COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, December 2, 2010 10:20 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO, JR. COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Father John Flanagan of Roman Catholic School. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. (Amen.)
Lord, may everything we do begin with your inspiration and continue with your help prayers and works may begin in you and by you be happily ended. Lord God, unite us and inspire us to be a people of service, kindness and good works. As we soon enter into the winter season, we pray now for those people who are poor, homeless and hungry. God, please bring healing to those who are sick of mind, body or soul. Let us strive to be a city united in brotherly love, placing the dignity of every man, woman and child first and foremost in our governance. May our speech and actions reflect the love and compassion of our Lord. As we anticipate Christmas, may we be concerned with endowing every citizen with the spiritual gifts of love, joy and peace. God, we thank you for this day and humbly ask you to guide and bless us and all people of this Council and the City of Philadelphia. all this through Christ, our Lord. Amen. (Amen.)
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
The Chair thanks Father for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 18th, 2010. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 18th, 2010 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 18th, 2010 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Krajewski.
Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, the republicans request a leave of absence for Councilman Brian O'Neill.
Thank you. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. As a Board member of City Year and as an almost Peace Corps member 30 years ago, I'm thrilled to recognize the City Year Corps members who are with us today, and I'd like these eager optimists and tomorrow's leaders to please stand.
These young leaders are some of 225 Corps members who serve in all of our schools every day as tutors, mentors and advisors. that City Year is focused on ending the dropout rate, which we know is one of Mayor Nutter's primary initiatives this term. These Corps members are here today to meet many of my colleagues, and I'm hopeful that my colleagues will greet their eager faces and infectious personalities and spirits with warmth. They want to learn more about how they can be helpful in your councilmanic districts. I want to thank all members and guests saluting tomorrow's leaders. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you all very much. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution honoring State Representative Frank Oliver. Would State Representative Oliver and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. It appears as though all Councilmembers want to be a part of this. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you. In addition to family and friends, we also recognize State Representative Michelle Brownlee, who is his successor, handpicked for this seat. Resolution honoring and congratulating State Representative Frank Louis Oliver on the occasion of his retirement from the Pennsylvania General of dedicated service. Whereas, Frank Louis Oliver was born and raised in Philadelphia attending Dobbins Vocational High School and later working in the City as an Auditing Clerk and Deputy Sheriff; and
Whereas, he succeeded Francis Lynch as State Representative in the 195th District by virtue of winning in a special election in 1973; and Whereas, he has served continuously in that seat since that time and is credited with being a founding member of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus; and
He has served as Chairman of the House Health and Human Services Committee and as a member of the Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee, the Children and Youth Committee and the State Government Committee; and Whereas, Representative Oliver has sponsored or co-sponsored some of the most thoughtful and compassionate legislation of our time, including the indoor smoking ban and laws allowing mothers convicted on drug-related offenses to nevertheless receive welfare, cash assistance and food stamps; and
Whereas, he forcefully supported Fresh Food Financing Initiatives that encouraged supermarket development in urban areas; and Whereas, he has served as Ward Leader for the 29th Ward in the City of Philadelphia and is Treasurer of the Democratic Executive Committee in Philadelphia; and
Whereas, after more than thirty-six years of service, Representative Oliver is scheduled to retire at the conclusion of his current term in 2010; and Whereas, the citizens of the enjoyed a better quality of life because of his committed service and owe to him a tremendous debt of gratitude. Now, therefore, be it
Be it resolved, that the Council of -- the Philadelphia City Council hereby congratulates Representative Frank Louis Oliver on the occasion of his retirement from the Pennsylvania General Assembly after thirty-six years of great service. Thank you. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Let the record show, further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented as a sincere expression of Council's gratitude and enormous appreciation for your many years of service. Certified that this is a true and correct copy. Signed by the President of City Council. Introduced by Blackwell, Clarke, Greenlee, Miller, Goode, Green and Blondell Reynolds Brown, and sponsored by every single member of the Philadelphia City Council. Congratulations, and thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Representative Oliver for remarks. REPRESENTATIVE OLIVER: Thank you very much, President Verna. It has been an honor on my part for you to recognize me this day. I had some prepared notes here. Guess what? I don't even want to use them. I feel so good to be honored like this, and these fine remarks that I've heard, sometimes I wonder what else did I do to cause this. Thirty-seven years I believe on any job, I think, is wonderful. It certainly has been for me. And I would also like to say, Blackwell, you took a year away from me. You said 36. Please give me that other year.
Sorry. REPRESENTATIVE OLIVER: Because it's going to mean so much to me as far as retirement is concerned. And it's been so wonderful to see some of my good friends. Alan Butkovitz, as far as a colleague of mine, one who I have the highest respect for, one who Bob Brady will tell you that I came to him prior to even an endorsement to nominate or recommend you have him, because I know you were so immanently qualified after what I witnessed on your behalf there in Harrisburg. And I would say to you, no question about it, you certainly are entitled to an outstanding future in this city, because you sure earned it. Ladies and gentlemen, again, I wish I could -- I just wish I could just really tell you how much this really And, number one, one person certainly who portrayed a very important part of my life, and that's my wife, my wife of 54 years. (Applause.) REPRESENTATIVE OLIVER: And guess what? In that 54 years, she never kicked me out, not one time. So I must have been doing something right. And also my colleague here, Michelle Brownlee, my successor, let me say something to you. She's going to Harrisburg immanently qualified, more so than when I went there, because when I went up there, I was just agreeing to the dollar bill. I didn't even know my way around. But guess what? She's been with me almost those 37 years. So it's no question about it. She knows the rope. She's going to be an outstanding legislator that we can all be really, really happy to know that she's there. Michelle Brownlee. (Applause.) OLIVER: She has been my right arm. And those people also who is here who are responsible, help to put me there, Ms. Dennis, Sandy Stevitz and Kim here, my daughter-in-law. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you again. President Verna, you've given me the honor, one that I shall never forget, to address this Council. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you so much. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. REPRESENTATIVE OLIVER: I forgot to mention also, please, my Councilman here, Bill Greenlee, and Darrell Clarke, my Councilperson. And Jannie, no question about it. She's been my Councilperson. She's been my everything. Let me tell you something, in need, Jannie has always been there for me. And, Jannie, thank you so much.
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a citation on behalf of Council President Verna to Commander Adrienne J. Simmons. Would Commander Simmons and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I'm honored to have been asked to present this City Council, City of Philadelphia citation honoring and recognizing Commander Adrienne J. Simmons. The Council of the City of proud to honor and recognize Commander Adrienne J. Simmons of the United States Navy, following 19 years of dedicated service as a member of the Naval Reserve Nurses Corps. Whereas, Commander Adrienne J. Simmons was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Delaware in 1987 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia in 1991. She entered the Navy through the Bachelor Degree Completion Program and was commissioned as an Ensign in the Navy Nurse Corps on May 17, 1991; and Whereas, Commander Simmons' first duty station was the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland and she was assigned as a staff nurse on a combined general surgery and urology unit. She finished her tour of duty on a high-risk labor and delivery unit. overseas at Naval Hospital Okinawa, assigned as a staff nurse on a busy medical, surgical and pediatric unit, where she quickly assumed the position of Assistant Division Officer. While in Japan, Commander Simmons earned a Master's of Arts in Public Administration from the University of Okinawa Distance Education Program; and Whereas, upon completion of her first overseas tour, Commander Simmons reported to Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, where she served as a staff nurse and education coordinator. After one year, she was selected as the department head for two branch health clinics, responsible for primary care for Marine recruits, field medical school personnel, active-duty personnel and retirees and their family members; Whereas, in 2001, Commander Simmons was selected for duty under instruction. She earned a Master of the Family Nurse Practitioner Program from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2003. Following graduation, Commander Simmons served as a family nurse practitioner at Naval Hospital Yokosuka, Japan and also as the Fleet Women's Health Program Coordinator where she provided deck plate care to the active-duty women of the 7th Fleet, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program Coordinator and department head of the branch clinic in Yokohama, Japan; and Whereas, from March 2007 to March 2008, Commander Simmons was deployed on a Provincial Reconstruction Team in Khost, Afghanistan, serving as Medical Officer in Charge, Trauma Treatment Coordinator, Medical Training Officer, Medical Operations Planner, Health Sector Development Officer and Command Liaison for Director of Women's Affairs. As her final tour, she was assigned to Naval Health Clinic on MCAS Carolina; Whereas, due to her many, and I should say great, outstanding accomplishments and fine record, Commander Simmons is authorized to wear the Bronze Star Medal, Navy Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal, National Defense Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Non-Article 5 ISAF Medal, Navy Marksman Rifle Ribbon and Navy Sharpshooter Pistol Ribbon. Therefore, by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to honor and recognize Commander Adrienne J. Simmons of the United States Navy, following 19 years of dedicated service as a member of the Naval Reserve Nurse Corps. her distinguished service and extend to her the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body.
And this is presented to you, and we certainly thank you for all the wonderful service you have given to the United States and America. We just are pleased. I'm pleased just reading this about you, and you've done a fine job. And you're too young to retire, but good luck. )
And this citation and resolution is on behalf of Councilwoman President Anna Verna.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Commander Simmons for remarks. COMMANDER SIMMONS: Thank you very much. Good morning. Good morning, President and members of the City for me to be here today, and I thank you very, very much for this honor. Twenty years has been a long time. Actually, as the gentleman before me spoke, it's 20 years, so I need that for retirement credit. So that's been 20 years and three months of service, retired November 1st. And it was an honor to serve my country and an honor to represent Philadelphia as I did. All my troops knew that I was from Philadelphia. I want to say that please remember the troops. They are working hard. They are sacrificing for us, a lot of hardship that they're experiencing. And when you come into contact with people who are veterans who are coming back from any war, but from these two wars, from Iraq and Afghanistan, please reach out a hand to help them. They're going through a lot of difficulties, and we need your support. I just want to say that none of been successful without my faith in God, and I want to thank my family and my friends for all of their support during my time in the military. And I just want to give a special recognition to my mom, Maddie Simmons, who has been very supportive of me. (Applause.) COMMANDER SIMMONS: And to my grandfather, Isaac Simmons, who is 98 years old. (Applause.) COMMANDER SIMMONS: And to my Aunt Jessie Frisby for this honor. Thank you all very much. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo, who will present a resolution to the Philadelphia Children's Kirchner and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam President. Good morning, everyone, and I'd like to welcome you to our Council session today, and I'd like to present a resolution recognizing, honoring, celebrating, and thanking the Philadelphia Children's Alliance for its invaluable contributions to the City of Philadelphia.
Councilman, excuse me. Excuse me. The noise level is much too high. We're still trying to conduct business. Thank you.
Whereas, the Philadelphia Children's Alliance, an independent non-profit organization 1989, promotes healing and justice for child abuse victims in Philadelphia; and
Whereas, child sexual abuse occurs in every socioeconomic group, every walk of life and every neighborhood, and although estimates of occurrence of sexual abuse vary widely, many experts now estimate that one in every four women was sexually abused as a child, and for boys, the rate is estimated to be one in seven by the age 16; and Whereas, in Philadelphia, there are 21 (sic) reported cases of child sexual abuse each year; and
Whereas, the Children's Alliance accomplishes this mission at its facility by enabling police, child protective service social workers, prosecutors, medical and mental health professionals, and victim advocates to participate in a team interview process with the child victim family; and Whereas, the strength of this process lies in the multi-disciplinary team approach and the Alliance's highly skilled, experienced child forensic or investigative interviewers who coordinate the team and facilitate the interview process in a very neutral and objective manner; and
Whereas, the Children's Alliance, as set forth in their goals, "helps put the pieces together again" by responding with care and concern to help children, to support families, to work closely with agencies that provide services and to be a resource for adults who care for children. Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that it recognizes, honors, celebrates, and thanks the Philadelphia Children's Alliance for its invaluable contributions to the City of
Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Children's Alliance further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. Congratulations on your great work. (Applause.)
I just have a few remarks. I want to thank Council for this honor. This is fantastic. We are very grateful and appreciate your recognition. I want to introduce our Board President, Betsy Scarcelli, and our Secretary, Steven Smith, and staff members Jan Hatchard, Preference Bolton and Christine Jones, who are joining me up here today. Everybody else had to the office, because we have kids to see today. I just wanted to let you know that every month, there are an average of 150 reports of alleged sexual abuse to the Philadelphia Department of Human Services and the Police Department. That's 150 reports per month. When a child discloses that they have been sexually abused, various professionals, including police, DHS social workers, medical professionals, prosecutors and mental health specialists, all have a role in investigating the case and helping the child to heal. But if we aren't careful, the very system that is in place to help children can cause more trauma via multiple interviews in various settings, uncoordinated investigations and lack of follow-up services. The Children's Alliance, located around the corner from here at 15th and Chestnut Streets, is a bright welcoming, kid-friendly facility where children come to be interviewed about their abuse. Interviews are conducted by child interview specialists while police officers and DHS social workers watch via one-way mirrors and closed-circuit television. Video recordings are made of all interviews to be used later if the case goes to court. Non-offending caregivers receive crisis counseling support and education about abuse, and all of the cases we see are tracked and reviewed at monthly meetings with all partner agencies to make sure that no one falls through the cracks. Our victim advocates continue to support the child and non-offending caregiver through the court process and help them get medical and mental health services that they might need. We moved to our current site right around the corner in March of this year in order to have a larger facility to support our growth plans. In 2009-2010, we saw 700 children, and we are projected to serve 900 children in '10-'11. We are committed to expanding our services in order to be able to see all 1,800 cases of sexual abuse reported each year, and our move to this new facility was the first step in that expansion. We are now building staff and fundraising capacity. When a child finds the courage to disclose their abuse, we as a community owe it to them to provide a safe, coordinated response that focuses on their needs. And that is what we have created just a block away from here, and now we have to make sure that this coordinated response is available to all child sexual abuse victims in Philadelphia. We invite you all to come visit us, 15th and Chestnut. We're above Wendy's, 42 South 15th on the third floor, and we would love to provide a tour of our interview rooms and our team discuss with you how Philadelphia can continue to provide state-of-the-art support and intervention in its child sexual abuse cases. And I just want to thank you again for this recognition and this honor and this opportunity to talk about our work. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, on November 23rd, 2010 and December 1st, 2010, I transmitted to the Council the recommendations of the City Planning Commission regarding the following bills: Bill Nos. 100676, 100678, 100679, 100682, 100684, 100720, 100721, 100750, 100753, 100760, 100761, 100677, 100681 and 100683; and I am pleased to advise you that on November 22, 2010 and December 1st, 2010, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on November 18, 2010; and I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body four resolutions appointing members to the Board of the Philadelphia Energy Authority; namely, Ken Ogawa, Christopher Lewis, Barbara Adams and Rob Dubow, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. I would ask the Chief Clerk to other communications in his possession.
Thank you. We will now have special business. Before we continue with the business of today's session, we need to deal with the issue of public comment. As has been widely reported, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court recently held that Council is required to include a public comment period during the Council sessions, and we, of course, will abide by that decision. I know my colleagues join me welcoming those who wish to be heard in this new forum. But I must note that I personally -- and I am sure my colleagues as well -- are proud of the record of this City Council in providing the public meaningful opportunities to comment on the important issues before the Council. Rule Charter was enacted in 1951, Council has held scores of public hearings each year during virtually every week of each legislative session to hear the public's views on bills pending before Council. We have each spent countless hours receiving public testimony at those hearings, and that public testimony has frequently shaped our bills and have been -- the bills that have been amended and finally enacted. We have thought that this Charter-mandated public hearing process satisfied both the spirit and the letter of the public comment law. Although the Trial Court and the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court agreed, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled otherwise. And so beginning today, we will provide an opportunity for a public comment period at Council sessions. A resolution will be introduced today to amend Council's rules to provide comment period and to make certain other conforming changes to our procedures. After the resolution is introduced, a motion will be made that the proposed amendments in the resolution be adopted as temporary, temporary rules so that we can immediately provide an opportunity for the public comment prior to formal adoption of the amendment to our rules. Let me briefly summarize the proposed procedures. The public comment period would take place immediately before Council votes on bills and resolutions. Any Philadelphia resident or taxpayer will be permitted to speak, with a three-minute time limit. Speakers must identify themselves and state where they live, and if they are not residents, state that they are Philadelphia taxpayers. Public comment will be limited to current business of the Council; that is to say, to bills and resolutions that are on the consideration at that day's Council session. There will be a sign-up sheet to determine the order in which we will receive public comment, although no one, no one will be denied the opportunity to provide public comment because they have not previously signed up. To accommodate the requirement of public comment before Council acts on a matter, we will need to make some revisions to our procedures for consideration of resolutions. Under the proposed rules, resolutions will not be acted upon immediately after introduction. Instead, resolutions will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council. If this rule is waived to permit consideration of a resolution the same day as introduction, the resolution would be considered after that day's public comment period. I am sure it will take a little to our new procedures, but I am confident that with mutual respect, we will have a smoothly running and mutually beneficial process for public comment. I thank all of you in advance for your cooperation and patience as we work out any problems that may arise as we implement this new procedure. With that said, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration at this time of special business relating to the establishment of a public comment period at Council session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit consideration of special business at this time. will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion passes. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution amending Resolution No. 080001, which provides rules for the government of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, by providing an opportunity for public comment during Council meetings, and by making other conforming amendments.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for our next session of again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, a copy of the resolution just introduced has been distributed to all members of Council. I move that the amendments to the rules set forth in that resolution be adopted immediately as temporary rules of Council, pending final consideration of the resolution just introduced. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendments to the rules set forth in the resolution be adopted immediately as temporary rules of Council, pending final consideration of the resolution just introduced. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion passes. That completes our special business. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for the introduction of bills and resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 11-505 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Paving and Other Improvements by Property Owners," by providing further specifications for sidewalk paving.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer one resolution on your behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, 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-Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be added to our Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, 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-Seventh Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be added to our Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
I have one resolution, Madam President, co-sponsored by Councilmen Clarke, Green, Greenlee and Goode.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
A resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Law and Government to hold hearings to compare the benefits and drawbacks of outsourcing City construction and professional services contracts and to conduct comparative analysis of proposed contracts in order to further the goals of cost efficiency and local job creation.
This resolution will be scheduled for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions this morning, one co-sponsored by colleagues Kenney, Goode and Jones and the other by Councilman Jones. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing the Philadelphia Eagles for the plan to convert Lincoln Financial Field to self-generated renewable energy including onsite wind, solar power and dual-fuel generated electricity.
The resolution will be considered at our next session of Council.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings on the potential health risks from cell phone radiation and the actions the City of Philadelphia can take to better educate all cell phone users.
This resolution will be considered at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. Oh, I'm sorry. Councilwoman Brown.
Yes, Madam President. On the last resolution, it would be important to stipulate that that issue is targeted towards children and young people.
Yes. It would be important to me that the resolution indicate that particular issue is targeted particularly for children and young people.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a license or long term lease agreement and other related agreements between the City of Philadelphia as licensor or landlord, and the Center City District as licensee or tenant, for a certain parcel of land bounded approximately by John F. Kennedy Boulevard, 15th Street, South Penn Square and the west side of City Hall, commonly referred to as Dilworth Plaza.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Eighteenth, Thirty-Second and Forty-Seventh Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The resolution will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Madam President, I offer one bill on behalf of Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the City Solicitor, on behalf of the City, to enter into a multi-year contract with a provider of codification, editing and marketing services to produce printed and electronic versions of the 10th Edition of The Philadelphia Code and the 2011 Reprint of The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, with periodic supplements.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Councilman Kelly, do you have any bills on your behalf?
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney -- oh, I'm sorry. Councilman Green, do you have any bills or resolutions?
Thank you. business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports six bills with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 100552, entitled "An ordinance amending the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Race Street, 4th Street, 5th Street and Florist Street, and by amending Section 14-303 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "'C-3' Commercial District"; and Bill No. 100656, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-305 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "'C-4' Commercial District, all under certain terms and conditions"; and Bill No. 100709, entitled "An ordinance approving the first amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Center City Redevelopment Area, Franklin Town Project, being the area beginning in the vicinity of Spring Garden and Twenty-First Streets"; and Bill No. 100721, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled 'Miscellaneous,' by adding a new Section establishing the Fox Chase Environmental Control District"; and Bill No. 100750, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Institutional Development District Master Plan of Holy Family University, located at 4500 Grant Avenue, by allowing for the construction of a new administrative building"; and Bill No. 100773, entitled "An ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety and welfare of the people in the area served by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Foundation for The Hospitals and Higher Education Facilities Authority of Philadelphia to participate with such institutions in constructing a new, 5-story ambulatory care center and making certain other capital improvements to such institutions' buildings and facilities primarily at their campus located at 34th Street and Civic Center Boulevard in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee, with the exception of Bill No. 100656. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee, with the exception of Bill No. 100656. All those in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading and today. Bill No. 100656 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke, if he's in the room, for a report from the Committee on Appropriations.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, the Committee on Appropriations reports five bills with a favorable consideration.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
The Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred Bill No. 100712, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2010 within the Water Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions"; and Bill No. 100713, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in 2010 within the Grants Revenue Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions"; and Bill No. 100714, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2010 within the General Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions"; and Bill No. 100774, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants - Federal Stimulus Funding to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions"; and Bill No. 100775, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2011 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the General Fund, the Department of Revenue," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 100712, 100713, 100714, 100774 and 100775. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Public Property and Public Works reports 12 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
The Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 100614, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of The City of Philadelphia, to agreement between the Philadelphia Municipal Authority as landlord and The City of Philadelphia as tenant, for use of certain office space located at 1327 through 39 Chestnut Street"; and Bill No. 100777, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to accept from CSX Transportation Inc. an easement for an at-grade crossing on Race Street between 23rd Street and the Schuylkill River"; and Bill No. 100778, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 741 South Chadwick South, 745 South Chadwick Street, 1129 South Syndenham Street and other properties for fair market value"; and Bill No. 100779, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept from the Children's Hospital of or assigns, fee simple title or a lesser property interest in any portion of the real estate owned by CHOP and located south of the South Street Bridge, east of the Schuylkill River"; and Bill No. 100785, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to accept from Scattergood Foundation easements in portions of land owned by Scattergood Foundation and upon which Friends Hospital is located"; and Bill No. 100786, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 100 North 55th Street, 104 North 58th Street, 253 North 60th Street and other properties for fair market value"; and Bill No. 100788, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to convey 413 Mercy Street, 432 Sigel Street, 518 Pierce Street and other properties for fair market value"; and Bill No. 100789, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, all or part of a parcel of land and any improvements located on the southwest corner of North Christopher Columbus Boulevard and Race Street"; and Bill No. 100790, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 080760) approved December 22, 2008, entitled 'An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by relocating the westerly curb line and house line of Fifteenth Street between Arch Street and Cherry Street'"; and Bill No. 100791, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City to 816 North 16th Street, 826 North 12th Street and other properties for fair market value"; and Bill No. 100792, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into lease and sublease agreements with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority for certain land and improvements located on the northwest corner of North 15th Street and Arch Street"; and Bill No. 100793, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Department of Public Property to enter into an easement agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of General Services allowing the Department of General Services to use portions of 1515 Arch Street," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of the Bills No. 614, 777, 778, 779, 785, 786, 788, 789, 790, 791, 792 and 793. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports 21 bills out with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
The Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 100464, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 58 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Olive Street from Tenth Street to Hutchinson Street and Hutchinson Street from Olive Street to Brown Street"; and Bill No. 100544, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' by adding as a permissible location the sidewalk of the east side of Germantown Avenue from Allens Lane for 175 feet south"; and Bill No. 100675, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' by adding as permissible locations the sidewalk of the east side of South 22nd Street between Cross Street and Tasker Street and the sidewalk of the south side of Wharton Street between Hollywood Street and 29th Street"; and Bill No. 100676, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 149 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Hartwell Lane from a point approximately two-hundred seventy-seven feet southwest of Seminole Street to a point approximately sixty-four feet further southwestwardly"; and Bill No. 100679, entitled "An of lines and grades of a portion of various City Plans, within the vicinity of the Delaware Expressway (I-95) from the Vine Street Expressway (I-676) to the Philadelphia-Bucks County Line by placing on the City Plan, striking from the City Plan, relocating, and revising portions of the Delaware Expressway"; and Bill No. 100680, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Brandywine Realty Trust, 555 East Lancaster Avenue, Suite 100, Radnor, Pennsylvania, to legalize various existing sidewalk encroachments located on the east footway of Juniper Street between Sansom Street and Drury Street"; and Bill No. 100681, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Ridge Avenue from Vine Street to the intersection of Eighth Street and Race Street"; and 100682, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Streets Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the grant to the City of a right-of-way for sewer and drainage purposes extending through a portion of property located at the northwest corner of Thirteenth Street and Arch Street"; and Bill No. 100683, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 080434) approved July 2, 2008, entitled 'An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating a portion of Leithgow Street south of Reno Street'"; and Bill No. 100684, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, located at 128 North Broad Street, to construct, own and maintain various encroachments in the side of North Broad Street between Arch and Race Streets"; and Bill No. 100711, entitled "An ordinance authorizing BIBA Limited Liability Company, doing business as BIBA Wine Bar, 3131 Walnut Street, Suite 1A, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to legalize various existing encroachments and to construct, own and maintain additional encroachments in the right-of-way located on the north footway of Walnut Street"; and Bill No. 100715, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Michael Scotese, owner of Grey Lodge Pub, to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 6235 Frankford Avenue"; and Bill No. 100716, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Mt. Airy USA to install, and the Mt.
Airy Business Improvement District to own and maintain, four benches on the east and west footway of Germantown Avenue, from Mt. Airy Street"; and Bill No. 100717, entitled "An ordinance authorizing CM123, trading as The Wishing Well, to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 767 South Ninth Street"; and Bill No. , to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 806 South Sixth Street"; and Bill No. 100719, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Frank Borda, owner of Francoluigi's Restaurant, to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1549 South Thirteenth Street"; and Bill No. 100723, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Rameshchandra Patel, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of Sixteenth and Chestnut Street, to construct, use and maintain conduits in, under and across the northwest corner of Street"; and Bill No. 100752, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Refuse and Littering,' by increasing the path of snow to be cleared on sidewalks"; and Bill No. 100757, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sidewalk Sales,' by prohibiting vending on both sides of Broad Street between Washington Avenue and Bainbridge Street"; and Bill No. 100758, entitled "An ordinance establishing a two-way regulation on Spruce Street, from 38th Parallel Place to 2nd Street"; and Bill No. 100760, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Fifth Street from Race Street to Vine Street," respectfully reports it and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I ask that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading today of the 21 bills that have just been read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committees with the suspension of rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. There are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell regarding a motion concerning Bill No. 100773.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit an amendment to be offered to Bill No. 100773. (Duly seconded.)
All the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 100773, a copy of which has been circulated to all members of Council, and I move for the adoption of this amendment. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor of the motion will please signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The 12/2/10 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it, and Bill No. 100773 has been amended. Bill No. 100773 will be placed on our Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco concerning the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. Bill Nos. 100555, 100556, 100673, 100710 and 100634 are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment on those matters listed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Public comment is limited to Philadelphia residents and taxpayers. So when your name is called up, please state where you live, and if you are not a Philadelphia resident, please state that you are a Philadelphia taxpayer. You will then have up to three minutes to provide public comment on matters listed on the agenda. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please call the name of our first speaker.
Mr. D'Angelo, please take the microphone. I want to thank you for coming in. Please state your name.
My name is Anthony D'Angelo. I'm the owner of George Smith Towing. I'm a resident of Narberth, Pennsylvania and my business is in Philadelphia.
My name is Anthony D'Angelo. I'm a City of Philadelphia taxpayer. I'm the owner of company has been in business for 50 years, and it's been located in Philadelphia for 50 years. I'm here today to speak on behalf of the towing industry and about Bill No. 100536. This bill is designed to give the PPA the power to license and regulate much of the towing industry. The PPA is a quasi-governmental agency that will not only regulate but is a competitor to private business. These regulations fall under the guise of inspections, licensing and rotational towing, along with administering and enforcing all provisions of Section 9-605, not to mention the PPA has a no-bid contract for highways, for public highways. This bill will be detrimental to the towing industry. I personally have already felt the wrath of towing legislation, Bill No. 100213, which, in my opinion, is dysfunctional and takes away the rights of private property industry consists of many small businesses, such as towers, body shops and auto parts. Thousands of jobs and livelihoods are at stake here. There are many honest, hard-working men and women in the industry, along with a high percentage of minorities, that will be affected. Please do not take our ability to make an honest living away from us. If there is a problem with certain companies, enforce the issues against the offenders, not everyone else. Also, the City of Philadelphia will be affected financially through tax revenues that these small businesses bring in. We are already facing tough economic times. Don't punish these small businesses anymore. The City should be creating and preserving jobs, not eliminating them. Council, I ask you when you vote on Bill 100536 to please consider hard-working citizens and taxpayers this bill will affect. I'm asking you to please vote "no" on Bill No. 100536. Thank you for your consideration at this time.
Good morning, Madam President, members of Council. Darrell Zaslow, 7212 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia attorney and taxpayer. Madam President, allow me to express my appreciation for the historic opportunity to address this Council for the first time. It was a privilege for me to have represented the entity which sued you for this privilege, and I appreciate, Madam President, your goodwill and your statements and the to your willingness and your desire to proceed. I know most of these Councilmembers personally. I know all of you and the hard work you put into the City and your desire only to have City government function properly. I want to echo, if I may, Madam President, your call for those of us on this side of the bar to be respectful in our appearances before the Council and to keep our comments in an appropriate fashion and time limit. Members of Council, my purpose in appearing today was to express my concern over the resolution which you introduced and adopted this morning. Parenthetically -- and we're all new to this at least here in Philadelphia -- I would note that the resolution was introduced, deliberated by Council and affirmatively voted without taking public comment on that very resolution. It's a minor wrinkle. We will work these issues do note that my concern is primarily regarding the fact that the proposed temporary regulations will not allow public comment on matters of concern to the public generally, but rather only on your agenda items. I understand from your resolution this morning that you intend to review this matter next week, and in deference, Madam President, to that determination, I will defer my comments on that issue until next week, but I do want to plant a seed in your minds that the Sunshine Law says that members of the public may come and present to you matters of concern to the public which are or may be before the Council. In my remaining number of seconds, Madam President, however many that may be, I wanted to draw to the attention of the Council another issue which has concerned me as a taxpayer for decades, also a Sunshine Law issue, but you as a Council, at least in my opinion, are being more generous than you need to be. You are providing a service to the taxpayers at a rather significant expense, coming out, Madam President, I believe, from your Council budget, which you do not need to have expended, and that relates to this pile of beautiful envelopes I have. I keep them in my office because I don't want to throw out and waste resources, every envelope from the Chief Clerk's Office, every envelope bearing at least a dollar in cost to have mailed it to me, plus the cost of printing all of the bills and resolutions which this Council considers. Now, the Sunshine Law does not require you to mail me at this significant expense. I'm holding here a package of $75 of taxpayers' money. Now, don't get me wrong, I appreciate it, but especially in this day and age when you are working so hard with you're spending on our behalf, and with the new modern age with the computers, I am lucky to get, as we all do, from the Chief Clerk's Office every single thing that you consider. It's a terrific system, and, frankly, in this day and age, I don't need to have you mail me at the cost of hundreds of dollars -- and that's just me. Who knows how many people are on this list that you're mailing it to. The Sunshine Law says that any person that wants to receive notices of your meetings must supply you with a self-addressed stamped envelope. You are not under any obligation to be mailing to me or anyone else a full pack of your materials at Council's expense. I would ask that Council consider that issue. I don't want to deprive anyone of notice, but with the Internet now, we all have notice.
Given the financial crunch that you find yourself in, this may be an act of Council which is unnecessary. I urge Council, if you would, to review the Sunshine Law before the next meeting, review this issue of public comment on matters of concern to the public so that next week, we can have a good discussion on the issue. Thank you very much, Madam President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Zaslow. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read anyone else that's on his list to testify.
My name is Jose Giral and I'm a small businessowner in Philadelphia and also a resident in Philadelphia, and I'm here against Bill 100536. This bill gives the Parking Authority the power who and who cannot tow in the City of Philadelphia, regardless if they participate in the towing rotation or not. This is too much power to give to a company that competes against private business. This bill is also going to cut jobs in the private sector. Myself, my business is going to be totally shut down and I'll be going out of business. I'll be forced to find another job. And I'm just here just on the behalf of all my fellow towers out here to hopefully convince Council to vote against this bill. Thank you.
Does the Chief Clerk have any other witnesses on his list?
-- Councilmembers. My name is Tom Klotz. I live in Philadelphia, 421 Porter. I'm here on behalf of the tow truck drivers today. I come before you today for several reasons. First and foremost, to oppose the Bill 100536 to regulate the tow truck drivers in the City of Philadelphia and to go on record that the tow truck drivers are in the process of negotiating with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 107 to become a union trade in the City of Philadelphia. Our intention is for the Parking Authority and certain members of this Council to consider the impact passing this bill will have on the livelihood of these 3,900 voters and hard-working, tax-paying citizens. On behalf of myself, the truck drivers, we thank you for your support, your time in the determination of this bill. Thank you.
Thank you. Is there anyone else here who wishes to provide public testimony on behalf of any bill that's on today's agenda? (No response.)
Seeing none, that concludes today's public comment period.
Before I -I want to ask a quick question. If I respond or comment on an individual who comments today in Council, does that trigger an additional three minutes for that person that I respond to?
I just wanted to comment to Mr. Zaslow's recommendation as it relates to the costs associated with our mailing notices, and I actually agree with him that it's costly, but you may or may not know that this City Council actually passed an was a Charter change that authorized Council to change the process of notification for hearings and also other public notices, both for the Administration and Council. So Council is actually in the process of figuring out a way to do that in a much less rate. There is in fact one issue that we cannot do that's governed by the state as it relates to certain publications. One is, I think, the Legal Intelligencer. Somehow that is a state-governed issue. So we will always have to, until the state laws changes it. But we are looking at ways of using electronic abilities to change that process that will be much less costly. It was actually estimated that it could potentially be up to $2 million in savings in the course of a year. Thank you. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. care to be recognized? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to thank Councilman Clarke for putting Mr. Zaslow's remarks in legislative context. What I will add as a member of this body that cares deeply about constituent service is, we have to forever be mindful of citizens who are not fortunate enough or privileged enough to have and be electronically fluent or savvy. It behooves us to keep in mind members of the electorate who cannot afford a computer because they're worried about putting food on their table. And so to the extent that we can exercise and utilize a number or variety of ways of communicating with our citizens, we should be entitled to do so. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank 12/2/10 - STATED - 2ND READING you. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on today's Calendar. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 100555.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Broad Street, Cecil B. Moore Avenue, Park Avenue, and Oxford Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 100556.
An ordinance to amend the Institutional Development District Master Plan of Temple University, located on the block bounded by 13th Street, Diamond Street, 12th Street, and Norris Street, by allowing for the construction of a new building addition for use as the School of 12/2/10 - STATED - 2ND READING Architecture.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are 12/2/10 - STATED - 2ND READING zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 100673.
An ordinance approving the thirty-eighth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, being the area beginning at the northwest corner of Front Street and Spring Garden Street, including the thirtieth amendment to the urban renewal plan and the twenty-seventh amendment to the relocation plan, which provides, inter alia, for the additional land acquisition of approximately 15 properties for residential, institutional and related uses.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. 12/2/10 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 100710.
An ordinance amending Section 9-605 of The 12/2/10 - STATED - 2ND READING Philadelphia Code, entitled "Towing," by revising the requirements for signs that give notice that unauthorized parking is prohibited and unauthorized vehicles will be towed from a private lot or private property.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilwoman Sanchez. 12/2/10 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 100634.
An ordinance amending Section 9-622 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Cigarettes and Tobacco Products," by revising the acceptable forms of identification; and by increasing the penalties for violations.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. 12/2/10 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This concludes our Calendar for today. the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. Just a reminder, there's a Commerce and Economic Development hearing at 12:30, approximately 45 minutes from now. There is a joint committee hearing at 1 o'clock, so we need a timely quorum at 12:30. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. As the City debates whether we should have a sign that says "holiday" or a sign that says "Christmas" in the village on the concourse, as we debate whether there are going to be winners or losers based on BPT tax reform, I'd like to remind people that we have a 9.4 percent unemployment rate for Americans. I'd like to remind people here in this Chamber and also in Washington, DC that many of them face the prospect of their unemployment expiring, and if we don't do something, they're not going to have a happy holiday, Christmas, Kwanzaa or New Year's or Hanukkah. And we really need to take action on those things, and those things during this time of year, during the holiday season, need to be remembered and put on the forefront of public policy agenda. Thank you.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
On note, Madam President, I will note, as was said yesterday, that we're also glad that we can continue to call John Christmas from my staff John Christmas and not John Holiday.
Are there any other speeches or comments from members of the Committee? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, December the 9th, 2010, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, December 9th at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Thank you. (Stated meeting adjourned at 11:55 a.m.) 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 on December 2, 2010, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)