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Minutes

Stated Meeting, December 5, 2024

Philadelphia City CouncilDec 5, 2024

People mentioned

Names our system found in this transcript. Automatically extracted, so it can include anyone named in the record, not only officials or parties.

Organizations mentioned

Councilman Young

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Brooks.

Councilwoman Brooks

Aye.

Chief Clerk

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

Councilman Harrity

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember O'Rourke.

Councilman O'Rourke

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Driscoll.

Councilman Driscoll

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember O'Neill.

Councilman O'Neill

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Squilla.

Councilman Squilla

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Bass.

Councilwoman Bass

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Ahmad.

Councilwoman Ahmad

Aye.

Chief Clerk

And, 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Council President Johnson.

Council President Johnson

Aye. The ayes are 17. 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. 241030.

Chief Clerk

An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use of An Automated Speed Enforcement System to Improve Safety," by providing for the use, administration and enforcement of automated speed cameras on State Route 13 within the boundaries of Philadelphia and amending the Internet website notice requirement, all under certain terms and conditions. COUNCIL PRESIDENT 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: 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.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Phillips.

Councilman Phillips

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Gauthier.

Councilwoman Gauthier

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Thomas was aye. Councilmember Jones.

Councilman Jones

Aye.

Chief Clerk

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

Councilwoman Landau

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Lozada.

Councilwoman Lozada

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Young.

Councilman Young

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Brooks.

Councilwoman Brooks

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Harrity.

Councilman Harrity

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember O'Rourke.

Councilman O'Rourke

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Driscoll.

Councilman Driscoll

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

Chief Clerk

Councilmember O'Neill.

Councilman O'Neill

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Squilla.

Councilman Squilla

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Bass.

Councilwoman Bass

Aye.

Chief Clerk

Councilmember Ahmad.

Councilwoman Ahmad

Aye.

Chief Clerk

And, Council President.

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 any additional resolutions on today's Calendar. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Chief Clerk

A privileged resolution declaring each Friday in December 2024 as "Shop Black Business Friday" in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

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

Council President Johnson

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

A privileged resolution recognizing, honoring, and congratulating Romona Riscoe Benson for her exceptional leadership at PECO and her subsequent retirement after an astounding career. Introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

Thank you go again, 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

It has been moved and prop -- there she goes. (Applause.)

Council President Johnson

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Congratulations, Romona. Will the Clerk please 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

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. Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Thomas, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

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. Introduced by 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilmember Thomas.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Thomas, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

A privileged resolution honoring and congratulating Dionne Gary, the first African American woman to be the president of the AFSCME District 1199C, National Union of Hospital and Health Care Employees. Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Thomas, I move the 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Ciarra Lambert for inspiring women artists across Philadelphia through her activism 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING and music. Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katharine Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Thomas, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

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 and neighborhoods. Introduced by Councilmember Thomas.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

Thank you, Council 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING President. On behalf of Councilmember Thomas and Girls' High girls everywhere, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

A 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING privileged resolution acknowledging and commending parents in Philadelphia who uphold responsibility by reporting their children’s involvement in criminal activities. Introduced by Councilmember Jones.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones for a motion on the resolution.

Councilman Jones

Inspired by Councilmember Bass, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

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

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Law and Government 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. Introduced by Councilmember Jones.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones for a motion on the resolution.

Councilman Jones

Thank you again, Mr. President. 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution has been adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

A privileged resolution honoring and celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Taller Puertorriqueño, Inc. for its remarkable contributions to the 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING cultural, educational, and artistic enrichment of Philadelphia's Latino and broader communities. Introduced by Councilmember Lozada.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Lozada

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

Council President Johnson

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.) 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

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. Introduced by Councilmember Lozada.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Lozada

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING

Council President Johnson

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

A privileged resolution commending Officer Coleen Donnelly for her heroic actions and quick thinking in a moment of crisis. Introduced by Councilmember Harrity. COUNCIL PRESIDENT 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity for a motion on the resolution.

Councilman Harrity

Council President, I proudly ask for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Councilman Harrity

Thank you.

Council President Johnson

It has been proudly moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please 12/5/24 - STATED - 2ND READING read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

A privileged resolution recognizing the urgent need for comprehensive mental health services for Philadelphia's youth. Introduced by Councilmember Ahmad.

Council President Johnson

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a motion on the resolution.

Councilwoman Ahmad

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

Council President Johnson

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Chief Clerk

Council President, there are no further resolutions in my possession.

Council President Johnson

Thank you very much. Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

Are there any speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips.

Councilman Phillips

I just want to brief. I want to let residents of the 9th District know that we have two major events coming up. One, our former State Representative West Oak Lane Isabella Fitzgerald, we will be having a street renaming ceremony for her on Sunday, December -- sorry about that, December 15th at the West Oak Lane Charter School, which is located at 7115 Stenton Avenue at 1:00 p.m. Again, Sunday, December 15th West Oak Lane Charter School we'll be honoring a street renaming for our beloved State Representative Isabella Fitzgerald. In addition to that, in Olney with our State Representative Anthony Bellmon as well as Local 98 whose business manager is from Olney, we will be hosting a Miracle on 5th Street at St. Paul's Lutheran 5918 North 5th Street on Saturday, December 21st from 3:00 to 4:30. It's going to be in partnership with State Rep Dorisha Parker as well as (inaudible) Philadelphia in the 61st Ward. It's going to be a holiday caroling concert followed by a toy give-away and food for residents in the area. Again, myself and State Representative Anthony Bellmon and Local 98 will be hosting a Miracle on 5th Street Saturday, December 21st from 3:00 to 4:30 concert and toy give-away right at St. Paul's Lutheran Church at the 5900 block of North 5th Street. Thank you, Council President.

Council President Johnson

You're welcome. The Chair recognizes City

Councilwoman Ahmad

Thank you, Council President. Today I introduced a resolution in light of state legislation banning youth mental health services which served 18,000 Philadelphia students across 139 schools. Sadly 40 percent of our high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and mental health-related emergency room visits among children have nearly doubled over the past couple of years. Now more than ever City leaders, health care providers, educators and community partners must step up and ensure that children can access the care they need. I would like to use this time to bring awareness to some resources available to Philadelphia's youth like the Philadelphia Mental Health Center, Child Guidance Resource Centers and the Children's Crisis Treatment Center offers services such as crisis intervention, outpatient therapy and school-based mental health programs. Additionally, the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine have 24/7 crisis centers for emergency mental health needs. Last, by dialing 988 on your phone you can reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which will connect you to a counselor for immediate emotional support. Again, the number is 988. We must continue to support our city's youth by raising awareness about mental health, educating our communities on available resources and fostering a seeking help. Thank you, Council President.

Council President Johnson

Thank you. There are no more speeches. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion to adjourn.

Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stands adjourned until Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Johnson

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Council stands adjourned until Thursday, December 12th at 10:00 a.m. All those in favor will (Aye.)

Council President Johnson

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Johnson

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. 40:21 40:24 196:13 200:17, 126:9 5th 72nd 23 accounta 56:20 4:30 52:15 197:4, 154:21 bility 196:24 Stated Meeting 5 12/05/2024 109:5 activiti adequate 177:7 194:16 African achievem es ly 178:13, adult 20:23 ents 23:23 80:15 22 105:5 182:10 89:6 187:7 adjourn 180:2, AFSCME advise activity 200:11 11 20:24 achievin 16:7 36:4 181:17 182:11 g adjourne advocate 61:21 182:3 98:13 d 118:16 aftersch 136:6 183:7, acknowle 200:16, ool advocate dge actual 22 87:14, 184:19 s 121:4 ADJOURNM 23 14:18 185:5 110:10 24:20 add ENT 186:11, aftertho Adwan 70:18 110:7 200:1 20 ught 73:12 116:4 187:20 117:5 acknowle Adjudica affairs dging added tion 188:6 agenda 11:5 23:18 8:22 132:2 189:7, 8:22 97:7 187:2 10:7 16 9:2 administ Affected 92:3 190:18 10:8 acquire ered 91:15 adding 191:4 agreemen 50:21 64:16 46:3 192:5, affectin 52:23 administ t 61:21 14 g 49:11, Act ration 193:14, 32:9 136:6 21 40:23 24:9 23 addition affects 50:24 41:17 104:5 194:22 25:3 112:11 51:18 123:5 172:17 195:8 94:21 affirmat 53:3, action 188:15 196:19 adoption ive 13,24 9:10 administ 123:15 addition 131:17 75:3,5, 68:10 rative 125:7 135:10 8 108:5 106:2 al 61:2 126:19 139:8 113:11 67:3 actions 132:2, 176:16 116:7 175:23 143:2 9:20 11 178:3 117:4, 146:20 33:10 Addition adopt 179:20 20 150:14 192:21 ally 93:22 181:12 154:10 agreemen activism 199:10 183:2 adopted 158:8 ts 21:12 address 184:14 161:19 123:20 52:7 183:24 108:11 186:6 165:13 124:7 agrees addressi 187:15 168:21 activist 125:13, 118:6 189:2 172:7 s ng 23 190:12 Ahmad 12:20 19:22 127:2, 175:21 191:22 14:20 179:7 12 afford 193:7 38:11, 176:21 112:18 Stated Meeting 6 12/05/2024 30:17 58:7 85:5 24 7:2,11 63:18, Allison 62:3 86:11 103:9 16:2 70:6 amending 88:21 111:2 162:2 65:7,10 76:8 40:2 189:22 114:16 approvin 131:9, 45:10 announce 119:4 g allowing 46:9,12 d 122:7 15:13 71:6 135:2,3 57:18 107:12 178:9 37:2 138:23, already. P. L. m. org. N.