COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 15, 2007 10:20 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILMAN DANIEL SAVAGE COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The 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 welcomes Reverend Dr. James S. Allen, Pastor of the Vine Memorial Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Campbell. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Everyone rises.)
Oh, thou who art our eternal God, our creator, sustainer and guide, we thank you that you have allowed us once again to assemble with this august body to deliberate matters relating to the well-being of your people. We pray, Gracious God, that you would give them wisdom, discerning minds, insight into what is good for them and for the people they serve. We pray for their families that their homes will be havens of peace so that they can be reflective about that which is good for the betterment of the people that they serve. And grant, oh, God, that they will always be mindful that you are watching and you are concerned about their deliberations. May it be so that their deliberations this day will be of such that it will enhance the well-being of all under their jurisdiction. Thank you for this city. Bless it and bless all who are apart of it, we pray in your name. Amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks Reverend Allen for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Today we have the pleasure of the Mayor joining he signs the trans fat bill. All members of City Council are certainly welcome to come up to the podium to join him. I would also ask that the Acting City Health Commissioner also come up to the podium. I hear that Tony Luke is in the audience. I don't know if he brought any roast pork sandwiches, but we certainly welcome him up to the podium. We also have Dr. William Lander and Dennis Alstead. Would you all come up to the podium as the Mayor signs this piece of legislation. Mr. Mayor.
Thank you very much, Madam President, members of City Council. I'm happy to be here. Councilman, you want to make a couple brief remarks?
I just want to thank all of Philadelphia for all the support that the public has given all of in City Council on the banning of trans fat. Not only has the everyday people endorsed this in Philadelphia but our good eateries have endorsed it as well. And it's going to be a very intensive public education campaign to give our business community a chance to adjust to the trans fat free ingredients, also to educate our public about this serious problem that's related to our public health. And on this day, I am just glad that I have so many distinguished colleagues in this Council that saw the righteousness of this and that today also, among other people, we have the famous Tony Luke with us. And Tony Luke, when Tony heard about my bill, he said, Councilman, I went trans fat free a long time ago because it was the right thing to do. So thank you all. (Applause.)
I think we're going to now -- we'll do this. I would down there, but then I'd have to be bending over, and you all wouldn't want to have to carry me out of here. (Mayor Street signs trans fat bill.) (Applause.)
I want to personally thank Mayor John Street, who a few weeks ago surprised me on Saturday morning and he was talking about his support and his administration's support for this ban on trans fat. Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 8, 2007, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, 8, 2007 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of February 8, 2007 stand approved. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 8, 2007 is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. 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 us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos, who will present a resolution recognizing March as Latino Health Month in Philadelphia. and Dennis Alstead please join the Councilman at the podium, and anyone with you can certainly come up to the podium. I see that Councilman Ramos is being joined by Councilmembers Savage and Tasco.
Good morning. Recognizing the month of March as Latino Health Month in Philadelphia. Whereas, more than 160,000 people of Hispanic heritage reside in the City of Philadelphia, compromising more than 10 percent of the City's total population growth of more than 70 percent in the last decade; and Whereas, Latinos fare far worse on many health outcomes than the general population; and
Whereas, 14.3 percent of Latinos are diagnosed with diabetes in Southeastern Pennsylvania, as compared to 8.1 percent in the general population of Pennsylvania 8.9 percent in the national population; and Whereas, 54.8 percent of Latino children in Southeastern Pennsylvania ages 2 to 17 are at risk of becoming obese as compared to 41.4 percent of children of the general population; and Whereas, two prominent health organizations have teamed up to launch an unprecedented bilingual multi-media health initiative focused on improving the health of Latinos, under the guidance and support of the Philadelphia Department of Public Health; and Whereas, Congreso de Latinos Unidos, a leading non-profit community-based Latino organization in Pennsylvania whose mission is to strengthen Latino communities through social, economic, education and health services; leadership development; and advocacy; and
Whereas, the Pennsylvania Medical Society has been relationship since 1848; and Whereas, these two organizations have facilitated the collaboration and support in this initiative of all Philadelphia health promotion and healthcare providers having a dedicated interest in the unique needs of the Latino community to launch a bilingual multi-media health initiative focused on improving the health of Latinos, A Su Salud; and Whereas, this initiative brings critical preventive health information and education to Latinos across eight counties in Southeastern Pennsylvania, through a culturally appropriate televised educational media component with four Latino healthy cooking shows aired on Telemundo via Comcast Cable Network in March 2007, with Latino health professionals appearing as guests to speak about health and fitness topics in a culturally appropriate and compelling manner; and Whereas, a print media component will include the distribution of nearly half a million bilingual recipe and health information booklets throughout eight counties in Eastern Pennsylvania beginning in February, American Heart Health Month; and Whereas, the campaign will also include free blood pressure and body mass index screenings offered at key venues throughout Philadelphia's Latino communities, at Congreso and most Latino primary health facilities, directing individuals to treatment; and
Whereas, the City of Philadelphia recognizes the valuable platform which this campaign offers from which to mobilize efforts to reverse these health disparities. Now therefore be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize the month of March as Latino Health Month in further, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Nicholas Torres of Congreso de Latinos Unidos and Barbara Layne of the Pennsylvania Medical Society as a symbol of the sincere admiration of this legislative body. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Oh, you're here. UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: Barbara Layne is not here.
Oh, okay. The Chair recognizes Mr. Nicholas Torres.
I just wanted to thank City Council for this. It's Latino community that it's recognized and we have an opportunity to be on the preventive side of health so that we can increase the negative statistics of our community in a positive way. So thank you very much to City Council for this resolution. (Applause.)
It is my understanding that Dr. William Lander will be accepting for Ms. Layne. Doctor, if you would like to say a few remarks.
Thank you. I'm Dr. Bill Lander, immediate past President of the Pennsylvania Medical Society. On behalf of the Pennsylvania Medical Society, thank you for recognizing A Su Salud and the program's partners. Today in Pennsylvania and throughout our great country concern is growing about the negative impact that certain life-style issues such as obesity on individuals as well as on society. As a family physician, I see how a few extra pounds on a patient can lead to health issues such as diabetes and high blood pressure. By addressing these issues, we can create an atmosphere that encourages healthy living and a better quality of life. That's why the Pennsylvania Medical Society collaborated with Congreso and our sponsors to make A Su Salud a reality. Again, thank you for recognizing A Su Salud and declaring March Latino Health Month. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present a resolution honoring the 30th Annual Philadelphia Flyers Wives Will Ms. Mary Ann Saleski and those accompanying her please join the Councilman. Thank you.
Thank you, Madam President. This is a resolution honoring the 30th Annual Philadelphia Flyers Wives Fight for Lives Carnival, a continued beacon of support and fundraising for numerous charity organizations and the goodwill of Philadelphia. Whereas, the 30th Philadelphia Flyers Wives Fight for Lives Carnival will be held on Sunday, February 27th at the Wachovia Center, with all proceeds going to multiple charities, including the National Ovarian Cancer Research Fund; and Whereas, the Philadelphia Flyers, their wives, alumni and the Philadelphia Phantoms unite to host the carnival, one of the largest fundraisers; and Whereas, in 2006, the carnival drew 7,500 attendees and raised nearly $1 million; and Whereas, former Philadelphian Sylvester Stallone has been named honorary chair of the 2007 30th Anniversary Carnival; and Whereas, the Comcast Spectacor Foundation is the parent organization of the Flyers Charities and has a primary focus of raising funds for medical research and other healthcare activities, as well as providing positive education and recreational resources for Philadelphia youth; Whereas, in recognition of the Flyers Wives Fight for Lives 30th Anniversary, the Comcast Spectacor Foundation has redesigned itself, creating a completely new look, feel and design to mark the occasion; Whereas, over the past 29 years, Flyers Charities have raised over $20 million for numerous organizations, Research Laboratories, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Temple University Health Systems, Living Beyond Breast Cancer, United Cerebral Palsy Hospital and other local organizations and projects; and Whereas, there are 20 Flyers' wives and girlfriends and over 30 volunteers who help make this carnival a reality. Now, therefore resolved, by the City of Philadelphia, that it honor the 30th Annual Philadelphia Flyers Wives Fight for Lives Carnival, a continued beacon of support and fundraising for numerous charity organizations and the goodwill of Philadelphia. I want to thank them very much for all their hard work and honor them here today. (Applause.)
Thank you very much for this honor. This is wonderful. I wish our honorary chairman could be here to give the speech, because it could be a momentous occasion, but he's not here, so I'll speak to you. And Michelle Wallace, who is a Center City resident, by the way, has -- we do have a special presentation for Councilwoman Verna, if she would join us.
She's officially now one of the Flyers wives and has a commemorative jersey that maybe she'll wear at the carnival on February 25th. We'd like to invite all of the residents to join us on Sunday, February 25th at the Wachovia Center. It is our 30th year, as you just heard, and it really has been our privilege to try and give back to the community over the years. It's amazing that we can even say that we've raised nearly $20 million and worthy charities. We look forward to moving forward in the next 20 years and continuing the same. And thanks again for this honor and for your support. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution recognizing February 11th through February 17th as Black Family Technology Awareness Week. Will Ms. Carole Smith and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Good morning. It gives me great pleasure to present this resolution to my dear friend, Carole Smith, who is the Chair of the Mayor's Commission on Technology. 11th through the 17th as Black Family Technology Awareness Week. Whereas, the Workforce 2000 initiative will be coordinating activities citywide for the ninth annual national Black Family Technology Awareness Week Sunday, February the 11th 2007 to Saturday, February 17th, 2007; and Whereas, the purpose of Black Family Technology Awareness Week is to change how African-Americans perceive science, technology, engineering and math, STEM, and recognize that vigilance, education and exposure are necessary to ensure digital equity and that African-Americans are able to qualify, compete and participate in today's knowledge economy; and Whereas, data from the U.S. Department of Commerce NTIA report, entitled "Digital Divide," show that even though all racial groups now own more in 2001, blacks and Hispanics still lag even further behind in the levels of personal computer ownership and online access; and Whereas, now more than ever as Philadelphia becomes the first major city to go wireless and increases E-government, we need to expand awareness about the opportunities that exist in science, technology, engineering and math-related industries and jobs; and Whereas, that during Black Family Technology Awareness Week events will take place throughout Philadelphia to disseminate information and help African-Americans understand the many ways in which technology will continue to have a major impact on how they learn, work, live and play, as well as understand the contributions they have made thereto. Now therefore resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we recognize February 11th through 17th Awareness Week. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution is presented to a representative of the Workforce 2000 initiative as an expression of appreciation of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, on the 1st day of February 2007. Signed by President Verna, introduced by Marian Tasco and supported by all members of Council. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Ms. Smith for remarks. Welcome.
Thank you, President Verna and thank you, all members of City Council. We appreciate this recognition of Black Family Technology Awareness Week. activity in Philadelphia since 1999, and we've seen a significant growth in the level of achievement in the African-American community. And I'd like to thank all of those who helped make this possible, starting from my left, Mr. Trapier Jervay from IBM, which is the national sponsor of this program. This program is run citywide -- I mean nationwide throughout the United States. Ms. Narissa Wallace, who is the webmaster, project manager of the Mayor's Commission on Technology; our praxis, Dr. Darrel Williams; Garnett Thompson, who also selects the "Black Engineer of the Year" awardees as part of the Career Communications Black Family Technology Awareness Week program; Dionne Ellison from Wireless Philadelphia, which is going to make our City unique, as you all know. We have two representatives from the Free Library; a representative of Fleet Management, a City department, of the program of the Mayor's Commission on Technology launched, the international computer driver's license, which is designed to improve the technical skills of the City's workforce; and Mr. Sam Smith from Abo Haven, a computer organization and childcare organization here in the City. And they just represent a small number of the individuals who are working with us around the City. We have programs going on in every part of the City, South Philly, West Philly, North Philly, Germantown, community-based organization, and not only is this focused on the black community but the Hispanic community as well. So I'd like to thank you, Councilman Tasco, my friend, Marian Tasco, and City Council as well for recognizing us. Thank you very much. (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, I am pleased to advise you that today, February 15, 2007, I signed the following bill that was passed by Council at its session on February 8, 2007: Bill No. 060958; and I am pleased to advise you that on February 14, 2007, I signed the following bill that was passed by Council at its session on February 1, 2007: 060889; and I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in an amount not to exceed $1 million to assist in the conversion of the former Wills Eye Hospital; and An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in the amount not to exceed $2 million to assist in the development of WHYY Learning Lab.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended in order to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution amending Resolution 060059, adopted February 2, 2006, which reestablished the Veterans' Advisory Commission, by revising the list of veterans' organizations that may make nominations for appointments to the Commission.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion on the resolution.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Before I introduce my resolutions, we'd like to note that Councilwoman Carol Campbell has requested a leave of absence for today.
Today I introduce three resolutions on your behalf and one on my own.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution calling for hearings before the City Council Committee on Education to explore the relationship between neighborhood development and capital improvements to School District facilities.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority, the City of Philadelphia, for the renewal of a portion of the Grays Ferry Urban Renewal Area.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the appointment of Councilwoman Carol Ann Campbell to the Board of Directors of the Fairmount Park Historic Preservation Trust.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the appointment of Council President Anna C. Verna to the Board of Directors of the Fairmount Park Historic Preservation Trust, Inc.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer three resolutions, one on your and my behalf and one co-sponsored by Councilman Darrell Clarke.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring Jim Ellis and the Philadelphia Department of Recreation Swim Team.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing the 110th birthday of Marian Anderson.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing the month of March as Save Your Vision Month.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I offer, Donna Reed Miller offers, no bills or resolutions, but I have two resolutions on behalf of Carol Campbell.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold public hearings to investigate and determine why SEPTA has not and is not working to make the subway exits more adjacent to City Hall and the Municipal Services Building.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities.
And a resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings to examine current invoicing and disbursement procedures and policies in City procurement and contracting, so as to determine measures that may be required to implement and ensure best practices and standards for prompt payment.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Economic Development. The Chair recognizes Councilman Savage.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority, the City of Philadelphia, for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the American Street Industrial Corridor.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $2 million to assist in the development of the WHYY Learning Lab.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, in an amount not to exceed $1 million to assist in the conversion of the former Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring and recognizing Thomas A. Chapman on his retirement from the Philadelphia City Planning Commission after 28 years of dedicated service to the City.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Funds Deposits, Investments, Disbursements," by amending Section 19-201, entitled "City Depositories," by authorizing the City Treasurer to deposit funds in Sovereign Bank, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution co-sponsored by Councilman Clarke.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring Philadelphia's own Raheem Brock and Marvin Harrison on being a part of the 2006 Super Bowl Champion Indianapolis Colts and further recognizing their continued contribution to the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Miscellaneous Regulations and Penalties," by adding a new section, entitled "Prohibited Operation by Truant Minors."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Madam President, I offer one bill and one privileged resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending provisions related to businesses with a drive-thru, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring Erik Hendricks on the occasion of his retirement as Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Law and Government reports two bills and two resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
reads the report, Councilman Kenney, do you want to be recognized?
Thank you, Madam President. I apologize. I have to leave the Chamber for a period of time, and while I'm gone, I would like to be recorded voting aye on all bills, resolutions or amendments.
The Chief Clerk will please read the report from the Committee on Law and Government.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 060576, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home its current method of real estate tax assessment and not change the method as proposed under the BRT's full valuation initiative"; and Bill No. 060849, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia urge the United States to make year 2007 the time to redeploy U.S. troops out of harm's way in Iraq"; and Resolution No. 060590, entitled "A resolution proposing an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to retain its current method of real estate tax assessment"; and Resolution No. 060861, entitled "A resolution proposing an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to urge the United States to make year 2007 the time to redeploy troops out of harm's way Iraq," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills and resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 060576 and 060849. (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 read and reported from committee. All 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. Resolution Nos. 060590 and 060861 will be placed on our Second Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
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 Public Property and Public Works, to which was 060894, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire by condemnation for a new bridge crossing the Schuylkill River through South Street," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 060894. (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 bill just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports out 12 bills with a favorable recommendation.
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 Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 060852, entitled "An ordinance revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 129 by striking from the City Plan 25th Street from Stokley Street to Westmoreland Street"; and Bill No. 060929, entitled "An ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Cedarbrook Avenue between Greenwood Street and Vernon Road"; and Bill No. 060930, entitled "An ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Cedarbrook Avenue between Phil-Ellena Street to Greenwood Avenue"; and Bill No. 060931, entitled "An ordinance establishing a 'No Truck Parking Any Time' regulation on the 5500 block of Tabor Road"; and Bill No. 060932, entitled "An ordinance establishing a 'No Truck Parking Any Time' regulation on the 5600 block of Tabor Road"; and Bill No. 060933, entitled "An 'No Truck Parking Any Time' regulation on the 1500 block of Upsal Street between 80th Avenue and Michener Avenue"; and Bill No. 060935, entitled "An ordinance granting permission to Aruna Patel, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northeast corner of 9th and Chestnut Streets"; and Bill No. 060937, entitled "An ordinance granting permission to Ashwin Patel and Rams Newsstand, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the southwest corner of 10th and Chestnut Streets"; and Bill No. 060938, entitled "An ordinance granting permission to Mohammed Ahamed, owner and operator of the newsstand located at the southeast corner of 7th and Market Streets"; and Bill No. 060941, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of 11th and Tioga Streets"; and 060960, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Wachovia Bank, its successors and assigns, to place a freestanding ATM kiosk on the north sidewalk of East Allegheny Avenue"; and Bill No. 070045, entitled "An ordinance granting permission to Marilyn Stroud to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the northeast corner of 16th and Dickinson Streets, 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. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the 12 bills that have just been read into the record. 2/15/07 - STATED - 1ST READING (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. The next order of business will be the consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 060901, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Girard 2/15/07 - STATED - 1ST READING Avenue and 30th Street.
And Bill No. 060902, an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, by adopting a new Section 14-217, entitled "Industrial Transformation District."
And Bill 060962, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by North Broad Street and Ridge Avenue.
And Bill No. 060963, an ordinance amending Chapter 14-1402 of The Philadelphia Code, to revise parking regulations and to increase the permitted floor area of lots designated C-4. 2/15/07 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 060964, 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 Melon Street from Ridge Avenue to 13th Street.
And Bill No. 060965, an ordinance to amend the Institutional Development District Master Plan of Temple University by allowing for the construction of a new building on Block B for the use of the Edward Rosen Center for Jewish Life.
And Bill No. 060576, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the 2/15/07 - STATED - 1ST READING Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to urge the Philadelphia Board of Revision of Taxes to retain its current method of real estate tax assessment.
And Bill No. 060849, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia urge the United States to make year 2007 the year to redeploy U.S. troops out of harm's way in Iraq.
And Bill No. 060894, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire by condemnation easements for the purpose of a public right-of-way for a new bridge crossing the Schuylkill River through South Street. 2/15/07 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 060852, an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 129 by striking from the City Plan 25th Street from Stokley Street to Westmoreland Street.
And Bill No. 060929, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Cedarbrook Avenue between Greenwood Street and Vernon Road.
And Bill No. 060930, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Cedarbrook Avenue between Phil-Ellena Street to Greenwood Avenue.
The 2/15/07 - STATED - 1ST READING Chair agrees.
And Bill No. 060931, an ordinance establishing a "No Truck Parking Any Time" regulation on the 5500 block of Tabor Road.
And Bill No. 060932, an ordinance establishing a "No Truck Parking Any Time" regulation on the 5600 block of Tabor Road, both sides.
And Bill No. 060933, an ordinance establishing a "No Truck Parking Any Time" regulation on the 1500 block of Upsal Street between 80th Street and Michener Avenue.
And Bill No. 060935, an ordinance granting permission to Aruna Patel, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northeast corner 2/15/07 - STATED - 1ST READING of 9th and Chestnut Streets.
And Bill No. 060937, an ordinance granting permission to Ashwin Patel and Rams Newsstand, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the southwest corner of 10th and Chestnut Streets.
And Bill No. 060938, an ordinance granting permission to Mohammed Ahamed, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the southeast corner of 7th and Market Streets.
And Bill No. 060941, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of 11th Street and Tioga Street.
The 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair agrees.
And Bill No. 060960, an ordinance authorizing Wachovia Bank, its successors and assigns, to place a freestanding ATM kiosk on the north sidewalk of East Allegheny Avenue.
And Bill No. 070045, an ordinance granting permission to Marilyn Stroud to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the northeast corner of South 16th and Dickinson Streets.
The Chair agrees. That completes our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING you, Madam President. Today our Calendar starts on where Bill No. 050863-A will be withdrawn. On , Bill Nos. 040061, 62 and 63 will be called up to be withdrawn. On , Bill No. 050067 will be called up to be withdrawn, as will Bill No. 050377 on . On , Bill No. 060697 will be called up to be withdrawn, and we will consider today Bill No. 060928. All other bills are being held.
Thank you very much. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 050863-A.
An ordinance amending Section 12-1117 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Physically Handicapped and Disabled or Severely Disabled Veteran Parking," by amending the provision relating to metered parking for physically handicapped persons and severely disabled veterans, and making such amendment contingent on the 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING enactment of the ordinance relating to the establishment of parking for motor-driven cycles and similar motor vehicles, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the bill be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and seconded that Bill No. 050863-A be withdrawn. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Clerk will please read the 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING title of Bill No. 040061.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved January 3, 1992, Bill No. 1205-AA, which, pursuant to Subsection 9-204(8) of The Philadelphia Code, designates the locations in Center City at which vending is permitted, by providing that all permitted vending locations on both sides of 11th Street between Arch Street and Chestnut Street shall be assigned only to vendors licensed to sell prepared food, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Madam President, I move that the bill be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Bill No. 040061 be withdrawn. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.) 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 040062.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved January 3, 1992, Bill 1205-AA, as amended, which, pursuant to Subsection 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code, designates the locations in Center City at which vending is permitted.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the bill be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Bill No. 040062 be withdrawn. All in favor will please say 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Again, the Chair recognizes -I'm sorry. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read Bill No. 040063.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved January 3, 1992, Bill No. 1205-AA, which, pursuant to Subsection 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code, designates the location in Center City at which vending is permitted.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the bill be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Bill No. 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING 040063 be withdrawn. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 050067.
An ordinance authorizing Felix Penzarella, 618 South Front Street, Philadelphia, owner of the property 618 Front Street, his successors and assigns, to construct and maintain a rear building addition on Hancock Street, under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the bill be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING has been moved and seconded that Bill No. 050067 be withdrawn. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 050377.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed, for nominal consideration, located at 230-234 Dickinson Street, with the improvements thereon, for further conveyance at fair market value.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING Madam President. I move that the bill be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Bill No. 050377 be withdrawn. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 060697.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1700, entitled "Administration and Enforcement," by amending Section 14-1708, entitled "Procedure for Enactment of Ordinance," under certain terms and conditions.
The 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the bill be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Bill No. 060697 be withdrawn. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 060928.
An ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety and welfare of the people in the area served by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for certain improvement and expansion projects to such 2/15/07 - STATED - 2ND READING institutions' facilities, primarily at their campus located at 34th Street and Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia.
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.
Thank you. As I stated at the Rules Committee meeting last week, the Fox Rothschild law firm represents Children's Hospital in this matter and I will be abstaining. Thank you.
Thank you. 2/15/07 - 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. And the record will reflect that Councilman O'Neill has abstained. That concludes our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until February the 22nd at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 22nd, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Thank you very much. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:20 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 February 15, 2007, 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.)