Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, November 19, 2015 10:45 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
I'd ask all guests and visitors to please retire behind the rail. If the members will take their seats, we'll get started. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Larry L. Marcus of Greater Faith Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown. I'd ask all guests and visitors and members to please rise. (Councilmembers and guests rise.)
Shall we pray together. Father, our God, we come this morning with thanksgiving in our hearts and praises upon our lips, for you have been so gracious to include us as a part of your today's agenda. As we come, oh God, today, we Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 saturate each of these leaders with wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. We pray that you would lead, guide, and direct each of them that as they deliberate, as they discuss the matters of the City and of these neighborhoods, that you would grant them your favor. We pray your blessings upon the leader. We pray your blessings upon each representative. We pray your favor on this city. And now, Lord, we place each leader in your hand, and as you lead, guide, and direct them, we pray that it would all be done for your honor and for your glory. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, we do pray. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you very much, Pastor. (Council will be at ease.) Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
Thank you very much, sir. Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 12th, 2015, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 12th, 2015 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 12th, 2015 stand approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to welcome and thank everyone who has come down to witness their government in action today. We hope your stay here is a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Again, thank you so much for coming down. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien, who will present a resolution honoring Alex Doty. Would Mr. Doty and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilman O'Brien, we have Councilman Henon, Councilwoman Bass, and Councilwoman Reynolds Brown. Please proceed, Councilman.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today we recognize the work of Alex Doty, the outgoing Executive Director of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, as well as the collective work of the Coalition. We will be saying a lot of nice things about Alex in a minute, but right now I would like to talk about the metaphoric intersection of pedestrian, Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 bicyclists, and auto safety we currently find ourselves at here in Philadelphia. Far too often, we hear media reports about horrible traffic deaths and serious injuries occurring on our streets. Sadly, fingers are quickly and indiscriminately pointed at victims. Our streets are at times turning into hostile turf battles between those on two feet, those pedaling on two wheels, and those behind the steering wheel. We are at the intersection where we need to stop, look both ways, and calm down the conversation and our roadways to become more sensible, thoughtful, and safer places. This is a shared responsibility and all Philadelphians are stakeholders. The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia is continually at the forefront of that dialogue. On December 3rd, they will host a conference on the issue, but specifically focused on the implementation of Vision Zero here in Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Zero? Vision Zero isn't a program. Vision Zero is a thoughtful, comprehensive strategy designed to improve the quality of life for all citizens. Vision Zero is based on the concept that road crashes are not accidents but are preventable events. Each year nearly 100 people lose their lives in a Philadelphia road death accident. Vision Zero works through education, engineering, and enforcement to reduce road deaths to zero. The City is constantly working on safety improvements of our road network. I thank and applaud Streets Commissioner David Perri and Councilwoman Cindy Bass for their leading efforts on behalf of the City, but achieving a goal to reduce traffic deaths toward zero will require a comprehensive programming approach that engages diverse partners and utilizes a wide range of education, enforcement, and engineering strategies. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 body has a loud and very influential voice in this conversation. I encourage my colleagues to engage in this issue that impacts every intersection, every street, and every neighborhood in our city. At the end of the day, this is about helping people move safely around our city regardless of the mode of transportation. This is about improving the City's overall quality of life. I encourage my colleagues to attend or send a staffer to the Vision Zero conference that will bring experts from around the country to learn more about the complexity of traffic violence and its contributing factors. It will also look at data collection, the human cost of crashes, education programs, innovative street designs, and legislative opportunities. Again, please consider attending the Coalition's December 3rd Vision Zero conference. And Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 the presentation to Alex. Whereas, Alex Doty has served on the staff for the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia for the past 13 years and rose through the ranks from volunteer to Executive Director; and
Whereas, since his start at the Coalition 13 years ago, he has overseen a great expansion of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, including his staff growing from just two in 2003 to 20 people strong today; and Whereas, under his leadership and vision, the Coalition helped Philadelphia become the most-biked big city in the United States and earn the designation as a Silver Bicycle Friendly Community. Alex was a tireless advocate for the 2009 installation of buffered bike lanes on Spruce and Pine Streets in Center City making them main thoroughfares for bicyclists. In Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 addition, he worked with the Greater Philadelphia region to build up circuit trails, connecting nine counties throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey; and
Whereas, he has challenged policymakers to embrace and advance Vision Zero to save the lives of Philadelphians. Vision Zero is a proven public safety model that seeks to reduce all traffic deaths in Philadelphia to zero. Alex helped create a partnership with Thomas Jefferson University Hospital to host the first-ever Vision Zero Conference in Philadelphia history slated for December 3rd, 2015; and Whereas, during Alex's tenure, the Coalition has brought the Cadence Youth Cycling Program under the organization. This model program works directly with city youth in West and North Philadelphia, fostering healthy habits, leadership and independence; and Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
Whereas, when Philadelphia announced it would be getting a bike share system in 2015, Alex and the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia teamed up with the City of Philadelphia and People for Bikes to create the Better Bike Share Partnership, an equity-based program that seeks to bring bike share transportation services to communities outside Philadelphia's Center City area; Whereas, Alex has also been a tremendous regional and statewide advocate and champion for both the suburban and rural bicycling communities. This is evidenced by his active membership in the Keystone Transportation Funding Coalition, which increased critical funding for transportation, including bikes, in Pennsylvania; and Whereas, Alex has made what he calls "the hardest decision I've had to make in my professional life" by leaving the Bicycle Coalition and taking a new Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 of the League of American Bicyclists; and
Whereas, Alex has raised his two children in West Philadelphia and has watched his family become a biking family, using their bicycles to get to and from school, work and the local pool. And as part of accepting the new position, he is pleased that the League has agreed to let him continue to live in Philadelphia, the City that he loves; therefore, be it Resolved, that the City Council of Philadelphia conveys its deepest gratitude to Alex Doty for his distinguished service to the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, and congratulate him on the occasion of his new position as the Executive Director of the League of American Bicyclists. Mr. Doty. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Mr. Doty for Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
Thank you very much. It is indeed an honor to be chosen to lead the League of American Bicyclists, the oldest bicycle advocacy organization in the United States, and I am so happy to be able to do that and continue to call Philadelphia my home, which I think is one of the best places to live and to bike in the country. Granted, I don't have a lot of experience living anywhere else, but I'm convinced of it. And none of the work that was -- I was given a lot of kudos for a lot of work here that was really done by the staff of the Bicycle Coalition, and, that is, leaving this staff was indeed the thing that made this the hardest professional decision that I've ever had to make. And so I would just like to say thank you to the staff that are here and the staff that could not make it for making the work that we have all been able to do possible. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 (Applause.)
I would also like to recognize my Chief of Staff, Matt Braden, who is my resident bicycle expert. He helped us on the bike race that is now in Curtis Jones' area and with this conversation that we're having here today. Matt? There he is over there. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass, who will present a resolution recognizing Maria Pajil Battle. Would Ms. Battle and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilwoman Bass, we have Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez and Councilwoman Tasco and Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, and following up, Councilman Johnson bringing up the rear as the only male.
Good morning, everyone. And it's really truly an honor to recognize someone who is just so special in our Philadelphia corporate community. Maria Pajil Battle is someone that stands out as a corporate citizen and stands out really just as a citizen in the City of Philadelphia in every regard. And she's someone who we have all -- I believe every member of Council -- has utilized on one occasion or another. When we needed help, she has been someone that we could reach out to and get that help, without hesitation. And so she has just retired. We are Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 truly, truly, truly going to miss you, but I know that you won't go far because you live in my district and I know where you live, and we can call you, I'm sure, at any time. And so we have a resolution honoring Maria, and it reads: Recognizing and honoring Maria Pajil Battle on the occasion of her retirement as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Marketing for Keystone First. Whereas, during thirty-five years of distinguishing herself in the healthcare industry Maria Pajil Battle has often been recognized as a "Game Changer" always going above and beyond expectations; and
And I just want to add to the remarks that Councilwoman Bass made about Maria. Whenever we called her, she said, What can I do? And she has not only helped the residents of Philadelphia but Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 country, she's involved in providing help to her company. So I appreciate her friendship, and now that we both will be retired, we will travel, as we've done before we retired. So let me just read these words. Whereas, Ms. Battle didn't believe in waiting for people to come to healthcare, but would rather find ways to take healthcare to the people, often arranging transportation for those attending programs and events. And that is true. Whereas, Ms. Battle has been a committed leader in the community helping to fight against diseases such as asthma, obesity, diabetes, breast cancer and high blood pressure, diseases which disproportionately impact minority and low-income communities. And she has a handsome husband who is the Commissioner of the Boxing Commission. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
Whereas, Ms. Battle consistently increased sales while working on the marketing side of Medicaid-managed care by being very innovative, but her true passion was displayed when she was able to change the lives and lifestyles of others; and Whereas, as a result of her hard work and dedication, Ms. Battle became an expert in strategic planning by designing and implementing effective media plans. She has offered these skills to her community and goes far and beyond the role of many executive professionals; and
I'm going to join Councilwoman Tasco in thanking personally Maria Battle, because not only does she do work citywide, but she has been a great leader in the Puerto Rican community, particularly around Puerto Rican women and getting us to take our places at the table, and I wouldn't be here if it were not for some of the Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 So I personally want to thank her for that. And her husband is Chair of the Boxing Commission. We're all going to be watching the fight on Saturday, right? Whereas, Ms. Battle currently serves on the boards of the Women Organized Against Rape, Intercultural Family Services, the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Pennsylvania as well as serving on many boards including the Fox Chase Cancer Center, Bridging the Gap. And I can't think of one organization in the City that she has not touched.
So let's just take everything that my Councilmembers have said, put it in bold letters, underscored with three exclamation points, and I'll add: Whereas, conducting evidence-based programs and collaborating with many different organizations is a hallmark of Ms. Battle's commitment to Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 change. She is a game changer, an active now retiree. She will continue to work on behalf of disadvantaged and underserved communities; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes and honors Maria Pajil Battle on her retirement as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Marketing for Keystone First, punctuated by her most recent position as president of the AmeriHealth Caritas partnership. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Maria Pajil Battle as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. And also we did mention that she was here today with her husband and also her son. And let's give them a round of applause and congratulations. (Applause.) Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
And the Chair recognizes Ms. Battle for remarks.
Thank you, Chairman Clarke, and thank you all the wonderful Councilpeople around me. I am so humbled and honored by this recognition. But, first of all, I always have to thank the Almighty for giving me the opportunity to be able to serve. This is the City I was born in. This is the City I lived and went to school in. This is the City I already have my tomb placed somewhere. But it is an honor. And my husband and my son are here. We work tirelessly in the community where we live and serve as much as we can. I don't think that I'm going to be finished any time soon. I continue to work with Councils here in different communities, because I am representing the community. I am that diverse. I am African American, I am Puerto Rican, I am Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Filipino, and I am very happy that I can serve all of those communities equally. My son and my husband also serve in the communities and do quite a bit of activities. I am so happy that this Council has recognized me. I am honored, and thank you so much and God bless everybody in the City of Philly. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. This morning we want to welcome young people in President Clarke's district. We want to invite the young people from the Parkway Center City High School to please rise, stand so that we can salute you. The class is AP in United States Government and their teacher, Dr. Thomer. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 standard, and we thank all of you for making sure that -what we know is that mediocrity is a sin and the only thing that matters as a student is excellence. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Thank you for joining us. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms deliver messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will 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, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bill: Bill No. 150790. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution also naming South 12th Street, between Walnut and Locust Streets, as "Gloria Casarez Way"; and A resolution approving the 2015 Progress Report and Strategic Plan Update of the Philadelphia Land Bank; and An ordinance authorizing the Managing Director to contract with the Support Center for Child Advocates for the provision of professional services to the City for representing children in certain legal matters, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in his possession.
The Chair Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 thanks the Clerk. The next order of business is introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you very much. Today I have five resolutions, one non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia; and A non-privileged resolution naming 5400 Chester Avenue and the 1400 Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 and 1500 blocks of South 55th Street as "Dr. Evelyn Graves Way"; and A non-privileged resolution naming the unit block of 41st Street between Parish and Brown Streets to have "Logan Dignity Way"; and A non-privileged resolution naming the unit block of 48th Street between Baltimore and Kingsessing Avenues to have "Judge A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr. Way"; and A non-privileged resolution approving the 2015 Progress Report and Strategic Plan Update of the Philadelphia Land Bank.
Thank you. These resolutions will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. On behalf of Council President Clarke, I offer two bills and Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 one resolution.
An ordinance authorizing Gary Jonas to install, own and maintain concrete stair and landscaped terrace encroachments at 2322 through 34 Green Street.
And an ordinance authorizing the striking from City Plan No. 119 and abandoning of a certain pedestrian walkway reserved within the bed of former Thompson Street, from Watts Street to Thirteenth.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Ninth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. Today I have two bills and two privileged resolutions.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-2700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Permit Parking Districts," by amending the boundaries for Permit Parking District 35.
And an ordinance Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 amending Chapter 12-2700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Permit Parking Districts," by amending the boundaries of Permit Parking District 32.
And a privileged resolution honoring Pat Gillespie on his Retirement from the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council.
And a privileged resolution honoring Commissioner Louis Giorla of the Philadelphia Prison System for Thirty-Four Years of Service to the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Mr. President, I have no bills or Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 resolutions. I'm sorry.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Council President, I have one non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon situate, in the Thirty-Sixth and Forty-Eighth Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
And Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill on behalf of the Administration and one resolution on your behalf.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-3300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Erection, Use and Inspection of Tower Cranes," by adding requirements regulating the use and inspection of mobile cranes.
That will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring, recognizing and celebrating the 50th anniversary of Community College of Philadelphia.
And Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
We have no bills or resolutions this morning. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill, one resolution.
An ordinance establishing a no parking regulation on Delmar Street, between Mansion Street and a point 230 feet east thereof, both sides.
And a non-privileged resolution naming the newly renovated boxing gym at Kendrick Recreation Center the "Harold Johnson Memorial Boxing Gym."
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
An ordinance authorizing the vacating of Byberry Road (not on City Plan) from the terminus of Byberry Road as plotted on the City Plan, approximately one thousand one hundred ninety six feet eastwardly, southwardly, and southeastwardly from Woodhaven Road to the City of Philadelphia-Bucks County Line.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill on your behalf and two non-privileged resolutions. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
An ordinance authorizing the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority to construct, own and maintain digital outdoor advertising signs, encroaching on the public right-of-way at various subway, elevated train and rail entrances in the City.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
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 Thirty-First Ward of the City of Philadelphia. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
And a non-privileged resolution also naming South 12th Street, between Walnut and Locust Streets, as "Gloria Casarez Way."
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution denouncing the demeaning, misogynistic, racist and homophobic e-mail sent on state-owned computers by prosecutors currently employed by Philadelphia DA's Office, urging the District Attorney to terminate their employment, and calling on the Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Pennsylvania Attorney-General's office to appoint an independent special prosecutor to investigate the three former state prosecutors, so as to restore public confidence in our law enforcement entities.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much. I offer three privileged resolutions, one co-sponsored by Councilman Curtis Jones, and one non-privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution designating August 17th as "First Responder Appreciation Day in Philadelphia" into Perpetuity.
This week's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
And a privileged resolution Recognizing and Commemorating December 5, 2015 as WordPress Day in Philadelphia.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and congratulating Kazumi Teune for her dedication and contributions to strengthening the Japanese American community in Philadelphia as Executive Director of the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia for more than 15 years.
And a non-privileged resolution urging the United States Congress to investigate the involuntary discharge of SFC Charles Martland from the United States Army and urging that he be retained in the military.
And Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 next week's Final Passage Calendar. That concludes our introductions of bills and resolutions. The 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 nine bills 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 which was referred Bill No. 150643, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 14-300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Administration and Procedures,' to provide for permit holders to give Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 connection with As of Right Permits"; and Bill No. 150705, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Ludlow Street, Farragut Street, 46th Street, Haverford Avenue, and 40th Street"; and Bill No. 150721, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Hermitage Street, Lawnton Street, Green Lane, Jannette Street, Monastery Avenue, Houghton Street, Walnut Lane, Shurs Lane, Merrick Street, Pensdale Street, and Mitchell Street"; and Bill No. 150722, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Overlay Zoning Districts,' by amending the subsection entitled '/NCA, Ridge Avenue Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Overlay'"; and Bill No. 150744, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 10th Street, Packer Avenue, Darien Street, and Hartranft Street"; and Bill No. 150745, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by providing special density rules for buildings with a green roof"; and Bill No. 150747, entitled "An ordinance repealing an ordinance (Bill No. 150473), entitled 'An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Green Street, Second Street, Spring Garden Street, and Third Street'"; and Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 150766, entitled "An ordinance to amend Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by removing certain expired provisions and revising certain provisions, including definitions, administration, overlay zoning districts, use regulations, development standards, parking and loading, and signs"; and Bill No. 150767, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by revising requirements in Section 14-405, entitled 'SP-ENT, Entertainment (Special Purpose) District,'" respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the nine bills that were just read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 150643, 150705, 150721, 150722, 150744, 150745, 150747, 150766, and 150767. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Those bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Finance. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Finance reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 150812, entitled "An ordinance constituting the Eighteenth Supplemental Ordinance to the Restated General Water and Wastewater Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1989, as supplemented; authorizing the Bond Committee to issue and sell one or more series or subseries of tax-exempt or taxable water and wastewater revenue bonds and revenue refunding bonds"; and Bill No. 150813, entitled "An ordinance constituting the Nineteenth Supplemental Ordinance to the Restated General Water and Wastewater Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1989, as supplemented; Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 to issue and sell either at public or private sale Water and Wastewater Revenue Bonds," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 150812 and 150813. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 150812 and 150813. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.) Stated Meeting November 19, 2015
The ayes have it, and these bills will also be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez for a report from the Committee of License and Inspection.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on License and Inspection reports four bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Mr. Decker, please read the report.
The Committee on Licenses and Inspections, to which was referred Bill No. 150650, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 4 'The Philadelphia Building Construction and Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Code,' by amending Subcode 'PM' (The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code), by adding a section requiring vacant property owners to allow access for City inspections upon reasonable notice"; and Bill No. 150651, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 4 'The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code,' of The Philadelphia Code, by amending Subcode 'P,' (The Philadelphia Plumbing Code) by adding new requirements for food waste grinders in some new residential construction"; and Bill No. 150719, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, Subcode PM (The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code), by providing for definitions and amending requirements applicable to foreclosed residential premises"; and Bill No. 150769, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-2200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Expediters,' Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 rules, obligations and procedures pertaining to expediter licenses, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day for Bill Nos. 150650, 150651, 150719, and 150769. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 150650, 150651, 150719, and 150769. All those in favor say aye. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 (Aye.)
The ayes have it. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for a report from the Committee of Public Safety.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Public Safety reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Public Safety, to which was referred Bill No. 150659, entitled "An ordinance amending Subsection 10-308 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Solicitations of Contributions in the Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Minors,' by enhancing enforcement procedures and penalty requirements, all 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, Mr. Decker. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Jones.
Yes, sir. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 150659. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 150659. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.) Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 2ND READING
The ayes have it, and this bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. And that concludes the reports from committee. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that those bills just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on our First Reading Calendar today, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today. Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 2ND READING
Mr. President, the following resolutions and bills are being called up from Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 150866, 150867, 150869, 150874, 150877, 140607-AA, 150502-A, 150348, 150573, 150653, 150790, and 150720. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before considering these resolutions and bills on the Final Passage Calendar, we will have our public comment session. The public comment session will go as follows: If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution that is on the Final Passage Calendar, if you have not already done so, you may 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 there. When that Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 light turns green, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When the light turns red, we would ask that you please adhere to the guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes to testify. Mr. Decker, please call the name of the first witness.
Michael Robinson, commenting on 150573. (Witness approached podium.)
Hello, everybody. My name is Michael Robinson and I'm here to comment on the bill for the Mayor's Commission on African-American Males. I strongly urge Council to continue this Commission. I do so because African American males are a unique entity. Every black man in this Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 room understands they are a unique entity. You may have been successful in this system, but nonetheless, we all face challenges. I could bore you with a lot of statistics. Like I'll just give you one statistic, because if I named all of them, I'll be here talking forever. Black males make up 5 percent of the African American male population in this country. Yet we make up 25 percent of the prisoners of the world. Not of America but of the world. We are unique. We all experience being different, being singled out, but I think the one thing -- and I'll refer to something that I witnessed like a couple of weeks ago. This was -- it was Mayor Ramsey -- I mean, not Mayor Ramsey. Police Commissioner Ramsey being asked a question about, you know, having more diversity in the Police Department and having more African American males on the Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Police Department. Now, he began by addressing this issue specifically talking about African American males, but then all of the sudden, he went on to start talking about diversity and adding, you know, more engaged, more this and more that. And we have to understand that African American males are not included in that diversity umbrella, because what we usually do, we want to include everybody. So what did you do? You hire a double minority. And then the next thing you know, it's black and woman, black and gay, black and whatever. We're not included, and I think that really needs to be understood. We are not included in this diversity umbrella. We are indeed unique. Some of the things the Mayor's Commission on African-American Males has been doing is, we've established rebuilding a building which takes place in -- it takes place in West Philadelphia, Strawberry Mansion, and in Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 Southwest Philadelphia, and that's for black males to discuss their issues, for us to be stigmatized mental health to get black males to seek counseling and things like that. And we also have proposed more inclusion with colleges and universities as far as hiring and improving black males in that process. So thank you for hearing me.
Joseph Danihel, commenting on 150866. (Witness approached podium.)
It's me again. I quote George Mason, delegate, the constitutional convention in Philadelphia. "Can anybody be above the law?" Truer words were never spoke by a founding father in the sacred cradle of liberty. He and other founding fathers Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 were concerned about potential abuse of power in the government that so many have sacrificed so much to get. So they passed laws. 42 USC 1982, all citizens in the United States have the right, in every state and territory, to inherit, purchase, lease, sell, hold, convey real and personal property. 42 USC 1983, every person who, under color of any statute, ordinance, regulation, custom causes or causes to be subjected to any citizen of the United States thereof to the deprivation of rights, privileges, immunities secured by the Constitution and the laws shall be liable to the party injured in an action at law. 7/24/00, New York times article, I've had nothing but trouble for years trying to get my money, Logan resident, Ms. Williamson. 12/9/10 article, PN, An injustice is an injustice no matter who you are, said Dr. Turner, Logan resident. Mayor Goode did not provide the same deal Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 to Dr. Turner as he provided the other residents. 2/13/04, Philadelphia Tribune, when tax-hungry public officials in Pennsylvania team up with land-hungry private developers, innocent home and business owners standing in the way are likely to get mugged City Hall style. Landowners once trusted the government to respect the Constitution. City Paper, January 8, 2015, Civil forfeiture cases are filed in an incredible rate and volume, possibly the greatest of any big city, here in Philadelphia. Apparatus routinely violates the Constitutional right to due process. The Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority and its Board stripped me of my 42 USC 1982 property rights to submit court papers, denying my right to the 7th amendment jury trial, since you as agents and agencies expressly designed to serve require transparency and trust of the Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 people in the government. These above extraordinary, willful, and outrageous actions indicate this apparent rogue agency requires de-funding. It is your duty to stop this agency, or else it would appear that you agree with its actions. And this gentleman has a copy of the speech so that you can refer to it if you need to, and my number is on it, and I still haven't received communication from last time.
Robert Ballenger, commenting on 140607. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. Thank you, Mr. Council President, members of City Council. My name is Robert Ballenger. I'm an attorney in the Energy Unit at Community Legal Services. I'm Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 here to express my sincere support and heartfelt gratitude to Councilwoman Sanchez and her staff for getting us to the point where Bill 140607 is up for final passage here today. It is tremendously important legislation. It would establish for the first time in the City of Philadelphia income-based water rate affordability program. That program would allow low-income families to break out of the cycle in which they currently lose service far too often and live without service for far too long. We've worked on this legislation with the Councilwoman's office for the last 17 months. We've worked hand in hand with representatives of the Administration to get to this point where truly we believe the City of Philadelphia can serve as a model for other cities encountering some of the similar problems with low-income families having difficulty affording their water Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 11/19/15 - STATED - 2ND READING bills and keeping service on for their own safety, for the safety and benefit of their neighbors, and our entire community. I urge your strong support for this legislation, and thank you for the opportunity today.
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. We will now move to our Calendar, and I'd ask that you read Resolution 150866.
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 Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 11/19/15 - STATED - 2ND READING City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-Seventh Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Resolution 150866 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 150867.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 11/19/15 - STATED - 2ND READING for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020, 2022 through 26, 2028, 2029 through 35, and 2030 through 36 North Sixteenth Street and 1601 and 1603 through 05 Page Street.
Thank you. 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? (Aye.)
The Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 11/19/15 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it, and Resolution 150867 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 150869.
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 8 East Palmer Street.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
Those opposed? Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 11/19/15 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it, and Resolution 150869 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 150874.
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 2425 East Firth Street.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 11/19/15 - STATED - 2ND READING Those opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it, and 150874 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 150877.
A resolution urging the United States Congress to pass the Every Child Deserves a Family Act and recognizing November 21, 2015 as National Adoption Day in the City of Philadelphia.
Mr. President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The Stated Meeting November 19, 2015 11/19/15 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it, and 150877 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140607-AA.
An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finance, Taxes and Collections," Chapter 1600, entitled "Water and Sewer Rents," by providing for installment payment agreements.
This bill has been heard on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.