Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 23, 2017 10:45 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting February 23, 2017
Sorry for the delay. If we can take our seats and visitors retire behind the rail, we'll get started. And before we start, I'd ask that if anyone has a cell phone or any other electronic device that makes any noise, I'd ask that you please turn it off or turn it on silent. Thank you very much for your cooperation. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes the Venerable Lama Losang Samtem, Rinpoche, Spiritual Director of Tibetan Buddhist Center of Philadelphia. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Gym. I would ask all guests, visitors, and members to please rise. (Councilmembers and guests rise.) DIRECTOR SAMTEN: Good morning. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 (Good morning.) DIRECTOR SAMTEN: Thank you so much for asking me here this morning for the prayer. This is an ancient prayer from Tibet, peace and love and compassion. (Director Samten chanting.) DIRECTOR SAMTEM: Peace. Thank you.
Thank you so much. We really appreciate it. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. Thank you. And our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 16, 2017, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 16, 2017 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 16, 2017 stand approved. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. At this time, we will talk to the member, I guess the Majority Leader -- the next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests of leaves Stated Meeting February 23, 2017
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair now recognizes the Minority Leader, Councilman Brian O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Darrell Clarke. I have no requests for leave of absence on behalf of the republicans.
Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to thank everyone who has come down today to witness their government in action. We hope your stay here is a knowledgeable one but, more importantly, we hope that it's a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. So, again, thank you so much. We really appreciate it, and we hope you come back and join us again. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution recognizing February 2017 as Career and Technical Education Awareness Month. Would Dr. Bowman and Julio Padilla and those accompanying them please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Thank you. Before we start the presentation, the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Thank you, Council President. I would like to be excused today, but voting aye on all bills and resolutions.
Leave shall be granted. Thank you very much, Councilman.
Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Mr. President, we are honored today. I do have CTE schools like West, like many others, as many of us do, and the School District sought to bring this wonderful school. And since we understand that this is Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez's school, it makes a big difference. So all of us who have CTE schools are honored, but we're not quite as honored as Councilwoman Maria is to have her school here, and so we do bring a special, special congratulations for her and for all of these students. Resolution honoring and recognizing February, 2017 as Career and Technical Education Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, more than 6,000 Philadelphia School District students attend a Career and Technical Education Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 30 high schools across the City; and Whereas, these students earn valuable college credits and industry recognized credentials in these programs; and Whereas, 81 percent of dropouts say relevant, real-world learning opportunities would have kept them in high school; and
Point of personal privilege. I am an alumnus. I will not say the year, because none of these young people were born. But a shout-out to Mastbaum and to all the CTE programs I know this Council has supported over the years. Whereas, the average high school graduation rate for students concentrating in CTE is 90 percent compared to the national average of 74.9 percent; and Whereas, CTE students in the School District of Philadelphia earn over Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 3,400 industry credentials annually; and
Whereas, there will be more than 6,700 job openings in the trade, transportation, and utility sector over the next five years in Philadelphia; and Whereas, the School District of Philadelphia has planned more than a dozen events throughout the month of February to raise awareness around the opportunities within the Career and Technical Education programs they run; and
Now, therefore, be it resolved that the City Council does hereby recognize February, 2017 as Career and Technical Education Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution will be presented as a sincere expression of City Council of Philadelphia's gratitude to honor this important month. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Dr. Bowman and Mr. Padilla for remarks.
Good morning. It's a pleasure to be with you and it's a privilege. I'd just like to speak quickly about our students, and I actually could speak lengthy about our students. These are truly the nicest students I have ever worked with. I've been in one other school district, and these kids match anyone I've ever worked with, and they're a pleasure to work with. They are fine young men and women. They have extraordinary talents. Many are prepared for college and also many are prepared for career. Some are prepared for both. And Mastbaum has a long history of providing students with a great career and technical education, and these students continue with that tradition. Thank you. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017
Good morning, everybody. I just want to say thank you for being here and recognizing our Mastbaum students. Mastbaum has been helping our students since 1929. We've done amazing attributes when it comes to the vocational trades. We had several, several students in different capacities over the years become successful. We have Councilwoman Sanchez, the alumni here, that actually graduated from the school that's part of your office here. So that's a great honor. Also just to let you know that we have carpentry, welding, electrical, graphic design, business, health fields, different other programs that we have here in the school, and they strive every day to make a difference. And hopefully with these achievements, they'll be our Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 us out with our retirements in the future. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Michelle Armstrong and I am the Executive Director of Career and Technical Education for the School District of Philadelphia, and I would like to say that on behalf of all of our students throughout the School District and all of our teachers, who I believe are unsung heroes, and our principals, I would like to say thank you for taking this time to honor career and technical education within the School District and to let you know that this school, Mastbaum, represents all of the 30 high schools within the City that have the programs that are preparing young people and giving them the choice as to whether or not they want to take their direct path to post-secondary education or to a career. But CTE gives young people the Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 choice, and we are honored once again that you have given us this recognition. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Oh, who will present a resolution recognizing the 2016 winners of PHL LIVE Center Stage. Would Kelly Lee and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilman Oh, we have Councilwoman Bass, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, and Councilman Green. Before we start the presentation -- it looks like we may need Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 we're getting people situated on the stage, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker. Folks, hold up, please.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to be excused due to a longstanding commitment and would like to be recorded as voting aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Leave shall be granted and the record shall reflect -
It's okay. Given the size of the stage, we might be here for a while. Leave shall be granted, and the record will reflect your voting aye on all bills and resolutions. Thank you.
Could I ask the category winners to step up front for Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 sure, and while you're gathering, let me just let everybody know that the City Council of Philadelphia has been instrumental in supporting the music industry here in Philadelphia, the creative economy, and particularly PHL LIVE 2016 has been completed. We have ten category winners as well as the people's choice, and I'd just like to point out that some of the people standing here with us, Mark Razz from the Country Station XTU 92.5; Simply Monica, Heat 100; David Ivory, Grammy-nominated engineer and delegate to the national Grammys; our Classical music winner, Jessica Nelson; our R&B winner, Boots Greene; Brent Porche from WMMR 93.3; Band of Rivals, the Country/Folk winner; Jakeya Sanders, World music winner; DJ Domino, the DJ category winner; Celandra Rice-Prince, Voices of Inspiration; Jennifer Logue, Rock on Philly; Marilyn Rodriguez, Mega 105; Charlie Bartlett, Jazz It Up Philly; Jeff Duperon, 90.1 Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 WRTI; Kevin Gordon, 90.1 WRTI, that's jazz; Sonya McDuffie, Philly Hip-Hop Awards; Brooke DiCaro, winner of the Pop category; DJ Casper from Darkchild Entertainment; Dice Raw, Legendary Roots Crew; St. Thomas Gospel Choir, the winner of the Gospel category, with Senior Pastor Martini Shaw; Keith From Up Da Block, a comedian and a recording artist himself; and the publisher of that mag, Brian Cronin. I don't know if I missed anybody, but let me say the reason I'm pointing them out is because they've all volunteered. They don't get paid. They volunteer to go through hundreds of submissions that are free. People can submit in ten musical categories, and then they pick five finalists. The venues provide a free location, Underground Arts, Hard Rock Cafe, World Cafe Live, the Clef Club and so on. And after the performance, the judges select one winner, who wins $1,000, free studio recording time, and many other prizes. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 it's not just their aspiration to achieve their goals as a musician, songwriter, but also they get paid and they pay their taxes and they help our city grow. And so with that, let me ask you to allow me to present this to our Chief Cultural Officer, Kelly Lee, who will then say a few words. This is a resolution recognizing and honoring the 2016 winners of PHL LIVE Center Stage.
Whereas, PHL LIVE Center Stage is a music initiative established by Councilman David Oh as Chairman of the Committee on Global Opportunities and Creative/Innovative Economy; and Whereas, PHL LIVE Center Stage provides local musicians with exciting opportunities to be discovered and promoted to achieve success here in Philadelphia; and Whereas, PHL LIVE Center Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Show are structured across 10 different genres of music, bringing diverse musicians together. The 10 different genres are Rock, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Classical, Gospel, Country/Folk, World, Pop, R&B, and DJ. In addition, a "People's Choice" Award is selected as an 11th category; and Whereas, this year's finalists performed live in prominent local venues: World Cafe Live, Milkboy, Hard Rock Cafe, Reformation Lutheran Church, the Clef Club of Jazz, Warmdaddy's, the Trinity Center for Urban Life, Coda, Voltage Lounge, and Fire and Ice; and
Whereas, I stand here green with envy for those who are blessed with the gift of song, because I was not. Whereas, the final winners for each genre, announced in December at the Trocadero Theatre during the 3rd Annual PHL LIVE Center Stage Award Show, were decided by judges who are considered Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 industry; and Whereas, the "People's Choice" Award is voted on by the audience before and during the Award Show at the Trocadero Theatre. Who has been there? And whereas, the winning artists from each genre receive top prizes such as $1,000, studio recording time, music videos, documentaries, and openings at major concerts; and Whereas, the 2016 winner of the Rock category is RFA; and
Whereas, the 2016 winner of the Hip-Hop category is ReLive; and Whereas, the 2016 winner of the Jazz category is Laurin Talese; and Whereas, the 2016 winner of the Classical category is Jessica Rose Nelson; and Whereas, the 2016 winner of the Gospel category is the St. Thomas Gospel Choir; and Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Whereas, the 2016 winner of the Country/Folk category is The Band of Rivals; and Whereas, the 2016 winner of the World category is Jakeya; and (Applause.)
And whereas, the 2016 winner of the Pop category is Brooke DiCaro; and
Whereas, the 2016 winner of the R&B category is Boots Greene; and Whereas, the 2016 winner of the DJ category is DJ Domino; and Whereas, the 2016 winner of the "People's Choice" is Kendal Conrad; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes and honors the 2016 winners of PHL LIVE Center Stage. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of the resolution be presented to Coors Light as evidence of Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 legislative body. And let me say that I did not mention that Kyesha Woods, Chill Moody, Randall Jefferson of Tone and Tenor, and David DeCristofaro are also here with us today. Let's give them all a round of applause. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Kelly Lee for remarks.
Good morning, members of City Council, honored guests, PHL LIVE Center Stage winners and finalists. I am happy to accept on behalf of the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy this resolution from City Council for the successful completion of the 2016 PHL LIVE Center Stage competition. Congratulations to all the winners. (Applause.)
For the third year, our office was proud to partner with Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 PHL LIVE, an initiative that has showcased the tremendous musical talent our City possesses across all genres of music. It has given a diverse range of artists the opportunity to perform on many notable stages throughout Philadelphia, which you just heard about. What is new for this year is that we will collaborate with Councilman Oh and PHL LIVE to help to promote these artists that have taken part in the competition by providing performance opportunities for them in neighborhoods throughout the City. Through our Office of Arts and Culture programs, such as Culture in the Courtyard, Performances in Public Spaces, and Philly Celebrates Jazz during Jazz Appreciation Month in April, our office will support these artists and enable them to bring their music directly to their own communities. We are committed to making sure Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Philadelphia has access to high-quality arts and cultural experiences, and we cannot wait to do this through having PHL winners and finalists be music ambassadors of their respective genres in all corners of the City. You can also help to promote these talented artists. The next time you have an event and you need live music or you are creating a play list, go to the PHL LIVE website, look up these artists, hire them, and purchase their music. I just want to thank again Councilman Oh for allowing our office to partner with you on PHL LIVE and thank City Council for this resolution and thank again all of these artists for continuing to do what you do and bring joy and music to everyone in Philadelphia. Thank you. (Applause.) Stated Meeting February 23, 2017
Thank you very much and congratulations to all of you. Our next order of business will be communications, and the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on February 22, 2017, I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on February 9, 2017: Bill No. 161058. And I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance amending Section 10-1000 of The Philadelphia Code, Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 "Fees," to exempt the Land Bank from paying City recording fees in connection with property it acquires; amending Chapter 16-700, entitled "Philadelphia Land Bank," to provide for the leasing out of Land Bank property; and amending Chapter 19-1400, entitled "Realty Transfer Tax," to exempt the Land Bank and certain transactions involving the Land Bank from payment of realty transfer tax; and An ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code (entitled "Commercial Activities on Streets"), by revising certain provisions relating to licenses and fees; and An ordinance amending Chapter 9-500 of The Philadelphia Code (entitled "Boilers, Fuel, Heat and Refrigeration") to revise certain provisions relating to licenses and fees and delete provisions relating to warm air heating apparatus; and An ordinance amending various Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Code, including Chapter 6-300 (entitled "Food"), Title 9 (entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions"), Chapter 10-700 (entitled "Refuse and Littering"), Chapter 11-500 (entitled "Paving"), and Chapter 19-600 (entitled "Amusement Tax"), to revise various provisions relating to fees; including for licenses and permits for food establishments, newspaper boxes, public parking lots, conducting assessments, handbill distribution and sidewalk paving; and to authorize revisions of various fees by regulation; and An ordinance amending Subcode "A" (The Philadelphia Administrative Code) of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Building Construction and Occupancy Code," by adding and revising various provisions related to fees for permits, licenses, certificates, appeals and services; and An ordinance authorizing the Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for the use by the City of the premises located at 1101 Market Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. Do you have any communications in your possession?
Thank you very much. At this time, we will have introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'm pleased to introduce one bill co-sponsored by my colleague Bill Greenlee.
Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Thank you, Councilwoman.
An ordinance amending Section 14-513 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Transit-Oriented Development Overlay District," and Section 14-702, entitled "Floor Area and Height Bonuses," all to revise requirements relating to the Transit-Oriented Development Overlay District.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. 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 Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 offer one bill and one resolution, and on behalf of Councilman Henon, I offer three resolutions. Oh, there he is. Sorry.
An ordinance authorizing Jeffery Tubbs to construct, own, and maintain an "urban topiary" at 1225 through 33 North 3rd Street.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring Barney Boyce as Grand Marshal of the 247th Annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade.
And that will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring the Saint Hubert Catholic High School Cheerleading Team on Winning the National High School Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Cheerleading Championship.
That will also be on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution Honoring Father Judge High School Students Jack Flynn and Dylan Feby For Their Heroic Actions On February 7th, 2017.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District in accordance with terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Mr. President, on my behalf, I offer one resolution non-privileged, and on behalf of Councilman Johnson, I offer two.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring one of Philadelphia's most prominent African-American doctors, Dr. Beverly G. Coleman, Director of Fetal Imaging at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, in further commemoration of Black History Month.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold public hearings examining SEPTA transit system safety, including the particular issues of rail car defects and train derailment, as well as available measures to reduce safety risks to SEPTA riders and employees. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017
And a privileged resolution honoring, recognizing, and congratulating the African American Museum in Philadelphia, in celebration of the Museum's 40th anniversary.
And that will also be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have four non-privileged resolutions -- I mean two non-privileged resolutions and four bills.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code (entitled "Commercial Activities on Streets"), by revising certain provisions relating to licenses Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 and fees; and An ordinance amending various provisions of The Philadelphia Code, Chapter 16-300 (entitled "Food"), Title 9 (entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions"), Chapter 10-700 (entitled "Refuse and Littering"), Chapter 11-500 (entitled "Paving"), and Chapter 19-600 (entitled "Amusement Tax"), to revise various provisions relating to fees; and An ordinance amending Chapter 9-500 of The Philadelphia Code (entitled "Boilers, Fuel, Heat and Refrigeration") to revise certain provisions relating to licenses and fees; and An ordinance amending Subcode "A" (The Philadelphia Administrative Code) of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code by adding and revising various provisions related to fees for permits, licenses, certificates, appeals and services.
Those four bills just read by the Chief Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Clerk will be referred to the appropriate committees.
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 Nineteenth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
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, Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 situate in the Nineteenth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Also on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. I have two non-privileged resolutions, one on your behalf and one on behalf of Councilwoman Parker.
A non-privileged resolution urging Congress to vote in favor of H.R. 922, the Rehabilitation of Historic Schools Act of 2017, which amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow rehabilitation expenditures for public school buildings to qualify for rehabilitation credit, which would help the School District of Philadelphia with addressing its nearly 12,000 outstanding repairs that total almost $5 billion. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the creation of a "Special Committee on Regulatory Review and Reform" to identify archaic, superfluous, and confusing provisions in The Philadelphia Code and in departmental regulations; and to recommend revisions that streamline, clarify and enhance the City's regulatory environment, for the purpose of accelerating the growth of well-paying jobs in Philadelphia while ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.
And that will also be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Good morning, Council President. No bills or resolutions today. Thank you. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Good morning, Council President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues. I have one privileged resolution, which has been co-sponsored by Councilmembers Greenlee, Henon, Jones, Oh, and O'Neill.
A privileged resolution congratulating and honoring Philadelphia Lieutenant General Herbert Raymond "H.R." McMaster on his recent appointment as National Security Advisor Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 to the President.
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill on behalf of Councilman Squilla and two privileged resolutions.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 for Industrial Development for the use by the City of the premises located at 1101 Market Street.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Philadelphia Flyers Forward, Wayne Simmonds on being named the Most Valuable Player in the National Hockey League All-Star Game and the second African-American in NHL history and first for the Philadelphia Flyers.
That will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing Kalef Jones as being selected as a 2017 Corpsman of the Year for his outstanding public service and dedication to the beautification and improvement of the environment.
This week's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Councilman. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions, and our next order of business is reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 No. 170017, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-507 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled '/CDO Central Delaware Riverfront Overlay District,' by amending provisions, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 170017. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 of Bill No. 170017. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
Okay. Excuse me. I believe we took the vote on aye. Those opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it, and this bill 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 bill just Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2/23/17 - STATED - 1ST READING reported from committee with suspension of the rules has been deemed to have had a first reading. This bill will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council. Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Please now. Thank you, Mr. President. I'd be remiss to not acknowledge the students of the Hope Church School Choir, who will be delighting us with music and song immediately following our City Council session. I ask those little people, young people to please stand quickly.
They are Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2/23/17 - STATED - 1ST READING phenomenal.
Thank you for coming down today. We look forward to your wonderful, wonderful performance. Mr. Decker, if you can please read any other bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 170106, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Director of Commerce, on behalf of the City, to acquire an approximately 136 acre property known as the Airport Business Center located in Tinicum Township, Delaware County, together with all improvements thereon.
The Chair agrees. This bill will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2ND READING Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for the Second Reading and Final Passage of today's Calendar: Bill Nos. 170146, 170147, 170148, 170151, 170152, 170154, 160902, 160687-AAA, 160895, and all other bills and resolutions are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before considering these bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today, we will have our public comment session. If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution that is on the Final Passage Calendar today, if you haven't already done so, I'd ask that you sign up at the table to my left. When your name is called, you will go to the podium in the middle of the Council Chambers. There's a device on that podium. When the light turns Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 green, it will be 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'd ask that you please adhere to the guidelines and conclude your remarks. Thank you very much for your anticipated cooperation. Mr. Decker, please read the first name on the list.
Diop Olugbala, commenting on 161114 and 160007. (Witness approached podium.)
We were here last week. I'm a representative of the Black is Black Coalition as well as the African community in North Philly in your district in particular. The reason I'm here right now -- well, first and foremost, formally I just want to say that we are addressing Resolution 161114 as well as 160007, but really what we have to say pertains to every resolution and bill that's on the Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 paper and, that is, our resolution that we drafted around the question of black community control of the police. As you know, last week we were here at this City Council meeting to formally introduce the resolution on black community control of the police, which is a resolution that calls for the ability for the African community to have the collective authority to hire, fire, as well as set training standards for how the police function in our community and, most importantly, to have the ability to subpoena police that violate the rights of our people. We are pursuing this resolution in this manner because we understand that this is the only opportunity that the people have to actually voice our opinion as it relates to public policy in the City of Philadelphia. And in that last meeting, we again said that our goal is for this resolution to be passed. We also recognize that you said Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 that it has to be written in a certain kind of language, and that is something we are interested in learning how to do but, most importantly, we know that the language must be shaped and defined by the community in discussion with your office. So we left on last week saying that the next step would be to have a meeting where the community could voice our opinions and concerns regarding the way the police function in our community and that same meeting would also serve as the forum through which you can say concretely how we are moving forward in terms of getting this resolution passed. I know I have 45 seconds left, but, again, I want to use this time to allow you to respond to the request and the demand for this resolution to be passed by City Council using the due process, of course, in City Council, but also I need a concrete answer in terms of your ability to attend the community Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 meeting in North Philly where you can address the concerns of the people around this question. So two things. One, where are we in terms of passing this resolution? And, two, are you willing to sit down in a meeting with the community to hear the concerns and opinions of the people regarding how this resolution needs to be passed?
Thank you for your testimony. Our first meeting is tomorrow, 10:00 a.m. I believe we agreed on; am I correct?
Yeah. We said that there would be a meeting tomorrow with representatives of the -
-- Black is Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 Black Coalition. However, we also said -
-- for a meeting that would occur with you and the community.
So is that going to happen in this back-door deal type of -
We will have our first -(Microphone turned off.) Stated Meeting February 23, 2017
See, you were doing fine. Sir, our first meeting is tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. We will discuss all other aspects of what you said today at that 10 o'clock meeting.
When will you be able to have the meeting with the community?
We asked for the date of March 4th, and your office responded saying you're not available. So we need to know when you -
We can make Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 ourselves available --
I just did. (Mr. Olugbala talking without microphone on.)
All right. We'll talk to you tomorrow. We'll talk to you tomorrow morning. (Mr. Olugbala talking without microphone on.)
It's time to move on. Let's go. (Mr. Olugbala talking without microphone on.) (Pause.)
Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2/23/17 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional names?
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. We will now move to our Calendar. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 170146.
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 Twenty-Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2/23/17 - STATED - 2ND READING you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 170146 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 170147.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the New Kensington-Fishtown Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 1415 Orange Street.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2/23/17 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 170147 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 170148.
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 Forty-Seventh Ward of the Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2/23/17 - STATED - 2ND READING City of Philadelphia.
The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. 170148 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 170151.
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of certain properties located in the Second Councilmanic District.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones. Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2/23/17 - STATED - 2ND READING
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 170151 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 170152.
A resolution urging the U.S. Senate to vote no on the resolutions of disapproval that will block U.S. Department of Labor rules governing automatic-enrollment, payroll-deduction programs for states and cities, thus preventing these entities from helping millions of people save for retirement.
The Stated Meeting February 23, 2017 2/23/17 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Parker, I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)