COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 9, 2014 10:35 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN ED NEILSON COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
We have now established a quorum. I'd ask all guests and visitors to please retire behind the rail and members take their seat and we will have our invocation. This morning the Chair recognizes Pastor Franklin Rodriguez of CDA Ministries Community Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Greenlee. I would ask all guests and visitors and members to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Council President Clarke, distinguished body, let us pray. Father, I come before you today to ask for your blessing. The blessing I ask for the blessing on the servants of the people, our elected officials. You know them. You know their hearts. They are the voice of our community. Father, one of the symbols that we see in this building every day is a woman, she's blindfolded, and she's holding the scales of justice. This is their task as servants, to ponder and to weigh problems and solutions in a way that is just. But what is justice? Is it the will of the many or the need of the one? Father, their task is among the most difficult to ask of any one person. I ask you to grant them wisdom, guidance, patience, clarity of thought, the power to reason. Give them an understanding heart. Father, some of them are tired, beaten down by the many battles that have already been fought, some to victory and some in defeat. Father, renew their them the fire that burns from the knowledge of truth and justice, from right and wrong. Father, we also ask that you watch over our sons and daughters that may be in harm's way. We pray these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much for those inspiring words. Thank you. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 2nd, 2014. Folks, can I have a little quiet, please. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 2nd, 2014 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 2nd, 2014 stand approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, two leaves of request for absence have been submitted, one by Councilmember Marian Tasco and the other by Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson.
Thank you. Leave shall be granted. Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to welcome and thank everyone who has come down today to witness their government in action. We hope that your stay here today is a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. Again, thank you so much for being here. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution honoring the Moorish Science Temple of America. Would the Minister Azeem Hopkins-Bey and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium.
To colleagues and guests, Mr. President, it gives me great pleasure to present this resolution on behalf of our colleague Councilwoman Marian Tasco wherein we will be honoring the Moorish Science Temple of America on its 100th Anniversary. Whereas, the Moorish Science Temple of America was founded in 1913 A.D. by Prophet Noble Drew Ali for the expressed purpose of uplifting fallen humanity, teaching their members their Nationality and Divine Creed; and Whereas, on July 20th, 1928, the Moorish Science Temple of America was established as the first Islamic religious organization to appoint and consecrate missionaries to propagate the faith of Muhammad in America, thus establishing the Islamic faith in America; and Whereas, the object of the Moorish Science Temple of America is to help in the great program of teaching those things necessary to make their members better citizens and to rebuild on human needs by dispensing charity and by providing for the mutual assistance of its members in times of distress; and Whereas, the Moorish Science Temple of America is a Divine and National Movement dedicated to the purpose of elevating the moral, social, and economic status of its community through the implementation of the specific grand principles of Love, Truth, Peace, Freedom, and Justice; and Whereas, the Moorish Science Temple of America, Temple No. 11 has existed within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia since August 3rd, 1928 and has been faithfully serving and meeting the needs of this community for over seven decades; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and recognize the Moorish Science Temple of America on its 100th Anniversary. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the representatives here this morning of the Moorish Science Temple of America as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Introduced by Councilwoman Marian Tasco and supported by all members of the Philadelphia City Council. Congratulations. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Mr. Hopkins-Bey for remarks.
I greet you in the ancient Moorish Islamic greeting Islam. (Islam.)
Islam simply means peace. I begin in the name of Almighty God who we refer to as Allah. I give honors to his holy divine prophet, Prophet Noble Drew Ali. (Unintelligible) to each and every one of you. Good morning, esteemed Council President Clarke.
Councilmembers, friends, family, and all those in attendance. I am sincerely honored to be in your presence and honored to accept this special recognition on behalf of the membership of the Moorish Science Temple of America. I would like to begin by thanking Council President Clarke, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilwoman Tasco, Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez, and the entire Council body, as well as the this day possible. I am Brother Azeem Hopkins-Bey. I serve as Grand Sheik of Moorish Science Temple No. 11 here in the City of Philadelphia. In connection with the aims, objects, rules, and regulation of the Moorish Science Temple of America, I deem it proper to submit to you a brief statement of our organization, covering its inception, rise, and progress of the Mohammedan religion. The Moorish Science Temple of America was founded in 1913 by Prophet Noble Drew Ali. In 1926, we were incorporated as a civic organization under the name Moorish Temple of Science. By July 1928, the organization was redesignated as a religious corporation under the name Moorish Science Temple of America due to the magnitude of its religious activity. Today, as a national organization, we host thousands of members, with hundreds of them being great city. Our purpose is to help in the great program of uplifting fallen humanity and to teach those things necessary to make our members become better citizens by teaching them their nationality and their divine creed. In addition to offering spiritual guidance, it is our mission to empower our brothers and sisters with the tools needed to build thriving families and to make positive contributions to our communities. We are invested in freeing ourselves and our children from the greatest plight of economic slavery. To this desirable end, we educate and encourage all to be financially literate, seek homeownership, and maintain gainful employment. Furthermore, we have also made it our mission to dispense charity and provide for the mutual assistance of our members as well as non-members regardless of their religious affiliation in times of distress, to aid in the improvement of health, and to encourage stability. Our work far exceed the walls of our temple, which is located in North Philadelphia near 5th and Dauphin. We have implemented more than a dozen programs to ensure that we are effectively and efficiently executing our organization's mission to be socially and politically engaged. Among those, our Healthy Meals Program where we provide nutritious meals to the community; missionary services where we engage local youth and encourage their participation in social change, education, and positive family development; regional support where we connect with our fellow Muslim brothers and sisters in our collective mission for religious freedom and education; and reformed guidance where we host monthly religious personal enrichment classes at the Arrowwood Federal Correctional Institution. Aside from the fact that the America is a legally organized religious corporation, we are purposed to address human needs. We, the people of the Moorish Science Temple of America, like countless other citizens, know that we must live together here in America and abroad in harmony, friendship, and goodwill. Last year we celebrated our 100th Anniversary, reaffirming our commitment to our culture and religion, which engulfs fundamental principles designed to strengthen civilization and posterity, which includes obedience to law, respect, loyalty to government, tolerance, and unity. We are friends and servants of humanity. We are dedicated to the purpose of elevating the moral, social, and economic status of our people.
We have set about to do this through a wide and comprehensive program embodying the principles of love, truth, peace, freedom, and justice. Tuesday, October the 14th at 1 o'clock in our annual tradition, we host the historical trek beginning at the Independence Visitors Center at 6th and Market. More than 200 of our members will gather to trace our national roots, and afterwards enjoy a feast at the African American Museum of History. We invite you all to participate in this event. Again, on behalf of the membership of the Moorish Science Temple of America, I thank you, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilwoman Tasco, and you all for this special recognition and joining the celebration of our history. We hope to see you Tuesday in the City of Brotherly Love. I bid you peace. )
Thank you very much. time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Neilson, who will present a resolution honoring Mike Iaconelli. Would Mr. Iaconelli and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining Councilman Neilson, we have Councilman Kenney and Councilman Squilla and Councilman Henon.
Good morning, everybody. Wow. Everybody sleeping out there? Good morning, everybody. (Good morning.)
You think I'm excited, wait till we introduce Mike Iaconelli. It gives me great pleasure today to present this award or present this citation to Mike Iaconelli. We'll read that in a little bit, but I wanted to touch on a few things. Philadelphia is full of champions. I know we have our Phillies, our Eagles, and our Flyers started last night, and we put a lot of pride in it. Just touch on NFL. The NFL football is a $10 billion business. $10 billion business. Bass fishing is 17 billion. It's huge. We have great resources right here in our backyard with the Delaware River that I happen to take full advantage of. I have a little bass tracker boat in my driveway and I take my boys out, and we have a great time. Although I don't think I'll be a bass champion like Mike Iaconelli, because like most, I bring out the chicken liver later on and go for the catfish. I do much better at catfish. But we have a great resource, and I encourage you all to take great advantage of it. Councilman Henon and I, we do a lot of scouting, as many of you know, and we try and teach our scouts how to fish. It's been 30 years. His mother has been schooling Bobby and I, Bobby's mom and I. Bobby's mother is a great fisher woman, great fisher woman, The Councilman's mother has been teaching us and schooling us for quite some time. She always gets the big ones. We always get the minnows. I don't understand, but I think it's in the bait. But bass fishing is huge across the country, and we have great resources. And we had a bass tournament in August, and there was one person responsible to try and lure the Bassmasters Elite Series. Lure, get it? Lure. And use his best Rapala to get it, and he hooked them. But what I'd like to, before I introduce Mike and we read the citation, I'd like to bring up Todd Pride from the Mid-Atlantic Youth Anglers, who is sharing this experience with kids all around the region. I'd like him to say a couple words prior to us reading the resolution. (Applause.)
Thanks, Councilman. Just to say a couple of quick city coordinator of this first-ever historic Bassmaster Elite Tournament, people thought we were crazy a couple years ago to try to bring one of these major tournaments here, but it came, and as the Councilman mentioned, bass fishing is a pretty big industry. Our Mid-Atlantic Youth Anglers has introduced several thousand kids to fishing, but we undertook the effort a couple years ago with some supporters to try to bring one of these events here. You're going to hear about a number of the partners in the resolution, but one of our early supporters of this was the veterans community. I want to ask George Ginder, the head of the Veterans Advisory Commission, to come up, who is also a Purple Heart recipient, with a trophy here; that you're going to hear from the winner of this in a few minutes. But as I said, you're going to hear about the partners in the resolution. Councilman Kenney, who early on stepped out when nobody really thought this was possible, Councilman Squilla, and then Councilman Henon, who really got behind our efforts with this. And Philadelphia Sports and Education Expo early on also was a part of our energy. So here's this trophy here. I think we have another trophy that was presented by the City of Philadelphia through the Philadelphia Sports Congress, which is a Rocky trophy, but I'm going to hand this over to Councilman Henon. Here is this trophy here that was presented to Mike. This was from the City of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Sports Congress, one of the major partners here. But a big thanks to the City of Philadelphia for really hosting this. But as you'll hear, I mean, Philadelphia now sits atop of the entire bass fishing industry, having broken the national attendance records for these events, and forward being at the top of the country with all these crazy tournaments you see Saturday and Sunday mornings on ESPN and other channels. So thank you. (Applause.)
Okay. Now I'd like to bring Mike and his wonderful wife, Becky, up here as we try and present this resolution. Recognizing and honoring Mike "Ike" Iaconelli for winning the Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament on the Delaware River. Whereas, the Bassmasters Elite Series event on the Delaware River was held August 7th, 2014 through August 10th, 2014 and was the first Bassmaster Elite event ever held in the City of Philadelphia; and
Whereas, the Bassmaster event was organized by Todd Pride and his Mid-Atlantic Youth Anglers and Outdoors Program, which was years ago. The event received generous support from many organizations such as: The Philadelphia Sports Congress, Delaware River Waterfront Corporation, VisitPA, Visit Philly, Delaware River City Corporation, Delaware River Yachtsman's League, Independence Seaport Museum, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Philadelphia Department of Parks and Recreation, WXTU Radio and 6ABC television station; and Whereas, Philadelphia is extremely hopeful that this great event will come back to Philadelphia and become a regular summertime staple. Bassmaster President, Jerry McKinnis, called the Philadelphia event "the greatest fishing event I have ever attended";
Whereas, the event culminated on August 10th, 2014 when Mike Iaconelli, a south Philly native -- South Philly native -- won the Bassmaster Tournament on the Delaware River, coming from 21st place on day one; Whereas, Mike Iaconelli won the tournament by a margin of 8 pounds and winning the four-day catch totaled 48 pounds 14 ounces, qualifying him for the 2015 world championship, the Bassmaster Classic; and Whereas, the Bassmaster Elite Series event on the Delaware River was Mike Iaconelli's 8th career victory, and Mike is the only angler in the competition history to achieve three major titles: the B.A.S.S. National Championship in '99, the Bassmaster Classic in '03 and the Toyota Tundra Angler of the Year 2006; and
Whereas, Mike first discovered fishing at his grandfather's house in the Poconos. He fished the Schuylkill River and the Pennypack Creek in high school and joined the pro-amateur circuit in 1992, becoming a full pro angler in 2000. Iaconelli, called Ike by his fans, now fishes up to 18 major events around the country; and Whereas, Mike Iaconelli co-hosts a popular live streaming Internet fishing show, Ike Live!, featuring special guests and champion anglers, fishing advice, and viewer questions; and
And whereas, Mike now resides in Pittsburgh -- Pittsgrove, New Jersey with his wife Becky and four children; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council is pleased to recognize and congratulate Mike Iaconelli for winning the 2014 Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament on the Delaware River. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Mr. Iaconelli for remarks. Mr. Iaconelli, remarks please, sir.
Thank you very much. First of all, I want to thank Council President Clarke. Thank you.
And special thanks to Councilman Neilson. Thank you. And all the Councilmen behind me. This is an amazing thing. I really feel like Philadelphia was an important part of not only my career but of my life. You know, I started fishing when I was a kid in the Poconos and here at the Schuylkill and Pennypack Creek, and my uncle and my grandfather were real instrumental in getting me started. When I first heard they were bringing a tournament here to the Delaware River, I thought they were kidding. I thought they were joking. I never in a million years imagined a major event would come to the city where I was born and a city that had so much impact on my life. to thank Todd Pride. Thank you very much for helping that become a reality. I'm super proud to be a native of South Philadelphia, to be born in Philadelphia, and I'm super proud to help showcase the Delaware River and the Delaware fishery and, more importantly, the City of Philadelphia to the world and let them know that we have an amazing resource in the river. Thank you very much. You can live out your dreams. And I appreciate the opportunity to speak today. Thank you. (Applause.)
One thing that I want to really mention that's real important, because I thought we were going to touch on it a little bit. Mike's different. You can tell when Mike circuit that he's a Philadelphia person. He's the only professional angler across the country that will not leave an event until he signs every single kid's autograph. You hear me? Every single kid. He does not leave one person standing at the dock without signing their autographs. No one does that. We have a lot of professional players around here. They won't even sign when they come up here. But he is very unique and he represents Philadelphia and proudly, and I tell you, real big applause. I tell you, it's all about you, Mike. (Applause.)
Thank you. One last thing. I noticed in Councilman Neilson's office he had Philadelphia Flyers and Eagles and Sixers jerseys hanging up. Here's a bass fishing jersey he can add to the collection. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. That concludes our presentations for today. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeants-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Folks, can I ask for a little quiet, please. Thank you. Mr. Decker, can you please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution appointing Michael Piper to the position of Chief Assessment Officer of the Office of Property Assessment; and A resolution appointing Ahmeenah Young to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority; and A resolution appointing Michelle Lai to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, all under certain terms and conditions.
Is that it, Mr. Decker? Do you have any additional communications?
Thank you very much. Those messages will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one resolution, which I'd like to be heard today.
A privileged resolution recognizing October 2014 as National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month, and acknowledging the many organizations and individuals that work to prevent bullying, raise awareness about its significant lifelong impact, and help young victims of bullying.
That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer one bill and two resolutions.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-2800, entitled "Universities, Property Owners or Managers and Students," and Chapter 10-1800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Vicarious Liability for Student Conduct," both of The Philadelphia Code, by amending the Fifth Councilmanic District into the definition of "Educational Housing District."
And a non-privileged resolution approving the City's acceptance of a Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development in the amount of $30,000,000 and authorizing the Director of Housing to enter into agreements with HUD necessary to receive the grant award.
And that resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Models Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 2031 through 33 North Seventeenth Street.
That will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance authorizing the construction of a sewer and appurtenant work in a proposed right-of-way, required to alleviate unsanitary conditions in a portion of Adams Avenue.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Third Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Neilson.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer one resolution co-sponsored by members Bass, Blackwell, Jones, and Sanchez. Thank you.
A privileged resolution recognizing and congratulating Angel Corella on his appointment as Artistic Director of the Pennsylvania Ballet.
That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Councilman. We'll come back, sir. What's the old saying, we save the best till last? You're not buying that? All right. Okay. How about I made a mistake? All right.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising the size requirements for accessory structures for residential uses.
That will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Five resolutions, two on your behalf, one of mine is sponsored by Tasco, Blackwell, Sanchez, Johnson, and Bass and the other by Tasco, Bass, Blackwell, and Reynolds Brown.
A privileged resolution honoring the extensive history of collaborative organization, overcoming adversity, and community service of Club Valiants, Inc. - an integral part of the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters - and Morgan Miller, President and first paramedic in the history of the organization to serve as President-elect of the Valiants.
That resolution will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committees on Public Health and Human Services and Public Safety to conduct joint hearings regarding Citywide emergency preparedness for healthcare emergencies such as identification and safe treatment of individuals who have contracted an infectious disease, such as the Ebola virus, and strategies to effectively suppress the spread of such infectious disease.
That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-First Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
That will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a resolution appointing Ahmeenah Young to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority.
And a resolution appointing Michelle Lai to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Municipal Authority.
That will also be referred to committee. And the Chair now recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Fifth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions this week.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution co-sponsored by Councilmembers Mark Squilla and Cindy Bass. Thank you.
A privileged resolution celebrating, honoring and thanking our veterans on Veterans Day 2014.
And that resolution will heard on today's Final Passage Calendar. That concludes our introductions of bills and resolutions, and we will now have reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports seven bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, would you please read that report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 140486, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sidewalk Vendors in Center City,' by eliminating previously designated vendor locations in Center City; and by revising and adding to the list of locations that shall not be designated for vending"; and Bill No. 140520, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' by adding the corner of Pleasant Street and Chew Avenue, abutting the Pleasant Playground, as a permissible location"; and Bill No. 140634, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' by revising provisions relating to the operation of farmers' markets on both sides of the 3500 block of Ryan Avenue"; and Bill No. 140650, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Traffic Code,' to change the amount of time that a boat, motor home, truck camper or vending cart may be parked in any on-street parking space"; and Bill No. 140651, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 238 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Hall Street from Fifth westwardly therefrom"; and Bill No. 140691, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Paul Stolfo, to construct, own and maintain an elevator encroachment to be located at 2536 through 38 Broad Street"; and Bill No. 140696, entitled "An ordinance repealing an ordinance (Bill No. 140490) entitled 'An ordinance authorizing Cafe Italiano to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1871 Cottman Avenue,'" respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the first the seven bills that were just read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day so as to permit first reading of Bills No. 140486, 140520, 140634, 140650, 140651, 140691, and 140696. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and those bills will be placed on the First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Goode for a report from the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development.
Thank you, on Commerce and Economic Development reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, to which was referred Bill No. 140640, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Economic Opportunity Plans,' to require that each Economic Opportunity Plan include information concerning the Equity Ownership (as defined) of the contractor, developer and/or recipient of financial assistance required to submit the Plan; and participants (as defined) engaged by the contractor, developer and/or recipient of financial assistance; and the eventual owner or owners of the project or contract to which the Plan relates; and requiring periodic reports updating Equity Ownership information"; and Bill No. 140641, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Business Income and Receipts Taxes,' to revise the Credit for New Job Creation by changing the minimum wage requirement in the definition of 'New Job'; and by providing an additional 'Special Tax Credit Opportunity for Job Creation' in the form of a multi-year tax credit for certain new jobs created in 2015," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 140640 and 140641. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day so as to permit first reading of Bills No. 140640 and 140641. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and those bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. That concludes our reports from committee, and the next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on 2ND READING our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up from Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: No. 120232, 140756, 140763, 140768, 130693-A, 140514-A, and 140715. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you very much, Councilman. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will have our public comment session. The public comment session will go as follows: If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution that is on the Final Passage Calendar today, I'd ask that you sign up at the table to my left, if you have not already done so. When your name is called, you will go to the middle of the Council where there is a podium and a microphone. The device on that podium has a light. When that light turns green, it is your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks, and when the light turns red, we will ask you to conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes to testify on bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, please call the first name.
Prior to that witness testifying, the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to be excused for the rest of the session. Is it possible being recorded as voting aye on all bills and resolutions?
Good morning. The light hasn't come on yet, sir. Good afternoon, President Clarke, City Council members, public citizens. My name is Trine Smith. I'm a native resident of Philadelphia. My household participates in the Housing Choice Voucher Program under the auspices of PHA, which Kelvin Jeremiah is CEO. On behalf of my household, I uphold Councilwoman Blackwell's Resolution 120232 regarding City Council having local oversight of the quasi-governmental housing agency PHA. In essence, I advocate, represent, and stay apprised on behalf of an underserved and marginalized demographic which is underserved, which is widespread across America, that being single African American households of low income which receive housing subsidies. Thus, I state emphatically that the testimony which PHA CEO Kelvin Jeremiah presented before both the Committee and Subcommittee of Oversight and Government Reform on May 22nd, 2014 is disingenuous. My family continues to experience an extended and acute grievance with the housing agency and their various departments, including both the executive office and their internal investigation department, the Office of Audit and Compliance. Self-designated poster family for Councilwoman Blackwell's resolution, I not only have firsthand account, I am firsthand account, as my family has experienced and endured PHA's vast affronts, gross misconduct in oversight, and mismanagement. Councilwoman Blackwell so desires the blessing of your endorsement as poster family for your said resolution and such adds strength to my strength. As well I desire to garnish the support of Councilmembers and their attendance for the hearings for the said resolution as selected the City responsibility to both public and moral health is a fierce, urgent concern. PHA has made great changes, which are commendable. However, there is much room for improvement. I can attest that PHA is still synonymous with deceit, malevolency, unprofessionalism, mismanagement, and unlawful misconduct, which PHA and other agencies alike have been established and founded are those which implement rules, regulations, policy, and procedures which are to be maintained, along with initiatives that make our city and living and health conditions better. Although my attempt was futile, representing my family pro se attorney, I opted to challenge the housing agency's gross misconduct. PHA, operating in deceit, exploited the indices of my unsuspecting household. Representing my family pro se with regard to PHA was a long shot, but I had to take the stance because all -- and I mean all -- the myriad avenues which I sought intervention and aid turned up inefficient. It was after the December 11th, 2013 hearing with PHA attorney Roger Ciafre who stated that there was nothing the court could do because they had sovereign immunity that I was compelled to search out a lawyer regarding the fraudulent investigation for it which PHA police officer John Cook submitted, the same with Detective Paul Brown, my biological blood over on my mother's side, actually signed off on. Deficient of legal dealings and distracted by the recent double shooting of my two loved ones this past June undoubtedly made it difficult to maintain focus on my court case. The rally, the hospital visits sideswiped my entire family. Councilman Curtis Jones attended one of the rallies. PHA continues to circumvent established rules and discount their policy and procedures, thus maintaining -- I simply seek your prayers and I really seek to garnish the support of City Council regarding oversight, local oversight, of PHA. Thank you.
Clarc King, commenting on 140514-A. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, Mr. President. Thank you. Thank you, Councilmembers, for your time. I'm here to comment on Resolution 140514-A. I'd like to start by saying that the Prime Minister of India had a speech in New York and he said that children, every child, is a precious gift from God. Now, I'd like to say that every teacher is vital to the nation and crucial to the formation and the survival of each and every child. I have to go along with the resolution to abolish the School Reform Commission. I believe they have lost their way. A new economy is going to erupt, and the pressure on education and on the children being educated is going to be tremendous. Undermining the education system undermines Philadelphia's economy and undermines the national security. We must understand the Federal Reserve's monetary financial system. The Philadelphia education system's crisis is a result of the private-sector finance, a system dependent on the Fed's unlimited bailouts. The reach of the monetary financial system demands the sale of PGW. It demands more charter schools. It demands the selloff of public assets and property. We must understand that economic warfare exists and it shouldn't form all political activity. The stabilization of the United States is the only imperative. Political leadership must work on the Congress. The Fed must be put into reorganization into the United States national bank credit system. Fund the 50 states. Activate the full employment policy. Then fund the redevelopment of North America as the economy platform that will reverse the greatest depression upon us as the national security demands, as the survival of the population depends upon. Thank you.
10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you very much for your testimony.
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. We will now consider the resolutions and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, would you please read the title of 120232.
A resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Public Safety to hold hearings concerning the role of the Philadelphia Housing Authority as it relates to housing, neighborhood and economic development, social services, reducing crime and building communities.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Bill No. 120232 be placed on the Suspension 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Calendar. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that Bill No. 120232 be placed on the Suspension Calendar. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and 120232 will be placed on the Suspension Calendar. Mr. Decker, 140756.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Sixth, Twenty-Fourth, 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Forty-Sixth and Fifty-First Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Resolution 140756 is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 140763.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Seventh, Sixteenth, Nineteenth, and Forty-Third Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and 140763 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140768. 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that Resolution 140768 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING is adopted. Mr. Decker, 130693-A.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by prohibiting the use of automated purchasing machines for the purchase of personal property; providing for the seizure and forfeiture of the machines used in violation; establishing certain exceptions; and imposing fines and penalties.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez. 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 140514-A.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled "Referenda Approved by the Voters," by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia call upon the Pennsylvania General Assembly and the Governor to abolish the School Reform Commission and 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING return local control of Philadelphia's schools, as proposed by a petition presented to Council and approved for submission to the electors by Resolution.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING The ayes are 14; the nays are one. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. (Applause.)
An ordinance authorizing and approving the modification of a Service Agreement between the City of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development relating to the refinancing of certain bonds, approving the issuance by the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development of bonds, notes or other evidences of indebtedness in one or more series, or in a combined series with certain other authorized indebtedness, to refinance certain bonds; and authorizing and approving the obligation of the City of Philadelphia to pay in full when due the Service Fee and other amounts payable 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING under the Service Agreement, as modified.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING passes. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional resolutions.
A resolution recognizing October 2014 as National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month, and acknowledging the many organizations and individuals that work to prevent bullying, raise awareness about its significant lifelong impact and help young victims of bullying, introduced by Councilman Kenney.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And a resolution recognizing and congratulating Angel Corella on his appointment as Artistic Director of the Pennsylvania Ballet, introduced by Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING adopted.
And a resolution honoring the extensive history of collaborative organization, overcoming adversity, and community service of Club Valiants, Inc. - an integral part of the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters - and Morgan Miller, President and first paramedic in the history of the organization to serve as President-elect of the Valiants, introduced by Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And a resolution authorizing the Committees on Public Health and Human Services and Public Safety to conduct joint hearings regarding the Citywide emergency preparedness for healthcare emergencies such as identification and safe treatment of individuals who have contracted an infectious disease, such as the Ebola virus, and strategies to effectively suppress the spread of such infectious disease, introduced by Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to speak on this resolution.
As we look at the world news, many of my 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING constituents, many people that I meet throughout the City say that the infectious outbreak of Ebola is somewhere else, is someone else's problem, but brave people like Councilwoman Blackwell have taken it upon herself to meet about this issue in a way to be thoughtful to the human casualty of many, many, many souls that have been taken by this disease. The "somewhere else" theory and feeling also is being dispelled because what we're finding is whether it's healthcare workers or people who have traveled, it is beginning to come home. This resolution speaks not to those fears, but to crush them with knowledge. So what are we doing in hospitals to prepare ourself for the possibility of these kinds of outbreaks? What are we doing at our airports? What are we doing at our schools? What are we doing when it comes to E-86, which is a similar virus that has been contracted, particularly devastating to young people? 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Many Americans don't feel we are prepared, even though we've been assured by Washington that we are. What this Council will do is take a hard look at it, ask the questions. And it's not a sin not to be prepared. It is a sin to act like you are and move around like we haven't a care in the world. So I applaud my colleagues for stepping up to the plate and taking on issues that might not seem like they belong here or should be somewhere else, but making sure that if they do come here, we are prepared. Thank you, Mr. President.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.) 10/9/14 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And a resolution celebrating, honoring and thanking our veterans on Veterans Day 2014, introduced by Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. And that concludes our Calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Council President. I just would note that I have left a flyer of music categories and dates of performances on Councilmembers' desks. Please look at it. There's a lot of exciting events, all from Philadelphians here, very creative. Please come out and support and have a great time. Thank you very much.
you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to address my colleagues here today and speak about something that we're a little familiar with, letters from our constituents. I received a letter in particular recently that I wanted to share with you all, and as you will see all on your desk, each of you have received a similar correspondence. It says, Dear Councilman Henon, my name is Billy. I'm a very young, male, puppy-age Terrier Russell mix and I'm less than a year old and have already mastered cuddling, house training, and some other commands. I'm social. I'm affectionate, and I love to play. Toys? I'll chase them. Tag? I'll chase you. I'm eager to learn how to please. Come get me out of the shelter. Let's not waste any time. I'm ready to self to your household. So far, we have just one photo here, but I'm such a handsome dude, you can tell already. Love, Billy. So as you know, there's many letters and many dogs like Billy, many animals that have sent correspondence that are less important messages that we get from constituents, but Billy is looking for a forever home, and as a part of National Adoption Shelter Dog Month, I wanted to let everyone know about the upcoming event with the Animal Care and Control Team called Duck Dash that will go a long way in helping Billy and so many other dogs find forever homes. Duck Dash raises funds for ACCT's life-saving programs. October 18th in Love Park will be invaded by around 5,000 individual number rubber ducks. At the end of their swim, one lucky duck will be pulled from a flock winner, along with its owner. Duck owners will be able to win prizes like a thousand dollars in cash and iPads. However, the true value in participating in this event is, which takes more than -- ACCT, which takes more than 3,000 pets through their doors in a single year. So my ask is simple. I'm going to challenge my colleagues to adopt a duck for $5 or $20 for five ducks, enter into the race. This is Council's chance to stack the duck -- I mean deck -- and help the worthy cause. Of course, one duck wins, and if we win, we're going to have to donate it back. You can support ACCT and the Duck Dash in other ways too. There's a lot of ways that we could support it. So for further information, you're welcome to check out the cards on your desk or visit ACCTPhilly.org, and I appreciate everybody's time. A little something outside the box, a little different, a little something fun, a little something playful, but it's a little unique, it catches everybody's attention, and it could go a long way in helping some of the animals that we have here that we service in one of our programs. So thank you for your time.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Neilson.
Well, I guess we'll go from ducks to fish here, Council President. On everybody's desk, there's a box of Mike and Ike's. Of course, we honored Mike Iaconelli today, and I wanted to -- the words he puts under his name and something he's taking across the country resonates with every child throughout the Commonwealth and throughout the country is "never give up." go read Mike's full biography and the story, because everything he's accomplished they told him he couldn't do. And it's a couple words I forgot to say and I meant to say on there, and I just wanted to make sure they were on the record. And I'd also like to commend Councilman Kenney on his resolution on bullying. I've introduced two bills in my previous life, I call it, now that I'm an experienced Councilmember, up in the House, and the state has to take action. And I would call on all the Senate and the House members in the Commonwealth to take action, because bullying really hurts children, and that's what we're here to do, protect those who don't have a voice, and it's an important part for all of us. So I want to commend the Councilman on doing the right thing today and bringing that to all of our attention. you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just note all of us know Izzy Wright and what he does to save schools. We want to acknowledge his presence here today, and Butch Slaughter, who is with him. We thank them for being here. (Applause.)
Thank you, Councilwoman. There are no other speeches on the part of the minority and majority, so the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, October 16th, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
Folks, we are not done yet. Please keep it down. We'll be done in a second. Is there a second to the motion? (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it. Moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, October 16th. Thank you very much. ) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. MICHELE L. ) A ADJOURNME...