COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 1, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK
I note that the hour has come and a quorum of the Council is present. This City Council session is officially called to order. Before proceeding, I will ask all those present to please set your cell phones on silent or vibrate and please take all sidebar conversations out of the Council chambers. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Maryta Fields-Powell of Congregation Koach-Bethel. She is here today as the guest of Councilmember Kendra Brooks. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests
Good morning. Our Father and our God, we thank you for this opportunity to even be alive. We thank you for your grace, your mercy, your power, your love, your compassion, your peace, your joy that you bestowed on us. Now, God, we ask that you would bind all stress, bind all fear, bind all doubt, meet every budget, meet every need, open every heart. Father, we know that you are able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all we can ask, think or even imagine. And so, show us your mercy. Show us your grace. Cover us. Cover the city of Philadelphia. Cover each and every heart, every mind like we know that you can do. You've been amazing at so, we thank you for doing it again. Now, Father, with our hearts lifted to you and our minds open to you, we just want to thank you for your amazing grace. So we sing, Amazing grace /How sweet the sound/ That saved a wretch like me /I once was lost but now I'm found /Was blind but now I see. May God keep us with his grace, mercy, power and care. Now, let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. The Lord is our shepherd and we shall not want for anything. It is in Jesus name that I pray. May we all say Amen. (Amen.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: The Chair thanks the Pastor for that 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, April 24th. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 24, 2025 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 24, 2025 stand approved. All those in favor will (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leaves of absence. And the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Councilmember. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.
And I have a one privileged resolution -- wrong thing. I'm sorry. We have no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you. The Chair thanks the Councilmember. The Chair now recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council, and as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. 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 you taking your time to join us as we attend the legislative affairs of this great city. We certainly invite you to come again. On the balcony on behalf of Councilmember Minority Whip Nicolas O'Rourke, we have students from the PhillyBOLT program, an academic year fellowship partnering directly with the schools to bring leadership development to the classroom. They train young leaders referred to as coaches. These 10th grade and above students receive comprehensive leadership their peers in civic classrooms, creating ripple effect of empowerment and skill building within their school communities. I'm going to acknowledge Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke to introduce his guests.
Thank you, Mr. President. And good morning to the Philadelphians, all as has already been articulated we are joined today and I am thankful for all the students of PhillyBOLT for joining us. It is truly inspiring I should say to see so many young people just dedicating themselves to leadership, to mentorship and to community transformation, something I believe every city could use more of. And thanks to PhillyBOLT, we have them in spades this morning. extend deep gratitude to the PhillyBOLT staff for their vision, their care and their tireless commitment that they bring to this work every day. Thank you for building power where it belongs, which is right here in our communities. Can they stand and can we also give them a round of applause today. (Applause.)
These students, Mr. President, are a part of what's called the BOLT Academic Year Fellowship Program, which trains Philly high school students to become coaches for their peers, promoting leadership. They're promoting civic engagement and they're promoting skillbuilding across schools. We got folks from West Philly High School, Academy of Palumbo, Olney High School, Sayre High School. So again, let's clap it up for them and for their leadership in helping us become a better city. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, Member O'Rourke. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Council President. First, I'd like to just acknowledge and I'm sure you have this, but she's my State Representative and I'd like to acknowledge her presence here in the chambers, Representative Ronnie Green. We welcome you to our City (Applause.)
We thank you for your work and for your advocacy, particularly in the union space. But today, Council President, I am so pleased that on behalf of my dear colleague Councilmember Brian O'Neill, who represents the 10th Council District, and myself, we are welcoming Mrs. Marks, the Social Science and African American History teacher at Swenson Arts & Technology High School along with 28 of her students. They have joined us here in Philadelphia City Council chambers to learn more about the operations of Philadelphia City Council and more about the work that we do each and every day. I had the opportunity to visit season, so I was there very early in the morning and had an opportunity to talk with a number of young people about our Apprenticeship guidebook and about all the pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs available in the city. So let's please welcome Mrs. Marks and all the students from Swenson Arts & Technology High School. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. I just want to briefly recognize another organization that's doing great youth work in the city of Philadelphia. It is a known as Summer Search Philadelphia. Their Executive Director and their staff are here today and would like to recognize them. If you all could stand, Summer Search Philadelphia. (Applause.)
In 10 seconds I just want to say they do incredible year-round mentorship, support, college access as well as summer experiences that provide social, emotional learning for young people throughout the city of Philadelphia. I happened to be a fellow intern with them many years ago and I'm so grateful that the organization is still making an impact here in the city of Philadelphia. So thank you for being a great engine of success for young people in the city of you, Summer Search Philadelphia. Thank you.
Thank you. We also have joining us today leader of the labor movement, shoulders we stand on, we're advocating on all things labor, former head of the AFL-CIO, Mr. Pat Eiding. Could you please stand, sir? (Applause.)
And as mentioned by my Majority Leader, I want to also thank the young lady who's fighting in Harrisburg to raise the wage to $15.00 an hour, State Representative Ronnie Green. Thank you for joining us. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who will present a resolution hiring and recognizing and congratulating the first class of the West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars. Will Alexis Brown, Chief People Officer and those accompanying her, please join Councilmember Jamie Gauthier at the podium. Joining Councilmember Gauthier will be Councilmember Landau, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Minority Whip Councilmember Nicolas Nic O'Rourke, Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass, leader of the Kensington Caucus Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips and Minority Leader Councilmember Kendra Brooks. I think I just saw a snake though. I'll stand up here. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Good morning, everyone. I want to start by welcoming our guests from the Philadelphia Zoo, especially the inaugural class of the West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars which includes students from KIPP DuBois Collegiate Academy, Belmont Charter High School, Saul, George Washington Carver, School of the Future, Masterman and my alma mater Central High School 255. We are also joined by a very special VIP, one of the animals that lives at the zoo, a prehensile-tailed skink named Bili. I know the snake that we brought last year made some members, who shall not be singled out, a little bit uneasy so we opted for something with legs this is actually the first to successfully breed a second generation of skinks, improving the genetic diversity of the species with the hope of returning and repopulating them in the wild. This is just one example of how for the past century-and-a-half the Philadelphia Zoo has been making a difference around the world. They recently received international praise for hatching four critically-endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, which Philadelphians voted to name after the Golden Girls, Dorothy, Rose, Blanche and Sophia, and I can't think of anything more appropriate. Even as they make big strides on the world stage, I commend the Philadelphia Zoo for never losing sight of its community's closest to home. Through programs like the West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars and many others, the neighborhoods around the zoo's perimeter have developed a fruitful and loving relationship with the institution. Yes, the Philadelphia Zoo provides connections to animals, conservation programs and a deeper learning of our planet, but it is also an urban oasis, a magical escape and safe and green space where Philadelphians can connect with nature and each other. I commend the zoo's newest President, Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman for making sure the zoo does as much for our city as it does for the world. The Philadelphia Zoo is a zoo of first, so I would be remiss if I did not is its first Black and first woman leader. Let's give a hand for Dr. Mogerman. (Applause.)
As someone who knows what it's like to be the first Black woman leader of a major nonprofit organization in this city, I know how important it is that we support her in carrying out the zoo's mission. 2026 is only months away. It is imperative that we set up our zoo for success. It is as much a part of Philadelphia's history as Independence Hall or the Liberty Bell, and programs like the West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars prove just how important the Philadelphia Zoo is for our future as well. So thank you to the Philadelphia Zoo for recognizing that an investment in our young good investment to make. And congratulations to the inaugural class of Scholars on making a difference while setting yourself up for success as you move into adulthood. We are all so proud of you. Let's give them a round of applause. (Applause.)
And with that, my colleagues will join me in reading the resolution:
Whereas, Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, is renowned for innovation in animal care and unwavering commitment to wildlife. A zoo of firsts, Philadelphia Zoo has been a leader since opening its historic gates on July 1, 1874. Responsible for the first successful orangutan and chimpanzee births in the U.S., being the first to build an onsite animal care center, developing the first specialty formulated foods for zoo animals, and opening the first Children's Zoo in the U.S., Philadelphia Zoo has always been an industry leader, setting standards for animal care and guest experiences; and
Whereas, the West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars Program is a groundbreaking initiative by the Philadelphia Zoo in partnership with local schools and community stakeholders, designed to cultivate the next generation of conservation leaders by providing high school students from West Philadelphia with immersive hands-on experiences in zoological sciences, veterinary medicine, environmental education and wildlife conservation. And my the camp; and
Whereas, the program offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in professional development, mentorship and experiential learning at the nation's first zoo, building skills in public speaking, scientific inquiry and community engagement; and
Whereas, the inaugural cohort of Zoo Scholars has demonstrated resilience, intellectual curiosity and an unwavering commitment to protecting wildlife and the natural world, while also serving as ambassadors for conservation within their schools and neighborhoods; and
Whereas, these students have multiyear program that included field research, animal care, environmental justice projects and leadership training, all while balancing the demands of high school and other extra-curricular responsibilities; and
Whereas, the Philadelphia Zoo's investment in these students reflects the broader commitment to equity, conservation, education and demonstrates the transformative power of civic institutions partnering with local communities to expand opportunities and inspire future leaders; and
Whereas, the graduation of the first cohort of West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars marks a significant milestone in the zoo's legacy and a city of Philadelphia, showcasing the brilliance, talent and promise of our city's youth; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, Hereby honors and congratulates the first graduating class of the West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars program for their outstanding accomplishment, leadership and dedication to the values of conservation, community and lifelong learning. (Applause.)
I would now like to invite up Alexis Brown, Chief People Officer at the Zoo, to say a few words.
Thank you. Thank you, and hello. I would like morning to Council President Johnson, Councilmembers Gauthier and Jones and members of City Council. It is indeed a pleasure to be here. I'm here on behalf of Dr. Mogerman. She gave me the honor to be here with our special visitor, which you will see in a few minutes. But this is a special day, right. This is a grand day, another first for the Philadelphia Zoo and partnership with City Council that we're here to recognize the first scholars graduating time period at the zoo. So we have many talented, many talented students and have worked with a lot of youth over our rich history. But the zoo recognizes and really, really leans in to support our youth. And still -- yes, we have some special guests, at least one -
-- and recognize that we are really instrumental with your support to provide the services that are needed to these youth. So what is the Zoo Scholar Program and what do the Zoo Scholars do -
I know it's hard to concentrate, right. I know. I understand. No problem. So what we do is we give local high school students who live in Philadelphia, in West Philadelphia or attend West Philadelphia High, and connect with science conservation and career pathways that they may not all otherwise have access to. It's not a with sophomores, juniors and seniors. And then as they matriculate into college, we also have internship opportunities. So they get hands-on, really intense mentorship from the staff and they have the opportunity to work and engage with the public, which we know is such an important skill. I'm the Chief People Officer at the zoo and I can tell you when you learn those professional skills, they carry you through life. I wanted to bring just a short testimonial. My daughter also participated in a similar program many years ago when I was a much younger mom -- we won't get into that age -- but she participated in a program and can I tell you it was transformational. a shy individual to learning how to engage with the public even when it was uncomfortable. To witness these young people and what they're doing on a daily basis at the zoo, they wear a zoo uniform. They're part of our community. They engage and they teach the public. They engage with some of the activities to help with their own education and learning as they are really figuring out what career do I want to go into, what do I want to do with my life, and we help them through mentorship with staff support in order to figure that out for themselves. They are introduced to careers that they may not have even thought of. So I wanted to just make that point. Why is it unique? And you've heard from Councilmember unique. But I just wanted to emphasize that they're not volunteers, right. They're not paid, but they are trained and they're mentored and they're part -- they are mentored as part of the zoo team. And they learn how to engage and be seen and also how they treat and work with the public. I'm sure you understand there are challenges that come with working with some of our wonderful citizens, right. Sometimes people come and they're not always the most pleasant to deal with, so learning how to do that and deal with that is really important.
What's making it successful? It's a design to close the gap. So we're Philadelphia, from West Philadelphia in particular, and exposing them to some incredible opportunities at the zoo that they can carry on, carry on hopefully, coming back to the zoo or back to Philadelphia as a very productive young adult. So what do we hope for the future? We hope that wherever they go that the experience they get there at the zoo, that they are better-equipped to transition into this greater world and be productive citizens. We're proud of each and every one of them. I know personally it's interesting to see them engage and not on their phones, gauging eye-to-eye and person-to-person when they are there at the zoo every time that they come. I would like to thank to thank the schools, the parents, the kids that are part of this program in particular. We want to thank all the staff at the zoo who are here today. I always have the pleasure of representing my special friend that Gianna is holding right here. That's one of my friends. I have a lot of friends at the zoo. And want to just thank all the mentors there and staff who are at the zoo. And we are particularly grateful to City Council for your support in programs like this. Thank you for believing in what we do and that young people from West Philadelphia shouldn't have to leave their neighborhoods to access world-class opportunities. They should be able to find these things right there at their home and thanks to programs like that, that. So thank you. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will the Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 250204 and Bill No. 250205.
And I am transmitting for your consideration a resolution confirming the appointment of Ryan McAdams to serve on the Zoning Board of Adjustment; and An ordinance amending Chapter 9-2500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fire Suppression System Workers," to change the certification requirements for commercial kitchen, fire suppression system workers and making related technical changes, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance amending Section 2-112 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Commissioners," by removing the powers and duties of the Department over matters relating to weights and measures; amending Title 9, entitled "Regulations of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by removing provisions relating to amusement devices and weights and measures and making related technical changes; and amending Title 19, entitled "Finance, Taxes and Collections," by eliminating provisions related to amusement licenses and weights and measures registration, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement for the use of all or a portion of the City-owned underground area, commonly known as North, that neighbors the basement of the Municipal Services Building located at 1401 JF Kennedy Boulevard, under which the operator will maintain and operate the space to provide services to the community and unhoused persons under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with the Holmesburg Fish and Game Protective Association for use of all or a portion of the City property founded by the Pennypack Creek, the Delaware River, Pennypack Street and State Road in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to convey fee simple title or lesser real estate interest in and to all or a portion of the City property in Cobbs Creek Park bordering City Avenue in Delaware County and in Cobbs Creek Golf Course bordering City Avenue in Philadelphia County, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest in and to all or a portion of the property known as 1822-1830 West Cayuga Street, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire fee simple real estate interest in and to all or a portion of the City property bounded by Cobbs Creek, 75th Street (extended), Buist Avenue, 78th Street and owned by the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, the Philadelphia Land Bank or the Philadelphia Housing and Development Corporation, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an amendment to a lease agreement with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 1234 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority for use by the City of certain premises located at 1601-29 John F.
Kennedy Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an amendment to a lease agreement with 2401 Walnut LP for the use by the City of all or a portion of the premises located at 2401 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a lease agreement with the New Market and Headhouse Conservancy for use of all or a portion of the City-owned premises, commonly known as the Headhouse and Shambles in Headhouse Square, located along 2nd Street between Pine and Lombard Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for the public benefit, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance amending Section 14-529 of The Philadelphia code, entitled "/VDO Fifth District Overlay District," by removing exceptions for minimum residential lot areas and floor area, height and dwelling unit density bonus eligibility, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance amending 14-802 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Motor Vehicle Parking Ratios," by removing residential parking ratio minimums for the CMX-4 and CMX-5 Zoning Districts, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" for the creation of a new zoning district entitled "RTA-2, Residential Two-Family Attached," all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance amending 16-705 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Acquisition," by clarifying the procedure for the transfer of property to the Philadelphia Land Bank, under certain terms and conditions. Council President, there are no further communications in my possession.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Thank you, Council President. Just wanted to take a moment to congratulate my two communication interns Kara and Nate for finishing their internship in my office. I also wanted to congratulate Kara and Nate for their eminent graduation from them the best of luck in their future endeavors. They were great for me, helped me out a lot, helped my office get it organized when it comes to the communications. And then my legislative aide Celia Eagan is also graduating from Temple, and I wanted to congratulate her for her dedication to our office and our academic achievement. Thank you, Council President.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. Taking just a moment to the first day of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. And in that regard, I have two resolutions and some people I want to acknowledge. Thu Pham -- and if those who are here would you please stand. Thu Pham, Ky Cao, Rick Cao, Blessen Mathew, Nary Kith, Saroeun Kith, Pheng Seng, Danny Ros, Benjamin Albano, Phila Loren and Naroen Chhin and they are here because we are celebrating their contributions to Philadelphia. And we also have with us Kosuke and Tomomi Chujo from Japan who are promoting Philadelphia food, particularly cheesesteaks, in Japan and they're here to learn about it. So please would you stand up. And give them a round of applause. (Applause.)
Make sure we got to -make sure you show them we got vegan cheesesteaks too.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge some guests I have today from the School District of Philadelphia Head Start Policy Council. They're here to observe their government in action and they're being led by Dwayne Drummond, who works for the School District and who's also the leader of the 24th Ward in West Philadelphia. Can we get them to stand up and give them a warm welcome? (Applause.)
They're somewhere in here. Thank you, Council President.
You're welcome. The next order of business -- the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.
Thank you so much, Mr. President. Briefly in continuation of Education Acknowledgement Day, we have students from Overbrook High School, along with their Principal Graham, who have joined us to see democracy in action. Would you please stand? (Applause.)
Thank you, Mr. President. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Thank you, Member Jones. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from the Northwest, Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
So before I've been on my workout plan, I used to check out that Japanese cheesesteak video. So hopefully I can get one today as a cheat, so we'll be talking. Good morning, Council President, Councilmembers. Today I will be introducing two privileged resolutions and one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged and non-privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Summer Search Philadelphia for their dedication to empowering Philadelphia's youth through mentorship, education and career exploration.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Feliz Philadelphia for its dedication to empowering youth through recreation, education and community development.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the development and implementation of a Real-Time Safety Awareness Signage Initiative to publicly display crash data and align it with the City's Vision Zero goals and to promote street safety awareness and behavioral change.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning colleagues. Today I offer two privileged resolutions, one of which is on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution congratulating the School District of Philadelphia, the developer of the Bellwether District HRP Group, ARCO Design-Build, Clayco Corporation and the General Building Contractors Association for their collaboration to fund driver education courses for the School District Career and Technical Education Students.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. And thank you, Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson, for your leadership on this initiative.
And a privileged resolution recognizing April 29th through May 2nd, 2025 as National Apprenticeship Week in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from the 3rd Councilmanic District, Jamie Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. Today I have two non-privileged resolutions for introduction.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the non-privileged resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution declaring May 13, 2025, the 40th Anniversary of the MOVE Bombing, as a day of reflection and remembrance in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the renaming of the 600 block of Pallas Street in West Philadelphia to "Crawley Way" in honor of Ms. Carrie Shelton Crawley for her lifelong dedication to community service and leadership.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. As there are no introductions on behalf of Councilmember Thomas, the Chair recognizes the gentleman from the 4th Councilmanic District, Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two bills, two privileged and one non-privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 230, by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portion of Cresson Street from Ridge Avenue to Osborn Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to convey fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest in and to all or a portion of the property in Cobbs Creek Park bordering City Avenue in Delaware County and Cobbs Creek Golf Course bordering City Avenue in Philadelphia County, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring and commending the Philadelphia City Council team participating in the 2025 Broad Street Run on May 4, 2025.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Good job, Councilmember Jones.
Co-introduced by Member Young, two of the resolutions. Sorry.
I'm assuming Member Young is also participating, correct?
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Will's Eye Institute in Philadelphia for their work in supporting victims of violence and championing the courage of Iranian women who were shot during protests in their home country through the Eyes on Humanity Fund.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution renaming the 5300 block of Girard Avenue to "Barristers Way" in honor of the Barristers' Association of Philadelphia, Inc.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson on behalf of Councilmember Landau.
Thank you so much, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilmember Landau, today Councilmember Landau offers three privileged resolutions.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution declaring May 2025 as Affordable Housing Month in the City of Philadelphia, and recognizing the need for stable, safe, accessible and affordable housing for all residents.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring, recognizing and congratulating the Reinvestment Fund, a mission-driven community development financial institution committed to making communities work for all people, on the occasion of its 40th anniversary.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing May 5th-10th, 2025 as Philly Tech Week in the City of Philadelphia and celebrating the vibrant and thriving tech ecosystem in Philadelphia. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember and leader of the Kensington Caucus, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer three bills.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills.
An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Anchor Street between Horrocks Street and Large Street; Kennedy Street between Penn Street and Saul Street; Salem Street between Torresdale Avenue and Womwrath Street; Franklin Street between Cayuga Street and Wingohocking Street; North 8th Street between Wingohocking Street and Cayuga Street; North 7th Street between Butler Street and Pike Street; Bristol Street between Marshall Street and North 7th Street; Bristol Street between North 6th Street and Marshall Street; Master Street between Montgomery Avenue and Cecil B. Moore Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2407, 2409, 2411, 2413, 2415, 2439, 2441, 2443, 2445 and 2447 North 6th Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 166 West Cumberland Street and 2537 Mutter Street located in the 7nth Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair now recognizes the gentleman from the 5th Councilmanic District, Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President, and good morning today. I offer five bills and two privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.
An ordinance authorizing the striking from the City Plan No. 123, an abandonment of a certain right-ofway reserved for water main purposes, located north of Montgomery Avenue and extending from Broad Street to 15th Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar - I'm sorry. This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Roy Street, 11th Street, Allegheny Avenue and Germantown Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 14-529 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "/VDO Fifth District Overlay District," by removing exceptions for minimum residential lot area and floor area, height and dwelling unit density bonus eligibility, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority for use by the City of premises located at 1601-29 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement for the use of all or a portion of the City-owned underground area, commonly known as Broad Street Sub-Concourse North, that neighbors the basement of the Municipal Services Building located at 1401 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, under which the operator will maintain and operate the space to provide services to the community and unhoused persons, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Council Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings to investigate the Administration's progress on the establishment of the Philadelphia Public Financial Authority.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and designating May 1, 2025 as International Workers Day to honor and celebrate the manifold achievements of workers, and historical and continuing struggle of labor movements for justice and fair working conditions.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing May 2025 as Hepatitis Awareness Month in Philadelphia in support of the joint efforts of Hep B United Philadelphia and Hep C Allies of Philadelphia, aimed at promoting testing for all Philadelphians in raising the profile of viral hepatitis and its connection to liver cancer as urgent health priorities.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from the Northeast Philadelphia, Councilmember, my good friend, Jim Harrity.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Minority Deputy Whip Councilmember -- Minority Whip Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I do have one privileged resolution to introduce today. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring the students of PhillyBOLT academic year fellowship program for their dedication to community-led change and leadership development.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Chairman of Transportation and Public Utilities Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer one bill and one privileged resolution today. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill and the resolution.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with the Holmesburg Fish and Game Protective Association, Inc. for use of all or a portion of the City property bounded by the Pennypack Creek, the Delaware River, Pennypack Street and State Road in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
A privileged resolution recognizing the month of May 2025 as Building Safety Month in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Northeast Philadelphia, my good friend Councilmember Brian O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you very much, sir. The Chair recognizes Chairman of Appropriations from South Philly, Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer six bills, two non-privileged resolutions, one on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolution.
An ordinance amending Chapter 14-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use Regulations" and Chapter 14-700, entitled "Development Standards," to establish use requirements for above-ground garages owned by a public entity and new development standards applicable to certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 10th Street, Chestnut Street, 11th Street and Ludlow Street, all under certain terms and conditions. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by relocating certain portions of curblines of Ludlow Street, from 10th Street to 11th Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Emily Street, 4th Street, Mercy Street and 5th Street. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code" to prohibit the stopping, standing or parking of a motor vehicle on a public street or is otherwise prohibited for purposes of shortdumping and authorization of enforcement through a camera-based enforcement system, and designating penalties and impoundment, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an amendment to a lease agreement with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 1234 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with the New Market and Headhouse Conservancy for use of all or a portion of the City-owned premises, commonly known as the Headhouse and Shambles in Headhouse Square, located along the 2nd Street between Pine and Lombard Streets in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for the public benefit, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming Broad Street between Pine and Lombard Street as "Teddy Pendergrass Way" to honor the life and legacy of South Philadelphia legendary entertainer Teddy Pendergrass.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution celebrating -- this is privileged. This is privileged. A privileged resolution celebrating Chubby Checker - legendary singer, dancer and South Philadelphia native on the occasion of his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I do want to introduce one privileged resolution today and also acknowledge that the person that we are recognizing, Elaine Lindy is here along with Alan Lindy. And I wanted her to stand just for a quick second. I know she was in the room somewhere -oh, she left.
There's Alan Lindy. Alright. So we got Alan. But they have done a fantastic job with the Fiesta Schoolyards transforming 37 school yards to date at three public parks affecting 14,000 students. So I just wanted to throw that out there. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Thank you. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing Fiesta Schoolyards and their vision for continuing to enhance the learning and play environments for future generations of Philadelphia school-aged children.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I have two privileged resolutions today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing Kosuke and Tomomi Chujo of the Nihonbashi Philly for their extraordinary efforts to represent and preserve Philadelphia's culinary identity on the world stage.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution proclaiming May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business is the reports from committees. The Chair recognizes for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. After one of the longest Law and Government hearings in recent memory and additional negotiation before going back into the public meeting, the Committee on Law and Government is elated to report out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the report, the POWER Act. (Applause.)
The Committee on Law and Government to which was referred the following bill: Bill No. 250065, an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by revising Chapter 9-4100, entitled "Promoting Healthy Families in Workplaces," Chapter 9-4300, entitled "Wage Theft Complaints" and Chapter 9-4500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Protections for Domestic Workers" and by adding new chapters, entitled "Protecting Victims of Retaliation" and "Enforcement of Worker Protection Ordinances," to add and revise definitions; remove provisions related to wage theft coordinator; and add amendments and remedies related to written contracts, meal times and breaks, leave time, contract termination and other protections for domestic workers; retaliation under the above-referenced chapters and Chapter 9-4700 of The Philadelphia Code, ("Wrongful Discharge from Parking Employment") the elements of proof of procedures, remedies and penalties for enforcement; authorize the creation of a worker justice fund for victims of retaliation; add requirements for employer recordkeeping and provision of notice of employee rights under abovereferenced chapters, and Chapter 9-4700; revise and clarify procedures, remedies and penalties associated with administrative and civil enforcement under abovereferenced chapters, and Chapter 9-4700; provide for annual reporting to Council on enforcement of the City's worker protection laws, including information employers; authorized revocation of City licenses and contracts awarded to employers found in violation of the City's worker protection laws; authorize visa and deferred action certification on behalf of immigrant workers; and make related technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Law and Government, Council President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of the bill just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bill just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Council President. The Committee of Public Property and Public Works reports out six bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the report.
The Committee on Public Property and Public Works to which were referred bills: Bill No. 240581, an ordinance formally renaming the Overbrook Park Branch Library located at 7422 Haverford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19151, as the Robert A. Brady Library to honor the dedication and service of former United States Congressman and Chair of the Philadelphia Democratic Party, the Honorable Robert A. Brady. Bill No. 240750, an ordinance renaming and designating the property commonly referred to as the Waterview Recreation Center, located at 5826 McMahon Street, as the "Donna Reed Miller Recreation Center" in the City of Philadelphia. Bill No. 250067, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire from a perpetual right and easement on, over and across a certain tract of land at the intersection of Southampton Road and Roosevelt Boulevard for roadway and related improvements, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 250068, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Streets Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to own and maintain a bridge to be constructed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to carry Byberry Road over certain railroad tracks between Evans Street and Worthington Road, and placing said bridge carrying Byberry Road on the City Plan, pursuant to the terms of an agreement between the City and PennDOT, all under certain terms 250149, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire fee title or lesser real estate interest, including a leasehold estate, for all or a portion of the premises bounded by State Road, the Pennypack Creek, the Delaware River and former Hartel Avenue, to enter into a lease or sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development and said premises for the development of a facility to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with PAID for the development of the facility and to take title to be completed to the -- excuse me, and to take title to the completed facility from PAID, all under certain terms and conditions. 250323, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for use by the City of the premises located at 4101 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works, Council President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada for a motion.
you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of these bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mike Driscoll, Chairman of Transportation, Public Utilities and Licenses and Inspections.
Well, thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports out two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee on Licenses and Inspections to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 250123, an ordinance amending Section 6-503 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Licenses and Permits," to provide for the businesses not in compliance with applicable state regulations and/or whose physical layout significantly differs from the original approved floor plan, all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 250151, an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by revising Chapter 9-4400, entitled "Responsible Business Operations," to add the sale of tobacco in violation of 18 Pa. C.S. § 6305 to the list of nuisance behaviors, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. bills to report out from the Committee on Licenses and Inspections, Council President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of these bills just read by the Chief Clerk 2ND READING at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)