COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, April 4, 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 F. SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, INTERIM CHIEF CLERK
I note that the hour has come that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will now come to order. Members will please take their seats. Visitors will retire to their seats outside of the rails. I will also ask the Members to please keep your voice to a minimum. Before proceeding, I will ask all those present to please set your cell phones to silent or vibrate. Thank you. To give our invocation this morning -- to give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Father James Callahan of the mighty He is here today as a guest of Councilmember Brian O'Neill. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors rise.)
A privilege to be here today. A citizen of Philadelphia all my life. Offer our prayer. I begin the prayer with an old Irish fable. It's a story about an ancient king who was on his last leg, and he called his three sons to meet with him and ask them to help him shorten his road. And the one son stepped up and said, I'll buy all the fastest horses in the land and attach them to your coach and shorten the road for you, Dad. The second son came up and said, I'll cut down all the trees I'll shorten the road for you. And finally, his youngest son came up to him and said, Dad, I'll sit next to you in the coach and we'll tell stories. I offer prayer today and pray the members of this Council listen to the stories of the people of Philadelphia, all of the people of Philadelphia, the young, the old, the men, women, the Black, the White, Hispanic, Asian. Listen to their stories. And as the leaders of the people of Philadelphia, may they not only listen to the stories but may the stories help them to shorten the road for us, shorten the road for us all. And we ask the Lord to bless them, bless us in all they say and do. We ask this in the Lord's name. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Pastor for his invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 21, 2024. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 21, 2024 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 21, 2024 stand approved. All those in favor will (Aye.)
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 Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Good morning, Council President. On behalf of the Minority, there are no leaves of absence for today.
Thank you very much. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain 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 session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings --
Excuse me, Member. I just want to ask if you're going to be in the chambers today, could you please keep your conversations to a minimum or please step outside the chambers as we conduct the business today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Council President. I will continue, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or recalled from the Mayor, amendments to bills recalled from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar, and a motion placing a bill or a resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible 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 Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will (Aye.)
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 the chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of Council, we welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate you taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones who will present a resolution honoring Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman for her female and first Black Chief Executive Officer and President of the Philadelphia Zoo. Will Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman and those accompanying her please join the Councilmember at the podium. And she also brought a guest with her as well. Joining Councilmember Jones at the podium is Councilmember -glad I'm up here. Joining Councilmember Jones is Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, Councilmember Mike Driscoll, Councilmember Kathy Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Jim Harrity and Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke. Councilmember Jones, the podium is yours.
President, we also have Rojo joining us in chambers today, which is the mascot brought today to represent the Zoo. I represent the Zoo only in the parking lot across the street. My colleague Jamie Gauthier represents the rest of the acreage over there but she gave me permission some time ago to take a tour of your zoo, and I rediscovered it. I rediscovered it. It's not our grandparents' zoo. It is a zoo where it is more interactive, it is prolific in its presentation of animal life, plants, mammals, reptiles and also it has a biosphere that incorporates plants and it's amazing. And it is actually a cheap date. Take your kids -well, not so cheap but really good. But what we're here today we attracted Philadelphia some talent from St. Louis. We were able to show our best side and Doctor took on the undertaking of moving the needle forward for the zoo. When I did the tour, she pointed out what the goals and objectives were. The certifications -- see I remember, some of the certifications that she wanted to maintain so that we are a first class institution in Philadelphia that is not just in the 3rd District but a national and international attraction. I would also finally say that Philadelphia is full of firsts and the zoo is one of them. We were the first zoo in the nation and we still hold a very high standard that zoos and animal habitats go. Therefore;
Jo-Elle Mogerman for her leadership as the first female and first Black Chief Officer and President of the Philadelphia Zoo;
Whereas Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman has made history by becoming the first woman and the first Black Chief Executive Officer and President of the nation's oldest zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo and;
Whereas Dr. Mogerman who assumed the role in October 30, 2023 brings a wealth of experience and a clear commitment to the community, animal welfare, staff development and operational excellence making her the ideal President for the Philadelphia Zoo and;
And whereas Dr. Mogerman's leadership evident throughout her esteemed career, including her role as Director of the St. Louis Zoo, WildCare Park while she oversaw the planning and development of $230 million wildlife projects and;
Whereas Dr. Mogerman's dedication to conservation, community engagement and operational excellence aligns perfectly with the values and the mission of the Philadelphia Zoo, which has been a pioneer in wildlife conservation and community involvement since its establishment in 1874 and;
Whereas Dr. Mogerman's appointment marks a significant milestone in the history of zoo leadership, exemplifying progress towards greater diversity and inclusion and leadership positions within the zoo and;
Whereas Dr. Mogerman's management style characterized by inspiring her team, setting visions and capitalizing on strengths will undoubtedly propel the Philadelphia Zoo into a model for zoos of the future. Now, therefore be it;
Therefore be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby recognizes and honors Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman for her leadership as the first female and first Black Chief Executive Officer and President of the Philadelphia Zoo, further resolves that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman as a sign of the admiration and respect of this legislative body. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Dr. Mogerman for remarks.
Well, thank you all. Thank you all very much. This is quite an honor -- and we woke her up because she was sleeping -- is because fundamentally people can't be what they can't see, right. And so, I'm happy and honored to be here, to be the steward of the nation's oldest zoo and to really sort of demonstrate the power of animals in our lives. There's so much that animals and nature have to teach us. And I'm really excited to be heading up the zoo and to work with all of you because nature and wildlife and animals can be a solution to our problems. So as a conservationist, I fundamentally believe that conservation can be a platform for forward to working with all of you to make Philadelphia a better city and to make sure that the nation's oldest zoo is that leading-edge zoo. And we have some work to do, but we will get there and we'll get there together and we'll uplift the City in the process. So I'm super excited and just the budget, yes --
Supporting the budget would be awesome. And just some of you may not like snakes. But this is really cool. She's a boa constrictor so she's squeezing on my arm. She just woke up. She was smelling me for a moment. But she was in the spotlight a couple of years ago because she gave birth to a baby snake but was never around a male. can do that, yes. So she gave birth to a little snake so she's famous. Yep, I'm bringing famousness to the Council today, so I really do thank you all. I'm privileged to be working and honored to be working with you all. And again, Philadelphia Zoo is the nation's oldest zoo and we will make it the best zoo for Philadelphia and for the world. So thank you. (Applause.)
Council will now be at ease. (Council at ease.)
And the next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will the Mayor and any other communications in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia. Pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 240020, not for approval; 240058, not for approval; 240119, 240121, 240122, 240159, 240177, 240178 for approval. I am transmitting for the consideration of your Honorable Body a resolution confirming the reappointment of Reginald Streater to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. A resolution confirming the reappointment of Sarah-Ashley of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the reappointment of Chau Wing Lam to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the reappointment of Joyce Wilkerson to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment of Crystal Cubbage to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment of Wanda Novales to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment of Cheryl Harper to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment of Joan Stern to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. To the President and members of the Council of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on April 3, 2024 I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on March 14, 2024: Bill No. 240014 and Bill No. 240016. I am pleased to advise you that on April 3, 2024 I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at a session on March 21, 2024. Bill Nos. 240010-A, 240008, 240009, 240011, 240089-A and 240013-A. Council President, there are no other communications in my possession.
Thank you. The 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, president. Good morning, colleagues. And good morning to the City of Philadelphia. I have one resolution, non-privileged resolution, for introduction today.
Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the title of the nonprivileged resolution.
A resolution authorizing the creation of a task force to study and develop proposals, strategies and recommendations to enhance parental guardian engagement, oversight, accountability and resources within the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kathy Gilmore Richardson.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Today I offer one privileged resolution. And on your behalf, Council President, one privileged resolution and one bill.
Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolutions.
A privileged resolution on behalf of Council President honoring Philadelphia 76ers' Hall of Famer Allen Iverson for his trailblazing career in the National Basketball Association and recognizing AI as a Philadelphia Basketball Living Legend.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution introduced by Katherine Gilmore Richardson, recognizing and supporting the health and wellness of Black mamas and birthing people by acknowledging April 11th through the 17th, 2024 as Black Maternal Health Week in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And an ordinance on behalf of the Council President, authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 2201 Christian Street, Philadelphia, Pa 19146 ("Property"), under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, Council President. Today I have one bill.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
An ordinance amending Section 9-203 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," to revise and clarify certain provisions related to City Parks & Recreation facilities and make related technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good morning, Council President. I have nine non-privileged resolutions to introduce on your behalf and one privileged resolution I wanted to introduce that I'm co-introducing with the great fellow from the Northeast, Councilmember Mike Driscoll as well as our Majority Leader and really the strong advocate for apprenticeship programs, Councilmember Gilmore Richardson. Today in the balcony area, we have the young people as well as their teacher Mr. Jarrett from Mayfair. Mayfair students, can you all stand up so we can recognize you and give you a round of applause. (Applause.)
I had a chance to be on the dope students' podcast and I know other of my colleagues have participated in the amazing podcast and look at some of the great work that Mr. Jarrett does as well as the entire team over there at Mayfair. So thank you all for being here seeing your government in action, and continue to keep up the great work. Thank you, Council President. And thank you, colleagues.
May the Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the Champion of the Week Evin Jarrett, the Lead Building Trades Instructor, at Mayfair School for his exemplary service expanding vocational trading opportunities for Philadelphia's youth.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. (Applause.)
And a non-privileged resolution introduced on the Council President's behalf, confirming the appointment of Crystal Cubbage to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment of Sarah-Ashley Andrews to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment of Joan Stern to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the reappointment of Reginald Streater to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment of Wanda Novales to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. Confirming the appointment of Whitney Jones to the Board of Education of the School District of the Philadelphia. Confirming the reappointment of Joyce Wilkerson to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia. And confirming the appointment of Cheryl Harper to the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia.
These resolutions will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bills.
An ordinance amending Section 14-704 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Open Space and Natural Resources," by changing the applicability of steep slope protection requirements, for certain stream restoration activities, all under certain terms and conditions.
And 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.
These two bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
I'm co-introducing one bill and one resolution that's held with other Councilpeople right now.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolution.
Good morning, Council President. I offer one bill and one privileged resolution.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the staff of McPherson Square Library for their heroic efforts in building and maintaining safe spaces within one of the most vulnerable but resilient communities in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And an ordinance authorizing an encroachment in the nature of a staircase in the vicinity of 1951 East Monmouth Street Philadelphia, PA 19134, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Young.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 14-529 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "/VDO, Fifth District Overlay District," by removing the exemption from the landscaping standards in the Zoning Code, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.
Good morning, Council President. I have one privileged resolution and one bill to introduce today.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bill and the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing April 2024 as Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia and commending the work of HUNE, Hispanos Unidos Para Nino's Excepcionales in supporting people living with autism as well as their families and loved ones.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 9-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Landlord and Tenant," to modify requirements and authorizations related to the City's residential Eviction Diversion Program, including associated changes to the landlord and tenant relationship and to make certain technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Just for correcting the record, the former resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Good morning, Council President. I have one privileged resolution co-introduced by Councilwoman Lozada, Driscoll, Squilla and myself.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring Jim Ridgeway, member of the 24th District PDAC, whose lifelong residence in Harrowgate has inspired his community outreach and clean-up efforts.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Council will be at ease for a second. (Council at ease.)
Councilmember Harrity, do you have a bill you want to introduce as well?
I'm sorry. The co-introducer Driscoll is going to put it in. I apologize for the confusion.
Okay. All right. Just for clarity, in terms of the flow only the prime sponsors have to introduce. Even though you're a co-sponsor, we just for the record want the prime sponsor just to introduce and then we go from there. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution that I am co-introducing alongside the Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Joint Committees on Housing, Neighborhood Development and the Homeless and Licenses & Inspections to hold public hearings to examine the conditions of rental housing, rental code enforcement and the need for rental repairs throughout the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer four bills for consideration.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bills.
An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finances, Taxes and Collections," and Title 21 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Miscellaneous," by authorizing access to legal representation for certain owners of blighted and deteriorated dwellings and providing for tax forgiveness and exemptions for improvements to certain deteriorated areas and dwellings to incentivize the creation and improvement of affordable housing units, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land, located within an area bounded by Kensington Avenue, Buckius Street, Frankford Avenue and Tioga Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending Section 14-533 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "/MIN, Mixed Income Neighborhoods Overlay District," to expand the applicable area in the vicinity of Buckius Street and Tioga Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by amending Section 14-702, entitled "Floor Area, Height and Dwelling Unit Density Bonuses," to amend provisions related to the Transit Improvements bonus and by making related changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Neill. (No response.)
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the installation, ownership and maintenance of various encroachments along the 700 block of Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nina Ahmad.
The next order of business is Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla for a report from the Committee on Appropriations.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee reports out three bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Appropriations to which was referred Bill No. 240176, entitled authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024 from the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, and the Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, to the General Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions and to the Aviation Fund, certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. The Committee on Appropriations to which was referred Bill No. 240177, entitled amending Bill No. 230145, entitled "An Ordinance To adopt a Fiscal 2024 Capital Budget," by revising various appropriation amounts and totals, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to favorable recommendation. Bill No. 240178, entitled amending Bill No. 230144, entitled "An Ordinance To adopt a Capital Program for the Six Fiscal Years 2024, 2029 inclusive, by revising various appropriation amounts and totals, to conform to amendments to the FY2024 Capital Budget Ordinance, 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.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to admit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 240176, 240177, 240178 that were 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 first reading this day of Bill Nos. 240176, 240177 and 240178. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Bill Nos. 240176, 240177 and 240178 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Nina Ahmad for a report from the Committee on Public Health and
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports out two bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services to which was referred Bill No. 240015 entitled adding a new Chapter 6-1600 to The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Reports On Opioid Antidote Use," to require certain reports from the City from the Office of the Managing Director to Council concerning the City's use of opioid antidote, all under conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. And Bill No. 240017, entitled adding a new Chapter 10-2700 to The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Reports with Impermissible Camping," to require certain reports from the Office of the Managing Director to Council concerning camping activities carried out in violation of the Code in the City's efforts to address such activities, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Ahmad for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading of this day of Bill Nos. 240015 and 240017 that were 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 first reading this day of Bill Nos. 240015 and 240017. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Bill Nos. 240015 and 2ND READING 240017 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 Committee 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 Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for today: Nos. 240223, 240227, 240229, 240230, 240020-A, 240066, 240019 and 240087.
Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we 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 may vary from session-tosession. And due to today's volume, the time limit will be two minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the two-minute limit. When you will 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 two minutes has passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that moment, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not already done so. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments on the same matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.
William Detoro Vargas on autism awareness. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is William Detoro Vargas. Today I stand before you deeply moved and grateful as an individual with autism to express my heartfelt thanks to all those who championed the cause of people with disabilities. The City of Philadelphia's decision to pass the resolution in honor of HUNE, the organization I represent, alongside recognizing Autism Acceptance Month, truly embodies the spirit of inclusivity with values so highly. It is immense pride and honor that I address you today as someone with autism. First and foremost, my sincere appreciation goes to Mayor Parker, Amy Nieves, the former Executive Director of the Commission with Disabilities, Council President Johnson, Councilmember Brooks who sponsored this resolution as well as our local District Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for their unwavering support and dedication. The commendable efforts of the Mayor's Commission on Disabilities, particularly under the leadership of Amy have significantly impacted our community. In 2023 Amy played a pivotal role in the relaunch of the Philadelphia's Disabilities Characteristics Map, achieving global recognition for disabilities the collaborations with the U.S. Census. I also want to mention that furthermore Philadelphia's designation as the first sensoryinclusive certified by U.S. KultureCity marks an historic achievement. Autism Acceptance Month does not only celebrate individuals with autism, but also to reflect on and recognize the progress and ongoing efforts on behalf of people with disabilities. This month is a time for both education and reflection as we contemplate our achievements and path forward. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Will the Clerk please call the next speaker.
Paul Birdsong on blueprint communities. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Paul Birdsong. I'm the General of the New Age Panther Party in Michigan and in Philadelphia, and I am a Deputy General of the chapter in Los Angeles. I'm here to speak about Resolution 240229. It says at the bottom of the resolution, the City of Philadelphia supports and promotes neighborhood and/or community revitalizations, including the adaptive reuse of older buildings, investment in public infrastructure, active transportation, supported community engagement activity, building local leadership, developing collaborative partnerships and participating and practicing some local and regional planning skills. My thing is you have a group in Philadelphia that is ready to stand up and serve the community that's made up of civilians. We mentioned this yesterday in the budget meeting. These groups, these community organizations that are ready to actively -- if you put into a city where killing is happening as rapidly as it is here, that money is going to go to waste. The money needs to go into protecting those resources. If we're going to beautify the City, we need civilian oversight and we need people from the community that can get paid to be there to police those neighborhoods and those communities and keep them safe. We also need that state-of-the-art forensics lab that the Mayor proposed so that we can protect this City and solve the crimes, the 50 percent of the homicides that aren't solved here every year so they can be solved. This needs to happen right now. I was watching an old news clip that there's already a stateof-the-art community in University City that can be used for this right now. So my question is, people, what are we waiting for, what are we waiting for. It's already there. We don't have to wait. We can have justice and closure now. What are we waiting for. Give me a logical excuse while we're waiting. Why these mothers from 2018 are still waiting to find out who killed their child. I see the red light. All power to the people. (Applause.)
Marvin Robinson on rental code resolution. (Witness approached podium.)
First of all, I want to give my honor to my Lord and Saviour, to the President, to City Council, to everybody here. My name is Marvin Robinson. I'm a member of Rental United Philadelphia. I'm a committee person and the Second Vicepresident of the 4th Ward, the Executive Board. I'm also the mayor of West Philadelphia, those that know me. I'm here on behalf of supporting a resolution for rental repair. I want to say I appreciate those who came out to our press conference meeting yesterday. To the City Councilmembers that was there, can y'all please raise y'all hands to let the people know who was at the press conference. (Hands raised.)
Thank you very much. Also, I'm here because I had my own experience about renting from landlords, bad landlords. They need to be held accountable more. So what we're trying to come up with, a resolution to hold landlords and realtors more accountable for their actions that they're not taking care of the tenants. It's over 50 percent of renters in Philadelphia, so that's 50 percent house-owned and 50 percent rental. And no renter should have to go through suffering in a way that I've seen people suffering in my community. Remember, I'm a committee person so I deal with a lot of people and I hear their concerns. So I'm going to let you know about mines a little bit and I'm not going to take too long because I know this bell is going to go off. But I want to just share this with y'all. Please, this should not be a bill. And hopefully, if it do come to be a bill, that it shouldn't take long for all City Councilors to come together because this a responsibility for all y'all in the City of Philadelphia. My main concern is hopefully that those that are sponsoring this bill, that the rest of City Council will continue to support this bill because this helps everybody in the City of Philadelphia. And another thing I wanted to also say, I'm here because when big time realtors come into my neighborhood buying up these properties, kicking low-income people out and then when it's time for them to go back in there, they can't afford the homes. I saw that in my neighborhood in the 4th Ward. I had saw that. Also, we had a garden that they had took away from us -- all right, one minute. They took the garden away from us and we let the people know that we cannot allow realtors keep coming in our neighborhoods doing what they doing. So thank you. I will be here every day as long as we try to get this bill passed when it comes to being passed because this is commonsense. And I don't mean to take up this time. And I'm not here to fuss with nobody, but I'm here to let y'all know we need this resolution to come to be a bill. Thank you. (Applause.)
Will the Clerk please call the next person for public comment.
Mark Postell, blueprint communities. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. I'm Mark Postell, concerned citizen of Philadelphia. I was here yesterday at the budget meeting. And I'm here in support of directing funding for citizens that really want to be a part of a visible presence on the street. I believe it's very necessary. The Mayor declared us in a state of emergency January 1st. And to be quite honest, I believe we've been in a state of emergency before January 1st and I believe we still are. Petty crimes like children smashing windows and denting cars, to the senseless violence and gun murders out here that's taking place, we're losing a lot of people and I believe a visible presence on the streets, Feet on the Street, Boots on the Ground, Town Watch 2.0, Guardian Angels, whatever you want to call it is necessary. We have too many organizations ready, willing and able to get out there on the street. I joined a movement called Operation Hug a Block, and it was 77 nights from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. we was out there trying to deter the violence on the streets. And statistically shown we made an impact. And I believe even if people like you more importantly who joined us on the first night of Operation Hug the Block, Mr. President, and, Mr. O'Rourke, you joined us a few times out there on it, I believe that's very important for our community to see how much you guys really care, you know. And I think citizens would join us more if you guys were out there along with police and highranking officials off duty come and join us to walk the streets. It's enough of us. It's more love than it is the hate out there, but the hate is shining through in our city. And it's scary. I'm a parent of four and I'm scared for my son to walk three blocks to the left and one block up. And we don't deserve that. We deserve a more healthier way of life. And at the end of the day we have the money to do it, so I support direct funding to groups like Philly Troops and Feet on the Street, Boots on the Ground. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Will the Clerk please call the next speaker for public comment.
My name is Kate. The Affordable Connectivity Program can offer household discounts on their Internet service up to $30 and $75 for people on qualifying tribal lands. In some cases this makes the Internet free. There's three ways to be eligible for the ACP program. The households can already meet their providers low Internet program or they can qualify -- or they should be at or 200 percent below the federal poverty line. Someone in this household has to be qualified for government assistance program. Those are programs like SNAP and WIC. SNAP is what we knew as food stamps and the program actually also took a huge cut last year, which lost people about $82 of SNAP benefits a month. The WIC program is actually also facing a funding cliff despite having supported the development of out of American babies. It's hard to imagine how nearly all of our welfare programs are chronically underfunded, but we still have billions of dollars to send to foreign militaries. April is our last fully-funded month of the Affordable Connectivity Program. Meaning that soon 20 million Americans might not have access to the Internet any more. That's about 1 in 5 Americans who don't have access to the Internet cost as a factor. These are our most vulnerable population, and the government keeps dragging their feet on ensuring that these programs are fully funded. 20 million households might not have the expendable income. And $30 a month is $360 a year. That's maybe enough for a doctor's visit, maybe some blood work. We use the Internet for essentials like finding doctors and having the privilege to be in the country that still has functional hospitals. We use the Internet to contact our families and we're lucky to live in a country where we still have families to call. We need a ceasefire and we need a permanent arms embargo against Israel. Thank you. (Applause.)
Kate Wallis on autism awareness. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, Council President. My name is Dr. Kate Wallis and I'm speaking in support of Councilmember Brooks' resolution recognizing April 2024 as Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia. I am a developmental and behavioral pediatrician at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia or CHOP, a researcher at CHOP's Center for Autism Research and a faculty member at CHOP's Policy Lab. As a clinician who cares for many autistic children from early childhood through young adulthood, a health equity researcher who studies autism, I am thrilled to voice my support for the proposed resolution, recognizing April 2024 as Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month and commending the work of HUNE, Hispanos Unidos Para Nino's Excepcionales and the Philadelphia Autism Project in supporting people living with autism as well as their families and loved ones. As a developmental and behavioral pediatrician, I have the privilege of working with children and families on the autism spectrum. I am also the lead researcher on the study cited in the resolution that 1 in 31 children across the Philadelphia region meets criteria for autism or 3.2 percent of all children. While decades of data found that children who identify as Black or Latina were underidentified as being on the autism spectrum, more recent national and our own local data suggests that Black, Hispanic, Latina and Asian children are least as likely as White children to have autism. This means that autism is a form of neurodivergance that affects every population across the City and that every Councilperson represents a district in which children and families on the spectrum reside. We are so grateful to City Council for recognizing the importance of autism in Philadelphia through this resolution. We know, however, there's a lot of work to do to help all autistic children and families and children achieve health equity in terms of support services and ultimately outcomes and prosperity. CHOP is committed to ameliorating health disparities in autism through our clinical programs, research and community outreach. We are hopeful that we can serve as a resource and a partner for City Council to make the lives of families better. Thank you again for the opportunity to speak today and for recognizing April 2024 as Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month. (Applause.)
Thank you. Will the Clerk please call the next person for public comment.
Jamiel Owens on Autism Awareness. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, Council President. My name is Jamiel Owens and I'm speaking in support of Councilmember Brooks' resolution recognizing April 2024 as Autism Acceptance & Awareness month in the City of Philadelphia. First, I would like to thank Councilmember Brooks and her staff as well as all of the Councilmembers here today for allowing me and my colleague Dr. Wallis to speak. And a special congratulations to HUNE and the Philadelphia Autism Project for all of the amazing work they have done and will continue to do. I am the Family Relations Coordinator at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's Center for Autism Research. I'm also a father of an autistic child and a lifelong Philadelphia resident. The reality for most parents with a child with special needs is that they will never have a normal child. Our thoughts often take off into a space of depression and regret. When my son Shane was diagnosed at the age 3, I did what most men do. I rationalized my son's worth in society based on the diagnosis he was given, the direct correlation with the painful stain and blow to my ego and pride. For his mother, she blamed herself for birthing a child who had already been characterized and labeled without even having the chance to explore the world in timeless innocence, which we as adults try to achieve again every day. As I read this to all of you right now, another marriage will be annuled due to the stress of the diagnosis. Another child has been placed in the corner of a room and left alone because they are not understood. Right now a father is at work masking the stress and sadness of their child because he feels he has no one. A mother has given their autistic child away to another family member because they feel alone and they are using the term too often said which is autism one. Each one of you are here today because the public believes in you and I believe in you. My ask for each one of you is to join us in educating and supporting the families in which we all serve. My reason is simply that I cannot love my son and advocate for him without doing the same for other autistics like him and their families. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Will the Clerk please call the next speaker.
Good morning. I am Cleopatra Robinson and I am the Founder and Executive Director of A Home From Shana Foundation, which is a 501(c)(3) that is raising awareness of the Black maternal mortality crisis and working to improve birth outcomes by educating families on doing the support, safe childbirth and childbirth rights. I would like to thank Council President Johnson and Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for her continued support behind Black maternal health and all Councilmembers before me. It's critical that you support Black Maternal Health Week. Black Maternal Health Week is considered a week of activism and community building founded by Black Mamas Matter Alliance to raise awareness, inspire activism and strengthen organizing for Black maternal health. For seven days, Black maternal health-focused organizations from across the country align with the same mission as we collaborate and host events that create widespread impact to support Black birthing people in maternal health. Council President and Councilmembers, as I am in support of recognizing a week to Black maternal health, I ask that you not only acknowledge Black Maternal Health Week but that you support grassroots organizations like A Home From Shana Foundation that are actually here in Philadelphia that advocate and support Black and Brown pregnant people in your communities that are showing up 10 toes down the other 358 days of the year. Thank you. (Applause.)
Saleemah McNeil. (Witness approached podium.) MS. McNEIL: Good morning and thank you all for coming. Again, my name is Saleemah McNeil. I'm the Founder and Executive Director of Oshun Family Center. Thank you Councilmembers, especially Councilmembers Nina Ahmad and Katherine Gilmore Richardson who have been alongside with me in this fight for Black maternal health since the beginning. Again, Oshun Family Center is a nonprofit organization here in Philadelphia geared towards helping to reduce the disparities in Black maternal morbidity and mortality. And we do that in several ways. We do that by providing mental health support where reproductive psychotherapists will understand the plight of Black birthing families. We provide doula support and lactation support through other clinical trial collaboration that we have with Temple University. This unprecedented with us being able to sit at the table with Black women securing research studies on Black bodies. We have been victimized by the health system for generations and we're looking to change that today in moving forward. We know what the issues are. We know that we are dying three to four times higher than our White counterparts for reasons such cardiovascular disease, racism, opioid disorder and mental health disorders that will result in suicide. I come to you today as an advocate as a maternal mental health disrupter and a parent and victim myself of the hospital system. I am entering my 18th parenting anniversary tomorrow. And throughout that journey, I have learned so much because being a survivor of a traumatic birthing experience has really fostered the work that I do here today. So I welcome you all to join us in the fight of Black maternal morbidity and mortality in creating better health systems for our families to thrive because it starts at inception. Well, thank you all so much. I was about to say did they cut my mic because I seen the green. I'm here today to garner your support for the resolution that's being introduced for us to recognize Black Maternal Health Week for April 11th through 17th annually. This is something that we do every year. Oshun Family Center with other community-based organizations are the ones who are leading this mission. So join us this year and every year moving forward for Black Maternal Health Week April 11th through the 17th. And I encourage you all to check your emails for your invitations. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hi. My name is Tuesday Chalmers. I'm the teen librarian at McPherson Square branch, and I just kind of wanted to tell you about us. Thank you, Councilwoman Lozada, for inviting me here. I stand in front of you as a librarian, but more importantly as a longtime resident in Harrowgate and Kensington. I grew up there, so McPherson has always had a special place in my heart. It has a rich history in the neighborhood past and present, and our staff continue to pave the way for the future youth. It is a safe hub for all. The library has a heavily-attended afterschool program and it provides lunches daily. We make sure that no child goes hungry and there's always a fun activity to do. Families can attend music lessons, cooking lessons, chicken story time which is one of my favorites, sign-making, gardening, arts and crafts and for adults we have career workshops, crochet. And during the year, the library collaborates with other City agencies, with Parks & Rec, MDO and the Philadelphia Police to activate a safe space outside and host large events such as the Fall Fest and the Winter Fest. This past December McPherson gave out 500-plus toys to our youth during Winter Fest. The staff at McPherson has participated in Narcan and Stop the Bleed trainings. The library has a hygiene closet for our patrons in need. We truly care about our community and try every day to make the library place a safe and inclusive -- sorry. I'm honored to stand in front of you and share my story, and thank you all for listening. (Applause.)
Thank you. Will the Clerk please call the next speaker.
Samuel Kuttab. Is this about the resolution -- no, I didn't think so because I was going to ask for equal time as the snake.
Okay. Thank you, Sam. Good to see you though. Will the Clerk please call the next speaker.
Will the Clerk please call the next speaker. 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING
That concludes today's public comment period. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240223.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 644-646 North 40th Street, a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 827, 843, 847, 849, 841, 865 and 867 North 40th Street and a portion of the 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Sarah Allen Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 818 North 40th Street, 830 North 40th Street; and authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to execute the redevelopment contract with North 40th Street LP and to take such action as may be necessary to effectuate the redevelopment contract.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for a motion regarding 240223.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas on Jamie Gauthier's behalf.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Gauthier, I move for the adoption of the resolution. 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240223 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240227.
A resolution calling on President Biden and Congress to prioritize a permanent reauthorization and funding of the bipartisan Affordable Connectivity Program, ACP.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Rue Landau for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240227.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240227 be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of Resolution No. 240229.
A resolution 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING authorizing the participation of Philadelphia in the 2024 cohort of the Philadelphia Blueprint Communities Program.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240229.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240229 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING The ayes have it and the motion carries. The resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of Resolution No. 240230.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 2903, 2907 and 2925 Cecil B. Moore Avenue in the 5th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion regarding 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Resolution No. 240230.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240230 be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 240019.
An ordinance adopting an amendment to Section V of the Articles of Incorporation of the Philadelphia Authority for 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Industrial Development by increasing the Authority's term of existence to a date 50 years from the date of approval of Articles of Amendment by the Secretary of the Commonwealth, 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 please call the roll.
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 any additional resolutions on today's Calendar. 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING
A privileged resolution introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson on the Council President's behalf honoring the Philadelphia 76ers' Hall of Famer Allen Iverson for his trailblazing career in the National Basketball Association, recognizing AI as a Philadelphia Basketball Living Legend.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilmember Gilmore Richardson and on your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded the resolution be adopted. 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.
And a privileged resolution introduced by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson recognizing and supporting the health and wellness of Black mamas and birthing people by acknowledging April 11th through the 17th, 2024 as Black Maternal Health Week in the City of Philadelphia.
4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. Again, on behalf of Councilmember Gilmore Richardson I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.
And a 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution honoring and congratulating the Champion of the Week Evin Jarrett, the Lead Building Trades Instructor, at Mayfair School for his exemplary service expanding vocational training opportunities for Philadelphia's youth introduced by Councilmember Thomas.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion on the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution introduced by Councilmember Lozada recognizing and honoring the staff of McPherson Square Library for their heroic efforts in building and maintaining safe spaces within one of the most vulnerable but resilient communities in the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution introduced by Councilmember Brooks recognizing April 2024 as Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia and commending the work of HUNE, Hispanos Unidos Para Nino's Excepcionales, in supporting people living with autism as well as their families and loved ones. 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.
And a resolution introduced by Councilmember Harrity, a resolution 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING honoring Jim Ridgeway, member of the 24th District PDAC, whose lifelong residence in Harrowgate has inspired his community outreach and clean-up efforts.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. 4/4/24 - STATED - 2ND READING
And a resolution introduced by Councilmember O'Rourke authorizing the Joint Committees on Housing, Neighborhood Development and the Homeless and Licenses and Inspections to hold public hearings to examine the conditions of rental housing, rental code enforcement and the need for rental repairs throughout the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
There are no more resolutions on the Calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority?
Yes, Council President. The Eviction Diversion Program is set to expire this June. The bill I am introducing today along with my colleagues Councilmember Gauthier, Councilmember O'Rourke, Councilmember Landau and co-sponsored by -- let me go Isaiah Thomas, Nina Ahmad, Curtis Jones, Jim Harrity, Quetcy Lozada and Mike Driscoll joining us as co-sponsors. And we have a strong majority and growing support for making eviction diversion permanent in Philadelphia. Eviction Diversion is a program that works. At yesterday's press conference we heard from Haniah Harvey, a Black mother who was briefly homeless after the apartment she was living in was deemed unsafe by L&I. She lived in a hotel room with her son for three weeks exhausting her savings. Even after she found a new apartment and a new job at Amazon, she still had to sell her car in order to keep up with rent. She knew she needed to do everything in her power to avoid an eviction filing. For people who their record, it's next to impossible to find livable housing. And the people most impacted by eviction filings are Black mothers like Haniah Harvey. Thanks to the Eviction Diversion Program, Haniah is able to avoid an eviction filing, stay in a home with her son. And yesterday she shared that the program helped her get through the most difficult times in her life. She told us with pride that she now is able to pay her rent on time. And for Haniah and thousands of other Philadelphia families, Eviction Diversion has been a lifesaver. A crucial factor in the program's success has been rental assistance or targeted financial assistance which helped roughly 38,000 landlords recoup past due rent last year. leadership of Council President Johnson, the City contributed 60 million in rental assistance over the past two years, making it possible for thousands of landlords and renters to avoid going to court over eviction filing. The program is a national model praised by the White House and by Governor Shapiro for stabilizing neighborhoods and keeping people in their homes. And now that Philadelphia has become a leader in housing justice, we cannot go back. And in the midst of a national housing crisis, we must continue this program that is proven popular and effective at keeping families in their homes. Today I'm also introducing a resolution to recognize April as Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month in Philadelphia and to commend the work of HUNE in supporting people well as their families and loved ones. Groups like HUNE have helped to raise awareness about autism, which has led to more and early diagnosis and better health outcomes. As the Chair of the Committee on People of Disabilities, I want to thank HUNE for their important work to increase awareness and build a culture of care and support around children with autism. This April let's keep building on the progress that we've made by recognizing, embracing and supporting people with autism and their families. Thank you so much, Council President.
You're welcome. Good job. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.
Thank you, Council President. I'd like to start by acknowledging the presence of someone I love very dearly. I had the benefit of having my wife here on the first Council session, but today I have the benefit of having my mother and my only begotten nephew who are in the chamber here behind me. Can y'all just wave to the people? (Applause.)
My nephew is a citizen of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on the other side of the mountains way up there near Erie, and my mother happens to be a resident of Scottsdale, Arizona. So I'm grateful to have them with us --
-this week and this weekend. I'd on by saying thank you to my partners and my fellow toilers when it comes to this Our Philly Neighborhoods platform, namely, Member Gauthier, Member Landau and of course the esteemed trailblazing Minority leader herself Kendra Brooks. These leaders, these sisters, these women all bring critical insight and experience to this package and it's been a wonderful learning experience really to see it all come together. And I want us to think about what's on the table here for a second. Philadelphia is a beautiful city with housing stock, however, that doesn't always age as beautifully. That's why a range of repair programs have more folks signed up to participate than actual resources to serve them. And if homeowners are dealing with they're often fighting to hold onto, I think it wouldn't be hard to say that we all know that renters are facing these struggles as well. So Councilmember Landau and I are introducing a resolution calling for a hearing into how L&I ensures that rental buildings are up to code and that landlords are actually treating their tenants with dignity that they deserve. Tenants by the way aren't just sitting around and waiting for this. They have been fighting for decades upon decades. And since I've already called out the names of some strong women, I want to name a few more as a way to talk a bit about Philly's history of tenant organizing. Let's start with Lucy Spease. The history buffs will know that resident of the old 7th Ward, the one that W.E. Du Bois himself wrote about, the one that was recently celebrated through a month's long tribute. We cherish the culture that was fostered in this space, but let's be frank. The old 7th Ward was slum lord central. Ms. Spease lived in one such slum with her three children, and tragically they died there as well. One cold December evening in 1936 their building collapsed and the Spease building perished along with a few other co-tenants. That strategy spurred authorities to take that era's idea of bold action to build public housing in the wake of the collapse, but it also spurred residents in the 7th Ward to join organizers as the Tenants League. was firmly at the vanguard of the fight for fair and safe housing, applying people power in a time when Black folks demand were supposed to be channeled through preselected "leaders." I also want to name Ms. Eden Gibson, a member of Renters United Philadelphia -(Applause.)
-who joined my colleagues and I yesterday as we announced this particular platform. Her and co-tenants are dealing with pipes that are probably older than her and as with so many Philadelphians. One day those pipes burst. This was after over 20 calls to her landlord, who basically said he'd get around to it. For Ms. Gibson and her daughter this led to intolerable visits. Which way did she turn becomes the question. To community, to organizing as part of a larger movement, one that includes today's grassroots formations like Philly Thrive, the Philadelphia Rent Control Coalition, the Philly Tenants Union and the West Oak Lane Tenants who recently called out their landlord in tandem with DSA. Given this history and this present reality, the least we can do as legislators is bring real public oversight to these patterns of lacking code enforcement. Sadly, the era of slumlords in Philly has not ended. I'm not saying all large landlords fit this mold, but it would be a lie to say that none of them do. So we do need to know how L&I recognizes bad actors and make It's the least that we can do so that folks on the outside understand what they're facing as they organize for a city that offers renters protection not precarity. I believe it's a noble thing and been glory to this body if we're able to pass it. Thank you so much for your time, Council President. Thank you.
Speeches on behalf of the Majority, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. As we conclude Ramadan, as we concluded Easter, as we look forward to Passover, the one thing that I've prayed on and I've could pray for peace but you can't legislate it. And what we have realized is that if both sides don't like something, we should probably listen. And in an effort to change the world, we should begin under our feet. So I join my colleague in understanding that and hope that we can pray for both peace in Philadelphia and peace in the Middle East, but we cannot legislate it. Thank you, Mr. President.
You're welcome, Councilmember Jones. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. I just wanted to commend her leadership and her office's leadership in working on the Eviction Diversion Program and making it permanent. And I'm also grateful to all of our colleagues, so many of our colleagues that co-sponsored. This program was something that was borne out of crisis. It came during the pandemic when we were being inundated with calls from people who were scared that they would get evicted during the biggest global health crisis of our time. But sometimes the best ideas are borne out of crisis. And just because we're out of the crisis period doesn't mean that the Eviction Diversion Program and other good ideas that came during the pandemic shouldn't stay in place. So I'm really excited about the effort to make it permanent. to remind us about some of the good outcomes that we have seen. Prior to the pandemic, Philadelphia was the fourth highest evicting city in the entire country. As Councilmember Brooks said when we're talking about evictions, mostly we're talking about Black and Brown women, single moms getting essentially kicked out on the street and then having a black mark on their records for years and years and years. And thanks to Eviction Diversion, we have an average of 10,000 fewer evictions every single year than we did prepandemic. And I also want to encourage us to as we go through these budget negotiations make sure that rental assistance gets into the budget. Eviction diversion works best when there is rental because many times it's sort of a payment issue. When we were flushed with rental assistance, we were able to offset over 75 percent of evictions and stop filings from even happening. And it's imperative that we make sure that we still have that as a resource. And we know from the budget hearings, a lot of that money is not included in the current proposal, but I think we should be -- I want to encourage us not to be penny wise and pound foolish because we're going to pay that money one way or another. When people lose their homes, that's a draw on the mental health system or the criminal legal system. I think it contributes to violence in our communities so we're going to put the money out either way and we actually have a investment if we can help people fill the everyday gap that they have between their income and their housing expenses. So thanks to so many Councilmembers for supporting. I hope that this gets through successfully and I hope that we can replenish the rental assistance funding that helps Eviction Diversion to perform so well. Thank you.
You're welcome. Good job. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. Council President Johnson and colleagues, I offer today a non-privileged resolution that addresses a very important issue in the City of Philadelphia. obvious today in America than our failure to truly support and empower and resource parents and families in the educational and life outcomes of their children. It is a national crisis that transcends race, religion and social economic status. We need to know more, investigate everything, explore innovative ideas, listen to every corner and remove all barriers, whatever they may be, between success and our children, and we need to move now. We are very conscious of the fact that we are recognizing that parents are doing the best they can. And what this resolution says is that we see you and we hear you, but we also want to figure out ways in which we can do to further support you with resources and care thing to a silver bullet that exists in educational outcomes for children is parental and family engagement in the educational lives of children. Engagement is not passive. It is not just simply showing up at an every-once-in-a-while event or PTA meeting at school. Those are a start, but they are hardly enough to shape real positive gains in educational outcomes, healthy uses of social media, strong parent and guardian relationships with children or a mentally healthier child on an individual- or society-wide basis. The Annie Casey Foundation introduced an exploration of issues around parental involvement and engagement this way. If you could wave a magic wand that would improve the chances of school as well as their classmates, would you take up that challenge. Needless to say, we know that tens of thousands of parents and guardians would answer yes. We know that an overwhelming majority of teachers and educators in the City would resoundingly answer yes also. But the two most important elements, parents and teachers already aligned, it is now time for us to formalize, empower and embolden serious stakeholders to tell us what to do and to inform our work as policymakers. The two most invested parties in education are parents/guardians and teachers. Council President, our Mayor's recent declaration of a state of emergency confirmed what all of us already know and, that is, there's a great peril lurking in our city that compromises children, students, families, entire schools and our future. Gun violence last year to the tune of 3,000 incidents with 17 percent involving people under 21, social media accelerated and driven mayhem and crime, compromising mental health realties and parents and guardians at our wits' end indicate to us that it is time for us to do a comprehensive dive into solutions and steps that we can take to improve our City's compromised outcomes. That is why this resolution authorized the creation of the Parent/Guardian Engagement Task Force. It's so vital. None of us attended K to 12 with the ever-consuming specter Of social media as it exists today. What that means alone demands consideration and recommendations to the Mayor and to us. The task of parents, guardians, teachers, students, public SEPTA employees, practitioners and experts. Six months after its creation we will receive a report of actionable information that can inform our work and call greater attention to parental engagement. Council President, thank you for your leadership and activism around this issue. Colleagues, thank you for your leadership around this issue as well which we all care deeply about.
I encourage every member to support this resolution when it's called up for vote next week. Thank you.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I've had the privilege of the last six weeks of welcoming some amazing scholars Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School. I'd like to recognize Will Nestles, Samia Harper and Zaire White and also Teacher Chuck McLaughlin who are here joining us today. I'd like to say thank you to them for their time in our office for sharing their wisdom with us as young people. I wish them the best in their continued academic journey and I invite them to come back and join us as often as they --
Can they stand? Can y'all stand? Let's give them a round of applause. (Applause.)
Often times when we hear about Kensington we always hear about the negative. of all the chaos lies a beacon of hope in the community, McPherson Library. McPherson is a safe place where children are sheltered from the trauma that they experience every day. It's staffed with hardworking librarians who are there to foster their growth. At McPherson Square Library, they are more than just librarians. They are first-aid nurses, therapists, teachers and guidance counselors. Their work has made McPherson an oasis. I want to thank the McPherson Library staff for everything they do for our children every day. Joining me today as you heard earlier is Tuesday Chalmers, a librarian at McPherson. I encourage all of you to speak with her, get to know her, get to know about her work as well as some of experience every day. I'm grateful for everything they do on the ground. Their work in Kensington is not easy, but they show up every day regardless of whether they have the necessary resources to be able to provide our families with the supports that they need. And so, just want to recognize Tuesday for everything she does on a daily basis. (Applause.)
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. Just want to talk about two quick issues. One thing I've been keeping my eye on and paying efforts by some of the largest corporations in this country to essentially use the courts to defeat what their workers have been trying to collectively come together to protect their rights. So I got to call out these companies; Amazon, Trader Joe's and Starbucks. Their workers have all agreed to unionize essentially to collectively bargain for workplace protections. However, because these companies and organizations were not successful in defeating the right to collectively bargain and organize, they have now sued to essentially say that the National Labor Relations Board is unconstitutional. So they're trying to dismantle the system that allows workers to collectively bargain. I think we should keep an that, Mr. President, because it's going to have chilling effects here locally as some of those companies are some of the largest employers in our region. And if we support workers rights to organize, we have to be vigilant and be respectful of that collective bargaining process. And so, I just want to let folks know that's something I'm paying close attention to because again if they're trying to use the courts to say that the structure of the National Labor Relations Board is unconstitutional, then they're going to continue to use the courts in other ways as well. So I think it's something I have to pay attention to locally. So bringing it back to Philadelphia's focus specifically, today at 8:00 a.m. Benjamin Franklin High School held an was found in the schools. I have a staffer who is a former teacher at Ben Franklin who understands that issue intimately who tried to intervene in this meeting on my behalf to get information to let my constituents know what's going on, but he was denied entrance into this meeting. So I'm looking forward to the upcoming budget hearing with the School District of Philadelphia and also the confirmation hearings of the School Board appointees. So I just wanted to put that on the record, Mr. President. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Young. I look forward to a very, very robust discussion. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you, Council President. Today I was incredibly proud to co-introduce an extension of the Eviction Diversion Program. For those of you who know me, housing justice has been my life's work and I could not be more excited to get this legislation on the floor. If you're out there listening, say it with me, Housing Is a Human Right. (Housing Is a Human Right.)
Thank you so much to my fellow Councilmembers Brooks, Gauthier and O'Rourke for co-introduction and for all of your work and your offices' work on this legislation. Yesterday we stood together with our colleagues Councilmembers Thomas and Ahmad to speak about the importance of expanding this program which has been a gamechanger and a lifesaver for so since it was originally put in place. And today I am so proud that we have the support of 10 Councilmembers for this crucial lifeline. This initiative has proven to be a beacon of hope for countless Philadelphians facing the thread of homelessness, providing a vital safety net during times of economic uncertainty. At its core, the Eviction Diversion Program represents a compassionate and pragmatic approach to addressing housing insecurity. Here in Philadelphia it's an understatement to say we are facing a housing crisis. A quarter of Philadelphians are renters who are cost-burdened. Think about that. That's in of our neighbors. That means they need to make tough decisions every month to their heads, including whether or not to buy groceries, baby formula and even utilities like gas to keep warm. Housing insecurity is one of the biggest crises in Philadelphia and it is why I cannot be more excited to move this legislation forward. I spent a decade as a housing attorney at Community Legal Services where I fought for thousands of low-income families to remain in safe, affordable, quality and accessible housing when they were facing eviction. Later as the Director of the Fair Housing Commission, I helped craft this very legislation that created the Eviction Diversion Program alongside Councilmembers Gauthier and Brooks as well. I know firsthand how important this program has been to renters across you can hear from all of the incredible housing organizers in the City, this is well fought and won success, all of their hard work on the ground. By mandating mediation between landlords and tenants in an easy and efficient forum before resorting eviction, we provide a pathway towards resolution that prioritizes stability and fairness for all. This helps tenants remain in their homes and with a funded rental assistance TFA program, it also ensures that small mom-and-pop landlords who make up 70 percent of landlords in Philadelphia receive the rent they are owed, thereby preserving the integrity of our housing market and instead of having them sell their properties to commercial landlords often who do not live in Philadelphia. In a city where poverty high, preserving this lifeline for vulnerable residents is not just a moral imperative but also a sound economic investment in our collective future. Making the Eviction Diversion Program a permanent fixture of Philadelphia's housing policy affirms our commitment to equity, justice and compassion for all residents, especially those who are most vulnerable. Second, I was also very proud to introduce a resolution with my colleague Nic O'Rourke to take a look at ways that we can enhance and empower L&I in their inspections of rental properties and look at our code enforcement process holistically to help both landlords and tenants by ensuring that rental housing is repaired and up to code and also pointing landlords in the direction of them subsidize this, if needed. I want to thank my colleague Mike Driscoll co-sponsoring this piece as well.
As a housing attorney, I've advocated and stood by so many Philadelphians harshly affected by landlords to address this very important issue ensuring that our neighborhoods are safe. S. Congress to extend the broadband discount program and supporting my resolution around the Affordable Connectivity Program. As we learned during the pandemic, it is fundamentally important that our neighbors have access to high quality, affordable and reliable Internet. Today approximately 1 in 5 cite cost as a factor. And 43 percent of adults with household income under $30,000 do not have high speed Internet at home. S. Congress will affect over 750,000 residents. So thank you to the members of the Council who co-sponsored this resolution because this will affect our neighbors here in Philadelphia. Thank you.
Good job. As there are no more speeches, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Council President. I move that Council stand adjourned until next Thursday, April 11th at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, April 11, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and this meeting is adjourned. ) 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. m. S. E. understandi upcoming 49:15 113:4 tribal ng 132:13 67:17 violence wait 117:10 tribute uplift 65:2,17 59:13 understands 18:9 120:23 113:7 waiting 132:5 125:4 Troops urban 59:10,11, understatem 86:16,18, visible 14,17,18 66:23 ent 21 87:2 64:16 65:5 112:16 Tuesday 134:19 82:21 83:2 utilities vision wake understood 135:5 15:2 113:22 128:21 75:23 129:11 visions walk undertaking V 16:6 66:10,16 tune 13:6 125:5 values visit Wallis undoubtedly 15:14 55:3 69:13 70:5,9,11 turn 16:8 74:9 53:14,17 vanguard visitors 115:3 114:3 2:14 3:8 Stated Meeting 40 04/04/2024 wand 97:23 99:4 21:10 35:25 123:24 110:25 30:19 69:13 71:6 Y Wanda 126:19 William 72:19 y'all 21:18 weekend 54:9,14 74:12 60:24 30:11 110:25 75:24 62:6,12 windows 81:15 63:22 wanted weeks 64:24 101:22 110:11 13:12 106:18 Wing 108:25 127:19 27:17 127:4 21:6 109:11 62:21 83:4 welcoming year Winnie 124:17 117:25 127:4 44:22 59:3 86:2 126:9 119:2 68:9 69:11 welfare Winter 128:15,25 132:17 79:2 82:7, 14:20 84:12,15 129:5 Ward 11,12 84:6 68:16 133:8,18, 60:14 63:5 wisdom 107:25 wellness 19 136:6 113:3,10, 127:13 119:19 25:17 workers 125:4 wise 97:19 130:5,11, warm 120:16 years West 23 131:7 135:5 wishing 18:23 46:7 60:16 working 93:4 108:6 waste 53:7 115:11 18:3 19:9 119:14,15 58:12 withdraw 71:14 White yellow Watch 9:2 77:11 4:13 72:5 53:14 65:7 80:24 wits' 118:4 125:10 128:9 yesterday watching 108:11 58:6 60:22 59:5 127:8 woke workplace 64:12 wave Whitney 17:8 18:20 130:13 107:12 110:11 22:2 30:15 woman works 114:15 123:24 WIC 14:10 106:11 133:20 ways 68:5,10 women 119:24 yesterday's 67:19 80:4 widespread 4:12 80:15 workshops 106:11 122:24 78:10 111:11 84:5 yield 131:19 112:21 world wife 53:21 137:17 119:11 19:14 110:6 young wealth won 75:13 Wildcare 4:11 28:2 14:17 136:5 117:7 15:5 34:16,17 week wonderful worth 70:24 wildlife 25:21 29:5 111:14 75:5 91:25 92:3 15:8,16 77:22,23, work wrote 94:14,15 17:21 78:15, 17:19 18:7 113:4 127:14 82:5,13 Wilkerson 28:14,19 129:20,21 Stated Meeting 41 04/04/2024 132:21 youngest 4:4 youth 29:10 83:17 84:15 99:9 Z Zaire 127:8 Zhou 86:2 zoning 32:5 35:4 41:6 zoo 11:5 12:5, 6,12,16 13:7,19,21 14:6,13,23 15:5,15, 22,25 16:9,19 17:14,19 18:6 19:11,12, zoos 13:23 16:9