COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, December 11, 1997 11:45 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHN F. STREET COUNCILWOMAN ANNA CIBOTTI VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN AUGUSTA A. CLARK COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILWOMAN HAPPY FERNANDEZ COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER MARIE B. HAUSER, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center Plaza, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 INVOCATION
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. The Chair notes that the hour has come and that a quorum is present. Council will come to order, members will take their seats, visitors will retire to the seats outside the rail. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend Frederick Riegler, who is the Pastor of St. John the Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Nutter. Members and guests will please rise.
Let us pray. Oh, God, from whom all authority is derived, and in whose wisdom we share, we ask your blessings upon this Council and their deliberations. Grant them the insight to discern the needs of our city, the understanding to find solutions, the sensitivity to be equitable, and the courage to do the right thing. May the peace that this season promises be the common experience of our citizenry. And may the good will that is so necessary for peace APPROVAL OF JOURNAL be our not uncommon gift to one another. This we ask in your name. Amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks Reverend Riegler for his inspiring invocation. (Councilmembers greet Reverend Riegler.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 4, 1997. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Mr. President, I move the approval of the Journal of that date. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The ayes have it. The Journal is approved. The next order of business is leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman LEAVES OF ABSENCE Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair thanks Councilwoman Verna. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
On behalf of the minority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair thanks Councilman O'Neill. Our first presentation today honors Rosemarie Greco. To make this presentation, the Chair appoints Councilwoman Clark. The Chair invites Mrs. Greco to come and receive this resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This resolution honoring Rosemarie B. Greco. Whereas, Rosemarie B. Greco is a PRESENTATIONS Philadelphian born and bred. And her entire adult life has been dedicated in one way or another to enhancing the lives of the citizens of this city. And whereas, early in her life, Ms. Greco was a parish elementary school nun in the Sister's Service of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. When she left the convent, she went into banking and spent two decades at Fidelity Bank, where she earned the respect of her colleagues and superiors and worked her way up from bank branch secretary to President. And whereas, Ms. Greco joined CoreStates Financial Corporation in March of 1991, and again hit the ground running, bringing more women into the higher echelons of the bank, helping to make pay scales more just, overseeing changes in the bank, and in every way combining teamwork with the unique style which has endeared her to everyone, from the rank and file employees to national level banking executives. In fact, Ms. Greco was the first woman member of the prestigious Reserve City Bankers and is credited with changing the corporate culture at CoreStates at a time when other banks were PRESENTATIONS leaving the city. And whereas, even with the enormous responsibility of her professional position, Ms. Greco has always found time for the city itself. She has been Chair of the Women's Commission, a member of the City's Planning Commission, the Board of Education, a member of the Office of Management, Productivity and Planning. And significantly, in 1993, she became Chair of the Chamber of Commerce. And whereas, Ms. Greco, youngest of six children, may have acquired her independence and compassion a long time ago. But even today they are resilient features in a woman who is loved by many, admired by all, and held in the highest esteem by those who know her. Now, therefore resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend Ms. Rosemarie Greco. We do not know where we will find her next, but we know that the good Lord's not done with her yet. And in thanking her for her fine work in the banking community, we also wish her continued PRESENTATIONS fulfillment and success always. Resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Rosemarie Greco as evidence of the sincerest respect and admiration of this legislative body. This serves as a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 18th day of September, 1997, signed by John Street, introduced by Augusta Clark, and co-sponsored by every member of Council. Mr. President, I will tell you a little story about Rosemarie Greco and me. Neither of us plays golf. We decided we were going to play golf so we could buy golfing clothes. (Applause.)
Thank you so much, Council President Street and Councilwoman Clark, and to all of you members of City Council. Thank you for all the good work you do every day to make this city that which it is. Thank you for what you suffer and what you give, and PRESENTATIONS what you think and what you learn. Today you have taken certain actions regarding the shipyard deal. I ask you only to think about our kids, sitting in our classrooms today, who will gain employment, empowerment, and independence in the future because of the work that you are doing to make this a growing and developing city. It is important that we build the infrastructure in our curriculums and in our learning patterns so that our kids can step up to be Kvaerner employees, Port Authority employees, employees of the small and large businesses in our city. I am delighted to accept this proclamation. And I am also very proud to be associated with the city that has the leadership of a Council President and the membership of the City Council as it sits here today. So I thank you. Today I also have the opportunity to have with me Lauren Goldstein. Lauren is a senior at Abington High School. And she is the winner of the Macy's department store contest, Follow A Leader, featured PRESENTATIONS in both the Inquirer and the Daily News. And she wrote her essay on me. And in addition to the wonderful other awards she received, she gets the opportunity to spend the day with me. So today you are teachers yet again, showing the good works and the wonderful commitment of a community at work. Thank you. Happy holidays. (Applause.)
Our second presentation honors Ramona Riscoe. To make this presentation, the Chair appoints Councilwoman Tasco. The Chair invites Ms. Riscoe to come and receive this resolution.
It gives me great pleasure to present this resolution congratulating Ramona A. Riscoe. Whereas, Ramona Riscoe has been a moving force in promoting Philadelphia and its many PRESENTATIONS tourist attractions to cities and states throughout the country. And whereas, Ms. Riscoe arrived in Philadelphia from Brooklyn and Long Island, New York, bringing an entrepreneurial spirit, a zest for life, and a commitment to hard work. And whereas, Ramona distinguished herself most recently as Executive Director of the Multi-Cultural Affairs Congress, a division of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitor's Bureau, whose objective was to cultivate diversity in Philadelphia's hospitality industry. And whereas, Ms. Riscoe has developed tourism and visitor's service for the New Jersey State Aquarium, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the PECO Energy Jazz Festival. And whereas, Ramona now continues on her professional journey as an event planner by establishing Riscoe & Associates to provide resources for multi-cultural tourism opportunities that will also market the neighborhoods of Philadelphia. Now, therefore resolved that the Council of the City of Philadelphia salute, thank, PRESENTATIONS and congratulate Ramona Riscoe for her lively contributions to the City of Philadelphia, in its quest to be the destination of choice for America's travelers. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Ramona Riscoe as an expression of its gratitude and admiration for her commitment and dedication to Philadelphia. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 9th day of October, 1997. Signed by President of City Council, introduced by Marian B. Tasco, and sponsored by all members of City Council. We would like to say that Ramona Riscoe has really done a lot for Philadelphia. We appreciate all the hard work she has done, bringing business into Philadelphia. And she also has a beautiful voice, jazz voice. We want to thank her for all that she has done and wish you well in your new endeavor. (Applause.) PRESENTATIONS
Thank you, President Street, members of Council, and in particular Councilwoman Marian Tasco. Good morning. I want to acknowledge my parents, Roger and Mary Crawford, who are here today; my grandmother, Mary Gripper, and my close friend and colleague Nina Reese. I appreciate the opportunity to move from promoting a city full of rich African-American heritage and developing multi-cultural opportunities, to beginning a business that is able to exist because of Philadelphia's efforts to be a premiere destination for tourism and hospitality-related activities. Please accept my sincere appreciation for this wonderful honor. Thank you. (Applause.)
The next order of WELCOMING VISITORS business is Recognition of Visitors. To all of our visitors and guests with us this morning, the Chair welcomes you here and applauds your interest in the civic affairs of our city, and certainly invite you to come again. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for the purpose of introducing a visiting group.
Thank you, Mr. President. It is my pleasure to welcome today students from the National Junior Honor Society, from the Pierce Middle School. The principal of the school is Miss Mary Randall. These 7th and 8th grade students are joined by their chaperones, Sheila Linton, Audrey Martin, and Doris McCullough. I would ask that they please stand to be recognized. (Students stand.) (Applause.)
At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco, who will introduce a very special singing group that is here SINGING PRESENTATION to perform for us today. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco, the minister of music for the City Council of Philadelphia. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Mr. President. And you are correct. The group that will be singing today is just a smaller group. It is several people who are part of a larger group of about 35 men who have recorded their first CD, which is available in all record stores, at the price of $17. But they are here today. They are going to sing three songs for us, put us in the holiday mood. With no further ado, I would like to introduce the Philadelphia Gay Men's Chorus. (Applause.) (Singing presentation.)
At this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for a motion that the Rules of Council be suspended to permit immediate consideration of the report of the Council Committee of the Whole. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The ayes have it. The rules are suspended. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports Resolution No. 970801 out of committee with a favorable recommendation, and asks for immediate consideration.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole Council, to which was referred Resolution 970801, entitled Resolution approving the execution of a Lease and a Master Agreement between the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the Delaware River Port Authority, the Philadelphia REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Authority for Industrial Development, and Kvaerner, Inc., Kvaerner, for the development by Kvaerner on the shipbuilding facility within the Philadelphia Naval Business Center Tax Increment Financing District, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same, and returns the attached resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
The next order of business is Communications. The Chair recognizes the Sergeant At Arms for the purpose of delivering the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will read the messages from the Mayor.
November 24, 1997, to the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that I have today signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on November 13, 1997: Bill Nos. 970270, 970361, 970456, and 970545. And to the President and members of COMMUNICATIONS the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a draft of a resolution entitled resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Market Street East Urban Renewal area designated as Parcel Nos. 12(1)(b), 12(1)(c), 12(1)(d), 12(1)(e), 12(1)(g), 12(2)(b), 12(3)(b), 12(4)(b), comprised of certain air rights generally located on the east and west sides of 11th Street, from Arch to Filbert Streets, including the air rights over 11th Street and Cuthbert Street, and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the redevelopment contract and lease with Switzenbaum PACE, joint venture, and to take such action as may be necessary to effectuate the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement. And a resolution approving an amendment to the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, for the redevelopment and urban renewal of an additional portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area COMMUNICATIONS designated as Parcel No. 11(a), generally located on the southwest corner of Harper Street and North 12th Street. And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Woodstock Urban Renewal Area identified by respective house numbers and street addresses as 2125 West Stella Street, 2921 North VanPelt Street, and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the redevelopment contract with Allegheny West Foundation, and to take such action to effectuate the redevelopment contract. A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Morton Urban Renewal Area designated as Parcel No. 35, and also sometimes identified by respective house number and street address as 512 through 522 East Haines Street. And an Ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of the Department of Public Property, COMMUNICATIONS on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to execute an amended lease agreement by and between the City of Philadelphia and the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for additional air rights over 11th Street and Cuthbert Street, between Filbert Street and Arch Street, east of 11th Street, such amended lease agreement to allow the construction by the Redevelopment Authority or its approved sublessee of certain structures over the parking garage at 11th Street and Arch Street, under certain terms and conditions. And an Ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, without consideration, deed conveying fee simple title to a certain tract of city-owned land, with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate on the southeast corner of 3rd and Berks Street, under and subject to the terms and conditions of the Philadelphia Industrial and Commercial Development Agreement. And an Ordinance authorizing Switzenbaum PACE, joint venture developer of the Hilton Garden Inn, to be located at 11th and Arch COMMUNICATIONS Streets, to construct and maintain such property and various encroachments into and over the footway of Arch Street and Filbert Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
And an Ordinance authorizing Switzenbaum PACE, joint venture, to construct and maintain a pedestrian bridge over the south footway of Arch Street, between 11th Street and 12th Street, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by widening 11th Street on the westerly side, from Arch Street to a point approximately 229 feet southwardly. And an Ordinance authorizing the Director of Commerce to enter into an amendment to the agreement between the City and the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, PAID, authorized by Bill No. 546, approved June 15, 1993, under which financial assistance is provided to the parking garage project constructed as part of the overall Market Street East Gallery II redevelopment project, which amendments provide for the deferral until August 15, 2013, of the city's right to COMMUNICATIONS receive reimbursement for payments made by the city in support of the project. And an Ordinance authorizing real estate transactions necessary to permit the City of Philadelphia to acquire property needed for use by the Philadelphia International Airport, in particular authorizing the Director of Commerce and the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire by amicable negotiations, swap, or by condemnation a certain parcel of property owned by 4721 Island Avenue Associates, Limited, located at 4721 Island Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The messages will be presented in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you very much. If I could have your attention, please, members of City Council, and especially our visitors and guests who are with us this morning. We will now recess the City Council SESSION RECESSED of Philadelphia, today's session, until 1 o'clock. What we will then do is reconvene the Council Committee of the Whole. We will consider the resolution authorizing the amendments to the QST/PGW contract. After we finish with that item of business, a report will be prepared. We will reconvene the Council session and complete the business that is in front of us, which is a number of bills on both the first and second reading passage calendar. Is there anyone that has any questions about what we will will be doing? So the Council session itself will stand in recess until 1 o'clock, we will reconvene the Council Committee of the Whole, and we will consider that resolution. And hopefully we can get it done in the next 20 minutes, and then reconvene the Council session to complete our business for today. Is there any question about any of this? Thank you very much. This Council stands in recess until 1 o'clock. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS We would appreciate it very much if the Sergeant At Arms will set up the chamber as a Council Committee of the Whole. (Council stands in recess.)
This is the recessed session of the City Council of Philadelphia for today. The next order of business is the introduction bills and resolutions. Before we do the bills and resolutions, at this time is the Chief Clerk here? The necessary order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. Can I please have the Chief Clerk. Prior to doing the bills and resolutions, I would ask the Chief Clerk to read the title of Resolution No. 970808, which is a resolution authorizing the Council approval of the report, the Council Committee on Law and Government. It is my understanding that this resolution has to be considered at a time in advance of other resolutions that will be offered. And, under those circumstances, it just seems the simple INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS thing to do it now. Please read the title of Resolution No. 970808.
Resolution 970808, approving the signed report of the Committee on Law and Government on Resolution No. 960894, pertaining to new electronic voting machines and the recommendation contained therein.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of introducing bills and resolutions.
I have one INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS bill and one resolution.
An Ordinance amending Chapter 17-500(2) of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Implementation Applicability," to provide for a ten-year extension of the goals for the participation of minority female and disabled-owned businesses in the city contracts in the City of Philadelphia.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Mill Creek Urban Renewal Area designated as Parcel 13, and identified by house number and street address as 5000 Westminister Avenue. And authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the redevelopment contract with Blanche Jackson, and to take such as action as may be necessary to effectuate the redevelopment contract. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS
Mr. President, I move the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Mr. President, I offer two resolutions for consideration by the Council.
A resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Law and Government and Commerce and Economic Development to conduct a full and comprehensive investigation into the damaging effects of the proposed merger of CoreStates Bank and First Union Bank on the quality of life in Philadelphia, including but not limited to massive job losses, reductions in availability of INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS credit to residential and business borrowers, elimination of vital community branches, and reductions in charitable giving. Authorizing said Committee further to determine what steps should be taken by the Council and the Mayor to ameliorate said devastating impacts and empowering the committees in furtherance of their investigation to issue such subpoenas as may be necessary to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents to the full extent authorized under Section 2-401 of the Home Rule Charter.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution introduced by Councilman Cohen. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS
A resolution amending Resolution 970558, entitled a resolution authorizing the Council's Committee on Licenses and Inspections and Law and Government to conduct an investigation into the Section 8 housing program, its Administration, the condition of Section 8 residential properties, the responsibilities of landlords to provide appropriate maintenance and services for their tenants, and the overall effect of this program on the quality of life for Section 8 tenants and their families. By amending same to provide authorization for the Committees, in furtherance of said investigation, to issue subpoenas and such other process as may be appropriate to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents to the full extent authorized by Section 2-401 of the Home Rule Charter.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS it be known by saying aye. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
I really don't understand what that's all about. Is that something that -- I just didn't get it.
The Chair apologizes to Councilman Longstreth for calling for a quick vote, and wishes to provide an opportunity for him to have his question answered. Councilman Cohen, would you care to address the question raised by Councilman Longstreth.
Yes. The committees have held three hearings on Section 8, and have made invitations to numerous governmental officials, including the offices, the Philadelphia Office, of HUD, the offices of the Philadelphia Housing Authority, and the office of the Mayor. After protracted negotiations with committee Chair and with their staffs, in most instances, I guess in all instances, at various times the officials agreed to come to the hearing. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS When the hearings happened, the officials notified the committee at the last minute that they were not going to attend. Some of them gave indications that they were ordered from officials above not to attend. In some cases they said it was the Mayor whose office had asked them not to attend. It is very important that we get the information needed with respect to the operation of Section 8. And, therefore, in accordance with the Home Rule Charter, which makes specific provision for all committees of Council to have subpoena power, the committees voted to request these authorities who issue subpoenas for the appearance of these witnesses. That's what the matter is involved. It has gone on now for some three or four months, the negotiations to seek to get government officials to come. That's the nature of the request.
Councilman Cohen, is it your intention to subpoena the Mayor to the hearing? INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS
If he doesn't come, yes. We think he has the duty to come. Now, the law may be a bit cloudy with respect to responsibilities. We never before have had this situation, where there has been this refusal to appear before Council committees. This involves the Committee on Law and Government and the Committee on Licenses and Inspections, which is holding joint hearings. And I may say that as many as a dozen members of City Council have attended the various hearings. And with very few exception, they have all expressed regret that there was nobody in an official position to answer the questions of the members of the committees and the constituents and the audience asked. And, therefore, we feel there is no alternative, than to go further in the process. We hope that it won't be necessary to use the subpoenas.
I would like to thank Councilman Cohen for explaining it to me. But I would like to vote against the resolution. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark, whose light is on.
Mr. President, I don't want to interfere with this discussion, but I do wish to be recorded as voting aye on Councilwoman Blackwell's resolution.
The record will so note. Is there any other discussion on the resolution that is in front of us? All those in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay.
The record will reflect that Councilman Longstreth voted no. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
An Ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 1998, within the General Fund, from certain or all city INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS offices, departments, boards, and commissions, to certain or all city offices, departments, boards and commissions.
This bill will be refer to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz, whose light is flashing.
Mr. President, just on that first resolution introduced by Councilman Cohen on First Union, I would like to abstain from voting on that.
It will be noted in the record that Councilman Ortiz has abstained on the First Union/CoreStates resolution. Thank you.
It is really not necessary. You may, if you wish, but it is not necessary.
Mr. President, thank you. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS Today I have two bills and one resolution on your behalf, all three of them.
The clerk will please read the titles of the bills introduced by Councilwoman Clark.
An Ordinance amending Chapter 10-600 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Public Places Prohibited Conduct," by adding a new Section 10-611 entitled "Sidewalk Behavior," prohibiting various forms of inappropriate conduct in public places, including various obstructions of the public sidewalk, various forms of aggressive conduct, including aggressive solicitation and various forms of clutter on the public right-of-way, including the posting of certain signs and the placement of certain vending boxes, and requiring abutting property owners to maintain the sidewalk in good repair and free of clutter, and providing procedures for enforcement and for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
And an Ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 58 by placing on the city plan Parrish Street from 9th Street to INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS 12th Street, Brown Street from 10th Street to 12th Street, Marvine Street from Fairmount Avenue to Brown Street, Warnock Street from Fairmount Avenue to a deadend turn-around north of Brown Street, and Reno Place from Percy Street westwardly to a deadend turn-around, all under certain terms and conditions, including the dedication of the city free and clear of all encumbrances of the beds of the streets being placed on the city plan by this ordinance.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution introduced by Councilwoman Clark.
A resolution approving an amendment to the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of an additional portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area designated as Parcel No. 11(a), generally located at the southwest corner of Harper Street and North 12th Street, and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the amendments to the redevelopment contract with Poplar Enterprise Development INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS Corporation, and to take such action as may be necessary to effectuate the amended redevelopment contract and disposition supplement.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill by request.
An Ordinance authorizing real estate transactions necessary to permit the City of Philadelphia to acquire property needed for use by the Philadelphia International INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS Airport, in particular authorizing the Director of Commerce and the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire by amicable negotiations, swap, or by condemnation, a certain parcel of property owned by 4721 Island Avenue Associates, Limited, located at 4721 Island Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Council's Committee on Public Safety to conduct public hearings to investigate the establishment of an alternative nonemergency medical assistance telephone number and other public education methods to help address the ever-escalating problem of city residents using the Philadelphia Fire Department and its fire ambulance units for non-medically-necessary calls.
The Chair INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS recognizes Councilman Kenney.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
The clerk will please read the titles of the resolutions.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Woodstock Urban Renewal Area identified by respective house numbers and street addresses as 2125 West Stella Street and 2921 North VanPelt Street, and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the redevelopment contract with Allegheny West Foundation, and to take such action as may be INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS necessary to effectuate the redevelopment contract.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution introduced by Councilwoman Miller.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Morton Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 35, and also sometimes identified by respective house number and street address as 512 through 522 East Haines Street, and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the redevelopment contract with Bethlehem Church of God Holiness and to take such action as may be necessary to INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS effectuate the redevelopment contract.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Mr. President, I offer two bills and four resolutions. The last resolution I request be sent to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending Section 19-201 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "City Depositories," by deleting Fidelity Bank as an authorized city depository. An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Gross Street, west side, Vine Street INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS to Callowhill Street.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution introduced by Councilman Nutter.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds for properties situated in the 38th and 52nd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution requesting INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS that the City Council President John F. Street and Mayor Edward G. Rendell officially request the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority to affirmatively review capital dollars which were borrowed in 1992 and remain unspent, and to evaluate whether these funds can be reallocated to support the purchase of new voting machines for the City of Philadelphia.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the next resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings investigating the provisions of the contract between the City of Philadelphia and the Rite Aid Corporation on the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS Prescription Drug Plan for all city employees, including but not limited to copayment fees per prescription and any terms relating to allowable increases in these copay fees; contract requirements related to customer service standards and customer complaint resolution procedures; and all contract terms, conditions, and renewal provisions; and investigating the lack of information provided to city employees about changes made in fees, services, and contract terms.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted.
The ayes have it. Councilman Longstreth will be noted as having voted in the negative. The clerk will please read the last INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS resolution introduced by Councilman Nutter.
A resolution requesting the City Commissioners, in their capacity as the Philadelphia County Board of Elections, to submit to the qualified registered electors of Philadelphia the question whether an electronic voting system shall be used at polling places in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Fernandez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill that has also been worked on by Councilman Kenney, and one resolution.
I would appreciate it if the people up in the balcony would respect this Council and hold your voices down. Thank you. Or we will put you out. Please proceed. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS
An Ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1900 entitled "Signs," by deleting the ban on real estate signs in certain portions of Center City, and by imposing special restrictions upon the size and placement of certain real estate signs, including residential real estate signs, in certain portions of Center City, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution introduced by Councilwoman Fernandez.
A resolution commending and honoring the women and the athletes who brought the Philadelphia Rage basketball team to Philadelphia.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
An Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into an amendment to the agreement authorized by Ordinance approved December 29, 1972, Bill No. 455, as amended, between the City of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation, PFMC, relating to the operation and management of the Philadelphia Gas Works, PGW, under certain terms and conditions, to require that persons employed for the management or operation of the Gas Works establish and maintain domicile within the City of Philadelphia, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS Ortiz.
Mr. President, I have three resolutions and one ordinance.
An Ordinance amending Title 20 of the Philadelphia Code relating to officer and employees by adding a new Chapter 20-800, entitled "Campaign Finance," providing for the limitation and contributions to and expenditures for municipal election campaigns for Mayor, City Council, District Attorney, and Controller, and establishing a system of partial public financing for election campaigns for those candidates who voluntarily participate in limiting their campaign expenditures, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution introduced by Councilman Ortiz.
A resolution congratulating the Kaolin Workers' Union victory, as INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania validated the 1993 Kaolin Workers' Union election, and ordered the reinstatement of 11 workers fired for their participation in a 1996 workers strike against inhumane conditions.
Mr. President, I move adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed say nay. All those who are not sure, push your light. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
I apologize, Mr. President. Could we just get a brief explanation? If I can ask my colleague, Councilman Ortiz, through the Chair, to give us just the simplest of explanation of that resolution. Something about some workers who got INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS laid off?
He wishes to have the simplest of explanation for the resolution which just was considered by the members of Council.
1700 workers got laid off by the Allegheny Corporation? Oh, the Kaolin workers?
The length of the explanation, Councilman, is inversely proportional to whether I am going to vote for it.
In 1993, over 150 mushroom workers at the Kaolin Farm tried to organize a union. They did; they were locked out. And we, as the Puerto Rican and Latino community of Philadelphia, got heavily involved in the whole process of organizing. They won the election. They went through the court system. The Supreme Court three INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS weeks ago decided in the workers' favor. And we just are honoring the union here.
Thank you very much. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution introduced by Councilman Ortiz.
A resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Law and Government to conduct a full and comprehensive investigation of the city's health insurance plans offered to nonrepresentated and fair-share employees and elected officials for the 1998 calendar year, particularly with regard to the increases that will be imposed in the 1998 plans in a variety of copay deductible and co-insurance fees over the equivalent fees contained in the 1997 plan, and with respect to widespread allegations that have been made regarding interference by managed care providers in general, and Aetna U.S. Healthcare in particular, with the doctor/patient relationship as it affects both INTRODUCTION OF BILLS & RESOLUTIONS members of the general public and city officials and employees; and authorizing the committee in furtherance of such investigation to issue such subpoenas as may be necessary to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents to the full extent authorized under Section 2-401 of the Home Rule Charter.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)