COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, March 22, 2007 10:10 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 Dr. Arlene Churn, Founder of the Unlimited Horizons Ministry. She is here today as the guest of Councilman Goode. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Everyone rises.)
Let us pray. Our Father and our God, for this day we have never seen before and we shall never see again. We pause to express our gratitude and appreciation for your grace and for your mercy. We thank thee for the angels that provided protection for us for the traveling mercies that has allowed us to arrive to this destination. We bless thy name for being in this hallowed and sacred hall, this historical chamber, through which people who have been elected and selected, anointed and appointed to recognize that they are here to serve this present age. We lift before you our beloved city, a city that's on the brink of turmoil. We pray for children today, children that are inexplicably confused and disturbed and have grown up in violence. We pray for parents, single mothers and dysfunctional families. We pray for our firefighters and our police officers as they make their contribution towards protecting our city. And out of all of our efforts, we recognize that there is a King of Kings and there is a Lord of Lords. And our only requirement, the requirement that you mandate of us, is that we love We ask that you will then revert us back to the original aspect of the foundation of this city, a city of love, where we love our neighbors and we love one another and we love truth and justice and equality. We ask that you will bless individually and collectively this body, who has been entrusted with the care and the direction that the City must go. Let them be personally and individually and collectively reminded that they have a charge to keep and a God to glorify. And if you will allow us to extend our prayers even to our nation's capital, extend our prayers to those men and women that are on duty in military bases and assignments in protection that this country may once again be one with liberty and justice for all. We believe in you, while many call you by different names and worship you in different ways. We pause today recognizing that there must be a God live, that when the time has ended in this chamber for these people and others will come and take their place, let the work that they have done speak for them. And when we must all stick our swords in the mundane sands of time to study war no more and we shall stand before the Council in shekinah glory, may we say, I fought a good fight, I kept the faith, I finished the course, and may these and others before them and those in generations yet to follow will hear thy voice say, Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Hear our prayer, oh, Lord. Hear our prayer, oh, Lord. Incline thine ear to us. Bless us and we shall be blessed. Give us and we shall have. Keep us and we shall be kept. And allow our motto in life to be that if we could help somebody, our living will not be in vain. In the name of he who created us, who provides for us and who keeps us, the name of all names, we pray God, the Father, and Jesus, the Christ. Amen and amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Reverend Dr. Churn for her 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 Thursday, March 15th, 2007, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 15, 2007 -
The noise level is much, much too high. We're trying to conduct business. Anybody having conversations, I suggest you do so in the corridor.
Thank you. Again, I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 15, 2007 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 15, 2007 stand approved. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 15, 2007 is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, the republicans, we have no requests for a leave of absence.
Thank you. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will the service and career of Oliver St. Clair Franklin. Will Mr. Franklin and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium.
Good morning. It is indeed a great pleasure to present this resolution to a friend and hard-working gentleman on behalf of Philadelphia and for Philadelphia. Honoring the service and career of Oliver St. Clair Franklin. Whereas, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to honor Mr. Oliver St. Clair Franklin for his service as the President and CEO of the International House, the largest international community in the State of Pennsylvania and the founding International House, a seventeen, four-continent network of international houses, as well as his service as Honorary British Consul; and Whereas, Mr. Franklin was born Washington, DC and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. He was educated in Lincoln University in Pennsylvania and Oxford University in England; and Whereas, Mr. Franklin was the Deputy City Representative of the City of Philadelphia and the City's first Chief of Protocol in the Administration of Mayor W. Wilson Goode; and Whereas, in 1998, Mr. Franklin was appointed the Honorary British Consul. He became the first African-American in the United States to represent Great Britain diplomatically as the United States' first British Consulate. In his role as Honorary Consul, Mr. Franklin assisted British companies and citizens while representing contemporary Britain to the citizens of Philadelphia. As Honorary Consul, Mr. Franklin works closely with the 36-member Philadelphia Consular Corp, America's first and longest-serving diplomatic organization; and Whereas, in 1998, Mr. Franklin, in cooperation with Lord Peter Walker, found the City Fellows Trust, a program that provided opportunities for minorities in the field of financial service to work in London; and Whereas, in 2003, as a result of the invitation of Mr. Franklin, His Royal Highness Duke of York, Prince Andrew, second son of Queen Elizabeth, II, visited Philadelphia to help launch the Jubilee Program. The program sent students from Simon Gratz High School and Parkway High School for Peace and Social Justice to visit London after a year-long after-school program; and Whereas, in 2003, Her Majesty the Queen bestowed upon Mr. Franklin the order of the Office of the British Empire, OBE, for service to Britain. In 2004, as a result of the invitation of Mr. Franklin, His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester, Prince Richard and first cousin of the Queen, visited Philadelphia education system; and Whereas, most recently, in January 2007, as a result of the invitation of Mr. Franklin, Mrs. Walter Annenburg and others, the City of Philadelphia welcomed Their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales and the Dutchess of Cornwall. This was the first visit of the Prince of Wales to Philadelphia in 147 years. Their Royal Highnesses experienced a broad cross-section of Philadelphia, including a mural arts tour in Mantua, a reception at the Constitutional Center, a visit to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, a panel discussion and visit with the International House residents, the 150th anniversary celebration of the Academy of Music, a public church service and a private train ride to New York with several prominent citizens to discuss Philadelphia's approach to urban renewal; and Whereas, the visit to King of England and his wife will remain in the hearts and memories of the citizens of Philadelphia for so many years to come. Now therefore resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we recognize and congratulate Mr. Oliver St. Clair Franklin for his service and career to the City of Philadelphia. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Mr. Oliver St. Clair Franklin as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 1st day of February 2007. Signed by President Anna Verna and supported by all members of City Council. )
Mr. Franklin was very gracious in his community and certainly made sure that all of the members of Council and representatives of government had the opportunity to meet the Prince of Wales, which was an exciting event, and I want to say thank you, and he was certainly a gracious, friendly person. Thank you.
Thank you, Madam President, and thank you, Councilwoman and members of this Council. When the Prince of Wales came to Philadelphia about six weeks ago, this City received more positive press in Britain, France, Italy, Germany and throughout Asia than all the money that we've spent at the Convention and Visitors Bureau. And they came in to visit with me and my staff two weeks after the Prince left and said this was a City. We believe as a result of this trip we're going to see an influx of visitors from Europe who will come and visit our city, and this is a positive thing for us. We are an international city. We can be an international city by having international visitors. And I can tell you that the Prince of Wales and the Dutchess of Cornwall were so pleased by the reception that they received from all Philadelphians that I don't think we're going to have any problems getting world-class people to come to Philadelphia to see the great things we have to offer. So, again, I thank you. And I thank Councilman Rizzo in particular for driving a Jaguar. You know that's a British car owned by Ford, but I think he has two. So I thank you all very much. Thank you.
The next order of business is communications, and the Chair recognizes the Sergeant-At-Arms and I would ask him to deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk from the Mayor. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on March 21, 2007, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on March 8, 2007, except Bill No. 060828, and I am returning herewith as disapproved Bill No. 060828 passed by Council on March 1, 2007; and I am transmitting herewith for honorable body an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located 4000 Main Street in the City of Philadelphia; and I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area; and An ordinance constituting the Seventh Supplemental Ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance; and An ordinance authorizing the Director of Commerce to enter into a use and lease agreement between the City of Philadelphia and each of the airlines servicing Philadelphia International Airport.
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 the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day 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 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer three resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Council Committee on the Environment to conduct hearings on the feasibility and desirability of mandating the use of biofuels for the City's fleet of cars and trucks and in school buses operated by the Philadelphia School District.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion.
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.)
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on the Environment 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 properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted and will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on the Environment to hold public hearings to investigate how the City of Philadelphia could establish a green roof initiative including municipal buildings, affordable housing and by way of grants for homeowners.
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. The resolution is adopted and will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce two resolutions, one co-sponsored by Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring James J. Binns for years of practice in the Philadelphia legal community, his support of the City's charitable institutions and the establishment of the Hero Plaque Program commemorating police and firefighters killed in the line of duty.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," by requiring that the pedestrian crossing time at certain intersections be adjusted to account for the increased time required by elderly and disabled pedestrians to traverse streets, adding definitions and making certain technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance establishing a "No Truck Parking" regulation on Robbins Avenue between Algard Street and Cottage Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution calling on the Pennsylvania General Assembly to enact the legislation proposed by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking with its Mortgage Foreclosure Advisory Committee for the protection of the citizens of Philadelphia from predatory home loans that strip away hard-earned home equity, trap borrowers in excessive interest rates and frequently cause families to lose their homes.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Savage.
Thank you, Madam President. There has been a change. I have no bills or resolutions for today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 12-2708 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Issuance of Temporary Parking Permits," by adding provisions for temporary parking permits valid for one calendar day, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer three resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on the Disabled and the Handicapped to hold hearings to investigate and determine how many disabled and/or handicapped school-age children are transported to and from school under the supervision of the Philadelphia School Reform Commission.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution has been adopted and will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to determine the safety of our public school children who are transported to and from school in school buses not equipped with seat belt restraints.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Campbell.
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. The resolution is adopted and will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to determine the feasibility of the Department of Parks and Recreation partnering with the Philadelphia School Board for the purpose of developing community-run recreation programs in public school facilities.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted and will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Taxes," to provide for a homestead exemption with respect to City real property tax, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance granting permission to Alfredo Aguilar, owner of the property 426-28 West Girard Avenue, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, no bills or resolutions today. Thank you.
Thank you. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Finance Committee.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Finance reports out eight bills with a favorable recommendation and one bill with no 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. 060052, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-201 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'City Depositories,' by revoking the depository status of Wachovia Bank and revising the list of City depositories, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with no recommendation; and The Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 060389, "An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $1 million to assist in the development of the Maria de los Santos Health Center"; and Bill No. 070072, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Business Privilege Taxes,' by providing a green roofs tax credit"; and Bill No. 070073, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Real Estate Taxes,' to provide a credit against the tax for owners of condominiums and cooperatives who do not receive regular City refuse, recycling and bulk item collection services"; and Bill No. 070089, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of amount not to exceed $1 million to assist in the conversion of the former Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia"; and Bill No. 070090, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $2 million to assist in the development of WHYY Learning Lab"; and Bill No. 070091, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code by authorizing the City Treasurer to deposit funds in Sovereign Bank"; and Bill No. 070150, entitled "An ordinance amending Bill No. 060378, entitled 'An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2007 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works'"; and Bill No. 070169, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $2,100,000 to assist in the development of the Jewish Employment and Vocational Services," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 060052, 389, Bill No. 070072, 73, 089, 090, 91, 150 and 169. (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 committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Law and Government reports one bill and one resolution 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 Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 070117, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled 'Referenda Approved by the Voters,' by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia urge the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to deny the Philadelphia Gas Works' 2006 request for a base rate increase"; and Resolution No. 070129, entitled "A resolution proposing an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled 'Referenda Approved by the Voters,' by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia urge the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to deny the Philadelphia Gas Works' 2006 request for a base rate increase," considered the same and returns the attached bill and resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 070117. (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 out of committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution No. 070129 will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. We now have a special order of business. Council will now proceed under a special order of business to the reconsideration of Bill No. 060828. This bill was passed by the Council at its March 8, 2007 session and was returned disapproved by the Mayor at today's session of Council. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Council reconsider Bill No. 060828, which was unanimously approved by City Council on March 8, 2007. (Duly seconded.)
The motion carries. Council will now reconsider the vote by which Bill No. 060828 was passed. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 22-311 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Cost-of-Living Measures for Retirees, Beneficiaries and Survivors," by amending the provisions governing when deposits are made into the Pension Adjustment Fund, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days was duly approved by City Council on March the 8th, 2007 and was returned to the Mayor as disapproved at today's session of Council. The question is shall Bill No. 060828 pass notwithstanding the Mayor's disapproval. Please note that a vote of aye is a vote to override the Mayor's veto and a vote of no is a vote to sustain the Mayor's veto. At this time, I would ask the Chief Clerk to please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. Two-thirds majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the Mayor's veto is overridden. The next order of business will be the consideration of the Calendar. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 060052, an ordinance amending Section 19-201 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Depositories," by revoking the depository status of Wachovia Bank.
The Chair agrees. 3/22/07 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 060389, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $1 million to assist in the development of the Maria de los Santos Health Center.
And Bill No. 070072, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," by providing a green roof tax credit.
And Bill No. 070073, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Taxes," to provide a credit against the tax for owners of condominiums and cooperatives who do not receive regular City refuse. 3/22/07 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 070089, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $1 million in the conversion of the former Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia.
And Bill No. 070090, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $2 million to assist in the development of WHYY Learning Lab.
And Bill No. 070091, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 3/22/07 - STATED - 1ST READING "City Funds - Deposits, Investments, Disbursements," by authorizing the City Treasurer to deposit funds in Sovereign Bank.
And Bill No. 070150, an ordinance amending Bill No. 060378, entitled "An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2007 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works."
And Bill No. 070169, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $2,100,000 to assist in the development of the Jewish Employment and Vocational Services.
The 3/22/07 - STATED - 1ST READING Chair agrees.
And Bill No. 070117, an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to Article VIII, Chapter 5 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, entitled "Referenda Approved by the Voters," by adding a new section providing that the citizens of Philadelphia urge the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to deny the Philadelphia Gas Works' 2006 request for a base rate increase.
The Chair agrees. That completes our First Reading Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today our Calendar 3/22/07 - STATED - 2ND READING begins on where we will consider Bill No. 060902-AA, 060901-A. We skip over then to where we will consider at the bottom Bill No. 060957 and on , the last page, Bill Nos. 070121, 122, 123 and 070077. All other bills are being held.
Thank you very much. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 060902-AA.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by adopting a new Section 14-217, entitled "Industrial Transformation District," under certain terms and conditions.
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. 3/22/07 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A 3/22/07 - STATED - 2ND READING majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060901-A.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Girard Avenue, Pennsylvania Avenue, 32nd Street, a Railroad Right-of-Way, Oxford Street and 30th Street.
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.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060957.
An ordinance approving the Municipal Statement of 3/22/07 - STATED - 2ND READING Revival of the Frankford Special Services District of Philadelphia, all under certain terms and conditions.
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.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 070121.
We're trying to conduct business. I would ask everyone to please be quiet. If you're having conversation, do so in the corridor. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please proceed.
An ordinance 3/22/07 - STATED - 2ND READING authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2007 within the Housing Trust Fund 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.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 070122.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2007 within the Aviation Fund 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. 3/22/07 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17 -- excuse me, sir. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 070123.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2007 from the General Fund and from the Grants Revenue Fund to the General Fund, 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.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. I would ask the Chief Clerk to 3/22/07 - STATED - 2ND READING please read the title of Bill No. 070077.
An ordinance authorizing the President of Fairmount Park Commission and the Executive Director of Fairmount Park to enter into a lease agreement between the City of Philadelphia as landlord and the Center City District as tenant, commonly referred to as Three Parkway Plaza, under certain terms and conditions.
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.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. That concludes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
I thank you, Madam President. On this occasion of the Annual Celebration of Women's History Month, I would like to once again extend an invitation to all to our Ninth Annual Women Making a Difference that will once again be held down at the Penn's Hyatt Hotel. Our 2007 awardees are Geneva Black, the Executive Director of the Haddington Multi-Services for Older Adults; Della Clark, the Executive Director of the Enterprise Center; Karen Davis, the President and CEO of the Arts and Business Council; Varsovia Fernandez, the Executive Director of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; and Patricia Giorgio-Fox, the First Deputy Police Commissioner and first female Deputy Police Commissioner of the City of Philadelphia. then, finally, this year we will have our inaugural "Profile of Courage" award going to State Senator Christine "Tina" Tartaglione for her valiant effort in the success of the rise of the Commonwealth minimum wage. So we extend an invitation to all who desire to be with us. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. On September 28, 2006, Mayor John F. Street created the Philadelphia Education Advisory Task Force to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the City's education system. Mayor Street said then, "Children of Philadelphia is the most important and challenging responsibility. " Those are the words of John Street. I attended that press conference and as the only member of Council present, I was publicly asked by the Mayor for a commitment to support more local resources for public schools. I committed then and I remain committed now. On December 11, 2006, Mayor John F. Street testified in City Council before the joint Committees on Finance and Education on resolutions dealing with School District finances, truancy and the dropout rate. Mayor Street said then, "Let me tell you something, we aren't fooling anybody up here on the finances of this city. You got people up here who know as much about this as anybody anywhere, and that's basically what I meant. And there are things that we can do that will cost us money and there are things that we can do that can increase our revenues. " Those are the words of John Street. Needless to say, I agreed with him then and I agree with him now. On December 30, 2006, Mayor John F. Street delivered his New Year's radio address. Mayor Street said then, "The future belongs to the children. We will continue to invest in our children's education, safety and well-being. " Those are the words of John Street. I anxiously awaited the Task Force report then and I anxiously await that report now. On February 22, 2007, Mayor his FY2008 budget address to City Council. " So what accounts for the Mayor's change in support for more local money? My introduction of Bill No. 070015 on January 23, 2007. It's quite simple. He asked for my support, not my leadership. But leadership was what I'm offering. And I have the support of education advocates today that will hold a press conference across the hall at 12:00 noon in the City Council Caucus Room and have the support of all the major candidates for Mayor. I personally talked with Chaka Fattah, Dwight Evans, Mike Nutter, Tom Knox and a representative of Bob Brady yesterday. The time to address this crisis issue in the City, crime and violence, job creation, economic development, as well as the overall quality of life, is intertwined with the issue of public education and the need for more local and state investment. The Mayor says that this bill won't solve the problem. That's true. It is meant to be part of a more comprehensive effort. So I say to the Mayor, this is a very serious public policy matter that requires more than a lame-duck response. I remind the Mayor and my colleagues of the Mayor's own words last year. Again, "Children of Philadelphia is the most important and challenging responsibility. Investing in our children and improving their educational opportunities is among the most important actions we can take as a city. I guess my bottom line is, the School District very shortly is going to need more money, both from the City of Philadelphia, if we're going to do something to accelerate the kind of progress we think is necessary in our schools. " I couldn't have said it better than he did, but for me, money talks louder than words. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I would just like to acknowledge and recognize the employees of the Community College of Philadelphia that are here today. (Applause.)
Community Council district and has been proven to be a very, very productive and much-needed service for not only youth but also for adults and older adults. I encourage all parties to get together, because I understand that they're extremely close in terms of the number with respect to benefits and wages. And please get back to work, because this is a much-needed service and we need this school to be open. (Applause.)
I would just like to say, Madam President, on behalf, we're encouraging, we're basically demanding that people sit down and come up with a reasonable approach and get a contract resolution for this much-needed service. Thank you, Madam President.
Yes, Madam President. I understand that Mrs. Neil from the School of the Future is here with another class of government, and I want to acknowledge them. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. I want to agree and associate myself with the comments made by Councilman Clarke. I do have a branch in my area. I have talked with many people, and certainly look forward to a resolution of this issue, as I'm sure all of us in City Council do. So I'm sure I speak for us all when we say we hope that this strike will end quickly. Thank you.
Are there any other speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, March 29th, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
Before we adjourn, I just want to remind the members of the Rules Committee that we do have a 1 o'clock public hearing. It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, March 29th at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:00 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 March 22, 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.)