A privileged resolution congratulating the School District of Philadelphia, the developer of 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 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING District Career and Technical Education Students. Introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson on behalf of Council President Johnson.
Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. Thank you very much for your work on this. I enthusiastically move for the adoption of the resolution on your behalf. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. And thank you, Majority Leader, for setting the foundation. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing April 29 through May 2 as National Apprentice Week in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion. COUNCILWOMAN GILMORE 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING RICHARDSON: Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilmember Thomas and I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING privileged resolution honoring and commending the Philadelphia City Council team participating in the 2025 Broad Street Run on May 4, 2025. Introduced by Councilmember Jones.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr. for a motion on the resolution.
I move quickly down Broad Street with the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution will be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
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. Introduced by Councilmember Jones.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones for a motion on the resolution.
Just briefly, Mr. President, the nature 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING of their repairs to those ladies, they were shot during protests when they took off their hijabs and things like that. The Iranian guard shot him in the eye with rubber bullets so they would know who were protesters. And Will's Eye is treating those individuals for free. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING motion passes. I just want to acknowledge also Member Young is on the Board of Girard Trust, which is overseeing Will's Eye. So thank you for your leadership being part of that operation. I just want to acknowledge you on that.
The Chair recognizes the Chief Clerk for the next resolution.
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. Introduced by Councilmember Landau. COUNCIL PRESIDENT 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: The Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion on behalf of Councilmember Landau.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Landau, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
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. Introduced by Councilmember Landau.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion on behalf of Councilmember Landau.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilmember Landau, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing May 5-10, 2025 as Philly Tech Week in the City of Philadelphia and 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING celebrating the vibrant and thriving tech ecosystem in Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Landau.
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion on behalf of Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilmember Landau, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the next resolution.
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. Introduced by Councilmember Young.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing and designating May 1, 2025 as International Workers Day to honor and celebrate the manifold 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING achievement of workers and the historical and continuing struggle of labor movements for justice and fair working conditions. Introduced by Councilmember Young.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion on the resolution.
Thanks, Mr. President. On this May Day, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next 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 and raising the profile of viral hepatitis and its connection to liver cancer as urgent health priorities. Introduced by Councilmember Brooks.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks for a motion 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING privileged resolution honoring the students of PhillyBOLT academic year fellowship program for their dedication to community-led change and leadership development. Introduced by Councilmember O'Rourke.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Those opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing the month of May 2025 as Building Safety Month in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Driscoll.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a motion on the resolution.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
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. Introduced by Councilmember Squilla on behalf of 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Council President Johnson.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution on your behalf. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next 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. Introduced by Councilmember Bass.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the motion on the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing Kosuke and Tomomi Chujo of Nihonbashi Philly for their extraordinary efforts to represent and preserve Philadelphia's culinary identity on the world stage. Introduced by Councilmember Ahmad. COUNCIL PRESIDENT 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next 5/1/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution.
A privileged resolution proclaiming May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Ahmad.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.
Council President, there are no further resolutions in my possession.
Thank you very much. That completes our Calendar for today. Any brief speeches on behalf of the Minority? Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. First, I want to thank the Committee of Law and Government. The Majority Leader mentioned it earlier. And I also want to thank my colleague Harrity -Councilmember Harrity and Councilmember O'Rourke for participating in last Friday's hearing on the POWER Act. Hundreds of people, domestic workers, restaurant workers, gig workers and labor leaders came to City Hall to fight for new worker protections. And even though the national landscape looks very bleak right now with escalating attacks against immigrants and working families, we filled this room with joy of a major win for Philly workers. And I'm so proud that our city is leading the way in strengthening workers rights at the local level. thank Pastor Maryta Fields-Powell of Congregation Koach-Bethel for leading the invocation today. And finally, I want to honor and acknowledge the members of Hep B United Philadelphia and Hep C Allies of Philadelphia who joined us to recognize May as Hepatitis Awareness Month in Philadelphia. Thanks to the work of these local organizations thousands of Philadelphians have access to information, testing and treatment that saves the lives in Philadelphia every day. Thank you so much, Council President.
Thank you. Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas Nic O'Rourke.
you, Mr. President. As we already honored the young leaders of PhillyBOLT today, students are already driving change in their schools and communities. I got a stack of letters that I have to read from them already. We're also reminded that the realization of justice is actually deeply intergenerational. Angela Davis actually said freedom is a constant struggle. I think that's in part because it ain't just in one place. And on this May Day, International Workers Day, we carry forward that spirit of collective struggle by standing in solidarity with workers across our city and across the globe. On this May Day, we uplift the power of collective action and honor the generations of workers, both past and present, who organized, who have marched and sacrificed to build a more just and equitable society. Our city continues to be a beacon of worker resilience and solidarity, and I'm glad to take that next step when we pass the Power Act next week. I'm grateful to Madam Leader for her work on that front and because we know that we are in a tradition of struggle, and therefore the struggle for freedom is constant. We need solidarity and we need it forever. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Thank you. Good job, Member Brooks. The Chair recognizes for speeches on behalf of the Majority Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I just want to continue with what I was saying earlier, and that is that we can't ask for certain things in certain neighborhoods. We are here to fight for every neighborhood. I'm here to fight for the constituents that elected me to be their voice here in city government. We've been sitting in hearings or committee hearings for the last several weeks where we've heard from different departments about the work that they're doing. We've heard from different individuals who have come in and have shared what they want to see in their city. I hear it every day. I see it every day. We can't talk about education if we're not communities like mine that are impacted by what they see going and coming from school every day. We can't talk about education when my kids are sitting in buildings where bullets fly through windows. We can't talk about education when my kids have to walk over people who are living on our streets because they are suffering from substance abuse. We can't talk about safe corridors if we have mobile providers who are invading those spaces. We can't talk about business growth and opportunities if we're not remembering that those businesses in the Kensington Harrowgate community are being impacted as a result of people living and laying in front of their doors. gun violence. We can't talk about losing lives to gun violence if we are not taking into consideration the fact that we're losing lives because we fail to respond to people who are living in addiction on the streets of Kensington Avenue and in the Harrowgate community. The amount of energy that is spent on people fighting us to help these people come out of addiction to me is astonishing. There was a report that just came out by the Health Department that says that overdoses have declined since 2023. That is a direct result of the work that we are doing. They are difficult decisions that we are making, but we are having an impact and the impact is going in the right direction. to agree with how we're doing things, but we have to continue to do and make the difficult decisions in order for the constituents in the 7th Council District and the surrounding Districts to have quality of life. That is our responsibility. That is our responsibility. The people who are dying on the streets of Kensington are someone's children. You cannot sit here and tell me that you are okay with people's children having their faces stuck to the cement. You can't tell me that you're okay with people's children living with wounds where they're losing their limbs and be okay with that. You can't tell me that you're okay with the conditions of Kensington Avenue, because if that, then you need to look at yourself in the mirror and figure out what you're doing in this space, what are you doing on this legislative floor. You can't say that you are okay with what is happening there and then talk about all of these things that I just mentioned. You can't. You can't tell me that you're a provider and that you are working day and night to ensure that people are coming off of substance abuse and think that it's okay for us not to do anything. It's impossible. My kids deserve joy. They deserve compassion too. They deserve opportunity. They deserve opportunity and we are not giving them opportunity if we continue to fold our hands and not do anything about this shit. We can't. doing is new, is different. This is not her bill.
This is a bill that my staff has worked day and night on with people, with people's interests, with people who live there first. How dare you. How dare you organize and tell people lies, stand up there and tell lies without reading the damn bill. How dare you. How dare you be a provider and accept money from the federal and state and city and then not do the work. Because if you were doing the work, we wouldn't have people dying on our streets. This bill provides people opportunity 24 hours a day. This bill will coordinate services in a space that will not deplore quality of life. This bill will continue to connect people with their loved ones because they have of their process. This bill will take people off of people's sidewalks. I have seniors who are living with people who are unsheltered under porches and threatened by those individuals if they call police on them. Would you allow that in your house? Would you allow that on your property? Hell no, hell no. And so, why should my residents? Why should my residents do that? Each one of you has traveled Kensington Avenue. You all have traveled Harrowgate. You see the conditions of my community. Shame on you if you think that we have to continue to do nothing. Shame on you. But while I'm in this chamber, while I'm in this seat I'm going to continue to make those difficult decisions. I don't care I will make those decisions because my people deserve it, because my children in the 7th Council District deserve the same opportunities that all of the children in your communities deserve. Thank you, Council President. )
Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
I'm going to say something on that really briefly too, but I just want to say that, colleagues, I'm proud to stand in support of legislation that I've introduced to improve public signage across the city of Philadelphia. In neighborhoods like the 9th District where too many unsafe, streets like (inaudible) Pike, Rising Sun Avenue, Ogontz Avenue have long been areas of concern when it comes to speeding, confusion and unsafe conditions for drivers and pedestrians alike. The legislation supports the goals of Vision Zero, which is already making strong progress in reducing traffic assets and fatalities, but I'm advocating intensely that we need clear and consistent signage that will show high traffic areas in the city of Philadelphia, high accident areas, excuse me, in the city of Philadelphia. When you're driving by, you're going to see a -- you need to see a sign that says high accident area so you can think twice about your speeding. It is just focusing on speed cushions. Let's do some other things as well. Let people know where high accidents are happening. Put a sign there in terms of what those accidents have looked like and so forth, how many on it and more. Lastly, a big shout-out to Summer Search Philadelphia, an organization that continues to shape young leaders and I'm looking forward to continue to spotlight young people in the city of Philadelphia. And I also want to express my support of Mayor Parker, Councilwoman Lozada and the Kensington Caucus in their bold and compassionate efforts to address this deeply-rooted issue in Kensington. I am utterly happy and excited that Councilwoman Lozada is Kensington deserves dignity, it deserves investment and it deserves a future. This bill is making some incredible changes. It will require these services to comply with state laws just like any other medical provider would be expected to. Because when someone is need a medical attention whether on a street corner in a hospital, they deserve to be treated with professionalism, but it's also protecting the most vulnerable, making sure that people are safe and their neighborhoods are clean and making sure residents do not have to see and deal with this on a daily basis. I actually just want to quickly add I think Councilwoman Lozada is being extremely compassionate. She's being this was in the 9th District, I know for sure this wouldn't even happen at all. So I actually am impressed that you're even finding ways to appease these people who are doing these services because if it was in the 9th District, they would say take a brick-and-mortar and do this somewhere else. So the fact that you're okay with mobile services, that's you listening to people. And I think that is only fear that they stop these attacks that's going on against you and what you're doing, because I don't get it. There's no way in the world someone is going to be doing that to work near my porch. And none of the Councilmembers would allow that either so we all need to stop that. We know that's the truth. So I thank you so much and I'm looking forward to seeing this bill pass. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you. Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Council President. Thank you for the acknowledgement. You know that I rarely, rarely give speeches on behalf of the Majority, but I needed to let Councilmember Lozada know that I heard you say that even if you have to stand alone. You don't have to stand alone in this fight. I will tell you that I'll never forget touring Kensington with you, Councilmember Lozada, and our colleagues last spring. And we had the opportunity to hear both from residents, from the business owners and from outreach workers about many individuals who were ready to enter treatment. And when they were ready, they weren't able to find services. And the willingness may have been there, but the access wasn't there, right. And that is changing, and that is what I believe you are seeking to address in this legislation. So I just want you to know that I appreciate and I see and value the work that you are doing, that you have been doing on 240665-A, and I will never forget the stories of the residents, particularly the senior who talked about the fact that someone who was unhoused lived on her porch with her if she would contact the police to try to have the person removed from her own property. And what I recognize about what you're seeking to do, which is further outside of the auspices of this legislation, is that you're seeking to create a process, a process by which mobile service providers are able to provide service in the community, desperately-needed services for unhoused residents, and you're strictly saying, for everything that I've read, that you want to create a process that also will extend to hours that we typically don't have services available. And so, that's increasing services for individuals, which I think is what we need to do because they need additional service. When come out of addiction or looking for help, they should be able to receive that help even if it's in the midnight hour. So I just want to commend the work that you are doing, seeking to find that delicate balance with the mobile service providers, with the community, with the residents, with the business owners, with the Administration. This is not easy work and it takes all of us to do this together. But what I will say is it's very easy to say that you're against something when you don't have stake in that community and in that area. So I think it's important that we invite people who want to be a part of this process to really be stakeholders as a part join the work to move the community forward and not be in a space of ready to fight, denigrate people and put folks down because you simply disagree. We can agree to disagree, but we have to do that in a respectful manner and in a way that we're ready, willing and able to work together for the betterment of the community. And I just wanted to put that on the record. So thank you, Councilmember Lozada, for your work. And thank you, Council President, for this opportunity.
Thank you. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.
I had a whole other speech for the tell you about the 15th Annual Block Captain's Boot Camp Saturday up at St Joe's. I wanted to tell you Sunday, led by captain of the team Charlita Davis, they'll be running the Broad Street Run, but I'm going to cut that to say, you ain't never alone, right. And until Kensington is safe, there's no neighborhood in the city of Philadelphia safe. And I say that based on parts of my District. There's a secret going on and a lot of the folk from that area travel to yours. And if you have not lived down there, what you talking about. If you have not had to move around -- I forget who it is. We were going down the avenue and every one of the businesses were closed because they had tents in every one of the consumers had to go somewhere else because there was no place to shop. Now, say what you want. Until you stood ten toes down to say I'm changing this, it didn't change. So when we banded together to do the Kensington Marshall Plan, I had no idea you was going to catch this much hell. But don't ever think that you alone. All right? Because the 4th District just like the 9th District is with you. Thank you, Mr. President,
Thank you, Member Jones. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Thank you, my brother. Quets, you know, I from here to eternity. Not only am I a resident of the 7th Councilmanic District, but I'm also an addict, okay. And for people to come in here and try to say that we on the Kensington Caucus don't care it's utterly ridiculous. My whole life has been put or at least the last 14 years of helping people succeed in recovery, in sobriety through my learned, lived life experience because I was there, but also I lived there along with hundreds of thousands of residents who have been putting with this for so long where my man Councilman Anthony Phillips is absolutely right. This would not happen in any other neighborhood. This did not happen in South Philly when I lived there. I now they would have ran this out a long time ago. We care. I care. We care about these people, but I also care about my residents who when I walk home every night, I live in that neighborhood. Every night when I get home I have a list of people standing outside my house to tell me what's going on, what happened. I got children, they have to get HIV tests every six months for the next seven years because they stepped on a needle trying to play outside their house. That's not right. So you know what, I'm going to hold my tongue because you know how I can get.
But now I'm with my Councilmember now and through this whole situation. Because guess what, she's the only one that stepped up to do anything. I've been there. I lived there almost 20 years. Nobody has done shit since I've been there except her, okay, except her. We might not always be right, but damn it we're trying. And I'm tired of this. I care. That's why I ran. I didn't have to run. I live in that neighborhood. I ran because of that neighborhood. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you, Council President. And I echo the support Lozada, her courage to take on a very difficult problem and to be so thoughtfully working through it. I'm today also proud to recognize the beginning of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, an opportunity to honor the extraordinary contributions of the AAPI community to our city, to our nation and our shared future. As the first South Asian woman elected to this legislative body and an immigrant myself, I know firsthand that our stories of resilience, of entrepreneurship, of public service are woven in the very fabric of Philadelphia. This year I am thrilled that City Council is honoring 11 individuals and businesses who are unsung heroes in our city. And I opportunity to think and highlight people you might not normally hear about who do the work and never get seen. So I wanted to just quickly put into the record the names of these folks. And I want to begin with Thu Pham, the Vietnamese American co-founder and CEO of Càphê Roasters, Philadelphia's first Vietnamese specialty coffee roastery, who started her business not only to bring bold coffee and community together but also pour into the next generation, donating a portion of her profits to 12+, a nonprofit that supports Philly high schoolers. She even hires students from those schools to gain realworld skill. And this year her shop was named a James Beard Award Semifinalist for its beverage Next, we recognize Ky and Rick Cao, Chinese Vietnamese American brothers and co-owners of P&O, a beloved South Street apparel shop. You know, I'm just going to minimize all my comments, but I wanted to highlight that they did a campaign called Fight the Virus, Not the People, using their platform to denounce the hate and uplift Asian American voices during the COVID crisis. They donated proceeds to the Philadelphia Suns youth group in Chinatown, showing that fashion can indeed be political and powerful. We heard from Sergeant Blessen Mathew, the first South Asian Indian American promoted to Sergeant in the 150-year history of Philadelphia Police Department. And he serves as a mentor, a role reminder that representation matters. Next honorees are Nary and Saroeun Kith co-founded Kiths Integrated and targeted Human Services, an organization built from their personal experience as Cambodian refugees. They turned their family's survival story into a mission to serve others, offering mental health counseling, legal navigation and adult education and a culturally grounded food pantry. Through Kiths, they have empowered thousands of immigrants and refugees to thrive. Pheng Seng, owner of Unrivaled Screen Printing, is a story of redemption and reinvention, a Cambodian American who turned his life around after incarceration. Pheng co-founded Philly's first Cambodian-owned South Philly. He hires returning citizens, pays union wages and partners with the community groups to support youth and host public events. We also celebrate Danny Ros and Benjamin Albano, co-founders of Philadelphia Southeast Asian Entertainment Group. These South Philly natives have brought Southeast Asian pop culture to Philly stages, from traditional Khmer dance to Cambodian pop culture at live. I was just there and saw the enormous number of people who attended, putting revenue into our coffers.
One of the artists I wanted to highlight was Chef Phila Lorne, the visionary behind Mawn Restaurant and a 2025 James Beard emerging chef semifinalist, a proud honors Philadelphia itself. His parents named him Philadelphia. Chef Loren is reclaiming a cuisine almost lost to genocide and bringing it to life in South Philly. And finally, we recognize Nareon Chhin, a community organizer and entrepreneur whose advocacy helped Philadelphia become a sanctuary city. A returning citizen who once faced many odds, Naroen has turned pain into purpose. He has organized immigrant justice-led anti-deportation campaigns and now uplifts the Southeast Asian community through cultural festivals and is an entrepreneur himself doing business in the city of Philadelphia and paying taxes. So to all our honorees, work, your voices and your courage help shape a Philadelphia where everyone belongs. On behalf of this body, we honor you, we celebrate you and we commit to standing with you not just this month, but every month. Thank you and happy AAPI Heritage Month. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. So just a couple of things that I wanted to say, but I wanted to obviously start with supporting my colleague Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada for her hard work. things that I heard over and over again as folks were speaking was you're doing too much, don't do anything, stop doing what you are doing, and that's not an option here. It's not an option to do less. It's not an option to just be okay with the status quo. These are not options that are acceptable to the entire community. And I have to say, Councilwoman Lozada is looking out for everyone. She's trying to figure out a solution that works for everyone, not just one group who is in need because other groups are in need as well. And so, I just want to applaud her, support her, let her know that we all have her back because many of us have buried loved ones, people we have raised, know, love, care about, to addiction. We are not immune to what is happening in our communities. I buried a few years ago my 26-year-old niece, who was the mother of a newborn baby, lost to addiction. Where is any of this right to think that we somehow have a different perspective, don't care, you know, are thoughtless about people who are in the throes of addiction. Nothing could be further from the truth. And so, I just really wanted to say that I want to support my colleague. She's a quiet storm because I've never seen her turn up quite like that. But I think that that's exactly what this moment called for. And I thank you for all that you're doing, for all that you're trying to accomplish have your back. You do not stand alone at any time. And one last thing on that is that somehow we become accustomed to the louder the voice somehow it's more validated or the argument holds more weight or they're speaking for everyone. You're not speaking for everyone. And I have to tell you a lot of us feel that if someone was sleeping on our porch and said you better not call the police in a lot of our neighborhoods, it would be handled a different way. We'd be dealing with a whole other set of situations. It's totally unacceptable to think it's okay to do nothing, that what Councilwoman Lozada is doing is somehow unacceptable. We applaud you. We applaud your work. some other things, but I just want to say two things really quickly. One, I wanted to thank my colleagues who supported the critical step we took today to safeguard the fiscal integrity of our pension fund and uphold the values that define our city by passing the resolution asking the City Pension Fund Board to review investments tied to El Salvador. It's so important, especially in light of the developments that have happened that call into question the rule of law in that nation. So I just wanted to thank all of my colleagues for supporting that effort. And also, I wanted to further acknowledge the Lindy Foundation, which has transformed 37 schoolyards, benefiting over 14,000 students and families. We want to thank them for their work, for making Philadelphia better and being part of the solution and not the problem. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. This morning I attended the State of Center City hosted by the Center City District, and they highlighted that Center City foot traffic is up almost 90% to pre-pandemic levels and also that Part 1 serious crimes are lower than 2019 pre-pandemic levels in Center City. are out there that believe that our city is dangerous and it's not open for business, you are completely wrong. Center City is open, is thriving. It is a safe place to be. Trophy office space and Class A office space is strong. We do know that there are some issues with some of our older stock of office spaces, but as a city we have to think of strategies that incentivize this reinvestment in our aging office properties to suit the 21st century needs of businesses today and also to allow for strategies to help easily redevelop those properties into residential or hotel use. And our nightlife is strong in Center City as well. And so again, for those who are a little weary about coming to Center City, it is safe. It is been in years. And so, we encourage you to come down to live, work, shop, play, spend all your money here in the city of Philadelphia. We welcome all visitors. I want to thank my colleagues today for passing the resolution honoring International Workers Day also known as May Day today. This is the day where we remember and celebrate the accomplishments of workers and our labor unions. And as the resolution reads, today as inequality grows and workers face new attempts to undermine labor protections, unions play an ever more significant role in safeguarding the rights of all of us here. So again, I want to thank my colleagues for passing that resolution honoring May Day today. Also, thank you for passing a resolution to hold hearings on the Philadelphia Public Financial Authority. In 2022, this body passed legislation to create the Philadelphia Public Financial Authority to pave the way for a public bank. And as someone mentioned during public testimony today, this type of entity could save our city millions of dollars, particularly in interest payments. And this authority could be a real publicprivate partnership that will enable access to capital for thousands of Philadelphia who have traditionally been locked out of capital markets. A public bank could essentially uplift our city, providing the necessary resources to lift folks out of poverty, to lift folks to have new housing that those that are disadvantaged particularly face in those capital markets. And last but certainly not least, I want to let all those who are listening know that on May 10th our office will be holding our Youth and Young Adult Job and Education Fair at Community College of Philadelphia located at 1700 Spring Garden Street. This event is a partnership event with a number of organizations, including Community College of Philadelphia, Connect -C2L-PHL and the National Center for Urban Solutions. We want to be able to provide opportunities for our young people to upskill and for our young folks to find employment opportunities. And so, if you are an employer, if you have a workforce development program, if you are an educational institution, there are still spots available for you to come to our fair and to let the community know about your services. If you're a young person, we are targeting between the ages of 16 to 24 but anyone is able to come to this job fair and education fair to help you do better in life. You can always reach out to my office for more questions. You can reach out to my neighborhood office at 215-685-2633.
Again, that is my neighborhood district office, 215-685-2633, and we look forward to seeing you all on May 10th. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Mr. President. I've neglected to make mention that tonight there's going to be one of our budget town halls. We want to make sure that people know, are informed and come out and share your thoughts. It's tonight from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. hosted by our very own Council President Kenyatta Johnson and also Dr. Anthony Phillips. It's at the Oak Lane Presbyterian Church, 6637 North 11th Street which is right outside of the 8th Council District but it's actually in the 9th. And so, we wanted to make sure that people knew, were aware and come out. And we want to hear from you as to what your priorities are, what your Council will be there and we certainly hope to see you there as well. And also, I know that there's going to be a free Record Review and Expungement Clinic and Resource Fair hosted by our very own Council President this coming Saturday, May 3rd at 10:00 a.m. It's at the Grand Yesha Ballroom at 23rd -- 2308 Snyder, 23rd and Snyder. And so, you should come out. There's free food, there's a whole lot of community resources and it's an expungement clinic and resource fair. So we really want folks to take advantage of these great opportunities, to connect with the Council President and members of Council but also to get access to resources that are much needed. you, Mr. President, for all your work.
Thank you. Let's give all these young people that just stormed our Council chambers a round of applause. (Applause.)
Young people in the right place at the right time. They're actually from Palumbo High School of the 2nd Councilmanic District. Give them a round of applause, y'all. (Applause.)
Okay. The Chair recognizes Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Thank you, Council President. A couple things. First all, I just want to offer thoughts and prayers to our colleague Councilmember Landau. She had an emergency that forced her to leave early, so definitely want to make sure that she knows that she's in our thoughts and we're praying for her and her family. Because Councilmember Landau had to leave early, in collaboration with Council running a little longer than what it normally does, there was supposed to be a briefing after Council today with Coded by Kids. Unfortunately, that briefing is not going to happen. But Danae, if you can stand up, Danae Mobley is here. She's one of the leaders of Coded by Kids. She's still available for any questions that folks may have, and she's been gracious enough to are a few snacks in the Caucus room for anybody who's still interested in learning about this very important work that she's doing. We talk all the time about investing in a creative economy and Coded by Kids is leading in charge as it relates to the tech space. They'll also be having a briefing on May 6th at Billy Penn Studios at 4:30, so anybody who wanted to be at the briefing today, you can still go there and do that and that's an option. I also wanted to take a moment to say thank you to Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, who is here in Philadelphia this past week. The Mayor I know had lunch with him. Some other leaders had dinner with him. And that's a part kind of ramp up for 2026, so definitely want to say thank you for that -
We want William and Kate. Talking about some Edwards, you know what I mean. Member Thomas, the floor is yours.
Thank you, Council, President. And as I close out, you know, I'm listening to a lot of the testimony as well as the comments from my colleagues and Council. And I've been there. I've been there. I know how you feel. I definitely do. And I'll say two one, this moment reminds me of a quote from Dr. King where he said, "Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability but comes through continuous struggle." And when you are as passionate as my colleagues and friends that I'm sitting with on City Council and you deal with as much trauma as we do on a consistent basis, there are going to be times when the rubber meets road and that passion is going to display itself. And we know as a legislative body, sometimes we'll agree, sometimes we'll disagree. I'm no veteran like Councilmember O'Neill and some of the folks that's been here a lot longer than me, but I know for a fact that the person who I disagree with today, I tomorrow. And at the end of the day, no matter how angry or passionate folks get, we're always going to respect the fact that we care about this city, we work around a clock for this city and we're going to get it right. I hear Councilmember Lozada saying that she's by herself. You're never by yourself. And if you thought you were, you see that right now. We hear all of the public comment from so many people who care, and we're not questioning whether or not folks care. But I will say this, Council President. I wouldn't mind a new rule that says if we have to sit and listen to public comment, which we do, even when we're not in here we're still listening, at some listen to us too. And I don't think it's fair that folks can come in -- and they do it to all of us, we all get it. Call us names and say all type of things about us that's not true, but then we never get the opportunity to kind of communicate our perspective. So you heard some of that passion here today because at the end of the day as elected officials, we're people. We tie our shoes just like everybody else and we have children and we care. We're people. And after a while, when people are constantly accusing you of things that you just know are not reflective of your character, eventually it gets to you. So whether you agree other testimony or anything like that, I think the important thing to note here today is the quote from Dr. King, whenever you're trying to make change there's always going to be a struggle. And at the end of the day, we're not questioning anybody's motives or intentions, but we're going to make sure that by the time this product is finished, and that's this entire legislative body and the work that we're doing under your leadership, Council President, we're going to make sure that we have the product that's the best for the constituents in the city of Philadelphia. From Kensington to Uptown, from South Philly to West Philly we're going to get it right and I truly believe that. So with that being said, you, Council President. And thank you, colleagues, for all of your passionate comments today, for all of the work that you do, for all of the great work that your staff do and to the entire Council family. Because at the end of the day, we're in this together. Whether we like it or not, we're in this together. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you. Democracy in action. Just no cursing. As I wrap up, Little Big Sis, profile and courage, continue to keep fighting the good fight. With that being said, the Chair calls on Councilmember and Majority Leader -- Deputy -the Chair calls on Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, Whip of the Majority party, for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Council President. I move that Council stands adjourned until Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. sharp. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. Thank you all very much. ) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I, hereby certify that the proceedings and evidence noted are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me in the foregoing matter, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. m. S. E. m. S.