Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Virtual Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 4, 2021 10:13 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting February 4, 2021
Good morning, everyone. We are going to get started now. So, I understand that State law currently requires that the following announcement be made at the beginning of every remote Council Session. Due to the current public health emergency, City Council is currently meeting remotely. We are using Microsoft Teams to make this remote meeting possible. Instructions for how the public may view the meeting and offer public comment are included in the Stated Meeting Notice that was published in the Daily News, Inquirer and Legal Intelligencer prior to the meeting, and can also be found on phlcouncil.com. I will now note that the hour has come. And the Clerk will, please, call the roll to take attendance. Our members that are in attendance will, please, indicate that you are present or say a couple of words to make sure that your image is displayed on the screen. Mr. Decker, please, call the roll.
Good morning. I am present. Looking forward to today's Council Session.
Good morning, Council President and good morning colleagues and good morning to the public. Hope everyone is well.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Present.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. And good morning, Philadelphia.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Look forward to today's session.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Looking forward to today.
Morning, Council President. And good morning, colleagues.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues.
Good morning, Mr. President. Good morning, colleagues. Good -- I am present.
Good morning, Council Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 President. Good morning, colleagues. I'm present.
Good morning, Mr. President. Good morning, colleagues and viewing public.
Buenos dias, buenos dias, buenos dias. Good things happen in Philadelphia.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Present.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Happy to serve the City of Philadelphia.
I am present. Thank you all very much. A quorum of the Council is present and will now come to order. Despite the great need, there will be no invocation today. We will, however, observe a very brief moment of silent prayer for our City, its leaders and its citizens during the current public health crisis. Can we now, please, observe a moment of silence. (Moment of Silence.)
Thank you very much. Our next order of business is the Approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 28, 2021. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to move that the -- the Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 acceptance of the Journal for the meeting of Thursday, January 28, 2021 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting on Thursday, January 28, 2021 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Ayes.)
Ayes have it. And our Journal is approved. And our next order of business is request for leaves of absence. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the members of Council, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Chair thanks the Councilwoman. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 And our next order of business is Communications. And, Mr. Decker, would you please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communication that you may have in your possession.
From the Mayor to the President to the Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia. I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution appointing Chris Barnes to the Board of Directors to the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Katrina Johnston-Zimmerman to the Board of Directors of the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Adam Zinken to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Allison Harvey Hindman to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Monica Thompson to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District; and Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 A resolution appointing Adam Shapiro to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter providing for the expansion of the Board of License and Inspection Review and providing for the submission of the proposed amendment to the Electors of Philadelphia; and An ordinance providing for the submission of the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter providing for the expansion of the Board of License and Inspection Review; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, a parcel of land situated at 2401 Chestnut Street for further conveyance, and authorizing the plotting upon City Plan Number 307 of the right of way for bridge repair, maintenance and reconstruction purposes for stormwater sewer and drainage purposes; and An ordinance authorizing the Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Philadelphia Municipal Authority, the Philadelphia Gas Works by Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation solely in its capacity as operator and manager of the City-owned Philadelphia Gas Works to enter into certain transactions and contracts regarding the lease and license of portions of the premises located at 5000 Summerdale Avenue and 5501 Whitaker Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for the use of the Philadelphia Gas Works, all under such terms and conditions.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. And our next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. By way of a reminder, we are asking that all resolutions, including privileged resolutions, be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council unless they are being referred to committee. In our current remote environment, this procedure will provide an appropriate opportunity for public comment. I want to thank you very much in advance for your anticipated cooperation. Mr. Decker, will you please read the Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 titles of the legislation that is being offered today by members.
Councilwoman Parker offers one bill and two resolutions, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, providing for the expansion of the Board of License and Inspection Review as approved by resolution of the City Council."
And a resolution commending the Philadelphia 76ers for creating the "Buy Black Program" to support black-owned small businesses.
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter providing for the expansion of the Board of License and Inspection Review.
Councilwoman Gilmore Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Richardson offers two resolutions, entitled "A resolution honoring and congratulating Philadelphia natives Harris and Erin Wilson for their new positions as White House liaison for the Environmental Protection Agency and Special Assistance to the President and Deputy Director for the White House Office of Political Affairs and Strategy."
And a resolution recognizing February 2021 as Career and Technical Education, CTE Awareness Month, in Philadelphia.
Councilwoman Gym offers one resolution, entitled "A resolution commemorating the life and legacy of Community Activist Russell Meddin whose tireless advocacy for vibrant public space, public bike share led to millions of Philadelphians enjoying and celebrating the City of Philadelphia's public trails and provided a powerful model of civil engagement for the nation and the world. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021
Councilman Jones offers one bill and two resolutions, entitled "An ordinance repealing Chapter 21-1200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Police Advisory Board," and replacing it with a new Chapter 21-1200 that reconstitutes and renames the Board as the 'Citizens Police Oversight Commission,' and as authorized by the Charter, provides for the Commission's appointment, the powers and duties of the Commission and the manner in which the Commission and other officers, employees and agencies shall fulfill their respective responsibilities with respect to the Commission."
And a resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Public Safety to hold public hearings examining the feasibility of a multi-state reciprocity program for witness relocation using United States Department of Housing and Urban Development and public housing agency properties. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021
And a resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Public Safety, all public hearings, to examine more equitable solutions to crime scene cleanup policies that place the logistical and financial burden on the families of homicide victims.
Councilman Johnson offers two bills, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes; and "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a parcel of land situated at 2401 Chestnut Street for further conveyance."
Councilwoman Quinones Sanchez offers two bills. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 On behalf of Council President, Councilwoman Sanchez offers, "An ordinance authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 2021 from the General Fund, the Council to the General Fund, the Department of Planning and Development."
And on her own behalf, Councilwoman Sanchez offers, "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes.
Councilman Green offers two bills. On behalf of Council President, Councilman Green offers, "An ordinance authorizing -
-- "the Philadelphia Municipal Authority and the Philadelphia Gas Works by Philadelphia Facilities Management Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Corporation solely in its capacity as operator and manager of the City-owned Philadelphia Gas Works, to enter into certain transactions and contracts regarding the lease and license of portions of the premises located at 5000 Summerdale Avenue, 5501 Whitaker Avenue."
Councilman Green offers on his behalf, "An ordinance amending Section 20-610 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Statement of Financial Interest,' by revising the required conditions and information for filing."
Councilwoman Brooks offers one resolution, entitled "A resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Intergenerational Affairs and Aging to hold public hearings examining solutions to the ongoing housing crisis impacting senior Philadelphians."
And that will be on Today's Calendar. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021
Councilman Domb offers two resolutions, entitled "A resolution honoring Stephanie Resnick on her receipt of the prestigious Judge Learned Hand Award, from the American Jewish Committee in Philadelphia for her distinguished legal career."
And a resolution recognizing the work of William R. Sasso upon his transition from his role as Chairman of Stradley, Ronon, Stevens and Young to Chairman Emeritus.
Councilwoman Gauthier offers one resolution appointing Andrew Goodman to the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Land Bank. (Off-Record conversation heard.)
Somebody needs to mute their mic. Mr. Decker, that will be on next week's Calendar. Mr. Decker, I think I said that one of the honorees was going to be on today's Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Calendar. I think that should be on next week's Calendar. Did you catch that for me? Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Decker.
Councilman Thomas offers three resolutions, entitled "A resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Public Safety to hold hearings to review the motor vehicle stop of a young mother of her -- and her two-year-old son and resulting police activities as well as other incidents that arose following the police killing of Walter Wallace.
And a resolution honoring and congratulating the St. Joseph's Preparatory School football team on their successful 2020 season and overall 6-0 record in the Philadelphia Catholic League.
And a resolution thanking Congress for passing the "Save Our Stages Ac"t and urging the Small Business Administration to equitably promote and distribute funds while continuing to support and invest in the arts and Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 culture sector.
Councilman Squilla offers one bill and six resolutions, entitled "A ordinance amending Chapter 9-3900 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Property Licenses and Owner Accountability;' Section A-906, entitled 'Property and License Fees;' Chapter 14-604, entitled 'Accessory Uses and Structures;' and Chapter 19-2400, entitled 'Hotel Room Rental Tax,' to add and revise provisions related to the use of properties for limited lodging and hotel purposes and to the collection of hotel rental taxes in connection therewith."
And a resolution appointing Chris Barnes to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Katrina Johnston-Zimmerman to the Board of Directors of the South Street Headhouse District; and Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 A resolution appointing Adam Zinken to the Board of Directors of South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Allison Harvey Hindman to the Board of Directors of South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Monica Thompson to the Board of Directors to the South Street Headhouse District; and A resolution appointing Adam Shapiro to the Board of Directors to the South Street Headhouse District.
Those resolutions will be referred to committee.
Councilwoman Bass offers one bill and two resolutions. On behalf of Council President, Councilwoman Bass offers, "An ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Contracts and Procurement,' by amending Chapter 17-1400, entitled 'Non-competitively Bid Contracts; Financial Assistance,' to provide procedures applicable to the awarding of contracts to non-City providers of vaccine doses for COVID-19 and related variance." Stated Meeting February 4, 2021
Councilwoman Bass offers on her own behalf, "A resolution recognizing February 7, 2021 as 'National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day,' and honoring the work of NBHAAD and providing access to culturally sensitive, high quality healthcare, HIV/AIDS services, health education and social services."
And a resolution recognizing the week of February 1, 2021 to February 7, 2021 as 'National Gun Violence Survivors' Week,' to honor and remember all victims and survivors of gun violence and uplift the resilient voices of survivors in Philadelphia.
Councilman Oh offers one bill and one resolution, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Business Income and Receipts Taxes,' by expanding the distressed business tax Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 credits to include businesses impacted by COVID-19 restrictions."
And a resolution expressing support for long time Philadelphia News Anchor Ukee Washington, and standing with all impacted employees at CBS-3 amid reports of gross misconduct at the network.
There are no other bills or resolutions being offered by the Members, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. That concludes the Introduction of Bills and Resolutions. We have no reports from committee today. So our next order of business is the Consideration of Calendar. There being no bills on the First Reading Calendar, Chair recognizes Councilman Parker for a motion concerning the resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 I move that the Rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar. They are Resolution Nos. 210008, 210009, 210011, 210012, 210013, 210014, 210015, 210016, 210017, 210018, 210019, 210020, 210021, 210022, 210023, 210024, 210025, 210026, 210027, 210028, 210029, 210035, 210036, 210037, 210039, 210040, 210042, 210043, 210044 and 210047.
Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the resolutions just read by Councilwoman Parker. All in favor, indicate by saying aye. (Ayes.)
Ayes have it. Motion carries. And we will consider the resolution of the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Parker for the purpose of calling of bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. In addition to the resolutions being considered on the Consent Agenda, the following resolution is being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today. Number 210038. All other bills and resolutions are being held.
Thank you very much, Councilwoman. Thank you. So, before we consider the Calendar today, we will have our Public Comment section. We are going to take about three, four, five minutes to give our technology professionals some time to connect the speakers we have for today's meeting. So, let's take a brief break. (Brief break taken.)
Thank you. We are now going to move into our Public Comment session. Before we proceed with the consideration Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 of the public comment, we will take a brief moment and we are going to go over some rules. Now that everyone is connected to the meeting and before considering the resolutions and bills we have before us today, we will consider the public comment. It will go as follows: Our public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for possible action at this session of Council. A speaker on any of those matters must sign up in order to testify. You must call 215-686-3406 by 3 p.m. the day before the session to sign up for public comment. When you call, we will take your name, phone number, the number of the legislative item you are commenting on, and whether you are in support or against the legislation, and we add you to the list. We will telephone each person on the list during the Council Session and invite them to our remote meeting. Under ideal circumstances, we will each have three minutes. I think we are actually going to have three minutes today to speak. But the time minutes may vary from time to time. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the established time limits. So once invited to the meeting and asked to begin your testimony, a timer will be started. We will monitor your remaining time throughout your testimony. And when there are 30 seconds remaining to our time, you will be reminded of this. Once your allotted time has passed, you will be asked to conclude your remarks. Shortly thereafter, you will be muted and disconnected from the remote meeting. I, also, reserve the right to limit the number of speakers where repetitious comments are being made on the same matter, and to the limit the scope of the testimony to only certain items on the agenda during the emergency, which could affect call, call backs or public comment at the meeting. Please, be aware that this public meeting being recorded. Because the meeting is public, participants and viewers have no reasonable expectation of privacy. So by continuing to be in the meeting, you are consenting to being recorded. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 I will now ask the Chief Clerk to read the first name on our list for our public comment.
The first speaker is Shonda McClain. MS. McCLAIN: Good morning.
Good morning. MS. McCLAIN: I am calling regarding Resolution 200038. And I want to thank City Council and Councilwoman Katherine Gilmore Richardson for this proclamation. The work I have done with Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati to support the African American Children's Book Fair over the years, whether as an editor at the Philadelphia Tribune or now, I have done because I believe in what she's doing and the impact her work has on the African American community. Books have played an impartant role -an important role in my life. And I only wish I had the exposure and access to books written by and for African Americans when I was a child. So, thank you to Vanesse for your work with the African American Children's Book Fair. And thank you, City Council, for this recognition. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Thank you.
Thank you. And just for the record, just state your name, please. MS. McCLAIN: My name is Shonda McClain.
Thank you. Thank you so much for your testimony. MS. McCLAIN: Thank you.
I am Carole Boston Weatherford, the author of more than fifty books for young people. The author of at least five books that have Philadelphia tie-ins -- BOX: Henry Brown Mails Himself to Freedom; Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom; By and By: Charles Albert Tindley, the Father Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 of Gospel Music; and two books about jazz greats who have ties to Philadelphia -- Before John was a Jazz Giant and Becoming Billie Holiday. I'm specially pleased to support and accept the proclamation for the 29th Annual African American Children's Book Fair because I've been involved in the fair for more than fifty years. So, I know the importance of the event to the Philadelphia community and to the community of black book ill -- black children's book authors and illustrators. This is an event where black children's book authors and illustrators get a chance to meet children who -- some of whom have never met a real live author or illustrator, and where families can come and choose from more black books than they can at any other event in the year and perhaps in the country. So, it's an important event for literacy and, also, for the African American community. And I am heartened that the Council is recognizing the event. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for your testimony. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021
Yes, good morning. Hi. I'm Shameeka Sawyer. I am test -- giving a testimony on behalf of Councilwoman Bass and the National Gun Violence Survivors Week resolution that she is introducing. I do believe that this is important. My brother was murdered on June 1, 2020 during the pandemic. And I do feel that survivors of gun violence, especially the victim's families, should be recognized. Because when the cameras go off, we are still in pain. When there is no more media attention, we are still in pain. And I do believe that a National Gun Violence Survivors Week will bring light and shed more impact on what we go through. Thank you.
Greetings. I am Mary Bentley Lamar, the North Atlantic Regional Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. And I am pleased to be here to support Resolution No. 210008. So, I first want to bring greetings to the Honorable City of Philadelphia Council President Darrell Clarke and resolution sponsor and Majority Leader Councilmember Cherelle Parker and all the Members of the Council. We truly appreciate your support through the years of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Now, I'm your neighbor. I live in New Jersey. I and approximately 5,000 of my sorority sisters will virtually enter the City of Brotherly Love for the 90th Annual North Atlantic Regional Conference March 4 through the 7, 2021. We are honored that you proposed to make March 4 Alpha Kappa Alpha Day in Philadelphia with this resolution. On that day, I want to personally invite you and the City to our public meeting that showcases national and local dignitaries, honors community leaders and highlights community service. The public meeting will feature a performance by Kathy Sledge. And the keynote address will be delivered by Pulitzer Prize Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Winning Journalist and Alpha Kappa Alpha woman Yamiche Alcindor. Just a brief history, Alpha Kappa Alpha has ties to the City of Brotherly Love. Now, I understand that Augusta "Gussie" Clark, now deceased, was a member of your Council. And she's an Alpha Kappa Alpha woman. We were founded at Howard University in 1908. Our founder, Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, resided in the Philadelphia area in her latter years. And she chartered the first graduate chapter in Philadelphia Omega Omega Chapter. Rosa Parks, today would have been her 108th birthday. And I understand that your SEPTA system has set aside a bus -- a seat on the bus today in her honor. She's an Alpha Kappa Alpha member. And making history, her-story is the second highest officer in the United States, our sorority sister Kamala Harris, Vice President Kamala Harris. So, it's no accident that the resolution number ends in 08. We appreciate -- you must have made that happen. We appreciate that you made that happen because on behalf of the North Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Atlantic members spanning from Washington, DC to Maine, we want to thank you for this consideration. And joyfully request that Resolution No. 210008 designating March 4, 2021 as Alpha Kappa Alpha Day in Philadelphia be adopted. Thank you so much.
Thank you, neighbor. Thank you for your testimony. And thank you for all, all the awesome work you have done in the past. We really appreciate you all and welcome.
Good morning. Thank you, Council President, Members of Council. My name is John Scott. I'm speaking on Bill 210038 concerning the zoning reforms. I'm a neighborhood advocate and a committee person and chair of the 18th Ward in Fishtown. I want to first talk about how the RCOs have faired under the current zoning code. In Fishtown, our RCO was once the gold standard. Zoning meetings brought the highest turnout, and votes were cast to support or Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 oppose each project. And they were held anonymously, and all neighbors had a vote. What was once the gold standard of community democracy has become a swamp infested by realtors, developers and special interest. This year, only 80 people out of the 26,000 in the neighborhood were even allowed to elect a board. And even those 80 were required to choose from a specific slate of candidates. Regular residents are not allowed to join the zoning committee anymore, while non-resident realtors are. Neighbors that do participate must sign up because there is no privacy policy in place. Board members offer up few targeted email address lists to business groups. Our participation is now a marketing ploy. We are told by the RCO that we can't talk about parking because it's not a zoning issue. Meanwhile, the organization's president lobbies for parking restrictions that make it even worse. This is what has become of our democracy in our community, our RCO system that was supposed to give us a voice. But downtown, the ZBA is even worse. When we voice our opinions at the ZBA, we are Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 muted. In a democracy, we try to speak and we are muted. When 200 of my neighbors speak on behalf of a local business and their natural expansion, the ZBA denies them. But when an unscrupulous developer comes to the ZBA, our opposition is ignored. 92 percent of the variance passes. The only ones that don't are the small businesses and the long-time neighbors. The word hardship isn't even mentioned anymore at most zoning meetings. And this is what our City democracy has become. The standards that you all put in place in 2012 are now far out the window. RCOs that are now elected by less than 1 percent of the community. I'm sure that wasn't the objective. Community zoning meetings that don't address parking concerns. One big part of the objective in 2012 and ZBA hearings were the connect to get everything they asked for despite Council's wished and everyone else gets the mute button, well, I am sure that wasn't the goal either. Council President, I've worked with neighborhood groups across the City who share our concerns. I have spoken out for Strawberry Mansion and the right to determine design Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 direction of their own neighborhood. I have spoken in South Kensington about the right to preserve their community garden. And I have spoken many times in Fishtown with my long-term residents who wish only not to be buried by endless construction. Council President, I support your bill and I commend your leadership. This is long overdue. Council, please, support 210038. Thank you.
Thank you very much, Mr. Scott. Appreciate your testimony.
Good morning, Council President Clarke and all Members present. My name is Jude-Anne Spencer Phillip. And I'm the Communications Specialist at Bebashi-Transition to Hope. I am speaking in support of the resolution to recognize February 7 as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and to honor the work of Bebashi-Transition to Hope. On behalf of Bebashi, I would like to thank Councilmember Bass for introducing this Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 resolution as well as Councilmember Parker, Gym, Brooks, Henon, Thomas and Domb for cosponsoring. During the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Bebashi's Cofounder and First Executive Director Dr. Rhashidah Abdul-Khabeer, while working in the public health sector, saw firsthand the disparities in our health system when treating with communities of color. What she realized was that the majority of the black population received the least amount of information and access to resources as the disease continued to spread within our community. And she knew that something needed to be done. In 1985, Bebashi was founded as a direct response to this crisis in low-income communities of color with the aim of providing access to culturally sensitive, high quality healthcare, HIV/AIDS services, health education and social services. We were the first African American organization in the United States to address this crisis in urban communities. And today, we remain one of Philadelphia's largest providers of HIV/AIDS education and services for the urban community. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Although much progress has been made since the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, black and African American populations continue to be disproportionately affected by the disease. According to the CDC, black and African-American individuals account for our highest proportion of new diagnoses and people with HIV compared to other races and ethnicities. And in fact, although black and African American people make up 13 percent of the US population, we account for 43 percent of all new HIV cases based on 2018 reports. Observances such as National Black HIV/AIDS awareness day helps to bring much needed attention to these disparities that continue to exist in our communities. And as an organization that works directly with low-income communities of color, Bebashi fully supports any opportunity to increase awareness, encourage dialogue and highlight the work that has been done and that still needs to be done to bring and end to health and racial inequities. Thank you for your time. And on behalf of Bebashi again, thank you for acknowledging the work that we do. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021
Thank you so much for your testimony. Appreciate it.
Hi. Hi, Council. My name is Andrew Miller. I'm a constituent in the 18th Ward in Fishtown and a Member of the Rewards Coalition. I'm testifying today to support Bill 210038. And thank Council President Clarke for introducing this as well as encourage the rest of Council to support the bill. It has become apparent to many of us in the community that the current zoning code and the organizations that uphold and enforce the zoning code have significant shortcomings. The shortcomings manifest themselves in various ways. We have seen the shortcomings in matters or racial equity as we discussed here before when we were establishing the Strawberry Mansion overlay. We have seen unsafe construction practices as a result of an unhealthy and counterproductive deference to developers and real estate speculators. I mean, you can -- you can look to the June 5 memorial at 22nd and Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Market, multiple recent -- more recent building collapses that have happened in Fishtown as well as elsewhere throughout the City as testimonies to that, as well. We have seen the unnecessary destruction of Philadelphia history, which is arguably one of our greatest assets in driving tourism to our various neighborhoods. And for these and other reasons stated by others today, I ask that City Council pass Bill 210038 so that we can seek necessary improvements and greater accountability in the zoning process. Thank you for your time.
Yes, we can. Good morning. State your name for the record and proceed with your testimony.
Yes. My name is Valerie Ross. I'm a cofounder of West Philadelphians for Progressive Planning and Development, an RCO. I'm a -- I received a certificate in Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Citizens Planning Institute, as well. And I am calling in support of City Council's Darrell Clarke's proposal for Zoning Review Board 210038. I am -- I am commenting in support for a number of reasons. I won't repeat others. I will -- I will send my support to the other RCOs who have spoken. We have the identical experience in West Philly with dangerous construction, rampant real estate speculation. And I would also note 40,000 units in the City, affordable units, being wiped out in the last few years just since 2015 in a time when we are desperate for affordable housing. We see an incoherence of some currently with ZBA as has already been mentioned, approving 92 percent, I believe, of all requests, all variances put before them. We are, as RCOs, overwhelmed with the number of variance requests and never is there hardship demonstrated. We have lots of neighborhoods underway in terms of being gentrified. There is no support for homeowners. Very limited support. The developers are taking over RCOs, taking over Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 local politics. And so, we have that issue plus mounting research on the density argument, which is usually the excuse that developers use to trample over neighborhoods. Is showing, A, that density -- density issues are creating all sorts of health and climate problems. They are having a terrible effect on our environment at a time of global warming. The scientists -- global scientists right now are saying what we should be doing is not building more where there is no population demand for more market rate units. We should be retrofitting houses, supporting -- supporting our under -- underclass -- I mean, our lower income residents to retrofit their houses and, also, act when people should be retrofitting. We need for the City Council to take control of this so that there is coherent people who understand our neighborhoods and what we are going through. I thank you for this proposal. I hope it passes because we desperately, desperately need it. Thank you so much for listening to me.
Thank you for your testimony, ma'am. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021
There are no other speakers in the Public Comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Decker. That concludes our Public Comment. We will now -- we will now consider today's Resolution Consent Agenda. I will ask the Clerk to please read the title of all the resolutions on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any Member may object to the inclusion of the resolution on the resolution Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection and without debate, the resolution will be immediately removed from the Resolution Consent Agenda gentleman and placed on today's regular Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker will now read the titles of the Resolutions on the Consent Agenda.
Resolution No. 210008, entitled a "Resolution honoring the 90th North Atlantic Regional Conference of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and declaring March 4, 2021 as Alpha Kappa Alpha Day in the City of Philadelphia;" and Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Resolution No. 210009, entitled a "Resolution honoring the African American Children's Book Project on the occasion of its 29th Annual African American Children's Book Fair"; and Resolution No. 210011, entitled a "Resolution calling on Congress to pass House Resolution 6422 to create a National Infrastructure Bank"; and Resolution No. 210012, entitled a "Resolution honoring the life and legacy of Ted Kirsch for his lifelong commitment to educating children, empowering and supporting teachers and strengthening the labor movement"; and Resolution No. 210013, entitled a "Resolution honoring and celebrating Philadelphia's living legends: Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, Reverend Gregory Holston, Reverend Mark Tyler, Deputy Police Commissioner Melvin Singleton, State Representative Joanna McClinton, and the Doctors of the Black Doctors Consortium who were the 'Guiding Lights' of the year 2020 and are trailblazers and leaders in their respective fields of medicine, research, politics, religion, the justice system and Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 community outreach, as part of the commemoration of Black History Month"; and Resolution No. 210014, entitled a "Resolution honoring the life and legacy of esteemed Philadelphia entrepreneur and restauranteur, KeVen Parker"; and Resolution No. 210015, entitled a "Resolution honoring Henry Aaron for a lifetime of pioneering achievements as a professional athlete and civil rights champion"; and Resolution No. 210016, entitled a "Resolution also naming the 1300 block of South Street 'KeVen Parker Way,' to honor and celebrate the legacy of KeVen Parker"; and Resolution No. 210017, entitled a "Resolution also naming the 7000 block of Woodland Avenue 'Paul "Earthquake" Moore Way to honor and celebrate Paul Earthquake Moore for a lifetime of devoted service to the Southwest Philadelphia community"; and Resolution No. 210018, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2001 Pemberton Street located in the 2nd Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210019, entitled, a Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 833 East Madison Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210020, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1736 and 1738 Bodine Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210021, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1907 North Phillip Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210022, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2006 North Lawrence Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210023, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2031 Orkney Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210024, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2034 Hope Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution 210025, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Bank to dispose of 2249 Waterloo Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210026, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2451 North 6th Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210027, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2661 North Orianna Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No.
210028, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 4257 North Fairhill Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210029, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 4338 Tackawanna Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210035, entitled a "Resolution recognizing the outstanding work of Deborah Diamond as president of Campus Philly upon her departure from the organization"; and Resolution No. 210036, entitled a "Resolution honoring and congratulating Dr. Rachel Levine upon her appointment to the Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 Assistant Health Secretary in the Administration of President Joseph Biden and recognizing her outstanding contributions to the safety and health of Pennsylvanians during the COVID-19 pandemic"; and Resolution No. 210037, entitled a "Resolution recognizing AJC Philadelphia for its work with We Are Here! and ORT in the 2021 commemoration of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, and further acknowledging January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day in the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 210039, entitled a "Resolution recognizing and honoring Paul Deegan on his retirement after more than 30 years of service to PIDC and more than 45 total years of service to the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 210040, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the first Councilmanic District"; and Resolution No. 210042, entitled a Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 "Resolution supporting House Resolution 25, which would initiate investigations and call for the sanction, including removal from the House of Representatives of members who sought to overturn the 2020 Presidential election"; and Resolution No. 210043, entitled a "Resolution honoring and recognizing Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett for her leadership and achievement on the National Institutes of Health's COVID-19 vaccine research"; and Resolution No. 210044, entitled a "Resolution honoring and recognizing Stacey Abrams for her leadership as the founder of the Fair Fight Action and the New Georgia Project and her achievement in fighting voter suppression"; and Resolution No. 210047, entitled a "Resolution honoring and celebrating the legendary record label 'Philadelphia International Records' on the occasion of their 50th Anniversary," all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Parker Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 for a motion to adopt each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that each of the resolution on the Resolution Consent Agenda be adopted. All in favor, indicate by saying aye. (Ayes.)
Ayes have it. And each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda have been adopted. We will now consider the resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. And, Mr. Decker, please read the title of Resolution No. 210038.
"Resolution authorizing Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 the creation of a Zoning Code Review Commission to evaluate and recommend the improvements to Philadelphia's zoning code."
And the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr -thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor, indicate by saying aye. (Ayes.)
Ayes have it. And that resolution is adopted. We will now consider -
Oh, I'm sorry, Mr. Decker. I was getting ready to ask Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 you to do the additional resolutions.
We have a Resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Public Safety to hold public hearings examining the feasibility f a multi-state reciprocity program for witness relocation using United States Department of Housing and Urban Development and Public Housing Agency properties, introduced by Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor, indicate by saying aye. (Ayes.)
Those Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 opposed. (No opposition.)
And a resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Public Safety to hold public hearings to examine more equitable solutions to crime scene cleanup policies that place the logistical and financial burden on the families of homicide victims, introduced by Councilman Jones.
Mr. President, I will speak to these resolutions at the Speech of the Majority. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor, say aye. (Ayes.)
Ayes have it. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021 And that resolution is adopted.
And a resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Intergenerational Affairs and Aging to hold public hearings examining solutions to the ongoing housing crisis impacting senior Philadelphians, introduced by Councilwoman Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor, indicate by saying aye. (Ayes.)
Ayes have it. And that resolution is adopted. Stated Meeting February 4, 2021