COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA2 COMMITTEE ON RULES - - - Room 400, City Hall4 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Wednesday, June 3, 2009, 10:21 a.m.5 - - - Bill 090128 - East Passyunk Avenue BID renewal Bill 090169 - Amend Philadelphia Zoning Maps Bill 090170 - Central Delaware Riverfront Overlay District9 Bill 090348 - Frankford Ave. Spec. Dist.10 Bill 090349 - Del. River Conservation Dist.11 Bill 090380 - Withdrawn at Sponsor Request12 Bill 090392 - Amend Philadelphia Zoning Maps13 COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT: Anna C. Verna, Chair15 James F. Kenney, Vice Chair Blondell Reynolds Brown16 Darrell L. Clarke Frank DiCicco17 W. Wilson Goode, Jr. William K. Greenlee18 Jack Kelly Donna Reed Miller19 - - -21 V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Specialists23 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 1910324 215.561.2220 215.567.2670 2 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Good2 morning, everyone. This is a public3 hearing of the Council Committee on4 Rules.5 I would ask Mr. Ericson to6 please read the title of Bill No. 090128.7
Bill No. 090128,8 an ordinance continuing the East Passyunk9 Avenue Business Improvement District10 ("District") beyond its termination date11 in an area that generally includes both12 sides of East Passyunk Avenue from the13 south side of Federal Street to the east14 side of South Broad Street, certain15 blocks of streets that intersect that16 portion of East Passyunk Avenue, both17 sides of South Broad Street from the18 south side of McKean Street to the north19 side of Snyder Avenue, and the west side20 of South Broad Street from the south side21 of Mifflin Street to the north side of22 McKean Street, and for which East23 Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement24 District, Inc., a Pennsylvania nonprofit25 3 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 corporation, is a neighborhood2 improvement district management3 association; approving a final plan for4 the report concerning the District,5 including a list of proposed improvements6 and their estimated costs and providing7 for assessment fees to be levied on8 property owners within the District;9 authorizing the Director of Commerce, on10 behalf of the City, to execute an11 agreement with East Passyunk Avenue12 Business Improvement District, Inc.,13 relating to the District; and authorizing14 East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement15 District, Inc., to assess property owners16 within the District a special property17 assessment fee to be used in accordance18 with the approved final plan, all under19 the provisions of the Community and20 Economic Improvement Act and under21 certain terms and conditions.22
Thank23 you very much.24 Who do we have to testify on25 4 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 this? Anyone from the Administration?2 I know we did have a public3 hearing on this bill on April the 8th, at4 which time there was a question of5 amending the provision regarding rates.6 I believe that was raised, and the bill7 was subsequently rescheduled for today.8 Do we have any witnesses that9 would like to testify at this time on the10 bill?11 Please approach the witness12 table.13 (Witness comes forward.)14
Good15 morning. Kindly identify yourself for16 the record and proceed with your17 testimony.18
Good morning. My19 name is Ed Kirlin. I'm a resident of20 South Philadelphia.21 Thank you, Madam Chair and City22 Council, for this opportunity to testify.23 I am a participant in an ad hoc committee24 on East Passyunk Avenue. The shop owners25 5 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 there are discussing changes to the BID2 and bylaws in a number of specific ways.3 There was a meeting of this committee on4 May 6th, and the following are some of5 the recommendation that were made:6 First, it has been requested7 that the board be elected by the8 membership and not appointed by the9 existing board, except in the cases of10 vacancies.11 Second, it has been suggested12 that, just as the board now reserves one13 board position for a representative of14 City Council, that at least one position15 be reserved for those members whose16 current property taxes exceed $5,000, of17 which there are some 17, with St. Agnes18 Hospital and Verizon Corporation paying19 the highest property taxes, just under20 $800,000 combined. With these two21 corporations contributing nearly $180,00022 to the BID, they or the other BID23 planners on the avenue should be afforded24 a larger say in the decision-making at25 6 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 the BID.2 Third, there is interested and3 support on the Avenue for a change in the4 bylaws that would allow business owners5 who are not property owners to vote in6 the election of the board of directors7 and on all matters other members of the8 EPA Corporation are allowed.9 Fourth, it has been suggested10 that the meetings of the general11 membership be scheduled regularly, such12 as the second Tuesday of each month, as13 opposed to being called at the pleasure14 of the board.15 At the ad hoc -- at our ad hoc16 committee meeting, it was revealed that17 there is a committee now working on18 changes to the bylaws. It was19 represented to the ad hoc committee that20 the new changes to the bylaws would be21 completed before this bill was voted on.22 This, of course, brings a question as to23 whether the changes have had the24 opportunity to be discussed fully and25 7 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 voted upon by the general membership and2 whether there is adequate opportunity for3 public comment on those changes before4 this body.5 With regard to the legislation6 itself and given the interest and concern7 by many shop owners that changes to the8 bylaws be made, it is requested that the9 termination date of the BID be extended10 only one year instead of ten so as not to11 cause a break in the BID services or the12 operations, and that new legislation to13 extend the life of the BID be introduced14 again next year, thereby giving the BID15 members a year's time to work out changes16 to the bylaws that satisfy a majority of17 the membership voting upon them.18 I thank you again for this19 opportunity to be heard on this matter,20 and thank you very much.21
Are22 there any questions or comments from23 members of the committee?24 The Chair recognizes Councilman25 8 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 DiCicco.2 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you,3 Madam Chair.4 And good morning, Mr. Kirlin.5 I just have two very brief questions.6 The ad hoc committee that7 you're referring to, would you supply to8 the Chair the names and addresses of the9 folks who attended that meeting?10
Certainly.11 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: And my12 second question is: Do you own, operate,13 or have any vested interest in the East14 Passyunk Avenue corridor?15
I am in16 negotiations now to buy a property.17 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: And how18 close are you, and what property are we19 speaking about?20
I would like to --21 for that to remain, uh, not known at this22 point. And I'm not very close.23 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: You're not24 very close?25 9 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
No.2 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: But you3 represent an ad hoc group --4
I was asked by a5 number of shop owners on the Avenue to6 become involved, and I agreed to.7 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: If you can8 supply the name of the folks again who9 were at that meeting who requested you to10 be their spokesperson to the Chair --11
Certainly. I will12 be glad to do that.13 The person who I am looking to14 buy the property from gave me15 authorization to represent him in any16 matters relating to the BID, and he has17 given me that authorization.18 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Again,19 that would be helpful to us in our20 deliberations to know who that person is21 and what property we're speaking of.22
'Cause24 currently, you're not a property owner.25 10 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Any13 other questions or comments from members14 of the committee?15 (No further questions.)16
Do we17 have anyone else to testify on this bill?18 Seeing no one, I would ask19 Mr. Ericson to please read the title of20 Bill No. 090348.21
Bill No. 090348,22 an ordinance amending Title 14 of the23 Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and24 Planning," by amending Section 14-1619,25 11 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 entitled "Frankford Avenue Special2 District Controls," by changing the3 boundaries of the area subject to the4 controls of the District, by changing the5 name of the District, and by adding6 provisions with regard to signs.7 (Witness comes forward.)8
Thank9 you.10 Good morning, Mr. Kramer.11 Please identify yourself for the record.12
Good morning,13 Council President Verna and members of14 the Rules Committee. I am William15 Kramer, Division Director of the16 Development Planning Division of the17 Philadelphia City Planning Commission.18 I am here today to testify on19 Bill No. 090348, which was introduced by20 Councilmember Krajewski on April 30th of21 2009.22 This bill amends Section23 14-1619 of the Philadelphia Zoning Code.24 It expands the boundaries in the district25 12 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 to encompass an area bounded by Frankford2 Avenue, Harbison Avenue, Tacony Street,3 New State Road, State Road, and Ashbourne4 Street. The name of the district is5 proposed to be changed to Tacony Mayfair6 Special Controls District.7 Section 14-1619 currently8 consists of commercial controls along9 Frankford Avenue from Harbison Avenue to10 Solly Street, with some blocks of Cottman11 Avenue. These controls will continue and12 will not be expanded to the new13 boundaries of the District.14 The purpose of this legislation15 is to allow for businesses in the area to16 erect awning signage in order to have a17 more unified streetscape and business18 district. The awning signs will be19 permitted in addition to whatever20 existing signage is permitted on the21 property.22 The Planning Commission, in23 conjunction with the sponsoring24 Councilperson's office, is recommending25 13 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 that amended language be added to the2 bill in order to establish additional3 controls for the proposed additional4 signage. Those amendments have been5 submitted to the Clerk prior to the.6 The City Planning Commission,7 at its meeting of May 19, 2009,8 considered and approved Bill No. 090348,9 with a recommendation that the bill be10 approved, as amended.11 This concludes my testimony.12 I'd be happy to answer any questions you13 may have.14
Thank15 you very much.16 Are there any questions from17 members of the committee?18 (No questions or comments.)19
Thank20 you.21 Do we have anyone else to22 testify on this bill?23 (No response.)24
Do we25 14 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 have anyone else to testify on this bill?2 (No response.)3 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:4 Seeing no one, I would ask that Bill No.5 090349 be read.6
Bill No. 090349,7 amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia8 Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by9 creating a new Section 14-1636, entitled10 "Delaware River Conservation District,"11 providing for special use rules for12 development along the North Delaware13 River, under certain terms and14 conditions.15 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:16 Mr. Kramer.17
Good morning,18 Council President Verna and members of19 the Rules Committee. I am William20 Kramer, Division Director of the21 Development Planning Division of the22 Philadelphia City Planning Commission.23 I am here today to testify on24 Bill No. 090349, which was introduced by25 15 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 Councilmember Krajewski on April 30,2 2009.3 Bill No. 090349 amends the4 Philadelphia Zoning Code by creating5 Section 14-1636, entitled "Delaware River6 Conservation District." The purpose of7 this legislation is to create a 50-foot8 buffer along the Delaware River measured9 from either the bulkhead line or, in10 cases where the top of the bank has moved11 from that line, from the top of bank.12 This buffer will be required13 from Allegheny Avenue northwardly to the14 Bucks County line. This will allow for a15 recreational trail and open space, with16 allowance for outdoor furniture17 consistent with the proposed trail.18 The ordinance will also permit19 in this 50-foot area dock- and port-20 related activity, private marinas, boat21 storage, pipelines and conveyors, in22 addition to City-owned facilities23 provided the Philadelphia City Planning24 Commission approves the proposal.25 16 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 There are several technical2 amendments to the bill which have been3 worked out with the applicant of the4 bill, Delaware River City Corporation,5 the Philadelphia City Planning6 Commission, and the City's Law7 Department. I respectfully submit the8 amendment for consideration by the9 committee.10 The Philadelphia City Planning11 Commission, at is meeting of May 19,12 2009, considered Bill No. 090349 and13 recommended that it be approved.14 That concludes my testimony,15 and I'd be happy to answer any questions16 you may have.17 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:18 Mr. Kramer, what happens if Council is19 not in session when the Commission's20 determination is filed? I believe it21 says in the bill that if Council fails to22 act within 45 days of filing -- isn't23 that it? -- the Commission's action is24 deemed approved.25 17 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Based on the way2 that we handle current IDD regulations,3 which have much the same code, we do not4 consider -- when Council's not in5 session, the 45-day clock goes on hold,6 which is how we currently handle IDD7 master plan amendments, and it is the8 same 45-day clock.9
Are10 there commercial uses currently along11 this corridor that will likely want to12 place furniture, et cetera, within the13 boundaries?14 (Witness comes forward.)15
The way I16 understand this proposal, this 50 foot is17 coming from the top of bank, which is18 essentially area of ground that you're19 not going to usually develop, so there's20 generally nothing much there; it's right21 on the bank of the river.22 My suspicion is that the23 Delaware River Corporation -- Mr. Lonie24 is sitting next to me, who could probably25 18 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 address that better than I. I believe2 that they're going to be putting in most3 of the furniture and actually developing4 the trail itself.5 However, if someone wanted to6 come in and develop the property and7 said, Hey, we'll contribute, and, as a8 civic benefit, wanted to add furniture,9 we would not necessarily be opposed to10 that. We are drafting -- and it's not11 currently finished yet, but they are12 developing Delaware River Trail13 guidelines. That is scheduled for14 consideration by my commission in our15 July meeting.16 And once those are established,17 we would then ask them to file those18 guidelines for the putting in of that19 kind of furniture on the trail itself.20
Thank21 you.22 (Addressing Mr. Lonie.) Would23 you like to add anything to what's been24 said? Good morning.25 19 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Thank you, Madam2 President and members of the committee3 again. My name is Paul Lonie,4 Consultant, serving as Capital Program5 Director of the Delaware River City6 Corporation, 5801 Tacony Street.7 What we're doing with this8 ordinance is basically putting any9 development that's coming to the North10 Delaware that the plan for this is11 complete, the actual trail that will come12 all the way from Maine to Florida. This13 will be a part of that.14 We don't want to interrupt any15 commercial activities, we're trying our16 best not to interrupt any port activities17 or anything else. But in this, when18 someone comes in to develop, we're saying19 that the vision of the North Delaware is20 to keep this space open for public use21 and bring people back to the river.22
Thank23 you.24 Any questions or comments from25 20 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 members of the committee?2 (No questions or comments.)3
Thank4 you very much.5 Do we have anyone else to6 testify on this bill?7 (No response.)8 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:9 Anyone else to testify on this bill?10 (No response.)11
Thank12 you very much, Mr. Kramer.13 The record will reflect that14 Bill No. 090380 is being withdrawn at the15 request of the sponsor.16 I would ask Mr. Ericson to17 please read the title of Bill No. 090392.18
Bill No. 090392,19 an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia20 Zoning Maps by changing the zoning21 designations of certain areas of land22 located within an area bonded by Wyoming23 Avenue, Ramona Avenue, Adams Avenue, and24 Castor Avenue.25 21 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Good morning,5 Council President Verna and members of6 the Rules Committee. I am William7 Kramer, Division Director of the8 Development Planning Division of the9 Philadelphia City Planning Commission.10 I am here today to testify on11 Bill No. 090392, which was introduced by12 Councilmembers Clarke and Sanchez on May13 7, 2009.14 This bill amends the15 Philadelphia Zoning Maps for an area16 bounded by Wyoming Avenue, Ramona Avenue,17 Adams Avenue, and Castor Avenue. It will18 rezone approximately 15.3 acres of land19 from an existing zoning designation of20 partly R4 residential and partly C321 commercial to a single designation of22 IDD, Institutional Development District.23 The purpose of this legislation24 is to allow for the reuse of the old25 22 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 Parkview Hospital and grounds of the2 Greenwood Cemetery as a Cancer Treatment3 Center of America facility. The facility4 will contain inpatient and outpatient5 services, with many ancillary uses,6 including guest housing and both7 structured and open-air parking. The8 will center provide a total of 11319 parking spaces onsite, 514 of which will10 be in a structured garage.11 The IDD (Institutional12 Development District) requires the13 adoption of a master plan of development14 for the proposed site which will15 establish the zoning parameters of this16 district; that master plan is Exhibit B17 on this bill.18 The City Planning Commission is19 scheduled to consider Bill No. 090392 at20 its meeting of June 9, 2009. The bill21 will be presented with a staff22 recommendation of approval.23 This concludes my testimony.24 I'd be happy to answer any questions you25 23 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 may have.2
Thank3 you, Mr. Kramer.4 When is it anticipated that the5 new facility will be in operation?6
In discussions7 I've had with representatives of it, they8 are hoping to have it done by the summer,9 the end of the summer, but I'm not10 absolutely certain that that's what11 they're going to be doing.12 They had a number of components13 they were working out with Greenwood14 Cemetery in terms of relocating and15 acquiring properties and parcels in that16 area of the planned area.17
And18 the additional 514 parking spaces will be19 new construction; is that what I20 understand?21
And24 will that also be available at the time25 24 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 of opening?2
It is anticipated3 that they will be concurrent. I'm not4 sure if the one is going to be finished5 right at the same time, but very shortly6 thereafter.7
Thank8 you.9 Any questions or comments from10 members of the committee?11 (No questions or comments.)12
Do we13 have anyone to testify on this bill?14 Please approach the witness table.15 (Witnesses come forward.)16
-- and members21 of Council. My name is Chris Cummings.22 I'm an attorney representing Cancer23 Treatment Centers of America. With me24 today is Andy Jarvis, the lead architect25 25 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 on the project, with the firm of Ewing2 Cole; and John Goodchild, an executive3 with CTCA.4
Thank you very8 much.9 Cancer Treatment Centers of10 America is a company that was founded11 over 20 years ago by a man who lost his12 mother to cancer. He was very13 disappointed in the kind of care that she14 received and the coordination of that15 care. And after she died, he vowed to16 open a cancer treatment center that would17 treat people the way he would have wanted18 his mother treated.19 And that's really our guiding20 principle. It's what the -- it's called21 "The Mother Standard of Care." And it's22 a combination of leading-edge and23 conventional therapies, combined with24 complementary therapies like nutrition,25 26 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 naturopathy, mind/body medicine,2 spiritual support, all under one roof and3 all very coordinated.4 We came to Philadelphia in5 December of 2005. We opened after a6 15-month renovation on Parkview Hospital.7 We opened with 158 employees, and we now8 have grown over the last three-and-a-half9 years to about 625 employees.10 Only about 15 percent of our11 patients actually come from the12 Philadelphia television-viewing area; the13 majority of them come from as far north14 as Maine, down to Florida, and out to15 about Cleveland, Ohio. Actually, twice16 as many people come to us from New York17 as come to us from Philadelphia.18 We are landlocked at this19 point. We have, over the last20 three-and-a-half years, doubled the21 clinical space inside the physical22 hospital and filled up our parking lot.23 We have 625 stakeholders, we have 23224 parking spaces. And we have a constant25 27 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 problem of parking on Wyoming Avenue,2 both sides, from Castor all the way up to3 Ramona. So we're really looking forward4 to expanding our clinical services so we5 can help more patients who are in need6 and deliver our services to them.7 And that concludes my8 testimony.9
It10 sounds like a very good project.11 I'm assuming you have12 outpatient care too?13
We do. We14 have -- in fact, the majority of our care15 is outpatient because of the -- most of16 it is chemotherapy and radiation therapy,17 but we do have a very vigorous inpatient18 facility as well.19
We have 3622 inpatient -- normal medical, surgical23 bedrooms and 4 ICU rooms. So we have 4024 inpatient rooms.25 28 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
And we'll soon4 be expanding that probably to about 60,5 pretty close to 60 rooms.6
I brought a9 diagram of the expansion plan if you're10 interested. If you're not, we don't have11 to go through it.12
Okay, thank you.15 Thank you very much.16 Oh, I'm sorry. Just a moment,17 please.18
No, that's19 okay. I don't have questions for these20 gentlemen.21
Madam23 President, I'd just like, if at all24 possible, we have a couple of community25 29 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 representatives here.2
For the4 record, we have had extensive community5 participation on this process, and I just6 wanted to make sure that everybody7 understood that we have done our due8 diligence in touching base with all of9 the adjacent community organizations and10 residents that came all the way down here11 from the lower Northeast.12 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:13 Wonderful.14
So I think15 it would be appropriate if we gave them16 an opportunity to say a couple of words.17 (Witnesses come forward.)18
Good19 morning, welcome. Kindly identify20 yourself for the record and proceed with21 your testimony.22
My name is Barry23 Howell. I'm the President of the24 Northwood Civic Association, and I25 30 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 represent the community.2
Joan Riles, and I3 am on the board of directors for the4 Northwood Civic Association and also a5 member of Concerned Citizens of6 Northwood.7
What I want to say8 is that, first of all, I want to thank9 Darrell Clarke for months and months of10 negotiations to pull the deal through.11 And I'm sorry my friend and my12 vice president can't be here, Frank13 Sianno (sp?), who's done a lot of work14 also for this, 'cause he's just got out15 of the hospital and he's sick.16 But we have a benefits17 agreement package that we worked out with18 the Cancer Treatment Center of America.19 I think it's the best thing that I've20 seen any civic in the City of21 Philadelphia work out. We have a22 guarantee of jobs. One of our members23 was put on the board of directors, a24 non-voting member, was put on the board25 31 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 of directors. And they have done a lot2 of work to assure the community that3 everything will work out well.4 I see bumps coming down the5 road and I see things happening, but I6 think that this is the best thing7 happening in Northwood. We started out8 with a dilapidated cemetery, and on the9 cemetery property, we had a house that10 belonged to Benjamin Rush and has been11 totally in disarray. And my first year12 as president, I've even went as far as13 asked for the demolition of this home14 because it was drawing street people,15 prostitutes, every kind of thing, crack16 addicts, everything you could imagine.17 My worst fear was -- we have a18 charter school no further than 75 yards19 away. If someone -- and you know the20 society we live in today -- was going to21 drag someone in there, a child in there,22 and hurt them.23 But we want Northeast -- not24 Northeast -- Cancer Treatment Center one25 32 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 hundred percent. And this has been long2 negotiations. This didn't happen3 overnight. And we think they're going to4 do great for Northwood.5 And Northwood's had its problem6 just like every other part of the7 community, every other part of the City.8 We have foreclosures, we have everything.9 Everything possible has happened to our10 community.11 They got hold of their package.12 They have the home buyer's agreement13 where they'll give their employees14 incentive to move into our community.15 They'll match funds, they'll put money16 down. That way, we could start17 rebuilding.18 And I'll tell you what: I've19 lived and negotiated for the20 longshoreman's union for years. Lucien21 Blackwell, Alexander Talmadge, guys like22 that. And I'll tell you what: I know a23 good deal when I see one, and I think we24 have a good package.25 33 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 You know, members of City2 Council have been at our meeting. Bill3 Greenlee's been in Northwood Civic, you4 know, Bill Green. And I also -- I talked5 to Maria Sanchez yesterday, and she's6 totally happy with this.7 So, I mean, we couldn't ask for8 nothing better. It's going to take a9 long time, ground hasn't been broken yet,10 there's going to be squabbles along the11 way, there's going to be problems along12 the way, but we think we could pull this13 through and make cancer treatment a14 better place and the cemetery a better15 place.16 I'm a can -- I'm real17 prejudiced. I'm a cancer survivor. I had18 two liver transplants. So, I mean, I've19 been there and I know what these poor20 people are going through, I know what's21 happening. I know the technology has to22 be improved.23 And these people come to town,24 they're bringing money, they're creating25 34 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 jobs, they're creating revenue for the2 City. And I think -- I ask City Council3 to approve this thing one hundred4 percent.5
Thank6 you, and we all thank you for coming in7 to testify.8
Keep14 up the good work.15 Just a moment please.16 The Chair recognizes Councilman17 Greenlee.18
Yes, very19 quickly. Mr. Owl mentioned that I've20 been at their civic association meetings,21 and I can tell you, I can guarantee they22 did their due diligence on this issue,23 and I'm sure they (indiscernible024 Councilman Clarke and Councilwoman25 35 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 Sanchez closely.2 So I've seen Barry in action,3 so I can guarantee this is a benefit to4 the community.5 Thank you.6
Believe me,7 believe me, we're no nonsense. I'm in8 the Zoning Board more than the9 commissioners of the Zoning Board are in10 the Zoning Board. So we don't just let11 something slide by.12 And, believe me, this is a good13 deal, and I appreciate Council to approve14 this. Darrell has done a great job.15
Great.16 The Chair recognizes Councilman17 Clarke.18
No, I'm19 okay. No, I think Miss Riles wanted to20 say a couple --21
I'm not going to22 keep you guys long 'cause Barry said23 everything that needs to be said.24
I'm right here,25 36 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 baby.2
I just want to say3 that being a homeowner in the Northwood4 community, that the Cancer Treatment5 Center, they have a wonderful commercial;6 I don't know if you guys seen it. And7 when you watch commercials, you say, Oh,8 you know, I don't believe that, but their9 commercial is heartfelt. And also, when10 you enter their building, it's heartfelt.11 These people are very warm and very12 caring.13
This is one of the16 biggest things that's going to happen to17 Philadelphia, in our community. Parkview18 Hospital was ready to be torn down and19 ready to be made into things that we20 wouldn't have agreed with, you know, so I21 think Cancer Treatment Center is a God22 blessing to the Northeast.23 Thank you guys very much.24
Just25 37 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 a moment, please.2 Thank you.3 Any questions or comments from4 members of the committee?5 (No further questions or6 comments.)7
Thank12 you. You do the same.13 Do we have anyone else to14 testify on this bill?15 (No response.)16 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:17 Anyone else to testify on this bill?18 (No response.)19 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:20 Seeing no one, we can now consider Bill21 No. 090408.22
Bill No. 090408,23 an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia24 Zoning Maps by changing the zoning25 38 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 designations of certain areas of land2 located within an area generally bounded3 by a line located approximately 220 feet4 north of Cumberland Street, the Delaware5 River, a line located approximately 3286 feet south of Berks Street, Beach Street,7 Richmond Street, Schirra Drive, Beach8 Street, and Cumberland Street.9 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:10 Mr. Kramer.11
Good morning,12 Council President Verna and members of13 the Rules Committee. I am William14 Kramer, Division Director of the15 Development Planning Division of the16 Philadelphia City Planning Commission.17 I am here today to testify on18 Bill No. 090408, which was introduced by19 Councilmember DiCicco on May 14th of20 2009.21 This bill amends the22 Philadelphia Zoning Maps for an area23 bounded by a line 220 feet north of24 Cumberland Street, the Delaware River, a25 39 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 line approximately 328 feet south of2 Berks Street, Beach Street, Richmond3 Street, Schirra Drive, Beach Street, and4 Cumberland Street. It will rezone5 approximately 60 acres of land from an6 existing zoning designation of G2 general7 industrial to a zoning designation of C38 commercial. The purpose of this is to9 allow the property owner of this vacant10 land to be able to market his property11 for mixed-use development.12 This site was previously13 submitted for consideration for a casino14 development. We believe that this is an15 indication that the property's best16 future use would be consistent with a17 mixed-use development, which would be18 indicated with a zoning designation of C319 commercial.20 The Philadelphia City Planning21 Commission is scheduled to consider Bill22 No. 090408 at its meeting, which is June23 9, 2009. The bill will be presented with24 a staff recommendation of approval.25 40 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 This concludes my testimony. I2 would be pleased to answer any questions3 you may have.4
Is5 this the... Mr. Kramer, you state that6 the property owner wants to market the7 property for mixed --8
I do believe so.16 His counsel is in the chambers now.17 Mr. Chapman is here, who represents him,18 and it's my understanding that it is,19 indeed, one owner.20
Can21 you tell us what the current use of this22 property is?23
Currently, it's24 vacant land.25 41 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Do we2 have any indication as to what type of3 uses will be best, the best use for the4 property?5
At this point, we6 don't know exactly what that mixed use7 would be. We would imagine it to be some8 kind of commercial/residential mix. At9 what ratio, I don't know. It's probably10 an answer that's going to come out as a11 result of the Delaware River master plan12 that's currently --13
So at14 this point in time, there is no proposal15 --16
Thank19 you.20 Mr. Chapman?21 (Witness comes forward.)22
Thank you. It's25 42 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 nice to see you.2 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:3 Kindly identify yourself for the record.4
Good morning,5 Madam President and members of the Rules6 Committee. My name is Tom Chapman. I'm7 an attorney with Blank Rome, and I8 represent the interested party today in9 the matter before you, James J. Anderson,10 of the Anderson Construction Company, and11 his partners.12 Mr. Kramer pretty much stated13 our case. It's approximately 60 acres.14 It's currently vacant land that's been15 vacant for quite some time.16 Much of the ground that's17 before you today for rezoning would have18 been part of the Pinnacle Casino19 proposal, if that had been chosen by the20 State Gaming Control Commission.21 However, as you know well, that site was22 not chosen.23 The site remains vacant -- the24 properties, rather, remain vacant. And25 43 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 Mr. Anderson would like to be in a better2 position to market the properties for3 mixed-use development.4 We -- there is no proposal5 before you right now as part of this6 rezoning request. There is no -- plans7 have not specific -- development plans8 have not been drawn, but we believe that9 changing the zoning sends a message to10 the development community that the11 Council has considered and views this as12 a potential mixed-use site for13 development.14
Thank18 you.19 Are there any questions or20 comments from members of the committee?21 (No questions or comments.)22
Appreciate the25 44 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 opportunity to appear before you this2 morning.3
I4 think you've been in this room a number5 of times.6
Just a few.7 And if I may, I'd like to thank8 Councilman DiCicco and Brian Abernathy9 for their leadership on this issue.10 We've had several discussions with both11 the Councilman and Mr. Abernathy about12 the future uses of this site, and they've13 been very helpful.14
Do we18 have anyone else to testify on this bill?19 (No response.)20 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:21 Before we read the title of the next22 bill, I would like the record to reflect23 that we do indeed have a quorum.24 To my extreme left is25 45 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 Councilman Kelly, Councilman Clarke,2 Councilwoman Brown, and Councilman3 Greenlee. To my extreme right is4 Councilman DiCicco, Councilwoman Miller,5 Councilman Goode, and Councilman Kenney.6 We will now proceed to Bill No.7 090169, and I think we should read both8 bills at the same time?9
I11 would also suggest that we consider12 090170 at the same time.13
Bill No. 090169,14 an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia15 Zoning Maps by changing the zoning16 designations of certain areas of land17 located within an area bounded by Berks18 Street, the Delaware River, Market19 Street, and Interstate 95.20 Bill No. 090170, an ordinance21 amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia22 Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by23 adding a new Section 14-1636 entitled,24 "Central Delaware Riverfront Overlay25 46 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 District," and by amending Section2 14-102, entitled "Definitions," under3 certain terms and conditions.4
Thank you5 very much.6 Mr. Greenberger, please7 identify yourself for the record and8 proceed.9
-- and I'm --14 we're going to do a little tag team. I'm15 going to ask Bill Kramer to talk about16 090169, and then I'll do 170.17
Councilman Kenney,20 Bill No. 090169 is a bill that amends the21 zoning maps by rezoning a large section22 of land along the Delaware Riverfront in23 order to update the zoning designation of24 the property to match their current uses25 47 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 or to guide future development in the2 area.3 The proposed action is4 consistent with the guidelines of the5 civic vision for the Central Delaware.6 As part of this remapping, active7 industrial uses remain with their current8 zoning designation. Where there was9 vacant land, the zoning was changed to a10 designation of C3 commercial in order to11 facilitate development while, at the same12 time, limiting the amount of impacts that13 would result from a higher14 classification.15 Additionally, Penn Treaty Park16 was rezoned from a designation of G217 general industrial to a designation of18 recreational.19 I would ad that this bill,20 since we've drafted this testimony, has21 been amended. There were changes made22 that -- originally, we were changing the23 C4 and C5 designations to a consistent24 designation of C3 commercial. The25 48 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 amendment is being requested to revert it2 back to the existing designations on the3 current maps.4 The City Planning Commission,5 at its meeting of May 19th, considered6 this bill and recommended that it be7 approved.8 I will now turn over to9 Mr. Greenberger for testimony on Bill No.10 090170.11
Good morning,12 Councilmembers. Nice to be here. I'm13 Alan Greenberger, the Executive Director14 of the Philadelphia Planning Commission,15 and I'm here to testify on Bill 090170,16 which was introduced by Councilmember17 DiCicco on March 5, 2009.18 Bill 090170 amends the19 Philadelphia Zoning Code by creating20 Section 14-1636, entitled "Central21 Delaware Riverfront Overlay District."22 This overlay is an interim measure to23 protect the City's waterfront while a24 central waterfront master plan is created25 49 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 and its tenets adopted.2 The district will apply in an3 area bounded by Allegheny Avenue in the4 north, Delaware River, Oregon Avenue on5 the south, and I-95 Expressway.6 It will require, among other7 things, a waterfront setback, active uses8 to be located on the ground floor, with9 75 percent transparency or glass required10 for such properties. There will also be11 a waterfront access requirement that12 would place limits on the amount of13 front-yard setbacks.14 The bill also establishes15 prohibited uses in the district,16 including such things as non-accessory17 signs, buildings over 40,000 square feet18 intended to be used as a single retail19 store as principal use, newly-constructed20 parking garages, parking lots as a main21 use, and self-storage facilities.22 The bill will also require an23 approval of a plan of development by the24 Planning Commission for all commercially-25 50 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 zoned properties as well as properties2 adjacent to the Delaware River. This3 plan, the plan of development, must be4 approved prior to the issuance of any5 zoning permits.6 The Commission will have 607 days in which to approve completed plans.8 In addition, the bill requires the9 Planning Commission to adopt regulations10 providing objective standards for the11 required plan of development review.12 This legislation has been the13 subject of much discussion between the14 District Councilman's office, the15 residential representatives,16 representatives for the development17 community, as well as the Planning18 Commission staff, and the City Law19 Department. These discussions have20 generated an amended version of the21 original bill, and I respectfully submit22 the amendment for consideration by this23 committee.24 I'd also like to note that25 51 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 there's been considerable debate about2 the value of passing this legislation3 now, in advance of completion of a4 waterfront master plan for which the5 Planning Commission is currently6 reviewing consultant qualification7 statements.8 We anticipate that the master9 plan will require 12 to 16 months to10 complete. During that period, we feel11 that it is essential to codify the City's12 intentions for the kind of development13 and public amenities we would like to see14 on the waterfront. This overlay is the15 vehicle to accomplish that end.16 We view it, as it has been17 presented repeatedly by Councilman18 DiCicco, an interim measure that we fully19 expect to amend once the master plan is20 complete. In the meantime, it is21 essential that we have regulations in22 place that create appropriate23 expectations for the waterfront24 development.25 52 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 The City Planning Commission,2 at its meeting of May 19, 2009,3 considered Bill 090170 and recommended4 that it be approved.5 This concludes my testimony. I6 do appreciate the opportunity to appear7 before you and am ready to answer any8 questions you might have.9
Thank10 you very much.11 I believe you state that it12 will take 12 to 16 months to complete the13 waterfront master plan and that you are14 now reviewing consultant qualification15 statements.16
That's right.17 They are actually -- to be specific, the18 RFP was posted, and responses are due, I19 believe, on June 19th. And we expect to20 see a pretty substantial number of21 responses.22
How23 long has the City been considering the24 development of a waterfront master plan?25 53 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Oh, that's a2 trick question. How many decades back3 would you like to go?4 I think it's fair to say that5 in the current iteration, this really6 began at the instigation of Councilman7 DiCicco, along with then-Mayor Street, to8 create a current plan, a 21st century9 plan, for the waterfront that, I think at10 this point, must go back several years to11 start, that it started, creating a civic12 vision and action plan the adoption by13 the Planning Commission of the principles14 of that plan.15 So, at least in its current16 version, I would say that this is several17 years in the making.18
Great.19 Can you tell us if this plan20 would have to be coordinated with the21 work of the Zoning Commission?22
Yes. In23 fact, it falls at a perfect time to be24 coordinated with the Zoning Commission.25 54 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 We will, in the next year, be rewriting2 the code; and then following that, we'll3 be remapping the code.4 So the master plan, as any5 master plan in the City, is a way to6 guide the remapping, which would then be7 happening at about this -- starting at8 about this time next year. So the timing9 actually works quite well.10
Thank11 you.12 The Chair recognizes Councilman13 Clarke.14
Thank you,15 Madam President.16 Just a real quick question:17 How deep into the residential community18 does this overlay go, if at all?19
Very little.20 The only residential community that the21 overlay encompasses is a small segment22 between I-95 and Delaware Avenue, I would23 say, from about, uh, goes from Callowhill24 up through --25 55 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 (Addressing Mr. Kramer.) Can2 you help me with this, Bill? Do you3 recall? Do you want me to repeat the4 question?5
You're asking6 about the boundaries of the overlay7 district --8
That would be11 residential?12 The entire district runs from13 Oregon Avenue to Allegheny Avenue. The14 residential component is probably --15 because it goes only as far west as I-95,16 I would say probably north of Spring17 Garden. Parts of it north of Spring18 Garden, maybe parts of it up to Allegheny19 Avenue, depending. I would have to look20 to be certain.21
There are a22 number of streets -- picture this.23 There's a number of streets, yeah, from24 north of Spring Garden. It's a small25 56 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 sliver of streets. Runs up right near2 the proposed SugarHouse Casino --3
I think I-959 cuts it off at Girard Avenue, in fact, at10 the Girard Avenue interchange.11
So between13 Girard and about Spring Garden or14 Callowhill.15
Any18 other questions from members of the19 committee?20 (No further questions.)21
You're24 welcome. Thank you.25 57 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 Okay. Our next witnesses will2 be...3
The first panel:4 Harris Steinberg, Steve Weixler, Timothy5 Kerner.6 (Witnesses come forward.)7
Good8 morning. Kindly identify yourself for9 the record and proceed with your10 testimony.11
My name is15 Harris Steinberg. 25 58 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 In 2006, Councilman DiCicco and2 his aide, Brian Abernathy, asked my3 office to lead a public planning process4 for the Central Delaware. 10 In November of 2007, Penn11 Praxis and the Central Delaware Advisory12 Group issued the civic vision for the13 Central Delaware. 20 Cities around the world are21 investing in infrastructure that can22 support a high quality of life for the23 people who live and work there. 8 Providing a framework for9 creating urban space along the river is10 particularly relevant today. 14 The greenway and trail system15 to be developed at the river's edge is in16 many ways what will define the riverfront17 for the future of Philadelphians. As we18 know from Fairmount Park and the trails19 on Kelly and Martin Luther King Drives,20 generous public space can be a tremendous21 legacy for future generations. 2 The civic vision and action3 plan recommend the greenway have a4 100-foot minimum standard width where it5 is achievable. This is an important6 standard because in some areas of the7 Central Delaware, a 100-foot setback is8 already impossible to reach. 21 A generous public greenway will22 be the signature of the revitalizing23 riverfront and distinguish Philadelphia24 from other cities which lack proximity to25 63 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 one of the nation's great rivers, the2 Delaware. 5 It's important to keep in mind6 that this bill is still limited and7 focused on the fundamentals. There is8 only so much that can, and should be,9 legislated in the absence of a master10 plan. For instance, the legislation does11 not provide guidelines for density and12 height of buildings. 23 These first steps are important24 ones. The legislation is the first25 64 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 official step to leave a legacy for2 Philadelphia's future. 7 Philadelphia has a rich8 tradition of bold planning, from Penn's9 original plan, William Penn's original10 plan, with its signature street grid,11 development parcels and open spaces, to12 Fairmount Park and the Benjamin Franklin13 Parkway and, most recently, with the14 creation of the commuter tunnel. 25 65 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Thank2 you. Are you gentlemen going to testify?3
15 I'm here this morning in strong16 support of the bill, as amended, offered17 by Councilman DiCicco for interim zoning18 overlay in the area of the Delaware19 River. 2 Industrial brownfields and neglected3 sites line most of our riverfront, and4 all of this has been supported by the5 lack of clear direction from the City6 through its zoning codes and through its7 urban planning functions. 12 A continuous public waterfront13 trail open and accessible to all for a14 variety of uses, encouraging neighbors to15 enjoy the river bank. 18 The Central Delaware Advocacy19 Group is aware of the rights of20 landowners and of the underlying zoning21 code and has no wish to infringe upon22 those conditions. 13 While other areas of Philadelphia have14 grown, the riverfront has not. 17 Third, the bill is an important18 step in new economic growth in19 Philadelphia. Shortly after the Trump20 organization announced the cancelation of21 its high-rise condominium project in22 Northern Liberties last fall, a prominent23 Realtor was quoted in the Philadelphia24 Business Journal as saying, "Those25 71 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 high-end buyers are never going to move2 to a neighborhood without amenities like3 Rittenhouse or Old City. "5 This bill would encourage the6 kind of renaissance we are seeing in7 Northern Liberties and other places:8 Neighborhoods seen by the civic vision9 with small businesses, restaurants,10 families, varied housing, and life on the11 streets. 24
Good25 72 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 morning.2
Good morning,3 Madam President and members of Council.4 My name is Tim Kerner and I'm a member of5 the steering committee of the Design6 Advocacy Group (DAG). DAG is a7 thousand-member volunteer organization,8 and we are dedicated to the promotion of9 quality urban design in our city.10 I have a statement to read11 today which was prepared by the steering12 committee of our organization.13 The Design Advocacy Group14 supports the civic vision for the Central15 Delaware, and we are pleased that the16 Philadelphia City Planning Commission17 recently adopted this vision, which is18 the product of a comprehensive,19 citizen-driven process.20 The civic vision's action plan21 calls for an interim overlay for the22 waterfront. DAG feels this is a prudent23 step to ensure that nothing occurs along24 the river that will preclude the25 73 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 realization of a vision before the actual2 rezoning of the waterfront is completed.3 It must be understood, however,4 that this is a temporary measure and that5 long-term growth along the waterfront6 needs to be guided by the Central7 Delaware Riverfront master plan soon to8 be undertaken by the Planning Commission.9 The master plan must be based on the same10 open and comprehensive process that11 created the firm foundation of the civic12 vision and the action plan.13 While DAG supports the creation14 of an interim overlay, we are concerned15 that the proposed legislation, or perhaps16 the previously proposed legislation,17 which has some current updates, does not18 directly address the density recommended19 in the vision plan.20 We, therefore, recommend that21 the Planning Commission use its powers to22 permit well-designed, higher-intensity23 development along the waterfront, as24 depicted in the vision plan.25 74 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 While the real estate market is2 now weak, it is essential that3 development be guided by the patterns of4 height, density, and intensity of use5 that participants agreed upon for the6 vision plan.7 The overlay seeks to ensure8 access to the waterfront and the creation9 of public right-of-way at the water's10 edge. These are crucial to the civic11 vision.12 Although this is a sensitive13 issue because of its effect on private14 property, a generous public waterfront15 trail at the water's edge will greatly16 improve the public realm and increase the17 beauty and value of adjacent development18 parcels. Therefore, we urge the City to19 seek a generous public right-of-way to20 adequately, while ensuring a structure to21 adequately address the concerns of22 property owners.23 The fact that an interim24 overlay is required to protect the25 75 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 long-term future of the civic vision2 highlights the urgent need to proceed3 with the development of a comprehensive,4 thorough, and well-crafted master plan as5 quickly as possible. We applaud the City6 for moving forward on the concepts7 established in the vision plan under the8 oversight of the City Planning Commission9 and look forward to the completion of the10 riverfront master plan.11 I appreciate the opportunity to12 appear before you today.13
Thank14 you very much.15 Are there any questions or16 comments from members of the committee?17 The Chair recognizes Councilman18 DiCicco.19 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you,20 Madam Chair, and good morning.21 Mr. Kerner?22
Yes.23 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Unless I24 missed it in your testimony, has your25 76 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 organization come to any conclusion or2 have an opinion on the appropriate3 setback requirement?4
Well, that's a5 complex question, and I would hesitate to6 speak for the entire organization or I --7 and even the steering committee.8 There is support for the9 proposed setback as it was originally10 framed, with a hundred feet and with11 provisions provided to address the needs12 of smaller parcels where that is13 difficult.14 But what I would hesitate to15 state is whether the steering committee16 would endorse what is currently written,17 but I would say that we do support the18 intent of the 100-foot setback.19 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you.20
Thank21 you.22 Any further questions or23 comments from members of the committee?24 (No further questions.)25 77 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:2 Gentlemen, thank you very much.3 PANEL MEMBERS: Thank you.4
Michael Sklaroff,7 Craig Schelter.8 (Witnesses come forward.)9
15 To begin with -- and I'll16 explain something about the Development17 Workshop in a moment -- we would like to18 thank Councilman DiCicco and Brian19 Abernathy for including us in the process20 of reviewing the bill. 23 The Development Workshop, who24 are we? 17 We have four former18 Philadelphia planning directors, two19 former commerce directors, several20 economic development leaders. 12 I would like also to say that13 among the Central Design Advocacy Group,14 to my knowledge, there was not one15 landowner who had actually developed at16 the riverfront. And we had offered to17 Harris Steinberg and Penn Praxis to sit18 down with us, and we would share some of19 the things that we learned about actually20 developing in the City, and Mr. 22 What do we support? We support23 comprehensive planning, including looking24 at assets of the City such as the Central25 80 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 Delaware Riverfront, in a citywide2 context. We support good design, and3 we've done good design, and some of our4 people are leaders in supportable green5 development and LEED development. 9 Now, the urban design exercise10 of the civic vision is not a11 comprehensive plan; I think everyone12 knows that at this point. We have been13 urging for several years for the Planning14 Commission to be supported in an effort15 to begin a comprehensive plan, and for16 two years, nothing has been done. And17 it's just started and, as Mr. 9 The Charter envisions that the10 standards for zoning will be decided by11 City Council -- that is you folks -- and12 it will be administered by the Department13 of Licenses and Inspections. 16 This creates an entire zone17 where it will not be this Council but it18 will be the Planning Commission that19 makes the stop or go decision on a20 parcel-by-parcel basis as to whether a21 landowner can build in the overlay22 district in commercial districts. That23 is a radical change, and it is24 unsupported by the Charter. 9 But there is a plan out there10 that was approved by the Planning11 Commission in 1982, and that plan12 provides for many of the things that are13 being discussed today. The plan is14 available. 7 Now, there are two major8 examples of how that plan was brought9 into fruition. The first was the10 construction of the Great Plaza at Penn's11 Landing, but that Great Plaza is used for12 at least 20 ethnic festivals during the13 year. 18 Now, if you go down to Piers 319 and 5, the residences or La Veranda or20 Dave & Buster's, you will notice that21 there's a river walk. In fact, the river22 walk is two-and-a-half miles long, and it23 supports public access. 10 And you know what? There is11 public access, there's a river walk,12 there are people jogging, there are13 bicyclists. 17 Mr. Lonie presented and Bill Kramer. And18 there, 80 percent of that is done on19 public property, and they negotiated with20 landowners. And they're funded for that;21 they had $23 million of federal22 transportation money, in stark contrast23 to what is being done here. 7 COUNCILMAN KENNEY:8 Mr. Sklaroff, just to interrupt you, and9 Council President will be back. 12
When you start17 there, there is sidewalk there, which is18 available for conversion to a river walk.19
As you know, we21 still have, thank goodness, some22 industrial base in the City of23 Philadelphia. We have shipping north of24 Oregon Avenue, okay? You wouldn't want25 86 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 it closer to the river, where stevedores2 and longshoreman are unloaded ships.3
I just4 wanted to orientate myself to what you5 were talking about from Oregon Avenue to6 Washington Avenue. I recognize the7 sidewalk in Penn's Landing Area --8
And you can13 argue that that's available for jogging14 and recreation, but the area from Oregon15 Avenue to Washington Avenue, I don't know16 if I would want to necessarily jog there.17
Well, there were18 people there who were jogging this19 morning at 6:15.20
All I'm saying25 87 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921 is, you don't have to now encroach on2 development --3
I didn't4 mean to interrupt you, but I wanted to5 orientate myself to what you were talking6 about 'cause I grew up in that7 neighborhood.8
But if you look16 at the Penn Praxis material, it's as if17 they arrived from Philadelphia and18 thought they were William Penn.19
I just23 wanted to make sure I understood the24 area. Thank you.25 88 6/3/09 RULES - 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 3921
Now --2 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: And it3 doesn't look much different when William4 Penn, from the time when he arrived --5
-- in7 terms of development, Mr. Sklaroff, let's8 be honest.9
Well, actually,10 I don't think that's a fair statement.11 COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: I do12 because I hear you.13 And I hate to interrupt you,14 but you talk about developers and all of15 these folks who have done all of this16 development. What development are you17 talking about?18