Stated Meeting, December 5, 2024

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania December 5, 2024 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, INTERIM CHIEF CLERK

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Will all members please take your seats. All visitors please retire to their seats outside the rails. Before proceeding, I'll ask all those present to please set your cell phones to silent or vibrate and please take all your sidebar conversations out of the chambers. At this time to give our invocation this morning, the Chair is pleased and proud to recognize the legendary, the Honorable Bishop Sharon Baptist Church. (Applause.)

He is here today as the guest of Councilmember Jim Harrity. I will ask all members and guests to please rise and for Bishop Keith Reed to please approach the podium. Truly an honor to have you here today, sir. (Councilmembers, visitors and guests rise.)

It's an honor to be here. Let us pray. Gracious God, our Father, we come in your presence again this morning to thank you for the opportunity to live, move and have your being. We want to thank you for the privilege of being able to have access to your thrown of grace. And you told us to come boldly with might find mercy and grace to help us in our time of need. This morning we also come based on your word that tells us in the book of Romans Chapter 13 that the governmental powers that are is because of you and because of who you are. You have placed these men and women in these positions of authority to exercise judgment and safety. I pray today for their wisdom, that you would give them wisdom to navigate the different issues that are going to be placed before them today. I pray that they would do what they need to do and have a conscience about who they are doing it for and toward. There is no power greater than your power. And every power that is, every seed of government is, it's because you have placed them in that position. Now, use them today to be able to mix justice and mercy. They need your wisdom. We need for you to give them your wisdom. So when it's all said and done it will be for the furtherance of mankind and the glory of you who is our God. So I place them in your hands even right now for our good but for your glory. In the name that is above every name, in the name that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess, we ask these things with thanksgiving. Amen. (Amen.)

The Chair thanks the Bishop for his invocation. Council will now be at ease. (Council at ease.)

The Chair also recognizes the presence of Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young, Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Isaiah Thomas and Councilmember Squilla all are present for the record. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 21, 2024. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 21, 2024 be approved. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 21, 2024 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is the 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 leaves of absence today.

The Chair thanks the Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks, Minority Leader.

There are no reports of leaves of absence today, Council President.

The Chair recognizes Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion regarding certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and 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 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 a resolution on or returning a bill or a 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 actions by 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.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate you taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our great city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time it gives me great honor and privilege to recognize former Council President and Mayor of the City of Philadelphia joining us today, Mayor John Street. Let's give him a round of applause. (Standing ovation.)

I also saw joining him today as well is the former Honorable Councilmember Jannie Blackwell. Let's give her a round of applause. She's around here somewhere. (Applause.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: The Chair at this time recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.

Good morning, Council President. Very briefly I just wanted to take a moment, because I'm going to have to excuse myself shortly, to recognize five amazing women who we introduced the resolutions today. Dionne Gary, the first woman to be the President of 1199C along with colleague Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson. Thank you, colleague. (Applause.)

Also, Suzann Christine and Ciarra Lambert, both recording activists and leaders of the Illuminate the Arts grants, we've given away over $4 million over the last couple of years, and they're both here today. (Applause.)

Teresa Duncan, if she's here today, also known as the Diaper Lady, who gives out a ton of different items for families in need. I don't know if Teresa is here yet, but she will be here. And of course last but not least, you mentioned Mayor Street, he's here because one of his mentees is being honored, Rachel Pritzker from the Pritzker Law Group. And we will be talking about what makes that group unique a little later. So, Rachel, if you could stand up. (Applause.)

Thank you, Council President. Very much appreciated, sir.

Thank you. Also, on behalf of our Mayor Cherelle Parker, I would like 100 cohorts of LEADERSHIP Philadelphia who is holding class here right now in City Hall today, presenting and watching in the Mayor's Reception Room as they learn City government. They are accompanied by Ms. Carla Ingram, Vice-president of the Program's Operations, and the Honorable Mayor Parker who is also alumni of LEADERSHIP Philadelphia. Let's give our young people a round of applause who are watching us today. (Applause.)

I want to also acknowledge the presence for the record of Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad. As there are no presentations today, the next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at 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 the members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your Honorable body, a resolution approving the reappointment of Debra McCarty to the Philadelphia Water, Sewer and Stormwater Rate Board. And pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill Nos. 240871, '872, 2 -- '881, 241025, 241026, 241027, 241029, 241051, 241055, 241058, 241059 have been approved; 241054, 45 days requested; 241061, 241062, 241064 are also 45 days requested. And I am pleased to advise you that on December 4, 2024 I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on November 14, 2024: Bill No. 240004 and Bill No. 240931. Council President, there are no further communications in my possession.

Thank you very much. These messages will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips.

Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Good morning, residents in the city of Philadelphia. And good morning to the Honorable Mayor John Street. I'm having a great day. Every day is a great day. So thank you. I have no bills or resolutions for introduction today.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.

Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Today I offer two privileged resolutions.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.

A privileged resolution declaring each Friday in December 2024 as "Shop Black Business Friday" in the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing, honoring and congratulating Romonae Riscoe Benson for her exceptional leadership at PECO and her subsequent retirement after an astounding career.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Jamie Gauthier.

Good morning, Council President. Nothing today.

Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas.

Morning -- good morning, Council President. Five resolutions today.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the five privileged resolutions.

A privileged resolution honoring Teresa Johnson Duncan for her role in addressing the personal and material needs of pregnant and new moms and their infants.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Pritzker Law Group for being awarded the Gold Medal for "2024 Best Overall Law Firm" by the Philadelphia Inquirer in their first ever "Philly Favorites" and for their contribution and commitment to the legal profession in Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating Dionne Gary, the first African American woman to be the President of AFSCME District 1199C National Union of Hospital and Health Care Employees.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Ciarra Lambert for inspiring women artists across Philadelphia through her activism and music.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring Suzann Christine for her role in mentoring upcoming Philadelphia artists and leading by example showing how success can build not just portfolios but people in neighborhoods.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and three privileged resolutions. Two of them I would like to speak briefly on.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please the read titles of the bill and resolutions.

An ordinance establishing one-way regulations in the vicinity of Terrace Street, Dawson Street and Ridge Avenue, under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating Crystal Tann, a beloved colleague and employee, for her tenure as a valued staff member in the office of Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr., upon her retirement.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution acknowledging and commending parents in Philadelphia who uphold responsibility by reporting their children's involvement in criminal activities. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution to hold hearings to evaluate the financial impacts of the impending Trump Administration on the City of Philadelphia to ensure that the City is immune to harmful policies.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I want to acknowledge your work in bringing together the three legislative branches, federal, state and city to talk about this issue. What this resolution intends to do is to get the departments, in addition to what you're doing, brief us as to potential impacts. Eighty percent of the funding for PHA comes from the federal government, and you know what that means to the city of Philadelphia. So we want to be prepared for those impacts. Second one is on Crystal Tann. I'd like to, Mr. President, delay final passage a week because she's unfortunately at work with our District office and could not attend this proceeding, but we'll make sure she has off next week. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you very much, Member Jones. So we will put it on hold for final passage for next week. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.

Good morning, Council President and colleagues. Nothing today. Thank you.

The Chair recognizes Quetcy Lozada.

Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one privileged and one nonprivileged resolution. I'd also like to take a moment to recognize that Eric Cortes of Taller Puertorriqueno is here. He's a Board member. And one of the resolutions that I'm introducing is celebrating Taller Puertorriqueno's 50th anniversary of promoting and preserving Latino arts and culture in the city of Philadelphia. Eric.

Can you stand, Eric? (Applause.)

Will the Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions please.

A privileged resolution honoring and celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Taller Puertorriqueno, Inc. for its remarkable contributions to the cultural, educational and artistic enrichment of Philadelphia's Latino and broader communities.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution authorizing the Special Committee on Kensington to conduct hearings regarding the year-end report on the Kensington Community Revival Plan, KCR, and its effects on the community.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar. One second. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill and three non-privileged resolutions, one of which is on your behalf.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolutions.

An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of North 18th Street between Wood Street and Callowhill Street; Vine Street between North 18th Street and North 19th Street; Callowhill Street between North 18th Street and North 19th Street; North 17th Street between Callowhill Street and Wood Street; Thompson Street between North 18th Street and North 17th Street; Harold Street between North 22nd Street and North 23rd Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Please read the title of the next privileged resolutions -non-privileged.

And a priv -- okay. Yeah, these are non-privileged. Sorry. And a non-privileged resolution thanking Governor Josh Shapiro for flexing $153 million in federal highway funds to SEPTA.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.

And a non-privileged resolution calling on the Department of Licenses & Inspections to haul any potential demolition plans to the iconic Joe Frazier's Gym on North Broad Street; and calling on the City of Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, and all other associated parties to identify alternative uses for Joe Frazier's Gym.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And a non-privileged resolution thanking SEPTA for expanding its high fare gate pilot program to combat fare evasion by installing 100 full length fare gates at nine SEPTA stations across the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Brooks.

Thank you, Council President. I offer one non-privileged resolution on your behalf today.

Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the non-privileged resolution. Thank you.

And a non-privileged resolution calling on the Pennsylvania Attorney General to investigate building code requirements affecting communitybased housing and to provide strategies to ensure equitable, inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.

Council President, I have one privileged resolution today, and I'd like to say a couple of words also.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.

A privileged resolution commending Officer Coleen Donnelly for her heroic actions and quick thinking in a moment of crisis.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.

Council President, I promise to be brief no matter how long it takes. No, seriously we all know (inaudible) give a little dig into -COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Somebody -

-my old boss -- well, he's still my boss sometimes too. But we all know Coleen, she greets us. Officer Donnelly, she greets us with a smile every time we come in and she's always there protecting us. But on this particular night, she was there. A bunch of us had already been out of here and not many people were left in City Hall. And a drunk driver ran over two people on the corner down the street. Coleen was there by herself for 20 minutes, applying medical attention. She applied a tourniquet and did a lot of lifesaving measures while also directing traffic. You know, I'm an emotional guy so that stuff gets me, you know what I mean. So we salute Coleen and we thank her for her service. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.

Thank you, Council President. I do have one resolution to introduce on your behalf.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.

And a non-privileged resolution urging Pennsylvania State Senate Republicans and Senate Democrats to draft and pass bipartisan legislation that will secure the necessary funding to prevent a fiscal cliff for SEPTA which could lead to service closures, fare increases and a decline in mobility and economic activity for the citizens of Philadelphia and neighboring counties.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll.

Morning, Mr. President. I offer one non-privileged resolution on your behalf.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.

And a non-privileged resolution approving the reappointment of Debra McCarty to the Philadelphia Water, Sewer and Storm Rate Board.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Neill. COUNCILMAN O'NEILL. Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla.

Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions this week.

The Chair recognizes Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember.

Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution.

Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.

And a privileged resolution recognizing the urgent need for comprehensive mental health services for Philadelphia's youth.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a report from the Committee of the Whole.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports out two bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the report.

The Committee of the Whole to which were referred the following bills, Bill 240693, ordinance amending the existing Gallery at Market East Tax Increment Financing District, being the area generally bounded by Filbert Street on the north, 8th Street on the east, 11th Street on the west, and Market Street on the south, to remove certain portions of such property generally bounded by Filbert Street on the north, 10th Street on the east, 11th Street on the west, and Market Street on the south from such District, and approving the amended project plan of the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for the redevelopment of the Gallery at Market East Tax Increment Financing District and making certain findings and declarations, all in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act, being the Act of July 11, 1990, P.L. 465, No. 113, as amended, and Finance and other offices of the City to execute documents and do all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. And Bill No. 240964, an ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia to organize an authority to be known as The Arena Services District Authority, pursuant to the terms of the Pennsylvania Municipality Authorities Act, 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 Whole, Council President.

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as 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 the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass for a report from the Committee on Rules.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports out six bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.

The which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 241058, and ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Oxford Street, Cadwallader Street, Jefferson Street, Germantown Avenue, and 4th Street. And Bill No. 241059, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Erie Avenue, 9th Street, Hutchinson Street, Ontario Street, Sedgley Street, 6th Street, Glenwood Avenue, and Broad Street, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. 240871, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Broad Street, Medary Avenue, Park Avenue and Godfrey Avenue. And 241054, an ordinance amending Section 14-520 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "/NDO, Ninth District Overlay District," by reorganizing existing requirements and requiring Special Exceptions for certain uses in designated areas, all under certain terms and conditions. And 240 -- 241055, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Packer Avenue, Seventh Street, Pattison Avenue, and Darien Street. 14 of The Philadelphia Code by adding Section 14-541 entitled "/PAK, Packer Avenue Overlay District" and making other related changes, all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 241062, an ordinance amending Section 14-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by amending Section 14-502, entitled "CTR/Center City Overlay District and 14-702, Floor Area, Height, and Dwelling Unit Density Bonuses, and creating Section 14-542, entitled "/PCH, Philadelphia Chinatown Overlay District," and making related changes all 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 from the Committee on Rules, Council President.

Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass 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 the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Public Property and Public Works reports out nine bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you very much. please read the report.

The Committee on Public Property and Public Works to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 241022, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with 2401 Walnut LP, for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 2401 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 241023, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with AC HSS Office Ventures II, LLC, for use by the City, of a portion of the premises located at 1930 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19145, under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 241025, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to convey to the Philadelphia Housing Authority, all or part of a parcel or parcels of land containing approximately 23,595 square feet, located in and about the area bounded by Market Street, 39th Street, Ludlow Street and 40th Street, under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 241029, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in condemnation, or otherwise, in and to all or portions of certain parcels of land located along the west bank of the Schuylkill River in and around an area generally bounded by South 58th Street, as extended to the bulkhead line of the west bank of the Schuylkill River; South 61st Street; and West Passyunk Avenue for public park, recreation, and transportation purposes under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 241031, 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 a portion of the premises located at 1 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions. 241050, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into various lease and sublease agreements with various landlords and tenants, for use by the City of all or a portion of various premises located at 1835 South Broad Street, 6000 Woodland Avenue, 4029 Market Street, 5610 Lancaster Avenue, 2301 North Broad Street, 6420 Frankford Avenue, 2739 North 5th Street, 5361-91 Chew Avenue, 6233 North Broad Street, and 1619 Grant Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 241051, 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 by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu of condemnation, or otherwise, in and to all or portions of a certain parcel of land known as 923 West Butler Street, under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 241052, 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 a portion of the premises located at 1600-26 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No.

241053, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement Authority, for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 30 South 15th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee of Public Property and Public Works, Council President.

Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion.

Thank you, Council President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first 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 the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes report from the Committee on Streets and Services.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports out two bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the report.

The Committee on Streets and Services to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 241061, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 383, 384, 385, and 386 by relocating portions of the houselines and curblines of Southampton Road from the Roosevelt Boulevard to points northwestwardly therefrom, relocating portions of the easterly houseline and the curblines of Southampton-Byberry Road from the Roosevelt Boulevard to points southeastwardly and southwardly therefrom, and relocating portions of the curblines of the Roosevelt Boulevard from Southampton and Southampton-Byberry Roads to the Philadelphia-Bucks County Line, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. And Bill No. 241063, an ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," to create smart loading zones and a camera-based enforcement systems for designated parking violations, revise the procedures for identifying and handling stolen towing, amend the parking violations subject to towing, 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. There are no further bills to report out from the Streets and Services Committee, Council President.

Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young 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 (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a report from the Committee on Licenses &

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee reports out two bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report, and somebody get Mr. Driscoll some water.

Thank you.

The Committee on Licenses & Inspections to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 240430, an ordinance amending various provisions of The Philadelphia Code to authorize revisions of various fees by regulation, including license and permit fees under Subcode "A" (The Philadelphia Code; license fees for food establishments under Title 6 (Health Code); license and permits under Title 9 (Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions); license under Section 10-722 (Use of Dumpsters); license under Section 11-610 (Construction Equipment); and license under Chapter 19-600 (Amusement Tax); all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. And Bill No. 240665, an ordinance amending Title 10 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity," by adding a new chapter concerning vehicular mobile service providers, and providing for penalties, all under certain terms conditions, respectfully reports it has 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 Licenses and Inspections, Council President.

Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a motion.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of these bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a report on the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.

Thank you, Council President. The Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports a favorable recommendation.

Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the report.

The Committee of Public Health and Human Services which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 240932, an ordinance amending Chapter 9-4100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Promoting Healthy Families and Workplaces," to modify the manner in which certain leave benefits are administered during a pandemic or epidemic, and making technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the and Human Services, Council President.

Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a report from the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bill just read into the record by the Chief Clerk.

Is there a second? (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 2ND READING read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. This bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from the Committees with the suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passenger Calendars for the next session of Council. 2ND READING As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.

Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 241085, 241086, 241088, 240242, 240613-AA, 240664, 240876, 240877, 240874, 240879, 240880, 240881, 240 -241026, 241027, 241028, 241030. The following bills and resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 240724, 240834, 241097, 241098, 241099, 240427, 240612, 240817 and 240304.

Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters each will have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session-to-session. Today the time limit will be three minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the three-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once three minutes have passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not done so already.I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.

Rachel Pritzker. May Kate Perez, Kahn Miller, Jeremy Blatstein and Allison Lee, also make their way to the podium.

Y'all ain't supposed to let that happen. First of all congratulations, Rachel. State your name officially for the record and please begin your public comment.

So I'm Rachel Pritzker. I first want to acknowledge my dad, my sister and my team. There is no -- oh, sorry. Teams win championships so it's not me that does anything, and I have an amazing team that makes me look good and lets me be me. I also want to thank all the members of Council who I got to work with when I worked in City Council for Councilman Domb. Thank you for your encouragement. Thank you for allowing space for me. Thank you for supporting me. This has been eight years of having a business on my own, which is very tough. And I've always felt respected and cared for by this body, so I'm just beyond honored. And I especially want to thank Councilman Isaiah Thomas who has been a friend to me through the years. I do a lot of zoning work as some of you may know. There's no zoning work for an At-large member, but he has been a champion of mine just encouraging me, and of course Mayor Street. Mayor Street was one of the first people I talked to when I decided to start a business, and him and my grandmother both said do it. And so, eight years later we're here today. So thank you very much and thanks everyone for all this. And thanks, Dad, for showing up. (Applause.) (Witnesses approached podium.)

My name is Kate Perez. And on Sunday, Ayham al-Salaymeh became the youngest Palestinian we know of to be imprisoned by Israel at just 14 years old. We have a sister city relationship with the only state in the world that regularly puts children through military court and holds more than 1,000 children without charge in prison. Palestine holds the record for country with the most child amputees in the world. And Day & Zimmerman, Ghost Robotics and Leonardo in Philadelphia help make that possible and knowingly violate federal arms transfer policies and Leahy laws to do so. Targeting medical personnel violates the Geneva Convention. Beyond bombing every single hospital in Palestine, last Friday an Israeli drone murdered the head of the ICU at Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, Dr. Ahmed Al-Kahlout. This is the hospital I told you was completely besieged for more than two weeks. Yesterday the Occupation issued force displacement orders in Beit Lahia in the Northern Gaza Strip under intense bombardment and shelling sold by Day & Zimmerman. The aid workers we honored here are telling us that Israel's complete blockade and forced starvation has stray dogs eating the martyrs to the bone, leaving hundreds of human beings unidentifiable. Doctors report finding worms in patients' wounds less than in a day after injury due to the lack of hygiene products as a result of Israel's ban on soap and medical supplies. The U.N. Special Committee finds Israel's warfare methods in Gaza consistent with genocide, including use of starvation as a weapon of war. While Trump says release the hostages on Twitter, Israel currently holds more than 10,000 Palestinian civilians, hostage, imprisoned famous for torture. Hamas reaffirmed their commitment to Security Council Resolution 2735 in the deal struck on July 2, 2024. We must pressure our sister city to accept the ceasefire, but we all know that Israel cannot be trusted to uphold the agreement as they have already violated the Lebanese ceasefire agreement 50 times before Hezbollah retaliated. Israel has violated the ceasefire agreement over 100 times in less than a week. The only way to ensure peace is to stop arming Israel and to shut down the non-conforming businesses in our city that continue to arm them. Five hours ago quadrocopter planes targeted water tanks on the Indonesian Hospital in Northern Gaza. This is what they sound like(indicating). These are quadrocopters with machine guns attached. They sit over your refugee camp for hours. This is what our government funds. Instead of our health care, instead of our education, this is what our government's funding and this is what Philadelphia is helping(indicating). (Applause.)

May we also have Kahn Miller, Jeremy Blatstein, Allison Lee. May Amanda Bossard, Jennifer Jasuta, Paul Birdsong and Eric Cortes, also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Hello, City Council. My name's Jeremy Blatstein. Every week we get up here and we hear what's going on, but we don't hear about what's happening in Philadelphia, so I just appreciate each and every one of you who comes to work here and is fighting to make Philadelphia a better place. Councilwoman Lozada, it was something that you said earlier this week regarding Bill No. 240664 about taking back Kensington, and there's a lot of criticism that you each received. And Councilman Harrity, it was really powerful to hear your first lived experience and what you have gone through along with living in that situation every day, and the residents of Kensington deserve better, right. And that's what Councilwoman Lozada's fighting for, and I really think that's important that our government works for us. And that was the line you said, something -- I'm paraphrasing, right. But the situation's not working and City Council's stepping up to take ownership of a situation that's bad. And you can take some ownership to it, but the status quo cannot happen any longer because the children of Philadelphia, the residents of Philadelphia deserve better. So I just want to say first off thank you very much for what you guys in the Kensington Caucus are doing. The last bit I will say when it comes to Kensington is how do we get to Kensington. And some brave souls rode SEPTA up to Frankford Transportation Center (inaudible) back. So raise your hand if you rode SEPTA to City Hall this morning. My dad last week said you didn't look behind you. And I'm like, Dad, I'm not talking about the people in the audience. I'm talking about City Council. So that's zero people. There's two more weeks of Council session. The whole idea of making sure that SEPTA works for us, the point of why I want each and every one of you to ride it on Thursdays is to make a point of showing it, right. Let's show people that we use the system that we care about, plain and simple. So I challenge you for the last next two weeks to ride SEPTA to City Hall on Thursdays. And the last thing I will say is thank you for spending the last 41 hours-plus negotiating and talking about the arena, right. You guys are making Philadelphia a better place. And it's not an easy decision to make but it's something that needs to happen if we want more investment in Philadelphia. And remember grow Philly to 2 milli. Thank you. (Applause.)

My name is Paul Birdsong. I'm from the Panther Party. Regarding Bill or Resolution 241030, while we're considering automated speed enforcement system, let us not forget to consider of a triangulation system accompanied by LED lights and working cameras as well as a forensics lab capable of solving crimes. Regarding 240612, the Business District of Fishtown and Kensington can be improved by making it safe, working cameras coupled with LED lights, a triangulation system and a forensics program that's adequately equipped would greatly improve this business district as well as the rest of Philly's safety. Regarding 204724, how can we enforce laws ain't been improving our communities if we can't solve the over 2000 open homicide cases here in Philly. Lastly, we're talking about creating a task force or a police force specifically for the arena area, right. Cool, I'm for that. That's needed, right. But the thing about it is, is right on Broad Street there were shootings that happened this year. Right here in Queens Village there were shootings that happened this year. We would be naive to think that nobody's going to shoot at that arena. We would be naive to think that the character and the mentality of the people working in that arena would be improved by that arena if they have to go back home to war zones where there's bullets flying around where their children got to play. I was in Kensington this week, and at the library I saw a man laying on the stairs with a needle hanging out of his arm. When I asked the officer that was standing right there was he going to do something about it, he said, if I mess with him, I've got to mess with 300 other people here. Good, hire more people to handle that. Don't just make it a culture where we're complacent with drug use, where we're complacent with homicide. Over 2000 unsolved homicides in Philadelphia right now, and we're talking about an arena. And again, jobs is cool, money is cool. But if that money is not being put towards making this place safer, what's the use. So I want everybody to think about that. I want everybody to recondition their mind. Everybody has been programmed for the last month arena, arena, arena, arena, arena. I would like to peel that programming back and I would like to get you to consider safety, safety, safety, safety, safety. I'd ask right now any of you who have children or who have young children that are related to you, would you let your young child, right, go to Love Park from where you live at on public safety without being accompanied by you right now? That would be crazy. I have a daughter and I would not allow her to do that. I have a son with a traumatic brain injury that I push around in a wheelchair. When the bullets start flying, what happens to him. He can't run. The nurses that push him for his school, they can't do anything to protect him. And if he gets hit, the likelihood of the person that hit my son with a bullet getting caught is less than somebody getting caught for speeding down Roosevelt Boulevard. Again, I'll repeat what I said previously this year. It is more dangerous legally to speed in Philadelphia than it is to shoot somebody in broad daylight. All power to the people. (Applause.)

Will Amanda Bossard, Jennifer Jasuta, Eric Cortes and Suzann Christine, also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Please state your name for the record and you may begin with your testimony.

Good morning. Thank you, Council President Johnson, Councilmember Thomas and a special thank you to Councilmember Lozada for introducing this resolution. My name is Eric Cortes and I'm here to speak on the resolution honoring Taller Puertorriqueno and their 50th anniversary. In day-to-day job I serve as Senior Director of Social at Visit Philadelphia. In March of 2024 I had the pleasure of being elected to join the Board of Taller Puertorriqueno, an organization that not only gave me an opportunity but also an organization that is celebrating 50 years of existence, a milestone many organizations do not get to see. It was the summer of 2006 that I was first introduced to Taller by then former staff member Yolanda Jimenez-Colon. She provided me the opportunity to intern and then hired me full-time. This moment truly changed my life because it not only introduced me to this organization but also became the catalyst to my involvement in the Latino community. Taller was my first career experience right out of college and today I sit here almost 20 years later, wow, testifying in front of City Council celebrating this organization's 50th anniversary. As a proud Columbian American, I am truly humbled to be a small part of Taller's legacy of embracing our cultural heritage, heritage that transcends where someone was born. Whether in Puerto Rico, Philadelphia or in my case North Jersey, Taller occupies a place where many, many people travel to find space and a sense of community and belonging. Taller is also a part of a larger impact of our region. It's part of Southeastern Pennsylvania's cultural organizations which have a combined economic impact of $3.3 billion through Taller's various programming. More locals and visitors are able to experience this impact. Taller changes lives. I have not met one person that has not been positively impacted by the organization. Whether they have taken part in the afterschool program, been to the gallery or even have served food during their annual Thanksgiving for the homeless, people recognize the importance of spaces like Taller. And it doesn't stop there, right. In 2022, there have been 300 children and teens in the afterschool program and over 1500 students from 10 schools served through their (inaudible) program and over 20 artists exhibited in four exhibitions and two student shows. And the bookstore, which is the only Spanish-English bilingual book shop in Philadelphia, hosted about a dozen events with over 200 attendees and home to over 400 Spanish language titles and many more. Fifty years is a lifetime for an arts organizations. Not too many organizations get to see 50 years. It was 50 years ago yesterday that Domingo Negron's vision came to life, a vision that to this day is embodied to all staff and to all members of this board. So as Governor Josh Shapiro said in a video during our Anniversary gala November 1st, this organization has dedicated itself to breaking down barriers and created opportunities for Puerto Rican and Latino communities to succeed and thrive. I hope that in 50 years from now we get to celebrate many more achievements, more recognition, many Latino arts and culture. So thank you for this recognition. (Applause.)

We have Amanda Bossard, Jennifer Jasuta. May Suzann Christine, Ciarra Lambert and Dionne Gary, also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Amanda Bossard in opposition to Bill 240612. I have copies of my remarks today for the members of Council that are not familiar with this ongoing business improvement district in the neighborhood of Fishtown/Kensington. And I oppose Bill 240612 along with one-third of the assessed property owners who submitted letters of opposition, which effectively dissolves the Fishtown Kensington Business Improvement District. According to our Councilman Squilla's own words on October 18th at the public hearing, the people who aren't assess when they are actually getting the list of all the assessment, that's what they go by when they say one-third of those people who are assessed to have opposed in order to the BID to fail. Of those 1102 properties within the proposed expanded BID area, there are no less than 200 or as many as 300 nonassessed nonpaying residential owner-occupied properties. 25 municipal SEPTA Commonwealth owner-occupied non-assessed, nonpaying properties, and 26 nonprofit owner nonassessed properties. Without these nonpayer properties on the proposed BID list, the opposition has met it's one-third opposition requirement to stop the reauthorization of Fishtown Kensington Business Improvement District. Our rights as individuals are being violated for the benefit of the Fishtown Kensington BID supporters. Affected property owners who have submitted letters of opposition make over one-third property owners when nonpaying properties are removed from being counted against our opposition. We do not believe the police station or Kensington High School or SEPTA, et cetera will be ever be a BID-paying assessed member of our business improvement district, but they're on the list and newly added along with 300-plus properties in this reauthorization expansion. This past year Fishtown Kensington Business Improvement District has disrupted our business community by forcibly intervening to sell an owner-occupied BID-area property after assuming conservatorship of the property. Many of the opposition on Girard Ave Corridor and throughout the proposed build area are at risk for exactly such an outcome, as the Palmer (inaudible) estate and the conservatorship to their property sold in distress to the executrix of that estate. Today I have more opposition letters still coming. They keep showing up at my door every day since the 45-day period began. Wherefore I am here to represent them and myself and we oppose the Fishtown Kensington Business Improvement District and we would like our right supported and upheld by this Council today. Thank you for your time. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Hi, everyone. My name is Jen Jasuta and I oppose the Fishtown Business Improvement District under Bill 240612. We received a package about the bill renewing the Fishtown Business Improvement District and on that was a cover letter and which Paragraph 6 states, "After the Friday, October 18, 2024 hearing, City Council intends to adopt a final plan for the district which may include changes to the preliminary plan. A public hearing would then be scheduled to receive public commitment on the final plan. A copy of the final plan and notice of the public hearing of that plan will be mailed to all property owners within the proposed district." Your letter says in plain English that after the October 18th you'll be scheduling a public hearing and mailing a final plan which none of us have received. There is nothing in here that allows you to bypass this step. It was our right to receive this notice exactly how you put it in your letter. I urge you to follow your own process and reschedule this vote. Further, the addition of over 300 nonpaying properties to the list has skewed the process to drown out our voices. Some of our neighbors supported the BID because they knew they wouldn't have to pay. Because they are on the list, they are counted as a yes vote even if they don't vote. Of course they supported the BID. It's free services for them and fees for us. The law is clear that nonpaying members cannot be counted in support. We understand that some properties may change to commercial, but using the current list you're counting the police station, Palmer Park and the high school, among many others as votes in support. Over one-third of the paying BID members have already opposed and when you remove the properties that weren't on the 2019 list who won't be paying the BID fees and that never should have been included on this list. Once again, I urge you to correct this and follow your own process of the law. Thank you.

Thank you.

And this is the letter.

We also have Suzann Christine, Ciarra Lambert, Dionne Gray, Teresa Johnson Duncan and then Lynn Landes. Thank you. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning, everyone. My name is Suzann Christine Henry and I am truly honored to be here with you all. I love my city. And, Councilman Isaiah Thomas, thank you for this recognition. It's a fact that my city loves me back. There's so many people in this room who have given me amazing opportunities, who have elevated me, who have helped me attain many goals as a singer, as a songwriter. Whether you see me at the Urban Affairs Coalition last week at the breakfast or you saw me at the Eagles game or on the Parkway doing a rally or a concert, I'm just so thankful. I do want to say I have to mention at least three people in the room. Councilman Anthony Phillips, thank you for what you've done; Kendra Brooks who I think left out the room; and of course Isaiah Thomas, thank you for all you've done. My nonprofit organization helping to uplift and mentor youth who are also interested in being in the arts. Thank you for your support because that allows me to use my gift but not only use my gift but to educate. I'm a singer and a songwriter independently doing this thing. I've been heard on the radio. I've been seen on the BET Music Choice, big platforms by manifesting and believing in myself. And it is very important for me to show the example and prove to other young ones, especially in Philadelphia, to let them know that they are more than capable of achieving their dreams and goals. They must believe in themselves. They must know how to network. They need to know how to communicate and use their resources. So these are the things that we teach through my nonprofit organization SCH Creative & Performing Arts. And we also give a school tour where we uplift the students for Forever Love Yourself tour. And I could not have done those things without the city of Philadelphia. If I invited you here today, could you just please stand, because I cannot do what I do without my support system. So I just wanted to say thank you, thank you. Some of you are already standing and some people had to leave. But I just want to say I love my city and I will do all that I can to continue to shine light on our city, to use my voice to uplift our city and to mentor and show a way for those that are in our future. I love you all. Thank you. God bless. (Applause.)

Thank you. Congratulations as well.

(Inaudible) President of Dis -

Can you start all over?

Okay. Good morning. My name is Dionne Gary and I'm the President of District 1199C. (Applause.)

And I just want to thank Councilman Thomas and his team for honoring me. I want to congratulate the other folks, the other three women -- four women that's being honored today. I also want to thank my team that's here, my staff. Y'all can stand up, everybody, and also my labor siblings that's here. And again, just to kind of mimic some of the things that she said too is that you can't do this by myself. I'm grateful and honored to be the President of this union, and I look forward to working with all you guys. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. Congratulations.

All right. I got to make this mic go down a little bit. I'm a little height challenged but here we are. So good morning, everyone. My name is Ciarra Lambert. I'm a rapper here in the city. I mean, amongst other things but certainly a rapper. I want to thank Councilmember Thomas for this honor today. And I just also want to thank everybody else who has contributed to the Illuminate the Arts grant. This is our third year and I'm super proud of the work that we've done. What started off as an answer to artists trying to feed their families during the pandemic has continued on to find so many wonderful things here in this city. And so, I appreciate everybody who was a part of that, including Councilmember Thomas and Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson, so thank you so much for believing in us. And I just want to say one other thing. There's a word -as a rapper, you know, you look up a bunch of words. You never know when you have to battle somebody. But there's a word that came to me that really embodies the city of Philadelphia and it's silience. And the word silience basically means unrecognized, excellence and talent. And I think that everybody here and most people in this city embody that. Most people will never be recognize for the work that they do, and I want everyone to consider that when you're making your New Year's resolution. I hope you do it in the spirit of silience. I hope you do it for somebody that may not benefit you, that may not ever be recognized, that may not ever be noticed at all, but things that we do every day. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. Congratulations as well.

We have Lynn Landes, Dr. Sharon Avant. May Claire Wan, Will Chan and Vivian Chang, also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. I'm Lynn Landes of safestreetsphilly.org. I support Resolution 240724, which asks for state enforcement of laws against the sale of liquor at corner store establishments pretending to be restaurants. However, City Council and Administration are themselves still not fully enforcing Titles 9 and 10 of the City Code, particularly when it comes to the mentally ill, homeless who continue to haunt our neighborhoods, specifically in the downtown area which includes tourist hotspots in Rittenhouse, Midtown Village and Wash West, the Reading Terminal Market and Love Park. This is inhumane and uncivilized. Yet the police continue to allow the homeless to sleep on the sidewalks undisturbed throughout the night. It is not as bad as it was a few years ago, but it's still not acceptable. Last Saturday morning we called 911 on 18 individuals. This is not unusual. These are mostly chronic offenders, some of whom have been here for years. As the parent as a mentally disabled adult son, I can say that these people need to be in secure situations for their own sake and for ours. It is also frustrating that property owners in some of these areas are required to pay fees to Center City District. Center City is a business improvement district and this is -they claim that they are going to improve safety and cleanliness but they can also condemn properties and take out loans. And, yes, the problem persists. It is past time for this City, specifically the Police Commissioner and District Attorney, to do their job and fully enforce the law, Titles 9 and 10. And if they continue to violate their oath of office, then City Council can take legal action against them. That is your job and your responsibility. Thank you.

Thank you.

We have Rev. Dr. Sharon Avant, Claire Wan, Will Chan, Vivian Chang. And may Lisa Lee and Ogbonna Hagins also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Hi. Good morning, Council. My name is Claire Wan and I'm here to speak on Bill 241030 about automated speed cameras and issues of safety. Research shows that automated speed enforcement systems like this disproportionately penalize Black and Brown drivers more. We need more infrastructure and policy changes that protect all people, particularly our most historically marginalized. And as we discuss issues of safety protection of our Black and Brown communities and decisions here meeting Council, that again disproportionately hurt our working class immigrant and communities of color. I'm here to rise and to read a shortened statement announced by the Make the Road PA opposing the 76 Place Arena and glaringly inadequate CBA. Make the Road PA is a community organization that builds power in Latino communities for justice through organizing and developing community leadership. And I quote, "While we face many urgent priorities in this uncertain time, the dangerously rushed process in City Council leaves no room for silence on this critical issue. Our 13,000 members oppose this arena for multiple reasons. First, the proposal community benefits agreement, CBA, is glaringly inadequate. At only 50 million it sends a dangerous message that entire neighborhoods can be sold out for pennies on the dollar. The CBA lacks substantive commitment to address increased traffic congestion. The burden on already struggling public transit systems like SEPTA are any measures to safeguard and acceptability of Center City for residents who rely on critical services. Second, the public engagement process has been (inaudible). Communities have been given little time or opportunity to provide meaningful input and Spanish-speaking Philadelphians, an intrical part of the city, have been completely excluded from any outreach. Such negligence underscores the lack of accountability to the very people this proposal claims to benefit. Third, this arena threatens the very existence of Chinatown, a historic and culturally rich neighborhood that would face devastating displacement and gentrification. Approving this project would set a dangerous precedent." If one neighborhood can be steamrolled by billionaires and developers, whose community will be next. We oppose this arena because it prioritizes the developers' profit over people. Overwhelming public testimony has made it clear that Philadelphians are tired of politicians rubberstamping projects that sacrifice our neighborhoods for the interests of the ultra rich. We urge Mayor Parker and City Council to listen to the constituents and stand with the working families and object this proposal. I also want to add that Make the Road as a Latino-centered organization stands with the City and advocates for interconnected issues, and we are against the Chinatown Overlay bill with no rent control, height restrictions on new construction and commercial-sized restrictions that would leave renters in our city unprotected, further citywide (inaudible) for displacement by a low-rise development and (inaudible) through a loophole. So please stand with us, Make the Road and the people of Philadelphia. Do not rush this process and please do your due diligence. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Good morning, Council. My name is Will Chan. And I'm here to give comment against Bill 241030 regarding the use of automated speed enforcement system. In the name of improved safety, such automated systems -- do you need me to start again? Good morning, City Council. My name is Will Chan. I'm here to give comment against Bill 241030 regarding the use of an automated speed enforcement system. In the name of improved safety, such automated systems have been known to overly penalize Black and Brown communities. As we post bills and policies are harmed, Black, Brown and marginalized communities, I want to share a statement from the Brewerytown Sharswood Neighborhood Association which represents a historic Black community in North Philly that's trying to protect its own culture and heritage. From Mr. Winfield Thomas, and I quote, "This arena proposal is not just about the immediate area like Chinatown. It affects us all. Rushing this process without answering important questions answered only destroys trust in City Council. The schools, when we are faced with upcoming school closings for renovations, can we actually afford to leave millions on the table from unpaid property tax for this property. Will this arena actually create the job market it promises and will those jobs actually create livable wages. Will people of color who live in Philadelphia and want to work in construction be prioritized. Will we all know these answers before you vote. Most concerning for us though as residents of not just Philadelphia but of a neighborhood that has also been marginalized is the so-called community benefits agreement. Approving a CBA that excludes people of the community sends a bad message to all of us. It means a bad deal for them and the city because it's a terrible practice that corrupts the idea that Council represents the people. Let's be clear. The 50 million isn't a benefit. It's a robbery. Imagine this arena were built in our neighborhood, in your neighborhood, in any neighborhood of this city. We would never accept this. I want to be clear that we know residents of Chinatown know what is best for their own homes just as we do for ours. We stand in solidarity with them and we do not support this arena in the middle of our city. No amount of money will offset the destruction of neighborhoods. Why can't City Council find the best solution. We need Council to stand up and fight for the people of Philadelphia. Do not settle. Our city needs so much more." (Applause.)

Okay. Yes. My name is Vivian Chang. I rise in support of Bill 240613-AA, which is focused on disability parking spaces. There are many vulnerable communities in our city. Disabled folks, right, they got to be able to get around. They got to be able to live the same quality of life as all of us. And that's exactly a community to be very impacted by the arena. We know it's impossible to mitigate the destruction of historical neighborhoods, to mitigate the deadly gridlock that will be put in place. We know that the arena is not going to pay property taxes, even though Philadelphians and disabled folks all over the city are getting pushed out of their homes due to exorbitant taxes. There's $400 million total that the City is going to give in free taxes to the Sixers, and these billionaires are going to pay pennies on the dollar for their Use & Occupancy taxes because they think they're above the law that govern every other business. That's another $550 million that the City is given to the arena. And to add insult to injury, many Councilmembers and the Mayor insist on shoving a so-called community benefits agreement down the throats of impacted communities. They've lied about the community after keeping them out of the negotiating table and instead putting them on the menu for developers to eat us up. That's a disgrace. So instead of lying about what stakeholders do or don't want, let's hear of what they've said this week. The Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation, PCDC, said we are appreciative of City Councilmembers opening up the conversation to reach a higher number, $300 million, and substantively engaging stakeholders in and beyond Chinatown to make sure the people of Philadelphia are a part of the agreement and not an afterthought. As multiple City Councilmembers have stated, the arena is worth at least $300 million to our city, and the current deal is just one-sixth of that. And if we want to listen to economic development in Philly and actually build that up, then why don't we listen to the business themselves. The Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia issued a statement, that it urges City Council to negotiate for a larger community benefits agreement amount as the current 50 million is grossly inadequate. While the developer is proposed to make an average PILOT and U&O payment of 6 million a year that makes 5.5 million of operations and increases 10 percent every 10 years, which again $960 million free to them, the Chamber agrees that a substantially higher investment from the team will compensate for those lost property taxes that the City and the School District are foregoing as a result of the plan. So as such, the Chamber supports the proposal made by Councilmembers Kendra Brooks, Nicolas O'Rourke, Jeff Young which advocate for a minimum 300 million CBA amount. The developers have disrespected our city over and over again not just on the court. Don't let them do it again. Don't let them do it for this playground. Don't get played. Let's delay this arena. Let's make sure we get the right deal for the city or vote no. Just vote no on this arena. Thank you. (Applause.)

We have Lisa Lee. And may Ogbonna Hagins also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Hi, everyone. My name is Lisa Lee. I'm here to speak to the Bill 240613-AA because it is really important to support vulnerable communities like disabled folks. That's why I'm speaking today about how the arena proposal will hurt vulnerable communities, not just in Chinatown but in the whole city. It is outrageous and dangerous to see this Council rush a deal so they can make a December holiday. The only gift they're giving are to the billionaires that will never live here and never send their children to the schools here and never deal with consequences of one of the worst deals to come before Philadelphia in decades. As we had to do what Council demands to be the final days of negotiation, let's be clear that this CBA is trash. Fifty million isn't a benefit. It's robbery. 300 million over 30 years is just 10 million a year and it's the barest minimum to offset some of the burdens communities will bear across the whole city. Even the casinos pay 5 million a year to the School District of Philadelphia. Meanwhile institutions like SEPTA have said that this project alone will cost them tens of millions of dollars annually. Anything less than 300 million is a sign that Council is rubberstamping a deal that makes them look weak and so deeply out of touch with the actual needs of Philadelphians. It sends dangerous message that City hall can be bullied and bought by the right developers. Billionaire developers and the Building Trades are trying to force this deal through Council, but Councilmembers don't have to give up their vote and their voice. And there are so many intangible things that the CBA, no matter how big the number is, can't save. Like another speaker has mentioned before, safety matters too. And Chinatown has always been a safety net holding us together where different cultures and communities connect and thrive, and Philadelphia can't spare to lose another safe space like Chinatown. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING We need Council to stand up and fight and negotiate a real investment and not settle for mere crumbs for a city that demand so much more. Thank you. (Applause.)

Council President, there are no other names for public comment.

That concludes today's public comment period. We will now consider the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution 241085.

A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank a deed conveying title to 2123 Fernon 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Street, located in the 2nd Councilmanic District, pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act.

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion on Resolution No. 241085.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution 241085 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 241086.

A resolution renaming the 2100 block of Alter Street "Hon. Harold James Way" in honor of Pennsylvania House Representative Harold James for his exemplary leadership, dedication to public service, and lasting contributions to the people of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Majority Leader, for a motion regarding Resolution No. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING 241086.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 241086 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING read the title of Resolution No. 241088.

A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 320 North 41st Street and 323 North Holly Street located in the 3rd Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for a motion regarding Resolution No. 241088.

Thank you, Council President. I call for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING No. 241088 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.

Thank you, Council President. I would like to be excused to attend to other business. And I would like to go on the record voting aye on all bills and resolutions coming before this body today. COUNCIL PRESIDENT 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Duly noted and leave is granted.

Thank you, Council President.

Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 240242.

An ordinance amending Section 14-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts" by amending Section 14-524, entitled “/FDO, Fourth District Overlay District”, to establish use regulations on medical facilities, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Will the Chief Clerk 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING please call the roll.

Councilmember Phillips.

Aye.

Councilmember Gilmore Richardson:

Aye.

Councilmember Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilmember Thomas is aye. Councilmember Jones.

Aye.

Councilmember Landau.

Aye.

Councilmember Lozada. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilmember Young.

Aye.

Councilmember Brooks.

Aye.

Councilmember Harrity.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Rourke.

Aye.

Councilmember Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Neill.

Aye. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilmember Squilla. (No response.)

Councilmember Bass.

Aye.

Councilmember Ahmad.

Aye.

And Council President Johnson.

Aye. The ayes are 16. The nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative the bill passes. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 240613-AA.

An ordinance amending Chapter 12-1100 ("Miscellaneous Regulations and Penalties") and Chapter 12-2800 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING ("Administrative Adjudication of Parking Violations") of The Philadelphia Code, making revisions to disability parking space standards and procedures, creating an application process for residential disability parking spaces limited for use by a specific person with disability, creating a new administrative hearing process, and amending applicable penalties.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is should the bill pass finally. Will the Chief Clerk please call the roll.

Councilmember Phillips.

Aye.

Councilmember Gilmore Richardson: 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilmember Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilmember Thomas is aye. Councilmember Jones.

Aye.

Councilmember Landau.

Aye.

Councilmember Lozada.

Aye.

Councilmember Young.

Aye.

Councilmember Brooks. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilmember Harrity.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Rourke.

Aye.

Councilmember Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilmember Squilla.

Aye.

Councilmember Bass.

Aye.

12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilmember Ahmad.

Aye.

Council President Johnson.

Aye. The ayes are 17 and the nays are 0. Majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla. Would you like to be voted aye on the previous bills while you were out the chamber?

Thank you, Mr. President. Aye on previous resolutions and bills previously read.

Duly noted. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 240664. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

An ordinance amending Title 10 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity," by adding prohibitions and penalties related to litter near mobile providers of goods, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is should the bill pass finally. Will the Chief Clerk please call the roll.

Councilmember Phillips.

Aye.

Councilmember Gilmore Richardson:

Aye. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilmember Gauthier.

Aye.

Councilmember Thomas is aye. Councilmember Jones.

Aye.

Councilmember Landau.

Aye.

Councilmember Lozada.

Aye.

Councilmember Young.

Aye.

Councilmember Brooks.

Aye. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilmember Harrity.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Rourke.

Aye.

Councilmember Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilmember Squilla.

Aye.

Councilmember Bass.

Aye.

Councilmember Ahmad.

Aye. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Council President Johnson.

Aye. The ayes are 17. The nays are 0. Majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 240876.

An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Point Breeze Avenue between Moore Street and Mifflin Street; Rosewood Street between Jackson Street and Wolf Street; Dorrance Street between Snyder Avenue and McKean Street; Garnett Street between Snyder Avenue and McKean Street; Mifflin Street between South 20th Street and South 21st Street; Chadwick Street between Jackson Street and Passyunk Avenue; 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING South 22nd Street between McKean Street and Mifflin Street; Mifflin Street between South 30th Street and South 29th Street; Colorado Street between Snyder Avenue and McKean Avenue.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Will the Chief Clerk please call the roll.

Councilmember Phillips.

Aye.

Councilmember Gilmore Richardson:

Aye.

Councilmember Thomas was aye. Councilmember Jones. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilmember Landau.

Aye.

Councilmember Lozada.

Aye.

Councilmember Young.

Aye.

Councilmember Brooks.

Aye.

Councilmember Harrity.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Rourke.

Aye. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilmember Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilmember Squilla.

Aye.

Councilmember Bass.

Aye.

Councilmember Ahmad.

Aye.

And, Council President Johnson.

Aye. The ayes are 17. The nays are 0 -- I'm sorry. The ayes are 16. The nays are 0. The majority of all members having voted 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING in the affirmative the bill passes. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 240877.

An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Mifflin Street between South 23rd Street and South 22nd Street; South 21st Street between Moore Street and Mifflin Street; Bouvier Street between McKean Street and Snyder Avenue; South 15th Street between Snyder Avenue and Jackson Street; Hicks Street between Moore Street and Morris Street; Mifflin Street between South 19th Street and South 18th Street; Hicks Street between Jackson Street and Snyder Avenue; Dudley Street between South 18th Street and South 19th Street; Mole Street between Jackson Street and Snyder Avenue; Lambert Street between McKean Street and Mifflin 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Street.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Will the Chief Clerk please call the roll.

Councilmember Phillips.

Aye.

Councilmember Gilmore Richardson:

Aye.

Councilmember Gauthier stepped out. Councilmember Thomas was aye. Councilmember Jones.

Aye.

Councilmember Landau.

12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Aye.

Councilmember Lozada.

Aye.

Councilmember Young.

Aye.

Councilmember Brooks.

Aye.

Councilmember Harrity.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Rourke.

Aye.

Councilmember Driscoll.

Aye. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilmember O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilmember Squilla.

Aye.

Councilmember Bass.

Aye.

Councilmember Ahmad.

Aye.

And, Council President Johnson.

Aye. The ayes are 16. The nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative the bill passes. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 240878.

An 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Corlies Street between Tasker Street and Morris Street; Wilder Street between 21st Street and 20th Street; Myrtlewood Street between Dickinson Street and Tasker Street; Alter Street between South 18th Street and South 17th Street; South 17th Street between Tasker Street and Morris Street; South 16th Street between Morris Street and Tasker Street; Hicks Street between Morris Street and Tasker Street; Titan Street between South 20th Street and Point Breeze Avenue; South 16th Street between Tasker Street and Dickinson Street; South 16th Street between Reed Street and Wharton Street.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Will the Chief Clerk please call the roll.

Councilmember Phillips.

Aye.

Councilmember Gilmore Richardson:

Aye.

Councilmember Thomas -- oh, aye. Councilmember Jones.

Aye.

Councilmember Landau.

Aye.

Councilmember Lozada.