorizing the Bond Committee to issue and sell one or more series or subseries of tax-exempt or taxable water and wastewater revenue bonds and revenue refunding bonds; and An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Realty Transfer Tax," to clarify the definition of "Value"; and An ordinance authorizing the Parks and Recreation Commissioner and the Procurement Commissioner to enter into a Concession Agreement with Loveluck for the design, construction, management and operation of a food and beverage concession in the Fairmount Park Welcome Center in John F. Kennedy Plaza, also known as Love Park; and An ordinance amending Chapter 9 of Subcode A of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code (The Philadelphia Administrative Code), entitled "Fees," to Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 further provide for administrative fees in connection with accelerated review of various permit applications; and to establish a special surcharge in connection with such accelerated reviews, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional communications?
Thank you very much. And with that, we will move to the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I have two privileged resolutions, one non-privileged resolution, and one bill on your behalf.
An ordinance constituting the Twenty-Second Supplemental Ordinance to the Restated General Water and Wastewater Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1989, as supplemented; authorizing the Bond Committee to issue and sell one or more series or subseries of tax-exempt or taxable water and wastewater revenue bonds and revenue refunding bonds.
And a privileged resolution hereby proclaiming March 2019 as Social Work Month, and encouraging all Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 Philadelphians to support the Social Work profession.
And a privileged resolution Recognizing and Honoring Lynne Carter for her momentous induction into the Pennsylvania Boxing Hall of Fame.
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 Forty-Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer one bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Parks and Recreation Commissioner and Procurement Commissioner to enter into a Concession Agreement with Loveluck for the design, construction, management and operation of a food and beverage concession in the Fairmount Park Welcome Center in John F. Kennedy Plaza, also known as Love Park.
Referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I introduce one bill and one non-privileged resolution today.
Thank you, Councilman. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
An ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation of both sides of Torresdale Avenue, from Linden Avenue to Rhawn Street and both sides of Megargee Street, from Torresdale Avenue to Frankford Avenue.
And a non-privileged resolution declaring the City of Philadelphia a Hidden Hero City in recognition of the important work and vital role of military and veteran caregivers in the City.
Next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. One privileged resolution and one bill. The privileged resolution is signed on by, I believe, all members of City Council. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Jim Marino on the occasion of his retirement after decades of dedicated service to the Department of Parks and Recreation, and as Director of the Broad Street Run.
And an ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," by amending various provisions to provide for purchase of service by certain classes of employees.
Referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill on behalf of the Administration and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9 of Subcode A of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code (The Philadelphia Administrative Code), entitled "Fees," to further provide for administrative fees in connection with accelerated review of various permit applications; and to establish a special surcharge in connection with such accelerated reviews.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 250 West Thayer Street located in the Seventh Councilmanic District.
Next Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have absolutely no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Thank you, Council President. I have one non-privileged resolution and one bill for today.
An ordinance Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Taxes," by reducing the amount of real estate taxes to be exempted for certain improvements to, or construction of, certain residential, commercial, industrial or other business properties; and by reducing the duration of such exemptions.
And a non-privileged resolution calling on the State Legislature and Governor to recognize the authority and efforts of Pittsburgh Councilmembers to protect citizens from acts of gun violence through common sense gun legislation following the massacre at the Tree of Life Synagogue.
Next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
I have no bills or resolutions today, Council President.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues I have one privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution declaring March 1st, 2019 as Disability Day of Mourning in the city of Philadelphia, to raise awareness of filicide that of disabled children and adults.
And that will be on this week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill, one non-privileged, and one privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Realty Transfer Tax," to clarify the definition of "Value."
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Larry Freedman for his tireless dedication to the City of Philadelphia and especially the Northern Liberties neighborhood.
This Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 week's Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to grant more local control for the operation of the right-of-way, the installation of roadway features, to effectively enforce speed limits and the implementation of policies that discourage dangerous driving.
Next week's Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions this week.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 you, Councilman. Councilman Johnson, do you have any?
Council President, no bills and no resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions, and with that, the next order of business is our reports from committee, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports five bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 180515, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-303 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Common Procedures and Requirements,' to amend requirements regarding Neighborhood Notice and Meetings"; and Bill No. 181064, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code to revise certain provisions of Chapter 14-500, entitled 'Overlay Zoning Districts,' by amending the '/CDO, Central Delaware Riverfront Overlay District,' to revise provisions relating to river access streets"; and Bill No. 190001, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Master Plan for Drexel University and to approve the proposed addition to 101 North 34th Street"; and Bill No. 190016, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 bounded by Stenton Avenue, Chelten Avenue, Broad Street, Windrim Avenue, Belfield Avenue, and Wister Street"; and Bill No. 190058, 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 Berks Street, Memphis Street, Wilt Street, and Tulip Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a 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. 180515, 181064, 190001, 190016, and 190058. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 180515, 181064, 190001, and 190016 and 190058. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez for a report from the Committee on Appropriations.
Thank you, Council President. The Committee on Appropriations reports one bill with a Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred Bill No. 190006, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2019 from the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, the Grants Revenue Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 190006. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 190006. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Johnson for a report from the Committee of Transportation and Utilities.
Thank you, Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 on Transportation and Public Utilities reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities, to which was referred Bill No. 181063, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Gas Works by Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation, Philadelphia Municipal Authority, and the Commissioner of Public Property (on behalf of The City of Philadelphia) to enter into certain transactions and contracts regarding a liquefied natural gas project on property and facilities owned by the City of Philadelphia and operated by the Philadelphia Gas Works, including certain leases and licenses, and contracts related to the purchase of Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 gas," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Bill No. 181063 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar at the next session of Council. That concludes our reports from committee, and our next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just read with a suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. They will be on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar today, the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you, Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 2ND READING Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: They are Bill No. 170247, 190123. All other bills and resolutions are being held.
Okay. Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions that are on the Final Passage Calendar today, we will have our public comment session. It will go as follows: If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution on the Final Passage Calendar today, if you have not already done so, you may sign up at the table to my left. When your name is called, you will go to the middle of the Council Chambers. There's a podium there. There's a device on that podium. When the light turns green, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When the light turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to our guidelines and conclude your remarks. Thank you very much for your anticipated cooperation. Mr. Decker, call the first name on the list.
Harry Barnum. (Witness approached podium.) MR. BARNUM (through interpreter): I'll hand over the microphone to my voice for the interpreter. Good morning, Committee. My name is Harry Barnum. I'm a deaf advocate around the City of Philadelphia. I do have a question on No. 170408, which has been postponed for many, many months and I don't understand what's happening with that. What's going on with Council? Is there going to be a vote? Are we going to talk about the schools and what's happening with suspending of young Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 children? This has been on the books for a very long time, on the agenda for a long time. Are we taking this seriously? Is there a way this can be voted? I just put this out there for you all and I would like to know what's happening with that particular bill. Thank you very much for your time. (Applause.)
Judith Palkon-Millar, commenting on 190074. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Judith Eleanor Palkon-Millar and I am basing my three minutes on 190074, the Scouts. I'm actually speaking for future voters, the boys and girls in our City of Philadelphia, and I'm going to say good morning, good afternoon, Council and anyone sitting on that side of the rail, and I'm going to say good morning, good Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 afternoon to anyone sitting on this side of the rail that still believes in a democratic society. I'm going to talk a little bit about what happened last week when I heard someone bring up the term limit bill presented last Thursday. I hope it's not going to be politics as general in the City of Philadelphia. I never thought I would address Council, but after last week when I felt the frustration of the two individuals who came into the room interrupting the start of the Council meeting, I felt I had a need to speak. Who is their Councilperson? They needed a voice and felt that their voice wasn't being heard, so that was the only way to be heard, by disrupting the session. I am proposing that the limit bill be put on the May 21st ballot for the people of Philadelphia to decide, or even better, if you are not being Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 challenged, then the ballot should have your name and next to it, I do not reelect this person. Give your constituents a voice, a choice. They can either vote you in or vote you out. Let the people of Philadelphia decide. Show the people of Philadelphia that you actually represent them, not politics as usual in Philadelphia. I have a question for each and every one of you. Why are we one of the major cities in the United States that don't impose municipal council limit terms? Why is that? Can't you feel the frustration of the City? Are you really that oblivious to your constituents? I don't understand the opposition to term limit bills. I think the longer some Councilmembers stay in office, the easier it is for you to make some poor choices because you think you can, and I'm going to refer to the Sunday Inquirer article. You do things and you're not held accountable. I don't Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 understand that. And here's another thought. If you haven't been able to change the City in two or three terms, don't you think it's time for you to step aside and let someone else try to make a change? Let the people of Philadelphia know that you represent them, not yourselves. Pass the term limit bill or put it on the ballot. Let the people of Philadelphia make that decision. Thank you.
Thank you for your testimony, ma'am. (Applause.)
Aja Beech, commenting on the resolution introduced today by Councilman Taubenberger. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Aja Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 Beech and good morning, Councilpeople and everyone in attendance today. I'm honored and humbled to be speaking to you. My name is Aja Beech and I was born with clubbed feet. As a child, I spent years in and out of wheelchairs while being treated at Shriners Hospital for Children, an organization that provides necessary operations for children of families that could not otherwise afford it. I also raise a son with autism. Too often people with disabilities are not listened to. It can feel as if you are pulled into a riptide, deep into the depths of the ocean where screams turn into air, the voices of people with disabilities becoming drowned out, as if we do not deserve to have autonomy in any decision. We need to be heard. People with disabilities and especially children with disabilities are Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 far more likely to experience assaults than any non-disabled person. According to the World Health Organization, children with disabilities are four times more likely to experience any kind of violence. The Ruderman Foundation estimates that as many as two children with disabilities are murdered every week in the United States. As it is in many oppressive and abusive relationships, the aggressor will blame the victim for the violence. Unfortunately, when people with disabilities are assaulted and even murdered by caregivers, there is a larger narrative that excuses that violence, implying a person with a disability is either too burdensome or that killing them is somehow an act of mercy. I sincerely thank Councilman Taubenberger for bringing more of the awareness to Disability Day of Mourning and violence against those with disabilities, and I thank all of Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 Philadelphia City Council that voted unanimously on this resolution last year declaring March 1st as Disability Day of Mourning in Philadelphia, to raise the awareness of filicide and the murders by caregivers of children and adults with disabilities. There are many things Philadelphia City Council can continue to do over the years to reduce filicide and increase autonomy for people with disabilities. Some of these things are recognizing when crimes against people with disabilities should be classified as hate crimes and speaking out against them in our communities; ensuring housing in districts you represent have a fair number that are truly accessible, meaning physically accessible for those with varying needs and financially accessible for those living on Social Security; working to make our school buildings more accessible and healthier for all children; and making all Philadelphia Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 public transit truly accessible so that more people with disabilities can go to and from doctors' appointments and jobs in a self-reliant way as they are comfortably able to do so. In closing, the most important thing all of us can do is to lead with love and kindness in the face of difference. Thank you so much for your time today, and I hope you will all vote on the resolution Disability Day of Mourning today recognizing tomorrow, March 1st, as Disability Day of Mourning and that you will all join us in the Caucus Room tomorrow at noon to commemorate the day. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Joe Danihel, commenting on 160720 and 190027. (Witness approached podium.)
Good Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 afternoon.
Good afternoon. This is an official decree of the people in writ of mandamus quo warranto and, as such, requires immediate action and remedy. Every week, Council, Mayor, Governor, and others transfer private property to the government, probably illegally. Just like Dr. King protested, I am a man. My 42 USC 1982 property rights are the same as all the people clearly designated as beneficiaries of the constitutional contracts. Are Council, Mayor, Governor, and others using RDA and Land Bank and other agencies to eyeball the people's private property to figure out the best use? Communism, socialism, and fascism do not care about private property rights. You have no property rights. Fortunately, Article IV, Section Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 4 requires the federal government guarantee a republican form of government. Clearly, oath-violating officials require prosecution before this chaos of stealing homes in Philadelphia gets worse. Can a first-class city treat its people like second-class citizens? The constitutions requires immediate remedy of this breach of law, breach of close, breach of fiduciary duty. Your oath of office requires you to act or face prison. 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1987, 18 USC 241, 242, 2381, 2384, PA Constitution, Article I, Sections 1 through 28, 26 PA CSA 703, 705, 708, 709, 711, 712, 713, 716, 902, and other laws listed in SCOTUS 15-8965, 14-1330, 14-4056 appear violated. I call on the federal and Commonwealth governments to perform their constitutional obligations -- I guess not today -- to investigate and prosecute all involved in the theft and illegal deed Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 transfer of my home, 1038 West Wyoming Avenue. The denial of God-given 42 USC 1982 property rights for 25 years is egregious, extraordinary, oath-violating, and requires immediate remedy. A just government must obey the rule of law. This color of law government must have its Charter to govern revoked until a constitutionally compliant government is installed. Public servants cannot refuse their sworn duty to act any more than a fireman can refuse to fight a fire. The sovereign people require oath, Constitution, and law be enforced, and jail is required for all who violate oath, Constitution or law. I remind Council, it takes a lot of cooperation to create and allow this monumental corruption.
There are no Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 2/28/19 - STATED - 2ND READING other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. That concludes our public comment session. We will now continue with our Calendar. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 170247.
A resolution urging the United States' Federal Trade Commission to delay the merger of Rite Aid Corporation with Walgreens Boots Alliance until the impact of the merger is fully disclosed to the Citizens of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Resolution No. 170247 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
All Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 2/28/19 - STATED - 2ND READING those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 170247 is withdrawn. Mr. Decker, 190123.
A resolution calling on the Administration to commit to increasing funding for FY20 to grow the number of youth employed during the summer months.
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 say aye. (Aye.) Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 2/28/19 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it. Resolution 190123 is adopted. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional resolutions?
A resolution hereby proclaiming March 2019 as Social Work Month, and encouraging all Philadelphians to support the Social Work profession, introduced by Councilwoman Blackwell.
I move for the adoption, Mr. President. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 2/28/19 - STATED - 2ND READING Those opposed? (No response.)
And a resolution Recognizing and Honoring Lynne Carter for her momentous induction into the Pennsylvania Boxing Hall of Fame, introduced by Councilwoman Blackwell.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 2/28/19 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it. That resolution is adopted.
And a resolution recognizing and honoring Jim Marino on the occasion of his retirement after decades of dedicated service to the Department of Parks and Recreation, and as Director of the Broad Street Run, introduced by Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 2/28/19 - STATED - 2ND READING declaring March 1st, 2019 as Disability Day of Mourning in the City of Philadelphia, to raise awareness of filicide that of disabled children and adults, introduced by Councilman Taubenberger.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring and recognizing Larry Freedman for his tireless dedication to the City Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 2/28/19 - STATED - 2ND READING of Philadelphia and especially the Northern Liberties neighborhood, introduced by Councilman Squilla.
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 say aye. (Aye.)
There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. We will now move to our Stated Meeting February 28, 2019 speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there any speeches on behalf of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to offer a friendly reminder to my colleagues and our staff that this is our seventh annual celebration of African American History Month, and today we will be lifting up and celebrating Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to the United States Congress. That will be followed by song, music and, of course, dance from Philadanco and then a delicious soul food meal. Thank you, Mr. President. We want to invite all of the staff downstairs. Stated Meeting February 28, 2019
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.