COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA PUBLIC HEARING - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 12, 2005, 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN F. RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS-BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670 Stated - 5/12/05 P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Ronald Westman of St. Paul English Lutheran Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Tasco. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. REV. WESTMAN: Let us pray. We face at this time in our City many crises. There's violence, too many shootings, too many dying, scandals, civil servants serving their greed, not the City, lack of trust in government, education and the problems in schools, jobs moving away, transportation, fighting over contracts, vacant homes. Stated - 5/12/05 As government servants, City Council is called to work for justice for our City, provide the structures to care for the citizens, especially the poor, weak, sick, elderly and children, and to provide hospitality. This day I pray for the work of this City Council. I pray for God to provide you with all that you need to do this day, with wisdom, guidance, compassion, honesty and the will to work for the City's well-being. Dear God, bless these men and women. Bless their work. Hold accountable those who do not work for the best interests of the people of Philadelphia, and hold accountable those who work only for their own greed or for the greed of others. Make these men and women instruments of Your justice and Your peace. Keep southeastern Pennsylvania in your heart. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks Reverend Westman for his very inspiring invocation. Stated - 5/12/05 Council will be at ease. (Pause.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, May 5, 2005, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, May 5, 2005, stand approved.
I'm sorry. Do I hear a second? UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, May 5, 2005, stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it. The motion carries, and the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, May 5, 2005 is approved. The next order of business is request for leaves of absence. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, there are no requests for leaves of absence from the Republicans.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the Stated - 5/12/05 guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us, as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo, who will present a resolution recognizing Miss Philadelphia. Would Miss Philadelphia and her parents and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. Councilman Rizzo will be joined by Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you. Thank you very much Madam President. We're very fortunate today to have a young lady that all Philadelphia, all of us, Stated - 5/12/05 are very proud of. And it's Ronica Licciardello. She's Miss Philadelphia for 2005. Let's give her a big round of applause. (Applause.)
Her mom, dad and everyone here with her today certainly also is proud of her. Recognizing, honoring and celebrating Ronica Licciardello, Miss Philadelphia 2005, for her talent and well-rounded persona that earned her the title Miss Philadelphia 2005, and wishing her well in the Miss Pennsylvania 2005 pagent. You're going to win. Whereas, Miss Licciardello competed against 17 of the Philadelphia areas brightest, prettiest and most talented young women and excelled in the competition. And whereas, Miss Licciardello's singing talent, interviewing skills and physical beauty exemplifies what it means to hold the title Miss Philadelphia.
And Stated - 5/12/05 whereas, Miss Licciardello studies systems engineering, demonstrating her intellectual acumen and as a bachelor of science degree candidate at the University of Pennsylvania; And whereas, Miss Licciardello, as a member of various educational societies, and volunteers her time to help the youth of our area, exhibiting her social commitment; And whereas, Miss Licciardello will superbly represent the City of Philadelphia in the Miss Pennsylvania 2005 pagent. Now, therefore...
Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that it recognizes, honors and celebrates Miss Ronica Licciardello, Miss Philadelphia 2005, and her talents and well-rounded persona that earned her the title Miss Philadelphia 2005, and wishing her well in the Miss Pennsylvania 2005 pagent. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Ronica, further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative Stated - 5/12/05 body. Congratulations and good luck. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Miss Philadelphia, who will now sing the National Anthem and then say a few remarks. Would everybody please stand. (All stand.) (Miss Philadelphia sings the National Anthem.)
Beautiful. Everyone can please be seated. MISS PHILADELPHIA: I'd like to thank you all so much for this today, especially Councilman Rizzo. This is quite an honor. My mom is originally from South Philadelphia. And the City of Philadelphia has meant so much to me growing up. And to represent this City as Miss Philadelphia is quite an honor and something that I'm taking very seriously from the moment that I won, and I realized that not Stated - 5/12/05 only did I have this great opportunity at my fingertips, but also the generosity of Drexel University affording me a $20,000 scholastic scholarship has really changed my life and the future in front of me. (Applause.) MISS PHILADELPHIA: During the year ahead, not only would I like to be the first Miss Philadelphia in a very long time to win the title of Miss Pennsylvania, but I'm also dedicating my year to the importance of community service and volunteerism. And I stand before you today offering my services in any way possible to make this great City of Philadelphia even better. Thank you so much for this honor. (Applause.)
Congratulations. We wish you well. Council will be at ease. Councilman, Goode, your light is on. Did you want to be recognized?
I'm pleased today Stated - 5/12/05 to introduce students from University City and Bartram High Schools, participating in a Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition Education Options Program. I also want to thank Gail Maliga Davis, from GPUAC, for bringing these students and other students in the past to experience the legislative process. And I'll ask them to stand at this time. (Applause.)
Welcome. Welcome. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Yes. Thank you, Madam President. I'd like this morning to welcome, of course, one of the true crime fighters of this City. He's a member of the Philadelphia Crime Commission. And he has done more for victims of crime in this City than anyone has ever done. And that's Joe Mamanna.
If he Stated - 5/12/05 would stand, we would like to recognize him.
But I also... Madam President, I also want to welcome and give a real good welcome to a hero of the Iraq war, which we honored last year, and that's Shoshona Johnson, who is is here. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Miller, who will present a resolution recognizing May 15th through May 21st as National Police Week. Will Commissioner Sylvester Johnson and Mr. Robert Eddis please accompany the Commissioner. And anyone who is with the Commissioner is more than free to come to the podium. Councilwoman Miller is being joined by Councilman Rizzo and Councilwoman Blackwell.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller. Stated - 5/12/05
Thank you, Madam Chair. Resolution recognizing May 15 through May 21 as National Police Week. Whereas, the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15th as Police Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which May 15th falls as National Police Week; And Whereas, the members of the Philadelphia Police Department play a central role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of Philadelphians; and...
Whereas, it is important that all citizens know and understand the duties, responsibilities, hazards, sacrifices of the Police Department, and that members of our law enforcement agency recognize their duties to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence and disorder and by protecting the innocent against deceit and weak against oppression; And whereas, the men and women of Stated - 5/12/05 the Philadelphia Police Department unseenly provide a vital public service; and...
Whereas, the police officers of Philadelphia have worked devotedly and selflessly on behalf of the people of this City, regardless of the peril or hazard to themselves; And whereas, these officers have safeguarded the lives and property of their fellow Philadelphians; And whereas, these men and women, by their pat patriotic service and their dedicated efforts, have earned the gratitude of the City; Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City of Philadelphia that we call upon the citizens of Philadelphia to observe the week of May 15th to the 21st, 2005, as Police Week; and...
Further resolved, we call upon all citizens of Philadelphia to observe May 15th as Police Officers Memorial Day, in honor of those law enforcement officers who throughout their Stated - 5/12/05 courageous deeds, have made the ultimate sacrifice and service to the community or have been disabled in the performance of their their duty. And let us recognize and pay respects to the survivors of our fallen heroes. And be it further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Sylvester Johnson as Police Commissioner and Robert Eddis, as President of the Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge Number 5. This is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 14th day of April 2005. Signed by Anna C. Verna, President of City Council, introduced by Donna Reed Miller, Jannie L. Blackwell, and Frank Rizzo, and sponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
The Chair welcomes and recognizes Commissioner Johnson. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON: First I want Stated - 5/12/05 to thank City Council for giving us this resolution. And I feel very honored being up here with Bob Eddis and the F.O.P. I think the relationship between the Police Department and the F.O.P. has really been outstanding the last four or five years, and will only continue. I'm also glad to see my friend Joe Mamanna here in City Council today. And I think everything that law enforcement can possibly do for the citizens of Philadelphia we have and will continue to do. I say all the time every time I get a chance to speak that law enforcement really is the only civilian occupation in the world that you can either give a life, take a life or save a life. And when our officers leave home, there is no guarantee they'll be coming home. So, we had approximately a hundred police officers that run to Washington yesterday for a memorial down in Washington this weekend. But again, we're very honored for Stated - 5/12/05 getting this resolution from City Council. And hopefully we will do the things that we're supposed to do to make sure there's a good quality of life here in the City of Philadelphia. But we wouldn't be able to do that without the relationship between the F.O.P. and our executive staff. So, thank you very much. (Applause.)
Good morning. On behalf of 14,500 members, I would like to thank all the members of City Council, Madam President, and all the others, for your constant support, where it makes it so much easier for us every day to go out there and do a job. And we would say it's our pleasure to be able to work with Commissioner Johnson on a daily basis, with the same goal, which is to improve the quality of life for everyone from our City. We couldn't do it without the Stated - 5/12/05 members in this room. And I'd like to personally thank everyone for your support, and let you know it's our pleasure to be able to serve our City. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. (Applause.)
Council will now be at ease. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter, who will present a resolution declaring May 15 through May 21 as National Public Works Week. Will Mr. Leonard Bernstein and those accompanying him, please join the Councilman at the podium. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. This is a resolution declaring the week of May 15 through May 21, 2005, as national public works week. Whereas, public works infrastructure, facilities and services, are Stated - 5/12/05 of vital importance to the health, safety and welfare to the citizens of Philadelphia; And whereas, such facilities and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals, engineers and administrators from all levels of government, who are responsible for designing, building, operating and maintaining the transportation, water supply, sewage and refuse disposal systems, public buildings, and other structures and facilities essential to serve our citizens. And whereas, in 1932, the Delaware Valley Chapter of Public Works Employees was formed. And this founding chapter led to the creation of similar chapters, and ultimately the American Public Works Association which now consists of approximately 20,000 members across the country. And whereas, it is in the public interest for all citizens and civic leaders of this country to learn about the array of facilities and services provided through the Stated - 5/12/05 public works infrastructure. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby declare the week of May 15 through May 21, 2005, as National Public Works Week, and urge all citizens to join with the American Public Works Association in activities and ceremonies designed to pay tribute to our public works professionals, engineers and administrators for the substantial contributions they have made to our national health, safety and welfare. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Delaware Valley Chapter of the American Public Works Association, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Signed by the Council President, introduced by myself, and co-sponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
Madam president, Stated - 5/12/05 Members of Council, thank you for having us here today. Thank you for recognizing the work that the public works employees, public works employees in the Departments of Water, Streets, Airport, Public Property, Fleet Management, and throughout the whole Delaware Valley. We thank you for your support and your recognition. And thank you for following up with the silent first responders. We just honored the police officers who are usually thought of as the first responders, police and fire. Public works employees are first responders also. And thank you for your continued support and recognition. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kelly, who will present a citation honoring Stated - 5/12/05 Tommie Hammil. Will Mr. Hammil and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium.
Thank you, Madam President. It gives me great privilege to honor Mr. Tommie Hammil. I was privileged last year at this time to release a resolution honoring Shoshona Johnson, and I'm also privileged this year to honor Tommie Hammil. The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to join the Citizens Crime Commission in paying tribute to Tommie Hammil for his bravery and outstanding service to our country on the one-year anniversary of his return from Iraq. Whereas, Tommie Hammil was raised on a dairy farm in Noxabie County, Mississippi, he began his career at an early age as a carpenter, truck driver and farmer. As with many farmers, Mr. Hammil worked multiple jobs, in addition to his dairy farm. Stated - 5/12/05 And whereas, Tommie Hammil is a quiet man, with deep and abiding faith in God. His life revolves around his reverence for God and his family. He has been married to his wife Kelly for 18 years. And from this union came two beautiful children, Thomas and Tori. In addition to his commitments to God and family, Mr. Hammil gives back to his community as a volunteer firefighter. And whereas, in 2003, Tommie Hammil went abroad as an employee of Haliburton, in support of his country's fight for Iraq freedom. In a tragic turn of events, on April 9, 2004, Tommie Hammil was reported missing, along with seven others, after an attack on their convoy. His abductors demanded the United States forces be withdrawn from Fallujah by the next day. And whereas, after nearly one month in captivity and against all odds, Tommie Hammil managed to escape the house where he Stated - 5/12/05 had been held captive, and ran after a passing United States military convoy. He identified himself and led the troops back to his Iraqi captors. Finally, on May 8, 2004, Tommie Hammil was able to return home to his loving and caring family. Now, therefore, by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia joins the Citizens Crime Commission in paying tribute to Tommie Hammil for his bravery and outstanding service to our country on the one-year anniversary of his return from Iraq. He has brought pride to his family and nation. And we extend to him the utmost respect and admiration of this legislative body for all he has done. Congratulations, Tommie Hammil. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President, Council members, Councilman Kelly, Joe Mamanna. The one-year anniversary of my Stated - 5/12/05 capture and escape has come and gone. There are still others that are being held there as hostages. We must never forget. Never forget those. The sacrifice that Shoshona Johnson made, the sacrifice of our many men and women in the military, the sacrifice of many civilians that are working in the Middle East today. Our appreciation for freedom was always here. It's always endless. But we take for granted here in this country of freedom, this City of brotherly love, what it's like to live in other countries that do not have the things we have and understand the things that we have, and do not have the freedoms and rights that we have in this country. And being a part of that, and being a part of going to a country where people do not have those freedoms and those rights, it makes me appreciate more and more the country we have and the men and women that are willing to stand up and shed their blood on Stated - 5/12/05 any battlefield anywhere in this world to promote freedom throughout this universe. It's a wonderful thing that's going on in Iraq. I didn't appreciate it before I went over there, but when I went over there and I spent seven months in that country, I appreciate what we're doing. It's a great thing. The men and women over there are making progress. You may not realize it here. You may not see it on the news media, but the seven months I was there, progress is being made. It's being made every day over there, every day. It's going to take a commitment from us, commitment from you to continue this. It's a commitment here, the Crime Commission, here in our own country, to keep our freedoms here from criminals and people like the terrorists we are fighting, not to come to this country again and attack us again here. We have to send it back at those. We have to point the fingers back at the ones that are to blame, not us. We are good people. Stated - 5/12/05 Thank you and God bless you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, I ask to be excused for the remainder of this Council session. I'd like to be on the record for voting yes on all bills and amendments coming before the Council today.
Thank you. Leave will be granted. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the sergeant-at-arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the Stated - 5/12/05 messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: I am pleased to advise you that on May 12, 2005, I signed all the bills that were passed by Council at its session on April 28, 2005. And I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body a proposed resolution entitled: A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, creating and empowering a new board of ethics, and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia; and a resolution approving the actions of the Boards of the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation and the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to sell parcel 822, located 70th Street and Halston Avenue; and a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and Stated - 5/12/05 disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area; and a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area; and a resolution for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area; and a resolution for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Independence Mall Urban Renewal Area; and a resolution for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area; and an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia, of an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, creating and empowering a board of ethics, as approved by resolution of the City Council; and an ordinance amending Title 20 of The Stated - 5/12/05 Philadelphia Code, entitled officers and employees, by adding a new chapter entitled lobbying, under certain terms and conditions; and an ordinance amending Title Nine of The Philadelphia Code entitled, outdoor advertising, by amending the requirements for obtaining and the conditions for issuance of licenses; and an ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled finance, taxes and collections, by creating a new Chapter 19-3400 entitled, exercise tax on outdoor advertising transactions; and an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled parking tax, to provide for a tax on valet parking transactions, under certain terms and conditions; and an ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled Public Employees Retirement Code, by amending various provisions to prohibit rehiring retirees who have retired out of DROP and to allow certain transfer payments for purchase of service; and an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Stated - 5/12/05 Development to purchase properties located in the 27th, 51st and 40th wards of the City of Philadelphia; and an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to purchase a certain tract of land located 2620, 2638 West Girard Avenue; and an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in the amount not to exceed $1 million, to assist in the construction of the new rehearsal facility for the Rock School of Ballet; and an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $2,500,000, to assist in the construction, renovation and expansion of the emergency room at the Mercy Nazareth Hospital; and an ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Tioga Urban Renewal Area.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. Stated - 5/12/05 I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended, so as to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction.
it has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. Stated - 5/12/05 (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. Chair recognizes Councilman Kentucky Kenney.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 20-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled, Standards of Conduct and Ethics, by making such chapter applicable to the members and the staff of the Philadelphia Gaming Advisory Task Force, and by adding provisions regulating the conduct of such members and the staff during and after their service on such task force.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate Stated - 5/12/05 committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce three resolutions, two of which are sponsored by each and every member of Council.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution calling on Governor Edward G. Rendell to rescind the drafted proposed cuts in the Department of Welfare's Medical Assistance Program.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Stated - 5/12/05 resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution proclaiming May 8th to the 14th, 2005, as Building Safety Week within the City of Philadelphia, and encouraging all citizens to participate in the activities that improve building safety.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Stated - 5/12/05 resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 6th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Again the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. Stated - 5/12/05 All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
The Chief Clerk w ill please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance, authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Stated - 5/12/05 Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget, under the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, in an amount not to exceed $2,500,000, to assist in the construction, renovation and expansion of the emergency room at the Mercy Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill Number 020716, approved January 23, 2003, entitled, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Man Number 197, by striking from the City Plan and vacating Wednesday Street from the southeasterly line of the Delaware Expressway.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano. Stated - 5/12/05
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
The Chief clerk will please read title of the bill.
An ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Tioga Urban Renewal Area.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter. Stated - 5/12/05
Thank you, Madam President. I offer four resolutions, the last of which, at least, I'd like to speak on.
Do you have any bills? I was told you had two bills. No?
Very well. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 34th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second. Stated - 5/12/05
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution commending Jimmie Heath for receiving the Philadelphia Jazz Achievement Award.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying Stated - 5/12/05 aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, relating to City leases, contracts, concessions -
Madam President, I would like to ask the secretary to read more slowly this resolution.
A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to City leases, contracts, concessions and the provision of financial assistance, and providing for the submission of an amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be referred to the Stated - 5/12/05 appropriate committee.
And a resolution memorializing Council's intent not to authorize the issuance of debt by the City or any other agency unless the sale of bond and the selection of bond firms and professionals is conducted under a transparent process that seeks the selection of the most qualified firms and professionals at the best possible prices.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, this resolution, I am not asking for a vote this morning. It has merely been introduced in order to provide more than the usual amount of time, given the subject matter and some of the complexities involved in a proposal, which is what this resolution seeks to do, to lay out in, I think, generally the plainest of English, a process by which it would be proposed and potentially supported by this Stated - 5/12/05 Council, that the selection of professionals with regard to bond financings, whether it's underwriters, whether it's legal counsel, whether it's other professionals involved in that process or involved in those transactions, rather, that a process would be established, hopefully supported by the administration or some version of that process supported by the administration, either in the form of an ordinance or an executive order. The substance of it lays out how we would seek to change the current system, such that this is more transparency, there is openness, there is outreach, there is opportunity for a wide variety of people to not only participate, but as they say, not only open the process but spread the work around. If the events of this past week have shown us anything, I think anyone objectively would have to agree that there are some problems with the current system. I make no comment about the Stated - 5/12/05 individuals involved. The federal jury has spoken in that particular matter. I think our responsibility and our obligation is to respond in the way that we can. We are legislators. We make laws. We vote. We take action. And so, I put this proposal forward, certainly with the input and the assistance of any number of people and professionals in the industry, models from other jurisdictions, in a way to move us along. We don't need to spend any time continually pointing fingers, making accusations. We're the legislative branch of the government. And I believe what we do, at least every Thursday, is legislate. Let us take action. The time for change, I believe -- and many others agree -is now. Thank you very much, Madam President.
Thank you. The resolution will be placed on next week's calendar. Stated - 5/12/05 At this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions this morning.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Madam President, I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank You, Madam President. I offer three bills and one Stated - 5/12/05 resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Fairmount Avenue, Front Street and Brown Street.
The 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 Penn Street, Laurel Street, the Delaware River and the former Fairmount Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Stated - 5/12/05 Code, entitled, commercial activities on streets, by amending Section 9-211, entitled, boxes for distribution of printed material, which created a trial period granting the City regulatory authority over the maintenance, specification and placement of newspaper boxes on the public sideway.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 31st ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Stated - 5/12/05 resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designation of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Blue Grass Road, Grant Avenue, Ashton Road and Willits Road.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Stated - 5/12/05 The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of a proposed set forth in a resolution approved by Council, proposing amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, providing for regulation regulating the process by which contracts not currently subject to competitive bidding are awarded, and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish, notice and make arrangements for the special election.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, providing for regulation Stated - 5/12/05 of the process by which contracts not subject to competitive bidding are awarded and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. Are there other resolutions that the Councilman...
I'm holding the two other resolutions until I get further information.
Very well. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
The Chair thanks the gentlemen. And I believe Councilman Rizzo indicated he had no bills or resolutions. Stated - 5/12/05 The next order of business is reports from committees. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the distinguished Chairman of the Committee on Law and Government, Councilman Cohen, the committee reports two bills and one resolution with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Law and Government to which was referred Bill Number 050286, entitled, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council, Stated - 5/12/05 proposing an amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, relating to Council's power to adopt by ordinance standards for the organization of the Fire Department and the manner by which the Fire Department carries out its powers and duties. And Bill Number 050301, entitled, an ordinance amending Title 20 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled officers and employees, by amending the provisions relating to campaign contributions and expenditures relating to, including but not limited to, the District Attorney, City Controller, Register of Wills, Sheriff, Clerk of Quarter Sessions, and the City Commissioners. And a Resolution Number 050292, entitled, a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, relating to Council's power to adopt by ordinance standards for the organization of the Fire Department, and the manner by which the Fire Department carries out its powers and duties, including the deployment of fire Stated - 5/12/05 personnel and the duty of the Fire Commissioner, Managing Director and Mayor to abide by any such standards in managing and supervising the work of the Fire Department, and providing for the submission of the amendment of the electors of Philadelphia, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills and resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills Number 050286 and 050301.
It has been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Numbers 050286 and 050301. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. Stated - 5/12/05 (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on today's first reading calendar. Resolution Number 050292 will be considered at the end of today's calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.
Madam President, the Committee on Health and Human Services reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Public Health and Stated - 5/12/05 Human Services, to which is referred Bill Number 050166, entitled, an ordinance amending an ordinance of April 22, 1975, Bill Number 1796, establishing the prison industries revolving fund, and providing for the administration thereof, by establishing a mechanism to authorize charges for goods and services produced by prison industries, by authorizing expenditures from the fund for personnel costs, repair costs and other services required for the operation of prison industries, and by authorizing sales by prison industries to all City agencies and authorities to a non-profit agency with whom the City has contracts, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council Stated - 5/12/05 be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Number 050166.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to as to permit first reading this day of Bill Number 050166. All until favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on today's first reading calendar. The next order of business is the consideration of the calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the first reading calendar.
Bill Number 050071, an ordinance authorizing the Managing Director Stated - 5/12/05 on behalf of the City to execute a mutual aid agreement creating the Southeastern Pennsylvania Terrorism Task Force, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill Number 050286, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposals set forth in a resolution relation approved by Council proposing an amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, relating to Council's power to adopt by ordinance standards for the organization of the Fire Department and the manner by which the Fire Department carries out its powers and duties.
And Bill Number 050301, an ordinance amending Title 20 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled officers and employees, by amending the provisions relating to campaign contributions and Stated - 5/12/05 expenditures, relating to and including but not limited to the District Attorney, City Controller, Register of Wills, Sheriff, Clerk of Quarter Sessions Court and City Commissioner.
And Bill Number 050166, entitled, an ordinance amending an ordinance of April 22, 1975, Bill Number 1796, establishing the prison industries revolving fund and providing for the administration thereof, by establishing a mechanism to authorize charges for goods and services produced by prison industries, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. That completes the first reading calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills on the second reading and final passage calendar to be considered Stated - 5/12/05 today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill Numbers 050062 and 050234 are being called up for second reading and final passage. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill Number 050062.
An ordinance amending Section two of an ordinance, Bill Number 020349, approved September 6, 2002, entitled, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Number 242, by striking from the City Plan and vacating Cedar Park Avenue from 69th Avenue to Haines Street, and by placing on the City Plan a right-of-way for drainage purposes, by extending the period for compliance with the authorization conditions therein.
This bill having been read on two different days, the Stated - 5/12/05 question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Next bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 050234.
An ordinance amending Stated - 5/12/05 Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled contracts and procurement, by enacting a new Chapter 17-1100 entitled, Philadelphia 21st Century Minimum Wage Standard, requiring a new minimum wage standard within the City of Philadelphia, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman Rizzo voting aye. Councilwoman Tasco. Stated - 5/12/05
Aye. The ayes are 17. The nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Resolution Number 050292 will be put on the calendar for next week. Councilwoman Miller.
I'm sorry. Are you going to be speaking on a particular issue?
Very well. The calendar is concluded for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Miller for some comments.
Okay. Thank you, Madam president. I actually just wanted to share some information with City Council members Stated - 5/12/05 regarding the death of former Councilman Debeary, Herb Debeary's wife, Lillian Debeary.
And I thought we could have a moment of silence. Her funeral services are Friday, MAY 13th -- that's tomorrow -- at Zion Baptist Church. That's at Broad and Venango, 3600 North Broad. Viewing from 9:00 until 11:00. And the funeral's at 11:00 a.m. And condolences can be sent. We'll be sending a memo around. I think we may have already sent one. I'm not sure.
I would ask everyone to stand for a moment of silence Stated - 5/12/05 for Mrs. Debeary. (Moment of silence.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke. Councilman Clarke, your light is on. Did you want to be recognized?
Yes, Madam President. Madam President, I just want to remind everyone, next Tuesday, in the May primary, there will be, in my estimation, a very important ballot question. While I clearly understand that members of Council are aware of it, but I know there are a lot of people listening and watching. And I want to remind people that as we talk about the level of violence in our streets, and as we talk about electing a D.A., electing judicial candidates, the reality is, is that we need to do something about gun violence. And that question, we believe, is Stated - 5/12/05 extremely important. It is a question that talks about the City of Philadelphia being able to enact its own gun legislation, not addressing the statewide issue, but it's own legislation. It must be done by referendum. So I'm asking individuals to vote for it and also vote yes.
Thank you. Is there anyone else that would like to be recognized? (No response.)
Seeing no one, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 19, 2005, at 10:00 a.m. UNIDENTIFIED COUNCIL PERSON: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 19. All in favor will say aye. Stated - 5/12/05 (Chorus of "ayes.")
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. Thank you. (Public hearing concluded at 11:11 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings and evidence are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the public hearing of The Philadelphia City Council, taken on May 12, 2005, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. _____________________________ DAVID A. DEIK, RPR and Commissioner of Deeds (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)