COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 1, 2007 10:15 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN CAROL ANN CAMPBELL 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
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Arnold T. Evans of the Campbell African Methodist Episcopal Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Savage. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Everyone rises.)
Let us pray. Gracious and Heavenly Father, we are so grateful and thankful to be able to approach your throne this morning as we pray on this magnificent day. We are thankful that we can invoke and ask for your presence in this session of the Philadelphia City Council. pray, Lord, that you will bless the Council, the President of the Council, the Mayor and all of those who assist this great legislative body in their work, the City of Philadelphia and the entire region that is affected by what takes place in this great legislative body. We especially pray that you will help us to solve the problems of violence and major crimes that has overtaken this City. Help us as we seek to develop solutions and implement programs that will give people a new lease on life, hope for the future, and new skills that will enable them to have a better quality of life. Lord, we seek your divine presence and intervention in the life of this body and in the life of the City of Philadelphia. May we be more loving, more caring, more concerned about our brothers and sisters, and may we be generous in our spirit to reach out and who are not able to help themselves. Finally, Lord, we love you and we magnify you. We lift up your spirit and we pray that you will be with this Council, this City and this country forever. In the precious name of the one who keeps us from day to day, amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks Reverend Evans for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Tuesday, January 23, 2007, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Tuesday, January 23, 2007 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Tuesday, January 23, 2007 stand approved. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal of the meeting of Tuesday, January 23, 2007 is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today there are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the majority.
Madam President, there are no requests for leave of absence from the republicans.
Thank you very much. The Chair will dispense with its 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 Councilwoman Krajewski, who will present a resolution honoring Bianca Taylor Ryan on winning the $1 million grand prize on the reality television show "America's Got Talent." Will Ms. Bianca and those with Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Krajewski is being joined by Councilmembers Brown, Kelly and Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam Chair. A resolution honoring Northeast Philadelphia's Bianca Taylor Ryan on winning the $1 million grand prize on the reality television show "America's Got Talent." Whereas, Bianca Taylor Ryan, the 12-year-old resident of Northeast Philadelphia, Sixth District, won the debut season of the television reality show "America's Got Talent" on August 17, 2006;
Whereas, the child prodigy repeatedly performed to standing ovations from the live studio audiences and choosing the song "I Am Changing" from the Broadway musical Dreamgirls as her grand finale selection; Whereas, Bianca competed and showcased her powerful pipes on shows such as "Star Search," earning 12 of 13 stars from the judges, and has appeared on "Showtime at the Apollo" and "The Tom Joyner Show"; and
And whereas, she has performed at several venues such as Madison Square Garden and Lincoln Financial Field and since the age of eight, she has been a regular soloist for the Philadelphia Growl inline hockey team; and Whereas, she has sung the National Anthem for the New Jersey Nets, the New York Knicks and Rangers, as well as our own Philadelphia 76ers and Eagles and has appeared in commercials for the Chuck E. Cheese restaurant chain and the Philadelphia Zoo.
Whereas, the "America's Got Talent" judges Piers Morgan, David Hasselhoff and Brandy Bianca was the "best of the best" when television viewers voted and awarded Bianca the $1 million grand prize; and Whereas, Bianca, daughter of Shawn and Janette Ryan and sister of Shawn, Isabella and Jagger, is a sixth grader at the School Lane Charter School and has officially signed a 5 CD recording contract with Syco-Columbia Records; and (Applause.)
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, we raise a ceremonial toast to the exceptional talent and artistic expression of Bianca Taylor Ryan and hope she rises to stardom and always remember her Philadelphia roots. This is a true and exact copy signed by the President of City Council and sponsored by all members of City Council. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Yeah, definitely. I had to write them down because sometimes I get so excited that I forget. Yeah. I don't believe this is all happening to me. First, I'd really like to thank God, who is like first in my life, for this wonderful journey that I've been going on. I'd like to give a huge thanks to Joan Krajewski and Frank Rizzo and all the members of City Council and, of course, all of the wonderful people in my great City of Philadelphia. Your show of love and support during and after "America's Got Talent" has not only helped me to win the contest but has also encouraged me to be the best I can be on and off stage. I feel so honored today to be receiving this resolution. I'm very proud of Philadelphia and I try to share City everywhere I go. God has truly blessed me and my family greatly. My prayer is that I can continue to learn and help others during this wonderful experience and to make everyone here in Philadelphia proud. I'd really like to thank again Joan Krajewski, and I am so glad that she is running for City Council again. I was asked by Joan to sing a song. I know she really loves Elvis, but I don't think I can sing like him, so I'm going to sing a song that I sang for the finale of "America's Got Talent," which is called "I Am Changing" and it's from the Broadway musical Dreamgirls, which just came out on movie, which I really love. It's called "I Am changing" and I hope you guys like it. (Bianca Taylor Ryan sang "I Am Changing.") (Applause.)
That was absolutely wonderful, Bianca. at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution recognizing Ruby Lorraine Dowd in her retirement from the City of Philadelphia Police Department. Will Ms. Dowd and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilman Greenlee and Councilman Ramos are joining Councilwoman Blackwell for the presentation.
Thank you, Madam President. And as you know, former Commissioner Angela Dowd Burton is part of this wonderful family and is likewise the head of the Home and School Association at the Penn Alexander School. Thank you very much. Resolution recognizing Ruby Lorraine Dowd in her retirement from the City of 35 years of dedicated service to her citizens and the community. Whereas, Ruby L. Dowd graduated from St. Agnes School of Medical Technology in June 1970 with a certification in Laboratory Practices; and Whereas, Ruby L. Dowd came to work for the Philadelphia General Hospital on February 1, 1971 in the Clinical Chemistry Lab; and Whereas, upon the closing of the Hospital, she came to work for the Police Department Crime Lab on August 22, 1977; and
Whereas, she received certifications from the Philadelphia County Board of Clinical Pathologists, the Pennsylvania Department of Laboratories and the United States Department of Health, Education and Welfare, and has taken various courses throughout the years to sustain her excellence; and Whereas, she has risen through the ranks of criminology over the past 28 years to be respected as an outstanding law enforcement professional, a founding member of District Council 47 and a mentor to numerous colleagues and students who she encouraged to always live up to their potential; and Whereas, her motto of "family first" has empowered her to raise four college-educated children and eight grandsons with Moses Dowd, her husband of 53 years, and serve various community organizations at the leadership level, including the Eastern Star, where she is a Past Worthy Matron of the Star of the East, Chapter No. 19; and
Whereas, Ruby L. Dowd has earned the respect and admiration of her peers and has sought to be emulated by many; Now, therefore resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, in her retirement from the City of Philadelphia Police Department after 35 years of dedicated service to her City and community; and Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution shall be prepared as an expression of this body's sincere appreciation for the years of services rendered to the City and its citizens by Ruby Lorraine Dowd. Congratulations.
-- Honorable Councilwoman Blackwell and honorable, distinguished Councilmembers, family, friends and colleagues, good morning. I for the tremendous honor and recognition. I have enjoyed working for City government for the past 35 years. My daughter has worked for City government. My son has worked for City government for 12 years, and one of my grandsons has just joined City government. Our family will continue to serve with distinction the citizens of Philadelphia, and I want to thank each one of you, and many blessings to you. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution honoring the African-American Children's Book Project. Will Ms. Tonya Bolden and Ms. Eloise Prescott and those the Councilwoman at the podium.
Good morning, colleagues and guests. I'd like to call to the attention of my colleagues two books on your desk that come to us as a result of the generosity of the lady we're honoring this morning, and I'd like to call to your attention that on of today's Daily News there is a more in-depth article of the history of this wonderful idea that she's put forth that really allows black youth to flourish, and I'd just like to salute you for your ideals, Vanesse, that books can make a difference for all children. Honoring the African-American Children's Book Project on the occasion of the 15th Annual African-American Children's Book Fair. Whereas, for 15 years the African-American Children's Book Fair has enhanced multi-culturalism in our City, utilizing the joy of reading as a tool; Whereas, the importance of book fairs cannot be understated, for many of our youth use reading to better know the world around them and use books to help them develop into well-educated adults; and Whereas, one of the most important reasons to encourage reading in our children is that studies show that the more our young people read, the more likely they are to make positive life-style decisions as they grow older; Whereas, strictly judging by the attendance, the Fair is a tremendous success and has grown over the past 15 years. m. at the gymnasium of the Community College of Philadelphia there at 17th and Spring Garden Street. Resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor the Project, its founder, Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati, and authors Tonya Bolden and Eloise Prescott on the occasion of the Annual African-American Children's Book Fair. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this be presented to the representatives of the African-American Book Project, Tonya Bolden and Eloise Prescott, for your hard, devoted work and good effort in the promotion of children's literacy, as evidenced by the sincere sentiments of this body. Signed by the President of Philadelphia City Council, President Anna C. Verna, and supported and sponsored by all of the members of the Philadelphia City Council. Congratulations. )
It's Mrs. Sgambati. I just want to make some very to thank you, Madam President, Council and especially Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, who is also going to continue that tradition, literary tradition, in Philadelphia by penning her own book. I don't know if I let the cat out of the bag yet. But for the past 15 years, as a child growing up in Elmwood -- they used to call it swampland -- we did not have a library. We had a book mobile that would come around each week, and I looked forward to that each and every week. And people like you here in City Council and as well as Blondell Reynolds Brown help us to continue our mission of enriching and enlightening our children's lives through books. The two women who are presented here, I wanted to just briefly say to you that Tonya Bolden won the James Madison Award. Lynne Cheney, Vice-President's wife Lynne Cheney, is the person who oversees that award, and to get that recognition of her work. Eloise Prescott for the past 15 years has been a volunteer at the Children's Book Fair. And what she did was, she wanted to write a children's book, so every year she came, she did some networking, hence she has a book today. So I thank both of them for coming to Philadelphia or living here in Philadelphia and continuing that tradition and supporting the African-American Children's Book Project. Thank you.
Thank you. First I just want to thank God, from whom all my blessings flow, and certainly this day, this moment is a great blessing, and I want to thank the City Council. And I want you to know that in affirming me and my work, you're also affirming the work of all the writers and all the visual artists who are devoting the lion's share their talent for those who will be our future. Thank you. (Applause.)
First, I'd also like to thank God, from whom all blessings flow. I also have to thank my family, who has always given me a lot of encouragement and support. And to the distinguished members of City Council, thank you from the bottom of my heart, and also especially to the Honorable Blondell Reynolds Brown for introducing this resolution. And last, but by far not least, Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati for having the energy to keep this going every year for the past 15 years. Thank you so much, Vanesse. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. At this time, I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 323 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the southwesterly most 10 feet of Hegerman Street; and An ordinance amending Bill No. 051138, approved December 22, 2005, entitled "Authorizing, generally, the continued issuance and sale by the City of Philadelphia of Gas Works Revenue Notes of the City"; and An ordinance constituting the Nineteenth Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1975, the General Ordinance, to the extent not modified, amended or superseded by this ordinance, are applicable.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is 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 carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 20-1000 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Political Contributions and Expenditures," by providing that if a candidate for Mayor makes contributions of his or her own resources in excess of a specified amount to his or her own campaign, then no contribution limits will apply to candidates for Mayor, provided that contributions that otherwise would have been prohibited must be immediately reported to the City Commissioners and the Board of Ethics, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I beg your indulgence and move the rules of Council be suspended to allow me to make some brief comments regarding this bill. I know it's not in order, but I'd ask for a suspension.
All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I voted for campaign finance reform to achieve two goals.
Councilman Kenney, just a minute, please. The noise level is much too high. Anybody having private conversations, I'd suggest you do it in the corridor. Thank you very much. Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I voted for campaign finance reform to achieve two goals: end pay-to-play and level the playing field for candidates. However, the events of the past 48 hours have shown that the campaign contribution limits have opened the door for a candidate to, in some ways, buy City Hall or buy the Mayor's office. As reported yesterday in the Daily News, a millionaire candidate for Mayor is willing to put $15 million of his own money into his own campaign, $15 million when other candidates are reporting around $1.5 million in the bank. Clearly, we have unintentionally created opportunity for an unlevel playing field and have opened the door for a candidate to take advantage of the system. As we have moved to rid the influence of those doing business with the City by setting contribution limits, we have unwittingly done away with the influence of those living in our City's row homes, those who go to $20 beef and beers, those who put in for the 50/50 raffle, those who work for the union that builds the high-rise that the wealthy people live in, those newcomers who have ideas to make this City great. These remarks are not leveled towards any one candidate. I encourage wealthy individuals to come to Philadelphia, do business here and get involved in our government, but when it comes to running for office, the advantages of virtually limitless spending allow for unfair domination of the field. My bill seeks to level the playing field by doing two things. It removes the contribution caps when a candidate contributes more than $2 million of their own money. This is not forever. This is only when in an election cycle a candidate for Mayor spends $2 million of their own money. If that money is not spent, the caps would remain. Second, requires a candidate to report contributions exceeding the cap, the current cap, to the City Commissioners and the Board of Ethics within 24 hours of receipt. We must act now or our efforts at campaign finance reform will consign the voters to this system to an election in May where the voice of one person is louder than the voice of our diverse neighborhoods. This is not the passage of the bill today. This is the beginning of a discussion to have a discussion about an unintended consequence that a good intended bill created, and we will hopefully have that discussion soon. I thank you for your indulgence and for your consideration.
Thank you. Councilwoman Campbell, your light is on. Did you want to be recognized?
I am not one to speak publicly nor do I relish the position of speaking publicly, but this issue of election reform is a bitter pill to swallow. It is unfair and unjust. And while it would be easier for me to turn my head and close my eyes to such an unpopular issue, I cannot do that. I have a responsibility to all of the many people who voted for me and placed in my care their hopes, dreams, trusts and aspiration for a better Philadelphia. So even though I don't like speaking publicly, I am compelled to speak for the proposed legislative change which calls for an amendment to the current election reform law. The purpose of campaign reform law was to empower the powerless to gain access to the election process which was being denied by rich and powerful corporate interests who literally bought elections. We wanted to stop this and open up the election process to a broad range of citizens from different races, sexes, cultures and economic backgrounds. We wanted to make the election process more democratic. We also wanted to minimize the influence of big money on candidates. We sought to do this by limiting the amount of money that could be contributed to a candidate from an individual and/or organization. But, however, we left a gaping loophole in the law. We have allowed a single individual with his own money, by whatever means acquired, to propel himself without restrictions on the amount of money he can spend. This loophole allows for the same results we sought to avoid with the reform of the laws. The rich and powerful individual now is able to run with an unlimited war chest resulting in, again, lopsided control of the government by the rich and powerful. This is anti-democratic and it deprives the people without the big pockets, the very people that we all represent, participation in the electoral process. It is not fair to allow a situation to exist where one candidate has an unlimited amount of money to spend because he happens to have been blessed with personal wealth, no matter how that wealth was accumulated. It is not fair that he can get around the campaign laws because he is spending his money and, on the other hand, this law ties the hands of other candidates who are not blessed with their own personal wealth. This loophole penalizes the candidates who are not blessed with their own personal wealth, because we say that if you have your own money, you can spend as much as you want, you can buy as many television commercials as you want, you can tell your story as many times as you want, because you have the unlimited money to buy that and more and we, the Council, will not say anything to you because that is your money. But the candidate without personal wealth, we say, Wait a minute, you can only receive a specified amount of money from any one person and you can only receive a specified amount of money from any organization. Now spend it as you will, but we are limiting your access to the public. We are limiting you in your ability to tell your story and get it out there because you cannot raise an unlimited amount of money. This is wrong, and we are charting a dangerous course with the current legislation. The current legislation allows the millionaires the opportunity to usurp the prerogatives of the election process to themselves, break the back of the reform by slipping in through the back door and conspiring to steal the election. It is not fair to limit candidates in what monies they can raise when you have candidates vowing to spend millions of dollars of their own. Don't get me wrong. I think that is commendable that a wealthy candidate is willing to spend his money for public service, but not at the expense of our democratic process. We can't have it both ways.
We can't want to open up the electoral process making it more democratic and at the same time create a situation where only the candidates without personal wealth are bridled by the election reform legislation. I want and support an amendment to the current legislation that would allow the candidate of lesser means to be able to balance the excessive amount of cash spent by the millionaire candidate by allowing the candidate of lesser means to raise as much money as is spent by the millionaire candidate. We have to create a mechanism to balance and protect the democratic rights of the people to have their voice and representatives heard and be present in the government. This must be corrected. Otherwise, once again, it will be big money, this time concealed behind wealthy individuals with unlimited spending power. The way this is set up, Forbes Magazine will select our officials. We have to amend the present law, eliminate this loophole and make sure the political office is accessible to any political candidate of whatever means, and to the extent it fails to do that, it is at odds with the intent of the legislation. Otherwise, it is business as usual and we might as well do away with any notions of democracy, justice and fairness.
Thank you. This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Streets and Services to hold public hearings investigating the long-term benefits of replacing cement sidewalks with rubber sidewalks in select areas.
I move 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 Streets and Services.
And a resolution honoring the 30th Annual Philadelphia Flyers Wives Flight for Lives Carnival, a continued beacon of support and fundraising for numerous charity organizations and the good-will of Philadelphia.
I move 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 Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce two bills on your behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance granting permission to Marilyn T. Stroud, 1543 Dickinson Street, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 11-S, 42, 43, 97, 269 and 308 by placing on the City Plan South Street from its current terminus northwest of the northwesterly Pierhead and Bulkhead Line of the Schuylkill River.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. 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 today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer two bills and three resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance constituting the Nineteenth Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1975.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Bill No. 051138, approved December 22, 2005, entitled "Authorizing, generally, the continued issuance and sale by the City of Philadelphia of Gas Works Revenue Notes of the City."
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring the service and career of Oliver St. Clair Franklin.
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 February 11th to 17th as Black Family Technology Awareness Week.
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 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring and commending the NAACP Philadelphia Branch and the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition on the occasion of the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.
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.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution urging the Mayor's office, the Police Department, City Council, the Police Advisory Board and Community Leaders to convene immediately and collectively consider every possible remedy to the unfortunate rise in the use of deadly force in Philadelphia and to subsequently make a public statement announcing all necessary steps to address this tragic issue and pledging a commitment to act without delay.
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 and commending the Bullying Prevention Program in the Philadelphia School District's Office of School Climate and Safety, and offering full support to the work of its associates who implement measures that prevent and reduce childhood bullying as well as address the damaging, detrimental results of this behavior.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
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.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Savage.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution for today.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings on the need for the mandatory installation of carbon monoxide detectors in all dwellings in the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Human Services and Public Health. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 19-1204 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Books and Records," and Section 19-1205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Claim Checks and Parking Stickers," by no longer requiring the retention of claim check stubs, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution today.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution urging the candidates seeking the office of Mayor to adopt the recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Children's Behavioral Health as a part of their 2007 campaign agenda.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (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 Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Campbell.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Public Safety to hold public hearings to investigate methods used by school security officers and non-teaching assistants in their encounters with students in the City's public schools.
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 will be referred to the Committee on Public Safety. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 323 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the southwesterly most 10 feet of Hegerman Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and one resolution I'm offering on your behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 14-1611 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Benjamin Franklin Parkway Controls," by amending certain provision of the Special Height Control District for the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution for the Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to join with the family, friends and colleagues of George J. Hollingsworth, Building Service Manager for the City of Philadelphia, Department of Public Property, in celebrating and honoring him on the 29 years of outstanding service to the citizens of the City of Philadelphia.
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 Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I have two resolutions today, one co-sponsored by Councilman Juan Ramos and the other co-sponsored by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing, honoring and memorializing WHAT as the "Voice in the African-American Community" in Philadelphia on the occasion of its unfortunate demise.
I move for the adoption of this 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 memorializing, honoring and celebrating Barbaro, our heroic racehorse, and its owners, Roy and Gretchen Jackson, for perseverance, compassion and courage that captured the hearts of a nation.
I move for the adoption of this 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 next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Finance reports seven bills out 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 Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 060832, entitled "An ordinance amending Bill No. 060001, relating to the Capital Program for Fiscal Year 2007 through 2012, by adding line items for certain capital projects in Fiscal Year 2007"; and Bill No. 060834, entitled "An ordinance amending Bill No. 060002, relating to the Fiscal 2007 Capital Budget, by adding line items for certain capital projects"; and Bill No. 060939, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code, by requiring any City City deposits under Section 19-201 of The Philadelphia Code to notify the City of proposed branch closings"; and Bill No. 060961, entitled "An ordinance to amend an ordinance approved June 8, 2006, Bill No. 060001, relating to the Fiscal Year 2007-2012 Capital Program, by decreasing project amounts in certain departments and increasing project amounts in other departments"; and Bill No. 060966, entitled "An ordinance to amend an ordinance approved June 8, 2006, relating to Fiscal Year 2007 Capital Budget, by decreasing project amounts in certain departments and increasing project amounts in other departments"; and Bill No. 070018, entitled "An ordinance approving the reallocation of a portion of capital loan funds borrowed pursuant to Bill No. 040328-A, approved September 30, 2004"; and 070021, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and toward various capital municipal purposes," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of those bills just mentioned. (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 please (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski for a report from the Committee on Appropriations.
Thank you. The Committee on Appropriations reports one bill out with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred 070019, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2007 within the General Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, to enable the purchase, installation and maintenance of additional public safety video surveillance cameras," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill 070019. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just read from the report of the Committee on Appropriations. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.
Madam Chair, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services, to which was referred Bill No. 060958, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Health Code,' by prohibiting the use of artificial trans fats in restaurants and other food service establishments, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 2/1/07 - STATED - 1ST READING 060958. (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 please 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 next order of business will be consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 060832, an ordinance amending Bill No. 060001, relating to the Capital Program for 2/1/07 - STATED - 1ST READING Fiscal Years 2007 through 2012, by adding line items for certain capital projects in Fiscal Year 2007.
And Bill No. 060834, an ordinance amending Bill No. 060002, relating to the Fiscal 2007 Capital Budget, by adding line items for certain capital projects.
And Bill No. 060939, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code, by requiring any City Depository authorized to accept City deposits under Section 19-201 of The Philadelphia Code to notify the City of proposed branch closings.
And Bill No. 060961, an ordinance to amend an ordinance approved June 8, 2006, Bill No. 2/1/07 - STATED - 1ST READING 060001, relating to the Fiscal Year 2007-2012 Capital Program, by decreasing project amounts in certain departments.
And Bill No. 060966, an ordinance to amend an ordinance approved June 8, 2006, relating to the Fiscal 2007 Capital Budget, by decreasing project amounts in certain departments.
And Bill No. 070018, an ordinance approving the reallocation of a portion of capital loan funds borrowed pursuant to Bill No. 040328-A, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 070021, an ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide 2/1/07 - STATED - 1ST READING funds for or toward various capital municipal purposes and fixing a date for holding the election for obtaining such consent.
And Bill No. 070019, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2007 within the General Fund to enable the purchase, installation and maintenance of additional public safety video surveillance cameras.
And Bill No. 060958, an ordinance amending Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Health Code," by prohibiting the use of artificial trans fat in restaurants and other food service establishments, under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. 2/1/07 - STATED - 2ND READING That completes our First Reading Calendar. At this time, I recognize Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today our Calendar starts on . At the bottom of the page, Bill Nos. 060448 and 060433 will be amended. We then go to . We will hear Bill No. 060889. The other two we will hear will be amended. Bill No. 060716 will be amended and 060442 is to be amended. And, finally, on our last page, , Bill No. 060797 is to be amended. All other bills are being held.
Yes. Madam President, my bill that I was originally intending to amend today I'm going to hold.
And 2/1/07 - STATED - 2ND READING that is Bill No. 060448?
You're welcome. All right. I believe the first bill to be considered is Bill No. 060889.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2007 within the Community Development Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
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. 2/1/07 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are one. A 2/1/07 - STATED - 2ND READING majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060716.
A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation, appointment, powers and duties of a Zoning Code Commission, and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to speak on this resolution, the amendment to the resolution briefly.
And the amendment has been circulated? COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Yes, it has. 2/1/07 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Madam President, you may recall at our last Council session in December before we went on our holiday break, at the request of Councilman O'Neill, Councilman Rizzo and Councilwoman Tasco, I agreed to hold the resolution because those Councilmembers felt that they needed a little bit more time to review it and make comments. Since that time, Councilwoman Tasco has been the only Councilperson who had contacted my office seeking to have some conversation about the amendments. As a result of that, the amendments that are being offered today were written in conjunction with Councilwoman Tasco, and I believe they address all of her issues. But I just want for the record everyone to understand that that opportunity that I allowed, but for Councilwoman Tasco, there were no other 2/1/07 - STATED - 2ND READING comments, recommendations or amendments offered regarding that resolution. And I move for the passage of the amendment.
It has been moved and seconded that the amendments be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the amendments have been adopted. The next bill to be considered is Bill No. 060442.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 5th Street, Jefferson Street, Orkney Street and Master Street.
The 2/1/07 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair recognizes Councilman Savage.
I move for an amendment to Bill No. 060442. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members.
It has been moved and seconded that the amendments be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the amendments are adopted. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 060797.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by 2/1/07 - STATED - 2ND READING changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Thompson Street, Alresford Street, Salmon Street and Juniata Street.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Yes, Madam Chairman, I do have an amendment. I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded the amendments be adopted. please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the amendments are adopted. That completes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. Very briefly, I'd like to state again that for the past year, Councilwoman Tasco and I had the opportunity to serve on the Blue Ribbon Health, and now a formal document has been released, which really reflects a year's worth of work and discussion held by practitioners, service providers, many of us in government, activists and regular citizens who just care about the well-being of our City's children. Though it focused on the needs of at-risk children, it talked about the needs of all children when it comes to behavioral health and well-being issues. This, again, is an opportunity to say to the mayoral candidates that they have a unique opportunity to transform the way we provide services to children across systems. And so, again, we're urging each and every single mayoral candidate to get the report, read the report and then look to see what recommendations they would like to implement once one of them gets to the second floor of City Hall. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of my colleagues who had supported bills and resolutions that I introduced last week concerning gaming. There have been a lot of stories that have been written, and I suspect there will be a lot more news over the next several months concerning slot gaming in the City of Philadelphia. There are numerous coalitions and advocacy groups that are out there either promoting casino-free Philadelphia and there are also obviously issues in those neighborhoods that will be directly impacted should those casinos be built. Myself and Councilman Clarke have been having numerous meetings with those neighborhood groups for the last 12 to 13 months. I offer my office's time Councilman Clarke would offer the services of his staff to any Councilperson who would like to be briefed on what those meetings have been about in the communities and what the concerns of the residents who live in those neighborhoods is about concerning these casinos. So I just want to make that a public opportunity for anyone who would like to have some input, especially the At-Large Council folks. This being an election year, I know you're going to be out in those neighborhoods campaigning and you may want to get somewhat of a heads-up on what the real issues are concerning casinos in the river wards. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I'd just like to say to probably won't have time to read the report. They're probably raising money, spending their time raising money. I'd just like to say that I'm having a staff turnover in my office quite drastically. Several staff members have left, new staff members are coming on board. But I'd like to say a farewell to Derek Green, who is leaving tomorrow to pursue his own political goals, and want to say that he has been a very valuable member to my staff, and we wish him luck.
Thank you, Madam President. Today we had hearings scheduled with regard to the Vacant Property Review Committee. That's Resolution 060945. That will be at 1:00. I wanted to speak on that issue, because we have many people here who worked for, because many are laid off, and who represent and formerly represented unions, because as you know, with this new bill changing, it's proposed that 99 percent of the former employees will no longer be in unions when it comes to the housing agencies. And although the bill passed, we want to thank those who have left jobs and left new jobs and those who are laid off who have come out to try to support having some resolution on housing reorganization. So we want to continue to thank them for all that they have done, let them know that the hearing with regard to Vacant Property Review Committee -because that's still inoperable; we don't have John Coates or anybody -- that those hearings will be continued until next Thursday at 1:00. Thank you to all of you, President.
You're welcome. Would anyone else like to be recognized? (No response.)
Seeing no one, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion, please.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February the 8th, 10:00 a.m., 2007. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it and Council will stand adjourned until Thursday, February 8, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. Thank you all very much. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:30 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 1, 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.)