You know, we've20 never been cited for problems, issues.21 We don't cause crime in that area. You22 know, we -- I don't know what negative23 impact we're having.24 If there's a problem with the25 229 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 property, the property can be cleaned.2 That's not an issue.3 But it's never been brought up4 to us before.5
Do you have11 a axe to grind? Is that what you said?12 I didn't say that.13
And what I16 would suggest is for you to have some17 discussion with the Redevelopment18 Authority between now and the time this19 bill finally passes, or is slated to be20 passed. I would like to have at least21 some conversation.22 Yes, sir.23
I just want to24 make one further response to your query25 230 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 about notifications.2 This is simply a notification3 that we provide for this hearing. There4 is no formal notification of taking until5 after the ordinance is passed.6
And how7 long -- how much time is the notice of8 taking after it passes the ordinance?9 Say they didn't know anything10 about this hearing today and didn't show11 up and we passed the bill; how long after12 the passage of the bill would they be13 receiving notice that the property was14 slated for taking?15
I would have to16 get back to you with a precise answer in17 terms of the number of days.18
I don't19 know enough about the business.20 Certainly Councilman Jones represents the21 district; it's his bill. I understand22 his position on this.23 I have to take them at their24 word. I'm not saying that I would stop25 231 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 the bill, but I'm saying that somebody's2 got to know the length of time. And3 we've had this discussion on a number of4 occasions before, 'cause every time we5 have these bills, people pop up.6 Now, some of them have been7 sitting on properties and not paying8 taxes for thirty years, and I get that,9 and I shouldn't care about them.10 But there are other folks that11 perhaps have a legitimate issue, and we12 don't know what the length of time is13 that they get to negotiate or to protect14 themselves legally or to whatever.15 I mean, just as a general16 overall principle, not just this17 particular case.18
Yeah. I do19 want to comment that the ordinance, if20 it's passed, does not require us to do21 the taking.22
The taking will24 occur because it's permitted by the25 232 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 ordinance.2 But if there's a decision made3 kind of post the ordinance, particularly4 in conjunction with Councilman Jones's5 office to perhaps not pursue a particular6 taking, the RDA would more or less be7 responsive to that request.8
And I do9 understand that.10 But, I mean, again, we've been11 doing this for years and been involved in12 this process years. And folks, when they13 get notice, it may be the first time in14 their life that they've involved with15 this.16 I don't know what the condition17 of their business is and I'm not --18 that's really not the issue because the19 District Councilperson is the one that's20 going to make the decision anyway.21 But in the end, I mean, we have22 to have some protections here for folks23 either losing their home or losing their24 business. It can't be just, we're25 233 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 notifying you, by the way.2
Mr. Koonce,6 I'm not trying to take over your7 responsibility, Mr. Covington, but we do8 have Mr. Koonce here's who's been here9 forever, working on this matter. So I10 was just wondering if he could kind of11 just step to the plate and explain the12 process particularly as it relates to the13 timing.14 As the Chairman said, been15 here, done this. We should have this16 down to a science right now.17
Certainly.18 The ordinance, before it gets19 to City Council, there is an open board20 meeting at the Redevelopment Authority21 approving the redevelopment proposal.22 There's an open meeting at City Planning23 approving the redevelopment proposal.24 And then once passed those --25 234 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 it's passed in those two bodies, it's2 then forwarded to City Council.3 Notices are sent out, and there4 are hearings. They are advertised in5 papers with daily circulation for three6 executive weeks prior to the hearing.7 And we actually send notices to8 all known addresses prior to the hearing.9
Prior to10 the hearing or prior to the Redevelopment11 Authority --12
All right.14 Maybe that's the problem. Maybe it15 should go out before the open meeting of16 the Redevelopment Authority that nobody17 knows about.18 I mean, who goes through the19 paper and reads -- I mean, I don't -- I20 wouldn't suspect -- I don't read those21 notices every day, and I'm sure the22 average person doesn't.23
Well,24 actually, Mr. Chair, because we've been25 235 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 here so many times on this issue, we had2 worked out what we believe to be a3 reasonable process, and I suspect during4 the course of today's conversation, it5 may come up again.6 I can recall we were actually7 up in the sixth floor when our chambers8 were flooded, and we did a very9 aggressive condemnation process, and we10 were lucky to get out of there with our11 lives, and we put together what we --12
And we18 believed the process was established that19 the first contact was not a cold letter.20 It was actually an individual from the21 Redevelopment Authority going out and22 having a conversation about the process.23 Then you got the notification.24 So people at least understood25 236 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 what their rights were in terms of2 compensation.3 And as a result of that, we had4 a much smoother process. And I can5 recall one of the projects in the Cecil6 B. Moore Homeownership Zone, actually as7 a result of that, it was like 17 people8 who were relocated. Their homes were9 taken through condemnation. They10 actually were in a position to buy 17 of11 the new homes.12 So that process started13 working. We haven't been doing a lot of14 these here of late because of the15 freezing of the NTI process. So maybe we16 got a little rusty on that.17 But I would like for us to kind18 of get us back to that process where that19 first contact with the government is not20 just a cold letter, as I'm sure you all21 got.22
It was just very23 blindsided.24 (Applause.)25 237 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441
There was -- it2 was a cold letter, just like you're3 saying.4
And I just would6 say that it's a viable business that's7 been there 25 years.8 And I don't know if there's any9 standard of how many hours I have to be10 at a business for it to be considered11 viable, for him to see me there or not12 there.13 But, I mean, I would also like14 to say that the previous speakers, they15 did a great job with those vacant lots16 there that were very, very poorly kept17 for numbers of years.18
Well, I19 think, in this particular case, at least20 we have a commitment from the District21 Council and from RDA to have this22 discussion with you to try to figure out23 whether or not that property is necessary24 or whether or not there's something that25 238 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 could be done.2
And can I8 say for the record, I said, "I don't have9 a axe to grind."10
All right.13 (Indiscernible; parties talking14 over each other.)15
Anyone else19 to testify on this bill?20 (No response.)21
In an25 239 6.7.11 RULES - BILL 1103441 effort to maintain a quorum, what I want2 to do is, I want to recess temporarily3 the public hearing, and I want to enter4 into our public meeting, and I want to5 recognize the Council President to cast6 her vote for all amendments and bills7 that were on our calendar for today.8 (Addressing Council President9 Verna.) That's what I thought you were10 voting for, all bills and amendments.11 Okay.12 So let the record show that13 Council President is casting her vote in14 favor of all amendments and bills on our15 calendar today.16 We will now recess temporarily17 the public meeting and reconvene our18 public hearing.19 The next bill for consideration20 is Bill No. 110348, which is an ordinance21 approving the 39th Amendment to the22 Redevelopment Proposal for the Model23 Cities Urban Renewal Plan, being the area24 beginning at the northwest corner of25 240 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Front Street and Spring Garden Street,2 including the 31st Amendment to the Urban3 Renewal Plan and the 27th Amendment to4 the Relocation Plan, which provides,5 inter alia, for the additional land6 acquisition of approximately fifty-five7 (55) properties for residential,8 institutional, and related uses; the9 provision of certain relocation services,10 as required by law; and declaring that11 condemnation is not imminent with respect12 to the Project.13 (Witness comes forward.)14
Please15 identify yourself for the record and16 proceed. And if we could please have all17 outside conversation taken outside.18 Please identify yourself for19 the record.20
Good afternoon,21 Mr. Chairman and members of the22 committee. My name, again, is Richard23 Reading, Director of Community Planning24 at the Philadelphia City Planning25 241 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 commission. And I'm testifying today in2 favor of Bill No. 110348, which is the3 39th Amended Redevelopment Proposal for4 Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.5 This proposal authorizes6 acquisition of approximately 557 properties, which are planned for a new8 wellness center and possible residential,9 institutional, and related uses.10 The proposal is in accord with11 the North Philadelphia Redevelopment Area12 Plan and was approved by the Planning13 Commission staff on April 21st of this14 year.15 I'll be available to answer any16 questions.17 Thank you.18
Thank you19 for your testimony.20 Please identify yourself for21 the record and proceed.22
Yes. My name,23 again, is Ed Covington, Executive24 Director of the Redevelopment Authority.25 242 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Councilman Kenney, Chairman2 Verna, members of the committee, let me3 first --4
Let me first9 make a quick further response to the10 other questions around process.11 I believe what we can do is12 refresh the notification process. I will13 say there's always some challenge in14 finding the right people to notify in15 these instances.16 And so -- but I think the17 gravity of the matter certainly warrants18 an extra effort on our part, and we'll19 commit to doing that.20
I am here to22 speak in support of Bill No. 110348,23 which is the 39th Amendment to the24 Redevelopment Proposal and 31st Amendment25 243 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 to the Urban Renewal Plan for the Model2 Cities Urban Renewal Area.3 All of these properties will be4 acquired utilizing funds from the5 Neighborhood Transformation Initiative.6 The proposal and plan provide7 for the acquisition of a total of 558 properties. One vacant lot will be9 acquired on behalf of the Philadelphia10 Housing Authority. This property will be11 assemble with others already in the12 Housing Authority's ownership for the13 development of new-construction14 affordable housing.15 And 45 vacant lots, occupied16 structures, and vacant structures will17 be acquired on behalf of Project H.O.M.E.18 These properties will be developed into a19 wellness center. Project H.O.M.E. will20 manage the center, which will offer21 primary medical care as well as22 behavioral health care, physical fitness,23 physical therapy, dental care, and health24 education.25 244 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Councilman Kenney, Chairman2 Verna, members of the committee, I3 respectfully request favorable4 consideration of Bill No. 110348 and5 would also ask for a suspension of6 Council rules to allow first reading on7 June 9, 2011.8
Thank you9 very much for your testimony.10 Any questions?11 Councilman Clarke.12
Thank you,13 Mr. Chair.14 I just want to put a little --15 some clarity on this particular16 acquisition.17 The parcel that is being18 acquired is actually not being acquired19 soley for Project H.O.M.E. Part of the20 development of this site will also21 incorporate the building of the new22 Martin Luther King Older Adult Center.23 Commissioner Slawson is here with her24 staff to talk briefly about the specifics25 245 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 of that development.2 So there will be two3 developments on the site of that parcel.4 The original request came from Project5 H.O.M.E. for the acquisition of the site.6 But subsequently, there was a7 conversation about moving the older-adult8 center to that site, so that would also9 be incorporated in that parcel, just for10 the record.11
Thank you15 very much for your testimony.16 Carolyn Placke, Don17 Billingsley, and Earl Lively.18 (Witnesses come forward.)19
Excuse me,20 sir. Could you do me a favor. Take a21 seat here. I want to get some of the22 testimony from the Recreation Department23 prior to your testimony. Okay, thank24 you.25 246 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Is the Recreation Department2 here? Please come up.3 (Commissioner Slawson comes4 forward.)5 COUNCILMAN KENNEY:6 Commissioner, could you lead off just by7 identifying yourself for the record and8 proceed.9 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Good10 afternoon, Councilman.11
Good12 afternoon.13 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Susan14 Slawson, Recreation Commissioner.15
Please16 proceed.17 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: I'm here18 because we have currently an older-adult19 center housed inside the Martin Luther20 King recreation facility.21 The seniors there have outgrown22 that facility. The space is no longer23 adequate to house the number of seniors24 that attend and use that facility on a25 247 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 daily basis. We have upwards of 150-plus2 seniors that come in for various3 programming day after day.4 And this is a great opportunity5 that Recreation has. And Capital6 Projects will be working along with the7 City and Councilman Clarke to ensure that8 we can offer a better, larger location9 with even more security.10 The facility that they're11 housing currently, the Martin Luther King12 facility, is a huge facility and -- but13 it's used primarily for recreation. And14 they have a small area that they're using15 right now for all of their programs.16
Any17 questions for the Commissioner?18 (No questions.)19
Anyone else20 here to testify on that particular21 portion of it?22 Please identify yourself for23 the record.24
My name is Carolyn25 248 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Placke. I'm Director of Housing and2 Community Development for Project3 H.O.M.E.4 As Councilman Clarke5 referenced, Project H.O.M.E. is6 committed, a hundred percent committed,7 to the collocation of a wellness center8 as well as the older-adult center9 referenced earlier.10 Since 2005, I would say, we've11 been engaged in conversations, very12 productive conversations, with folks at13 the senior center. They have been aware14 of our wellness center plans and also15 understanding of an intergenerational16 component of it.17 So essentially, what that means18 is that the wellness center, while it19 will primarily have primary-care,20 fitness, physical therapy, O.T.,21 behavioral health, and so on and so22 forth, folks from the senior center23 are -- you know, the intent is that there24 will be a collaboration between both25 249 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Project H.O.M.E. and the Martin Luther2 King Senior Center.3 My understanding at this point4 is that they should be two separate sites5 on that single parcel. And we're very6 excited to be working with the City on7 this.8
Okay.9 Thank you very much.10 Any questions?11 (No questions.)12
Actually,15 Councilman, I have a couple questions on16 this, Project H.O.M.E.17
Could you20 talk a little bit more about the21 development, the cost of the wellness22 center, and the number of jobs?23
In a little25 250 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 more specifics? It's a pretty2 significant development.3
Yeah. The4 wellness center currently is still in5 predesign. Our construction budget looks6 to be about $12 million. We will be7 going after new market tax credits on8 this particular development.9 Currently, we have a number of10 fairly significant funders in this.11 Jefferson University Hospital is our12 primary partner in this as well as the13 YMCA.14 In terms of job creation, we're15 looking at obviously over a hundred jobs.16 For those that are unfamiliar17 with Project H.O.M.E., we are very well18 respected in meeting minority business19 goals and objectives. In fact, many20 times, we surpass those goals and21 objectives.22 Once the wellness center is23 built, a percentage of jobs will be24 allocated to folks from the community.25 251 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 And then, also, in terms of2 paraprofessional job offerings, and then3 there will also be professional medical4 personnel onsite as well.5 So we're looking at6 approximately 30 professional jobs and7 upwards that equal amount to folks from8 the community.9
Thank you11 very much for your testimony.12 And Mr. Lively. And is there a13 Thomasina... Is there a Kirk Crawford?14
He had to16 leave? How about Thomasina? I only have17 one name. I'm sorry. Is there someone18 named Thomasina here? 2138 Cecil B.19 Moore, owner of 2183 Cecil B. Moore.20 (No response.)21
Can I just22 see a show of hands of who else wants to23 testify on this bill. Okay, could you24 please come forward.25 252 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 (Witnesses come forward.)2
My name is Earl9 Lively. I'm actually a community10 volunteer for North Philadelphia. I am11 not a legal attorney; I have no legal12 college background or anything of that.13 What I do is, I help people in14 the Fifth District. And what I would15 just like to say really quick is that not16 what qualifies me, but as living and a17 resident in that area, I have raised18 thousands of dollars.19 I have raised about $7,000 for20 this particular center that we're talking21 about. We're talking about the adjusted22 to the Martin Luther King Community23 Center, which is adjusted to the24 older-adult center.25 253 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 I was a former vice president2 of that board for two years ago with3 Councilman Clarke's deputy Curtis4 Wilkerson.5 I volunteered. All of these6 are North Philadelphia, in the Fifth7 District, the district where I live.8 I volunteered for the soup9 kitchen down at the Church of the10 Advocate for the last three years. I11 have helped not just with dealing with12 getting fresh fruit, fresh vegetables13 from our new development, which has been14 around for sometime, the Fresh Grocer,15 which I have a partner with Jeff, which16 is the general manager, which I've gotten17 food, bread, things of that nature that18 helps to support about 500 homeless daily19 there.20 I have also helped them provide21 for all of the senior centers in North22 Philadelphia, the Lehigh, Senator23 Kitchen's, North Philadelphia, which is24 not far from where we're at, and the25 254 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Martin Luther King Older Adult Center.2 I have raised hundreds of3 dollars as well as thousands of dollars4 for the Martin Luther King, Jr.5 Recreation Center, state-of-the-art6 computers, a stove.7 I also have worked with8 Councilman Clarke's office on what we9 needed to do to better that facility,10 which is with new air-conditioning. Over11 a hundred thousand dollars, but I was12 told that that would be taken care of.13 So I backed off of that, thanks to14 Councilman Clarke.15 I also have created in North16 Philadelphia a safe-haven project within17 the last four years, three years for18 about 1500 kids to keep them off the19 streets during the Halloween time, which20 all our area businesses in that area --21 most of the businesses that I'm talking22 about, I'm talking about the businesses23 that feed off all of our residents as24 well as our Temple students, Rita's Water25 255 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Ice.2
Well, I'm only9 telling you this, and I think it's really10 important, because when people speak, we11 need to know what is your position and12 what are you doing for the community and13 why is your opinion so important.14 And I think my opinion is --15 should be vital here because I am active.16 I live there, I sleep there, I do what17 we're supposed to do.18
And that's why.20 Because if you look in this room, there's21 probably maybe a handful that on five22 fingers, when the room should be crowded23 with a project like this, because I am in24 support of Councilman Clarke's project.25 256 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 I'm just letting you hear why I am2 expressing who I am.3
No, I7 understand. I'm just -- I really need to8 know what you feel about the bill and if9 you want to see it passed or --10
In terms of the11 new center, I was appointed back in12 September of 2010 from the Martin Luther13 King Advisory Board to be a spokesperson14 to hopefully get these talk up again,15 because this is not the first time that16 it's been talked about. It's probably17 been talked about maybe about ten years.18 Drawings have been drawed up --19 designs, rather. There's been a lot of20 talks. Nothing went through.21 So this time, what I did was, I22 went out and I spoke to Councilman23 Clarke's office, I spoke with the24 Redevelopment office, I spoke with a few25 257 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 other people that I've worked on this2 project with, which was Mr. Odom, which3 had some property over there.4 And, naturally, because of5 discussing with some advisors that I need6 to drop that, which I did.7 Am I in support of this8 project? Yes, I am.9 But in closing, what I would10 like for this board to know is that I11 understand that you have been on this12 board probably for many years. You13 probably have a lot of experience, not14 just ten years, fifteen years. There's15 probably over a hundred years' worth of16 experience there.17 But as a new breed here in18 Philadelphia, someone that wants to work19 with the City, someone that's opinion20 should be respected because of my21 involvement, not just with the City of22 Philadelphia but my concern for North23 Philadelphia.24 I am not opposing Councilman25 258 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Clarke's project or in disagreement with2 Mrs. -- our commissioner, who thought I3 was very opposed to this. I am in very4 support of anything to enhance the5 redevelopment of our city.6 Thank you.7
Thank you8 very much.9 Please identify yourself for10 the record, whoever is next.11
My name is12 Anthony Tribble. I own a property on --13 matter of fact, President and Council, I14 own a property at 2107 West Nicholas15 Street. It's right behind where the16 wellness -- part of where the wellness17 center is going to built.18 And I have -- the property that19 I have, well, it's been in my family over20 70 years. And right now, this is -- it's21 a property that I have rented out. The22 people that's been in the property for23 over 35 years.24 Now, I'm on a fixed income.25 259 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Now, I'm all well for fixing up North2 Philadelphia. I've been in North Philly3 all my life. And I see where North4 Philly is now, and I would like to see it5 come back up again. You know, I mean, I6 have no problem with that.7 But I want the people that's in8 my property to be compensated for. I9 want them to be able to move into another10 property or be replaced.11 And I also, because I'm on a12 fixed income. Now, the income that I was13 getting from the property, I would like14 to know whether or not the Council or the15 Housing Authority is going to compensate16 me for that, compensate me well enough17 where that I can look forward to saying,18 Okay, well, look, you all looked out for19 me, I have no problem with you all doing20 what you have to do to fix up North21 Philadelphia.22
Thank you23 for your testimony.24 Please identify yourself for25 260 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 the record.2
My name is Allison3 Odom. I come before you on behalf of my4 husband, Danny Odom.5 We own properties at 21, 24,6 26, 28, 30, and 32, a big part of the7 location that Project H.O.M.E. desires to8 have the wellness center.9 We have been in the furniture10 business for 33 years in that particular11 location. We would have loved to have12 stayed. But, unfortunately, things just13 didn't make it possible for us to do so.14 We have been trying to sell our15 property for quite some time.16 Unfortunately, because of so many taxes17 and interest and penalties we haven't18 been able to be forgiven of, we have not19 been able to go through with settlement20 of our property.21 We just recently had a young22 man about a good three weeks ago who23 became very, very interested in buying24 the property. Unfortunately, we ran out25 261 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 of time when we got this letter in the2 mail from you guys, dated May the 10th,3 that this particular meeting was today,4 and did not give us enough time to work5 things out so that we could sell this6 property.7 We hope -- we were just upset8 when we heard, whether or not we heard9 correctly or not of the words "eminent10 domain." Unless we have the information11 incorrect, that means something will be12 taken from you.13 It is not the City's fault that14 we ran out of time, so to speak, in15 trying to get our business together to16 try to sell this property. This is the17 last property that we own because we are18 trying to get out of debt. We want to19 pay our bills, our taxes.20 Whoever goes with this21 property, we're not ever trying to go22 back in business; we just want to get out23 of debt. But when you do eminent domain,24 that means -- you know what that means;25 262 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 you're not getting out of debt; it's2 going to be taken. And we're just very3 sorry to hear and hope that it don't have4 to go down this way.5 This particular gentleman who's6 interested in buying our property still7 is interested if we had a little more8 time. And if he don't be the person to9 buy our property, and if Project H.O.M.E.10 gets that particular location, will we11 still get out of debt is a big question,12 which doesn't seem to be yes to13 (indiscernible).14 So this is why I am here today,15 on behalf of my husband, who had to16 leave. This is our concern. We're not17 against our project; we just trying to18 get out of debt; we want to pay our19 bills.20
Thank you21 for your testimony.22 Sir, sir.23 (Witness comes forward.)24
Good2 afternoon. Please identify yourself for3 the record.4
Yeah, good5 afternoon. My name is Russell Robertson.6 I'm the president of the Advisory Council7 for Martin Luther King. I'm the8 president of the six (indiscernible) of9 centers in Philadelphia: Mann, West Oak10 Lane, South Philly, Juniata Park,11 Northeast, and, of course, king.12 I'm just here today because I'm13 in total agreeance [sic] with the14 project. But I'm lost at one point. Is15 Project H.O.M.E. going to build the16 center, or is the City going to build the17 center?18 I was under the impression that19 the City is going to build the center.20 It would be City-owned, not Project21 H.O.M.E. So I need some clarification on22 that.23
Councilman24 Clarke.25 264 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481
Initially,6 the -- it was an attempt to have an7 arrangement where a building was going to8 be built, one building. And a part of9 that building was -- within that building10 was going to be the older-adult center.11
When we met13 with the group, people were not14 comfortable with coexisting in the same15 building, and they wanted their own16 building after having gone to Juniata17 Park and seeing the older-adult center18 there.19
So the21 issue was money. It's taken us too long,22 but we finally identified enough money23 from Capital Projects. As a matter of24 fact, we have two of our Capital Project25 265 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 members here who are actually working on2 the building. So it's now going to be a3 separate building that will be built and4 funded by the City of Philadelphia.5 We're hoping that -- and I6 understand that a couple of these7 State-elected officials are also looking8 at putting in some money. But we, the9 City, are committed to building that10 building to accommodate a new facility.11
So we will13 own. And the City, I guess, along with14 PCA, right?15
Currently17 will continue to operate at the new18 location.19
Okay. One more20 question. Will the constituents -- I21 hate to -- let me rephrase that.22 Will the people who are at23 (indiscernible) presently, will they have24 any type of input on what's going to go25 266 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 into the building? I know square footage2 is one of the keys, but you can have five3 blocks and still not utilize it4 correctly.5 So will we have any input in6 what goes into our building? Will we7 have any meetings with the architects --8
-- or the10 planning board of what's going to go into11 the building?12
And I don't15 know if you were there actually. I think16 it was, like, three weeks, four weeks,17 maybe a month ago.18
You were21 there?22 (Indiscernible; parties talking23 over each other.)24
Well, you2 know what? The Commissioner is here. I3 guess she can respond to that.4 (Commissioner Slawson returns5 to witness table.6
Please7 identify yourself for the record.8 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Susan9 Slawson, Recreation Commissioner.10 I just wanted to make one11 statement, that PCA, we do get funding12 from PCA, but the older-adult centers are13 run by Recreation staff, Parks and14 Recreation staff.15
Okay.16 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: And17 that's who will be housed and operating18 the facility once it's moved across as a19 part of the Project H.O.M.E. project.20
And then24 there was a follow-up question. The25 268 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 gentleman basically wanted to know, would2 the older adults have input into the3 early-on process, the architectural, the4 design, and the ultimate building of5 that?6 And from my perspective, yes,7 but I know you were at that meeting, and8 you met up at the site with management of9 the older-adult center.10 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: The11 answer to your question is absolutely.12 They will have the input. And when we13 start the meetings, we'll ensure that14 they're a part of those meetings because15 they're going to use the facility, so16 it's important that we include them in17 with whatever decisions that we make.18
I'd like to19 thank City Council, the Commissioner, and20 everybody who's involved in the project.21 God bless you. Thank you for our22 building.23
Thank you.24 We needed that.25 269 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 And Mr. Chair, if I can just2 briefly -- there was two other3 individuals that testified earlier. If I4 can briefly respond to a couple of5 questions and concerns they raised.6
I know that8 Miss Dunbar from the RDA is here. But9 the question with respects to you getting10 compensated for your properties, by law,11 the Redevelopment Authority is12 required -- in this case, the City, using13 City dollars, is required to pay you the14 fair market value of your property in15 that area.16 That value actually may be17 high, higher than normal, because a lot18 of people have been buying property up19 there to build student housing. So in20 this case, that might be a good thing21 'cause the value has now been elevated as22 a result of all of the recent purchases23 in the immediate area.24 I understand that with respects25 270 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 to properties that have tenants -- sir,2 in your case, Miss Dunbar from the3 Redevelopment Authority works not with4 only owner-occupied but works with the5 tenants to make sure that people are6 adequately relocated.7 In the past, actually in a8 development not too far from there, we9 were actually able to relocate people in10 that immediate area in better actual11 conditions than they were. So we will12 work with you in every imaginable way to13 make sure that those individuals and14 yourself is okay.15 And, Miss Odom, I'm very aware16 of your situation. And knowing your17 husband, he actually was one of the North18 Philadelphia residents that helped raise19 me, and we have some issues that we're20 going to be working -- continuing to work21 on as it relates to some of the22 liabilities to both the State and City so23 we make sure that you come out of this24 whole, okay?25 271 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 Thank you.2
Excuse me,7 Chairman. I just wanted -- that's why I8 sat here for so long.9 But Councilman Clarke, I wanted10 you to be aware that in the beginning of11 this process, it was brought to my12 attention that they wanted me to13 facilitate the talks into this new14 center.15 So I just want to make sure16 that Commissioner Slawson as well as17 yourselves or anybody else that's18 involved with this project does not have19 any problem working with me because of20 the fact of it. I have been the voice,21 not a bad voice, but a voice to have22 these talks continue, whether or not it's23 not in the selection of the contractor;24 that's not my job. I am not an expertee25 272 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103481 [sic] in that.2 My thing is to keep these talks3 going because this is not the first time4 that this has happened. This is, like,5 the third time. So I just want to make6 sure that none of you have any problem7 working with me, because I am a resource8 for the community.9 I am not just a person that's10 just not sitting there. I bring11 resources to you, I help you, I work with12 you. I don't want to be the devil or the13 advocate in here. Look at my track14 record.15 And that not only goes for you;16 that goes for the whole City Hall. I'm17 just asking you to work with me. So if18 no one has no problem working with me,19 I'm just saying, when it comes down to20 this new center, I will be an input on21 it, and I will be at the tables. And,22 hopefully, as we talk, we will take the23 information back to the seniors who24 utilize that facility on a daily basis.25 273 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451
Thank you4 very much.5 The next bill for consideration6 is Bill No. 110345, which is an ordinance7 approving the Third Amendment of the8 Redevelopment Proposal for the West9 Parkside Urban Renewal Area being the10 area generally bounded by Parkside Avenue11 on the north; Belmont Avenue and Girard12 Avenue on the east; Lancaster Avenue on13 the South; and 52nd Street and the14 easterly Right-of-Way of the Pennsylvania15 Central RR Line on the west, including16 the Third Amendment to the Urban Renewal17 Plan and Relocation Plan, which provides,18 inter alia, for the additional land19 acquisition of approximately 5420 properties for residential and related21 uses; the provision of certain relocation22 services, as required by law; and23 declaring that condemnation is not24 imminent with respect to the Project.25 274 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 (Witnesses come forward.)2
Please3 identify yourself for the record and4 proceed.5
Good afternoon,6 Mr. Chairman. Again, I'm Richard7 Redding, Director of Community Planning8 at the Philadelphia City Planning9 Commission.10 I'm here today to testify in11 support of the Third Amended12 Redevelopment Proposal for the West13 Parkside Urban Renewal Area, which would14 authorize the acquisition of15 approximately 54 properties, plan for16 residential and related use in the17 vicinity of 52nd and Viola Streets, in18 West Philadelphia.19 The proposal's in accord with20 the Parkside Lancaster Redevelopment Plan21 Area plan, and the proposal was approved22 by Planning Commission staff on April23 21st of this year.24 I'm here to help answer any25 275 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 questions. Thank you.2
Thank you3 very much.4 Please identify yourself for5 the record and proceed.6
Good afternoon7 again, Councilman Kenney. My name is Ed8 Covington, Executive Director of the9 Redevelopment Authority of Philadelphia.10 Councilman Kenney, members of11 the committee, I'm here to speak in12 support of Bill No. --13
I'm sorry.14 Mr. Covington, could you just again15 either pull the microphone closer or16 speak more loudly.17
Sure. I'm here18 to speak in support of Bill No. 110345,19 the Third Amendment to the Parkside20 Lancaster Redevelopment Proposal and the21 Third Amendment to the West Parkside22 Urban Renewal Plan for the West Parkside23 Urban Renewal Area.24 This bill would authorize the25 276 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 Redevelopment Authority to acquire 542 properties. The acquisition will be3 funded with NTI bonds. Community4 Ventures, in partnership with the5 Parkside Civic Association, has proposed6 to develop the following:7 Eight properties that will be8 assembled with Authority-owned properties9 for the development of 25 to 30 units of10 multifamily buildings;11 Twelve properties to be12 developed as a small multifamily13 building;14 Thirty properties to be15 developed into single-family16 homeownership;17 And four properties to be18 developed as a community garden.19 This project will promote the20 elimination of blight and result in21 expanded housing opportunities for low-22 and moderate-income individuals and23 restore properties to the tax rolls.24 Councilman Kenney and members25 277 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 of the committee, I respectfully request2 favorable consideration of Bill No.3 110345 and would also ask for the4 suspension of Council rules to allow5 first reading on June 9, 2011.6
Thank you,9 Mr. Chairman and members of the10 committee.11 Very different from the 59th12 and Market Street project, where we're13 talking about vegetable gardens and a14 existing business, we're talking about15 the issue of a number of residents, a16 church, and also a business that operates17 in that particular area.18 I would put in a frame of19 reference that this and the members of20 this community have suffered through the21 downturn of the economy, seeing the22 neighborhood go from a blighted community23 and begin to show the sparks of24 redevelopment in the area.25 278 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 When we look at the Town West2 project, which we'll hear about, I3 believe testified to, there was4 $55 million worth of investment put in5 that area, which was not just developed6 the neighborhood but it transformed the7 neighborhood.8 The second part of this is to9 expand beyond that individual development10 and move into a greater connection with11 the community, existing houses to try to12 maintain it for low- and moderate-income13 people.14 You're going to hear some15 people testify in favor for; and,16 obviously, you're going to hear some17 people testify with concern against. And18 I understand that and take it very19 seriously, because these aren't people I20 don't know; these are people, some of21 whom I grew up with, and some of them who22 have been stakeholders longer than I have23 in this community.24 But as we contemplate what we25 279 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 should do, we should keep in mind the2 fact that we established the prior areas,3 that this is the beginning of a process.4 This was notification that was given,5 that probably should have had a community6 meeting in the front of it so that people7 didn't think that this was an eviction8 notice.9 (Applause.)10
And we're11 not incapable of saying when things12 didn't happen in a way that probably13 should have, and we're not too big to14 correct that by having a sequence of15 meetings afterwards to try to work out16 things where we can.17 So I want to start that with18 that tone, to let the community know that19 this is not some occupying force that's20 just going to roll over their rights.21 This is a discussion about the highest22 and best use of the future of this23 community.24 And I want to thank you for25 280 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 your indulgence, Mr. Chairman.2
Thank you,3 Councilman.4 Any questions for these5 witnesses?6 (No questions.)7
Seeing8 none, the Chair calls Lucinda Hudson,9 Steve Kauffman, and Jim Burnett. Are10 they in the room?11 (Witnesses come forward.)12
How many13 other folks in the room are intending to14 testify? Okay, thank you.15 Please take any chair you'd16 like and identify yourself for the17 record. Pull that microphone closer to18 you. Thank you.19 Please identify yourself for20 the record and proceed.21
I'm Lucinda22 Hudson, and I'm the President of the23 Parkside Center Association of24 Philadelphia. I'm here today to testify25 281 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 on the Bill 110345.2 And the first thing that I3 would like to say is that the Parkside4 community have been engaged in the5 process of talking about rehabbing6 housing for the last six years. We have7 a community briefing every month. Each8 and every resident get a flyer put in9 their door every month. The third10 Thursday of the month has been our11 community briefing for six years since12 our last project.13 We also are working on a14 strategy plan with the consultants who15 have engaged the community, which this16 project is mentioned. I just wanted to17 be clear on that before I proceed.18 The vision that we have talked19 about in the community briefing with the20 community and at the board level is the21 fact that we wanted to create a multi-22 generational community where residents23 live, work, play, and enjoy a better24 quality of life. We also would like to25 282 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 stabilize the neighborhood, prevent2 gentrification, and prevent speculators,3 which is happening in Philadelphia in the4 Parkside area now.5 The economic development6 opportunity also. The impact of our7 redevelopment project that we finished in8 2006 created a great impact on the Park9 Town West Center, helped create jobs;10 there's like 6 to 800 permanent jobs11 there. There was construction jobs in12 the process of that.13 The project that we are14 embarking on now will entail businesses15 and commercial, senior housing, and that16 will also create a economic impact for17 our community.18 There's also -- the project has19 -- the project we finished in 200620 decreased the crime rate in our21 community, decreased the crime rate.22 Some of the abandoned buildings that we23 rehabbed in 2006 was a drug haven; drug24 dealers used those properties to hide25 283 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 their drugs and things of that nature.2 So it -- this project will3 address several things. It will create a4 better quality of life for our seniors5 and youth, it will create economic6 development and jobs, and it will also7 help us to cut down on the crime that8 infests our neighborhood.9
Please,10 whoever is next, identify yourself for11 the record and proceed.12
Hi. I'm Steve13 Kauffman with Community Ventures. We're14 a nonprofit developer, been around for15 about 20 years, and are working with16 Parkside Association on this development.17 And I guess about ten years ago, we did a18 19-home sales package with Parkside.19 What I'd like to do is do a20 little lecture based on these pictures21 but be very quick about it since we've22 all been here for five hours.23 This is a rendering of an24 apartment building that's going to be25 284 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 constructed on the west side of 52nd2 Street, where the old gas station is.3 And it's going to be mixed use, but it's4 going to be seniors upstairs. And we do5 hope to have a restaurant that can play6 off the various museums in the area, such7 as Please Touch.8 Over here, this gives you a9 sense of what is being acquired for what10 purpose. This is where the apartment11 building will be here. We're going to12 refurbish a community park here. There's13 going to be a refurbished park here, a14 small (indiscernible) here.15 And most of the orange is going16 to be follow-up projects of single-family17 homes, which will be sold at affordable18 prices.19 This is a preliminary rendering20 of the site for the initial project,21 which is, again, the apartment building,22 the garden, multifamily, and you can see23 some of the single families here.24 This development is under a25 285 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 tight timeline. It's going to be going2 in for low-income housing tax credits in3 October, so it's important that we get4 our ducks lined up, because that process5 is extraordinarily competitive at the6 State level.7 And it's also very important8 that we deal -- that we have a good story9 to tell the State about any blight that's10 visible in the area, because their site11 criteria have gotten very strict.12 So it's important that most of13 the properties in this package are14 actually going through the process.15 I also just wanted to say one16 quick thing, if I could, which is that17 there are three homeowner-occupied18 properties in this part of the19 development, on Viola Street. Those20 properties are not needed for the tax21 credit development, there's nothing22 time-sensitive about them, but these are23 three homeowners who are living in homes24 that are in very poor shape25 286 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 And Mrs. Hudson and I have2 started to talk to them, but if they do3 not get a package from the RDA by way of4 relocation benefits and compensation5 that's acceptable to them, we will back6 right off; there's no reason for us to7 run over them.8 So that's one assurance also9 that we can give Councilman Jones now10 that -- if those three homeowners, the11 only three here involved, are not happy,12 they're not going to lose their homes,13 but given the way the relocation benefits14 work, they will probably benefit and get15 into better housing.16 (Mr. Kauffman is asked to speak17 louder.)18
Oh, I was just19 mentioning that in this acquisition20 package, down here, on Viola Street,21 there are three homeowners on here.22 These are all homes that are not needed23 for our larger development package, which24 is the one that's time-sensitive. And25 287 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 these homes would later be a part of the2 single-family sales package.3 And what Mrs. Hudson and I have4 been saying, at least to the first person5 we met with, is that that if you do not6 get a relocation package, meaning7 benefits that enable you to move into a8 house that you like, if you don't get a9 reasonable offer that improves your life,10 then we will back off.11 And I'm sure the Councilman12 will see to that too, but we're going to13 work with each one of you closely, but if14 it doesn't work out for the three15 homeowners, there's no reason for us16 to -- we're not going to come back and17 argue and say, Oh, we need your property18 'cause it's critical. It's not critical19 --20
This just21 begs this question, then: If it's not22 critical to the development, then why are23 they on the list in the first place?24 (Applause.)25 288 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451
I mean, I'm4 not -- I just don't -- and this is really5 not directed at you; it's more directed6 at the Redevelopment Authority.7 Why do we have properties on8 the list that are being testified that9 are not critical to the project? Why10 scare these folks and put their homes on11 the list?12
Well, we've13 talked to one of them, and I don't know14 whether we've talked to the two other15 homeowners, but that is a situation where16 we've been reaching out on a timely17 basis.18 The homes are in very poor19 shape. Some of them are threatening20 other homeowners because they're in such21 bad shape.22 The whole process of23 condemnation and then giving them24 relocation benefits can be a way of --25 289 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451
An, again,2 I'm not involved in this project and I3 trust Councilman Jones's judgment, and I4 will go along with his opinion.5 But it seems to me the major6 project is the one we're looking at with7 the Centennial Grill and with the8 apartments.9
So why12 can't we be dealing with that when13 everybody's kind of happy?14 (Applause.)15
Well, okay. In16 general, we -- in a broad sense, we need17 to acquire most of these oranges on the18 map here because PHFA, the funder of the19 Centennial project, will need us to show20 that other things are going on in the21 neighborhood and that there's a22 commitment from the City to follow up.23 But with regard to the three24 homeowners, in the past in Parkside --25 290 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 and other people might be able to testify2 to this -- in our last development, we3 were able to relocate people who were4 moved for Park Town West, if I have the5 name right, into homes we had just6 rehabbed, and some of them moved in for,7 free using the relocation benefits.8 So these folks, if they choose9 to available themselves of this10 opportunity, will benefit.11
And I think12 that's terrific. And, again, Councilman13 Jones is a good district councilperson,14 and he will protect his folks; I have no15 problem with that.16 But I don't see why we need --17 on three instances now with these18 takings, we have to go through this19 tortuous process for people who aren't20 familiar with this process. I mean,21 we're at least familiar with it.22 (Applause.)23
We know24 when we say that it -- that taking the25 291 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 property is not imminent but it's in the2 law, what it means. But to them, it3 means that -- you know, it's serious.4 And maybe it's just the system5 that's flawed, or maybe it's State6 regulations that are flawed.7 (Applause.)8
But9 something's -- I mean, I've been through10 this 50 times, 100 times where these poor11 people come in here and they're scared to12 death, and I don't think there's a need13 for it half the time or three-quarters of14 the time.15 But that's -- you know, it is16 what it is.17 (Applause.)18
And I21 think -- please, I am not directing the22 criticism at you. I'm -- if there are23 facets of the process that force you to24 do these things, I think they need to be25 292 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 addressed.2 And I recognize you're very3 clear on the record that certain houses4 are not critical to the project, and if5 they don't get what they think is6 appropriate for their compensation that7 you won't take it. I hear all of that.8 I just don't know why we have9 to go through this every time we have one10 of these hearings.11
I can think of15 ways in which all of us could do things a16 bit better, and Councilman Clarke17 addressed.18
But sometimes21 those developers can move a bit more22 quickly in talking to people.23
Enough24 said.25 293 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 Yes, sir. Please identify2 yourself for the record.3
Yes. My name's4 James Burnett. I'm the Executive5 Director for the West Philadelphia6 Financial Services Institution and also7 the Chairman of West (indiscernible), the8 owners of the Park West Town Center.9 I'm here today to talk about10 the activity that we did with both11 Community Ventures and Parkside12 Association in the relocation of 2713 families when we built the Park West Town14 Center.15 Part of that process was to16 meet with pretty much every property17 owner prior to a discussion of taking18 their property early on in the process,19 and we think that we were able to not20 only diffuse some folks who were not21 involved in that process, meaning22 outsiders who wanted to come in and23 create a problem, but also to make the24 homeowners understand that there was a25 294 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 benefit for them to actually do this with2 us, because it was in not only their best3 interests but also the best interests of4 the community.5 We were fortunate enough that6 that at the time we wanted to build Park7 West Town Center that Community Ventures8 and Parkside Association was in the9 process of rehabbing enough properties10 that for whoever wanted to remain in the11 community, we were able to place them in12 these properties. Some of those13 homeowners are there today, and they can14 speak on their own to whether that15 process worked for them or not.16 But we feel that we did a good17 job in keeping both the needs of the18 community on one hand positive and also19 the needs of the individual and the20 business owners on the other hand21 positive.22 And I wanted to say that WPFSI23 and Park West Town Center, we support24 this project. It benefits the economic25 295 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 development that has been going on in the2 community and also will continue to help3 and reduce the amount of crime that goes4 on in the area.5 Thank you.6
Thank you,9 Mr. Chairman.10 Just a simple question. Good11 afternoon, Mr. Burnett. Who's going to12 own the properties that will be taken?13
That I'm not sure14 of because we have -- we are not actually15 part of the deal itself, but we are here16 to support the project going forward.17
There will be20 two sets of owners. A limited21 partnership will be formed to own the22 Centennial Village properties because23 that's a low-income housing tax-credit24 deal, and we have to form a limited25 296 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 partnership.2 The other properties, which are3 (indiscernible) homeowners, of course,4 will be owned by the ultimate end-users,5 which are the homeowners.6
Okay. Who's7 going to own them in the meantime? I8 understand that you are forming a limited9 partnership. Who's forming a limited10 partnership?11
Okay. Well,16 Community Ventures will. We've done this17 a number of times before. It's standard18 in dealing with low-income housing tax19 credits.20 We go find an investor like a21 large cooperation to own 99 percent of22 the limited partnership. They get the23 tax credits. They pay for about 8024 percent of the development cost. And25 297 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 then they get out after 15 years, and2 that reverts back to nonprofit ownership,3 in essence.4
So that's5 different from how the Park West Town6 Center was developed --7
-- where10 West Philadelphia Financial Institution11 owned it.12
I don't know13 what the ownership interest was there.14 (Addressing Mr. Burnett.) But15 do you want to answer that quickly? Then16 I can get back.17
Yeah. Our18 ownership -- and we have a partnership19 with the Goldenberg Group. And in that20 ownership, we own 30 percent of the21 project, and Goldenberg owns 70 percent22 of the project, and WPFSI retained all of23 the land in the project.24
And that's25 298 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 not going to be the case under this2 project?3
Some it is6 affordable housing; not all of it7 affordable housing. But there's no8 reason why a financial services9 institution that does more than just10 commercial and industrial but does11 housing as well as part of its mission12 cannot own property.13
Right. Well, I18 guess one reason is that Community19 Ventures has done a number of these20 transactions and has the credibility with21 the State to obtain the funding, but --22
And so, you23 can create an equity partnership with a24 community development financial25 299 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 institution.2
There's not much7 of one to create it because, as I said8 before, the outside investor, which is9 the corporation that receives the tax10 credits from the federal government, owns11 actually 99.9 percent, if you can believe12 it, of the partnership.13 The general partner, which is a14 subsidiary of Community Ventures, owns a15 tenth of a percent. And the reason for16 that is that the limited partner is the17 one that invests the cash into the18 project in return for receiving the tax19 benefits, and they have to own the vast20 majority of it.21 Eventually, they are taken out,22 after about fifteen years.23
I get all of24 that, it's a great project, but when I25 300 6.7.11 - RULES - BILL 1103451 ask the question, Who is going to own the2 land? that's an important question to me.3 It was an important question to me as we4 talked about the empowerment zone and how5 that funding was going to be structured6 and the fact that there was a community7 development financial institution set up8 and the fact that it was going to own the9 land for that project.10 And so, when you come to the11 table with a community organization12 community development financial13 institution, I want to know what their14 financial stake is and whether they're15 going to own any of the land. And that's16 an important question to me.17
Well, I think --18 I don't really know how else to answer19 the question.20