COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 696, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, December 19, 2002 10:30 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL, Chair COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO, Vice Chair COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN FRANK. J. DI CICCO COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 (215) 561-2220 (215) 567-2670 Invocation
I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats. Father Lee, please approach. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair is honored to welcome Father Michael Lee, Pastor of St. Gabriel's Roman Catholic Church. He is here today at my invitation. I would ask all Members and guests to please rise.
Having listened to the discussion, I think maybe the prayer should have something to do, Council President, with the multiplication of loaves and fishes. (Laughter) In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. (Chorus of "amen".)
Blessed are You, Creator of the universe, who have made all things and given to each of us the means and gifts to enhance Your creation. Your goodness fills our hearts with joy and gladness as we gather this morning to Invocation share our thoughts, our gifts, our knowledge, give us the wisdom to make the right decisions in every situation so that those we serve may prosper and benefit from them. Our prayer is that the doors of opportunity and favor will be available to one and all, in order to fill the lives of those we serve with dignity and with purpose. In the spirit of love and truth, we ask to be guided, as we share our strengths and hopes. Let our prayer be that instilled in each of us the desire to share our gifts in the spirit of the love that you have for all of us, and the wisdom to know how to use our power wisely and well. We open our hearts to the light of wisdom, the warmth of love, and the joy of acceptance. Amen.
Amen. And the Chair thanks Father Lee for his very inspiring invocation. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. Resolution - David Morse On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your 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 Councilman Rizzo, who will present a Resolution honoring Mr. David Morse and the producers of Hack. Will Mr. Morse and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Good morning, everyone. And thank you, Madam President, for this accommodation. We're here this morning commending actor David Morse and the producers of CBS television series Hack, for their commitment to producing and filming the series in Philadelphia and showcasing all that our City has to offer. Donna.
In Resolution - David Morse particular, it's my pleasure to welcome and applaud a resident of the Eighth Council District, David Morse. Whereas, Hack is a drama about Mike Olshansky, a decorated ex-police officer turned taxi driver, who seeks redemption by fighting for and righting the wrongs of others and; COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Whereas, at the request of David Morse and the concurrence of the producers of Hack, a commitment was made to film and produce the entire series in Philadelphia, making it the first prime time network series to be shot entirely in Philadelphia and;
Whereas, Hack will show real Philadelphians in their real environment and will show the diversity of our City by showcasing such areas of the City as Manyunk, Northern Liberties, Germantown, Northeast, Southwest, North Philadelphia, Juniata Park, and;
And whereas, since 1994 David Morse and his family, consisting of his three children and his wife Resolution - David Morse Susan, who is a Philadelphia native, have been living in Philadelphia. David Morse has shown such a fondness for Philadelphia that he has said, "Philadelphia is my home. I always felt really comfortable here." Now, therefore:
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby commend actor David Morse and the producers of CBS television series Hack for their commitment to producing and filming the series in Philadelphia and showcasing all that our City has to over. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to David Morse and the producers of Hack as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Congratulate David Morse. (Sustained applause.)
I'd like to invite Inspector William Calarullo of the Philadelphia Police Department to please join me for a presentation to David Morse. Resolution - David Morse Many of you or most of you know about the series Hack. David plays the part of Michael Olshansky. Did I do that right? That's close. (Laughter.)
And Michael Olshansky is a former Philadelphia Police Officer who was fired from the job and lost his job, lost his badge, lost his I.D. But he still is a cop at heart and he's out there helping people every day of his life, while he's out there making a living driving a cab. I thought that it was most appropriate that we do something today that I think David Morse, Michael Olshansky, will be pleased with. We're going to reinstate you to the Philadelphia Police Department today. You have a Philadelphia Badge 4526. Your I.D. card with your picture on it. And when you're at the Police Administration Building Bill Calarullo also got you the official Police Department I.D. (Applause.)
At this Resolution - David Morse time the Chair recognizes Mr. Morse for remarks. Is Mrs. Morse with you? I think it would be nice if she came up with you.
This is really great. I'm just wondering who I talk to about my property taxes. (Laughter.)
This show actually was originally written to take place in New York City. When they asked me to do it, I said I would be interested in doing it, but they had to do it in Philly if they wanted to do it with me. (Applause.)
So obviously, that happened. But, you know, it's one thing to ask them to come down here and make a show and it's another thing to make it. And there's a lot of people who make, and a lot of people in Resolution - David Morse Philadelphia who not only make it but help to make it great. We've got Sharon Pinkinson in the film office. (Applause.)
We've got the... Just in the City of Philadelphia itself, you know, all that you're doing for us. The Philly P.D. who are out there on the streets with us every day. (Applause.)
On the beat. And we've got talent just every place. In the unions, in the craft unions. (Applause.)
You know, we've got even those Teamsters, I'm happy to say. And the SAGs, the Screen Actors Guild. And probably, I think as importantly as anything, the people of Philadelphia, the neighborhoods in Philadelphia, people who you represent. (Applause.)
It's a really big deal Resolution - Congressman Borski to have a film company come into your neighborhood. It is not a very convenient thing. It puts you out. But people have been so gracious to us and so welcoming. And I'm so grateful to them and to all of you. And I hope we can keep making you proud of what we're doing on T.V. where our show Hack. Thank you very much. (Sustained applause.)
The Chair will recognize Councilman Mariano, who will present a Resolution honoring someone who was given so much to the City of Philadelphia. It is a great honor that we present a Resolution today to Congressman Robert Borski. Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I'm honoring a Congressman who's been my Congressman for 20 years. And I'm certainly going to miss him, as well as the District that he represents. So, I'm proud here to honor him today. A Resolution honoring Congressman Resolution - Congressman Borski Robert Borski for his service and commitment to the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, Congressman Robert Borski is a lifelong Republican -- Freudian slip. (Laughter.)
-- Philadelphian, captain of basketball and baseball teams at Frankford High School, before attending the University of Baltimore on an athletic scholarship; And whereas,
Whereas, Congressman Borski has served the citizens of Philadelphia and public office since the mid 1970's, and was elected to United States House of Representatives in 1982; and whereas, Congressman Borski is a senior member of the House Transportation Committee and serves as the lead Democrat in the Highway Transit Subcommittee; And whereas, Congressman Borski uses seniority and ability to make numerous transportation projects happen in the Delaware Valley, including projects related to I-95 and the reconstruction of the Market Frankford El and Resolution - Congressman Borski
Whereas, Congressman Borski also has been recognized by his colleagues and members of the House Democratic leadership for his appointment as a regional whip for Pennsylvania and Ohio; Whereas, Congressman Borski played a role in legislation that banned triple tractor-trailers and backhauling; And whereas, Congressman Borski served the needs of his constituents well by being a member of the Older Americans Caucus, the Diabetes Caucus, and the Prescription Drug Task Force, and through his many public meetings and open office hours. I'd also like to add that probably Congressman Borski has done more for this City and region in his 20-year career in a dignified and quiet way, than any elected official we've ever had. And I'd like to personally thank him for his strong and courageous stand for freedom in Ireland in the North of Ireland, before it was fashionable, when it was tough to be for those issues. He stood up. Resolution - Congressman Borski And that's why I'm proud to be here today to honor him for his service.
Resolved by the City Council of Philadelphia that we hereby honor Congressman Borski for his service and commitment to the citizens of Philadelphia. And we recognize and thank him for his many contributions to the City, the State, and the region. And be it further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Congressman Borski as evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of his legislative body. Signed by the President of City Council, Anna Verna, and sponsored by all Members of City Council. (Applause.)
The Congressman wants to announce that he's going to seek the nomination of the Democratic Party for President of the United States, so you're here for a very historical moment. Congressman, not to put you on the spot. Go ahead. Resolution - Congressman Borski CONGRESSMAN BORSKI: Well, thank you very, very much. I want to just say that having had the opportunity to serve my District and my City and my Country for the past 20 years makes me realize how blessed and lucky I have been. For every day for the last 20 years in the Congress and the prior 6 in the State House, I was able to wake up knowing that I was going to work to try and make our community, our City and Country a better place, and I am thrilled to have had the opportunity. And I'm particularly excited today to accept this recognition. I know that as a Congressman the toughest job in American politics is a Councilman. You are here and you are dealing daily with the problems that affect people's lives, and do the most important thing and the most important part of government at all. And Joan Krajewski has been my Councilman... Well, 1980 when Joe Zazitsny had left, and she had taken over. And she has done an exceptional job. And I just say I live in that Ward Resolution - Congressman Borski of hers, the 65th, and I'm going to stay in that Ward of hers of the 65th. And I'm going to try to do whatever I can to make this City a better place. Let me say one final thing, if I may. I've had the great opportunity, while serving in the Congress, to travel and see the great cities of the world. And I can tell you, Philadelphia is at the top of the list. This is a great City, and a great place to live and work. And thanks to all of you, we can make it even a better place. Thank you all very much. (Applause.)
Committee of the Whole will be reconvening its hearing -I'm just looking at the clock -- in two minutes. (Brief recess.)
We will now continue with our Stated Meeting. The Chair at this time would like to recognize Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion to approve the Journal of the Meeting of December 12.
Thank you, Resolution - Congressman Borski Madam President. I move that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, December 12, 2002, stand approved. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, December 12, 2002, stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, December 12, 2002, is approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absence. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. There are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the Majority. Resolution - Congressman Borski
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Clerk. The Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor. COUNCIL CLERK: To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: I am pleased to advise you that on December 17, 2002, I signed all of the Bills that were passed by Council at its session on December 5, 2002, except 020481; and am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution entitled: "A Resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, for the redevelopment and urban Resolution - Congressman Borski renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area." And to the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: I am herewith returning to you as disapproved Bill Number 020481.
The Clerk will please read any other messages. COUNCIL CLERK: That's all I have, Madam President.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of Bills and Resolutions. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended in order to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has Resolution - Congressman Borski been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.).
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution honoring the members of the Satin Slippers New Year's Brigade for their heroism in rescuing a woman from the Delaware River.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Move the adoption of the Resolution. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Clerk will please read the title of the second Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution honoring Dennis J. Palladino.
Move for the adoption of the Resolution. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has Resolution - Congressman Borski been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning I introduce one Resolution on your behalf.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of this City deeds located the 30th, 36th, 40th and 48th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair Resolution - Congressman Borski recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it. Motion carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Madam President, on behalf of the overwhelming number of Council Members, I introduce two Resolutions.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution calling on the University of Pennsylvania to drop its appeal of the National Labor Relation Board's Resolution - Congressman Borski decision regarding graduate employees at the University of Pennsylvania, which declared that graduate students who perform teaching and research work for the University are employees and have the right to vote in a union election, to be supervised by the NLRB early in 2003.
Madam President, I move the adoption of the Resolution. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
Madam President, I wish to be recognized on the subject.
Standing in the room are leaders of the effort, the new effort in the labor movement, to right a wrong that's existed a long time, and that is universities both public and private for many, many years have exploited graduate students who they use as members of the faculty but pay very little money, Resolution - Congressman Borski to the detriment and hardship for the students. It's been a long battle in the law courts, but they finally began to recognize in public universities that the graduate students are basically employees and they have a right to organize. One of the holdouts in the private field has been the University of Pennsylvania. And I'm delighted to let the graduate students here from the University of Pennsylvania and from Temple, who are working together with Temple to achieve recognition and the contracts last year to the University of Pennsylvania where the titans of financing dominate the Board of Trustees and were fighting very hard against the concept of unionization. We applaud your courage. We think you're doing great. We think our children and grandchildren are going to have better educations because of the work you're doing. We applaud your work. And I'm delighted to tell you that you have the full backing of City Council, as you can see by the signatures on the Resolutions. And Resolution - Congressman Borski so, I urge a positive vote by all Members of City Council.
Thank you, Councilman. It has been moved and seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
The Clerk will please read the title of the second Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution authorizing the City Council Committees on Law and Government and Public Safety to investigate the efficiency and the effectiveness of replicating the Philadelphia Drug Treatment Court to increase its capacity to treat Philadelphia citizens. Resolution - Congressman Borski
I move the adoption of the Resolution and ask to be heard for one moment on this.
Judge Presenza, the President Judge of Municipal Court, has labored for many years quietly in the vineyards developing a program that he employs in the Court System to deal with long-term drug offenders, for every other system has failed. He has been recognized nationally as a leader in the City of Philadelphia program. Unlike some other programs, this program has been recognized as a national model. Therefore, I think it timely that we begin to explore whether that program can find a way of being enlarged so that more people could benefit. Resolution - Congressman Borski Currently some 350 to 500 people enroll in the course. Its success rate -- Sit down so you don't fall down -- is about 95 percent. Most success rates are about five percent. And therefore, it's very important for us in Philadelphia, those of us concerned really about the quality of life, to see if there are ways to first learn about this expanded program, and see if we can help Judge Presenza expand the wonderful work of that Court. And this Resolution calls for a hearing so that everybody gets to know about the program. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. It has been moved and seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
Those opposed? (No response.) Resolution - Congressman Borski
The ayes have it, and the Resolution will be referred to the appropriate Committee. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
The Clerk will please read the title of the first Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution honoring the Frankford High School football team on winning the Public League Championship.
Do I hear a second? Resolution - Congressman Borski UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Clerk will please read the title of the second Resolution introduced by Councilman Mariano. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the American Street Industrial Corridor, Urban Renewal Area.
Move for the Resolution - Congressman Borski adoption of the resolution. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair Recognizes Councilwoman Miller. She's not in the room at the moment. The chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
The Clerk Resolution - Congressman Borski will please read the title of the bill. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance authorizing the Business Association of West Parkside to construct, own and maintain various encroachments on, under and over the footway portions of the public's rights-of-way at the southwest corner of the intersection between Belmont Avenue and Parkside Avenue.
This Bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one Resolution this morning.
The Clerk will please read the title of the Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution declaring January 22, 2003, Reproductive Choice Day.
I move for the adoption. Resolution - Congressman Borski UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has been moved and seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Madam President, I have two Bills and one Resolution to be referred to Committee, and one Resolution introduced by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds and myself that are to be voted on. And I would like to speak on it.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance amending Title 28 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Officers and Employees." By amending Chapter 2600 to prohibit the receipt of contributions by City-elected officials or candidates for City offices from individuals or businesses.
Bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. COUNCIL CLERK: And an Ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified Electors of the City of Philadelphia of a new Article 13 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, as approved by Resolution of the City Council.
This Bill will also be referred to the appropriate Committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the first Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: A Resolution proposing an amendment to the Home Rule Charter, by adding a new Article 13 thereof, to establish a Campaign Finance Board, whose members shall be appointed by the Mayor, City Council, and the City Resolution - Congressman Borski Controller.
Thank you. This Resolution will be referred to the appropriate Committee. Is there a second Resolution? Please read the title. COUNCIL CLERK: And a Resolution urging the Philadelphia Congressional Delegation to continue their efforts to promote world peace.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the Resolution. I'd like to speak on it first. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
Madam Chair, the Resolution commends Congressman Bob Brady and Congressman Chakkah Fattah for their courageous vote in the Congress opposing the Resolution giving the President a blank check authorization to begin war whenever he wishes or wants. World opinion and the opinion of Resolution - Congressman Borski many people across the United States put the issue once again before the United Nations. Over 22 cities in the country have voted resolutions asking our central government, our Federal Government, to slow down; look at the facts; and to give peace a chance. I think we don't want to make the same mistakes that we made back in 1963 when one courageous Senator Wayne Morse was the only person voting against the Tonkin Resolution, a resolution that was later on proved to be based on fiction and lies. I believe that right now in this country we're poised to go to war. And people have to begin saying that there are many voices in this country, many voices that speak. And this country has voices that say: No, you can't go that way. You have to hold. You have to try every diplomatic solution to the problem. War is always the last alternative. We can not be acting preemptively. We can not be acting as if we are the lords of the universe. We have to be able to act within the society of Resolution - Congressman Borski nations. And I think... I hope that this resolution gives to our Congressional delegation some sort of backing so that others can emulate Congressman Brady and Congressman Chakkah Fattah. Thank you. I move for the adoption of the Resolution.
Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The Chair recognizes Councilman Di Cicco. (Applause.) COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Thank you for the applause. (Laughter.) COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: I offer one Resolution - Congressman Borski Bill, Madam President.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance authorizing revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Number 27-S, by striking from the City Plan and vacating Water Street from Jackson Street southerly.
The Bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14200 entitled "Residential Districts," by amending use regulations of R6 residential districts and by making certain technical amendments under certain terms and conditions.
The Bill Resolution - Congressman Borski will be referred to the appropriate Committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. One Bill and one Resolution.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the Bill. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Contracts and Procurement," to improve compliance with certain participation and Affirmative Action requirements.
Bill will be referred to the appropriate Committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the Resolution. COUNCIL CLERK: And a Resolution approving a redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Move for the adoption of the resolution. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
Chair thanks the gentleman. The chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. Resolution - Congressman Borski The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee of the Whole reports out one Bill and 13 Resolutions with favorable recommendations.
The Clerk will please read the report. COUNCIL CLERK: To the President and Members of the Council, The City of Philadelphia, The Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Bill Number 020808, entitled "An Ordinance extending the discount period and the due date for payment of real estate taxes due in 2003"; And a Resolution Number 020772 entitled "Resolution appointing David Rubenstein to the Board of Directors, Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020773, entitled "Resolution pointing Robert Lane to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; Resolution - Congressman Borski And Resolution Number 020774 entitled "Resolution appointing Larry Howard to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020775 entitled "Resolution appointing Randall Scott to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020776 entitled "Resolution appointing Valerie Ferguson Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020777 entitled "Resolution appointing Robert Williams to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020778 entitled "Resolution appointing Dean Adler to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020779 entitled "Resolution appointing Janet Calderwood to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; Resolution - Congressman Borski And Resolution Number 020780, entitled "Resolution appointing William Boone to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020781 entitled "Resolution appointing Allan Kalish to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020782 entitled "Resolution appointing Joseph Zuritsky to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020783 entitled "Resolution appointing Judith Eden, Esquire, to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia"; And Resolution Number 020784 entitled "Resolution appointing Ronald White, Esquire, to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia." Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached Resolutions and Bill to the Council with favorable recommendation. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Thank you. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading today of Bill Number 020808.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of Bill Number 020808. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it, and Bill Number 020808 will be placed on today's first reading calendar. The 13 Resolutions read by the Clerk Resolution - Congressman Borski will be placed at the end of today's calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano for a report from the Committee on Licenses and Inspections.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports three Bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the report. COUNCIL CLERK: To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Licenses and Inspections, to which is referred Bill Number 020496 entitled "An Ordinance amending Section 9205 of The Philadelphia Code entitled: Sidewalk sales, by prohibiting sidewalk sales on portions of 18th Street and Callowhill Street"; And Bill Number 020634, entitled "An Ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code by amending requirements applicable to the vacant premises"; And Bill Number 020758, entitled "An Ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Resolution - Congressman Borski Code by amending provisions relating to fees assessed for certain licenses and permits, all under certain terms and conditions." Respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Madam President, I move that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Number 020758. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Number 020758. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
Those opposed? (No response.) Resolution - Congressman Borski
The ayes have it, and Bill Number 020758 will be placed on today's first reading calendar. Bill Numbers 020496 and 020634 will be placed on the first reading calendar for our next Council session.
Thank you, Madam President. I apologize for the delay. Madam president, I move that we reconsider the vote by which Bill 020481 was taken on December 5, 2002.
Thank you. Council will now proceed under a special order of business to the reconsideration of Bill Number 020481. This Bill was passed by the Council at its December 5, 2002 session and was disapproved by the Mayor and returned to Council today. Is there a second to Councilman Nutter's motion? UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Chorus of ayes.) Resolution - Congressman Borski
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Council will now reconsider the vote by which Bill Number 020481 was passed. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Contracts and procurement, by adding a new chapter, requiring the City Controller to prepare or cause to be prepared economic impact statements for certain development projects prior to funding of such projects by the City or a City-related agency, all under certain terms and conditions."
This Bill having been read on two different days was duly approved by City Council on December 5, 2002, and today was returned to Council by the Mayor as disapproved. The question is: Shall Bill Number 020481 pass, notwithstanding the Mayor's Resolution - Congressman Borski disapproval. Please note that a vote of aye, a vote of aye, is a vote to override the Mayor's veto; a vote of no is a vote to sustain the Mayor's veto. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
No. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Longstreth. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The vote is nine, eight. The motion fails. The next order of business is the Resolution - Congressman Borski consideration of the calendar. The Clerk will please read the Bills on the first reading calendar. COUNCIL CLERK: Bill Number 020808, an Ordinance extending the discount period for the due date for payment of real estate taxes due in 2003.
Chair agrees. COUNCIL CLERK: And Bill Number 020758, an Ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code subcode a, by amending provisions relating to fees assessed for certain licenses and permits, relating to fees assessed for Business Privilege Licenses, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. The Bills just read by the Clerk will be placed on the second reading and final passage calendar for our next session. That concludes the first reading calendar. The Chair now recognizes Resolution - Congressman Borski Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling out the bills on second reading and final passage calendar.
Today Bills Number 020490, 020491, 020761, 020666, 020667, 020668, 020669, 020671, 020672, 020673, 020678, 020679, 020681, 020682, 020684, 020685, 020686, 020737, 020738, 020742, 020474, 020483, 020583, 020504, 020505, 020548, 020549, 020565, 020566, 020567, 020568, 020570, 020571, 020572, 020573, 020574, 020575, 020716, 020739, 020740, and 020741 are being called up for second reading and final passage. All other Bills are being held.
Thank you. Clerk will please read the title of the first bill, Bill Number 490. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance amending Section 19-1301 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate taxes," by providing that real estate taxes imposed under that Section shall Resolution - Congressman Borski be based upon the assessed value of real estate as returned by the Board of Revision of Taxes in 2001," under certain terms and conditions.
Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Madam President, concerning Bill Number 490, I mean, it's previously been tabled, and I want to make a motion that the Bill be taken off the table. And I wish to be heard on it. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Second.
It has been moved and seconded that Bill Number 490 be removed from the table at this time. And it has been seconded. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Thank you, Madam President. Over the past few weeks I have not called for a vote to remove this Bill from the table, basically because I really wanted to see what would happen with some of the other property tax bills that had been introduced, particularly Resolution - Congressman Borski the ten percent and the four percent bills or the cap bills. One failed an override, and the other is unenforceable without state legislation. And I voted for the deferral bill, but I do not believe that it really solves any property tax problems. Many of my constituents, and all of our constituents for that matter, really will not benefit, because they won't qualify for the Bill. I think testimony today by the Revenue Commissioner indicates that about 135,000 people who have mortgages will probably either not qualify or have difficulty in working through the maze of issues to get their mortgage companies to figure out how they're going to handle this deferral, if in fact that's something that they elect to do. I think the interest on the deferral can be problematic to many property owners. We spoke during the public hearings about some of the possibilities, especially with seniors, who may elect to do the property tax deferral because they figure, well, it's less money that they may have Resolution - Congressman Borski to lay out in any given year or years. And quite frankly, there's the scenario that in many cases, by deferring the tax assessments over a long period of time, the taxes may exceed actually what the property value, the value of that property is, in effect leaving the property to the heirs that is in debt. So, I just don't see any reason and I don't see any benefit to that in the long run or in the short term because, again, in my opinion it doesn't speak to any real property tax relief. In October... I argued back in October, and I demonstrated -- and some people, again, thought that it was just grandstanding on my part -- that the best solution I thought at the time was to offer a temporary tax bill so that we can move forward with some real property tax reform. But if we can't realize that now, I think that we are really doing an injustice to all of our constituents. Today I don't believe that anything by the way of legislation really helps the property owners. And today's Inquirer and Daily Resolution - Congressman Borski News just this morning speak about a situation that speaks to some of the things that we talked about during the hearings, and were recognized by the folks at the BRTA that there are problems, there are problems in this system. It is flawed. And again, I'll speak to those several thousand envelopes that I demonstrated in this very room, where people were getting bills and notices on property taxes for buildings and properties that they don't even own. I mean, there's something wrong with this system. The purpose of the tax freeze bills was to get this Council moving on real property tax reform. And I thought we got close to it. I was willing to withdraw these bills had we passed the ten percent cap. And I think Councilman Nutter did a great thing when he introduced the amendment. It was only for one year. I think that was the answer to all of our problems, at least in the immediate future. But that bill was vetoed. We couldn't override the Mayor's veto. What do the people have today that gives them any real property tax relief going Resolution - Congressman Borski forward? A very convoluted system on a deferral bill, that it was supported by the Mayor, and really can't be explained, in my opinion, thoroughly enough for the average person or even myself -- or maybe I'm not average; maybe I'm below average: Call me what you will -- by the Revenue commissioner.
We have made things even more confusing than would be less confusing if we either did the ten percent bill that was vetoed and we couldn't override or at least give some temporary relief by way of the freeze bill. The Revenue Commissioner, at the end of her testimony said, that the freeze bills get real close to what she was suggesting by way of the deferral program that she was laying out. Why do we have to get close? Why don't we just do what we're elected to do, and that is represent the people who are asking us to do what we can do to make a difference when it comes to real estate taxes and how we apply those taxes and how we assess them today. It's my understanding, again, based on the articles I've read today and some anonymous Resolution - Congressman Borski calls that I receive from people over the BRTA, that the system now is worse than before. For decades we have been talking about real property tax reform. In the early '80s -- and Councilman Nutter was very eloquent in pointing out some of the testimony that took place in the '80s, when we had a similar massive excessive counterproductive real estate tax increase at that time, that the Council took the position to back off, to try to figure something out that made sense going forward. I think we're asking for the same thing today. And we're asking the Mayor, who led the charge in the early '80s, for that type of tax reform, to understand that the people are angry, and they need something, and they need some relief, and they need a system that is much more transparent, much more understandable. So I think it is appropriate if we do this tax freeze bill, because God knows how long it's going to take us to get this Commission up and running, and only God will know whether or not they're going to come back with anything in a year or so that is palatable to this Council. Resolution - Congressman Borski We should go back and revisit the ten percent, if that's legally possible, or some sort of legislation that will give us that kind of relief. We also read in the Inquirer today where the state legislature is considering a four percent cap, but they can't do anything until next year. What is the rush? Why are we so in a hurry to tax the people who we represent in a way in which we all understand has flaws. It is a flawed system. It is not an equitable system. It penalizes a lot of people, the very people we have been charged to represent. The evaluators who put out that letter to the BRT, their job... They are charged with responsibility of evaluating properties. And if they are saying that there's something wrong with the system, who else do we need to speak to? We're not evaluators. We heard people come in here and talk about some of the issues that are in that letter, that anonymous letter that was sent to the Daily News and the Inquirer. Resolution - Congressman Borski We heard people come in here and testify that they couldn't understand why their property, which has less square footage than the property next door or down the street, is being assessed at a higher value than the property that had more square footage than theirs. They speak to it. The evaluators who wrote that letter or that petition speak to that. There are condition codes that they speak to, which are not appropriate and are not equitable. We should listen to the people who are hired to do the job of evaluating and assessing properties when they say the system is broken. Those are the people we should be listening to, in addition to our constituents. So I would ask we vote Bill 490 and 491 out today favorably. Thank you, Madam President. I'm sorry. The motion is that the Bills get taken off the table.
Thank you. Councilman Rizzo would like to be recognized.
Thank you, Madam Resolution - Congressman Borski President. Madam President, I'm not attempting to debate this issue right now, but I would like to set the record straight, that apparently the Councilman is not aware of the Mayor's letter that was circulated here at our last Council session which waived the interest on the deferral, agreed that there be no lien on the property, and that there would be no eligibility criteria that anyone that was in excess of 15 percent would be eligible to defer their increase in assessment, their increase in their taxes. So I just wanted to make sure that the record reflected that that adjustment has been made. And the Administration is working very closely with me to adopt a deferral program that that will be, again, the short-term resolution to this issue until the tax commission wrestles with this issue. So I just didn't want the record to be flawed by the statements that were made. They were not accurate. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Madam President, I support Councilman Di Cicco's statement, in terms of us being able to do something for our constituents. For the last three days the residents of the Ninth Councilmanic District have been over before the Zoning Board on the appeals property -- I mean, BRT on the appeals. And my staff person came back and told me there were just absolutely horror stores. But I point out the fact that the system is flawed. And they themselves pointed out the fact. There was a property over-assessed at double the worth of this person's home, and that property was used to compare other homes in the District. There were several properties in the system which were listed as rental properties where they were actually residential properties. There are properties in my District that are two-and-a-half stories and they're treated as three-story buildings. There are no inspections. Inspectors just stand outside. And that's been Resolution - Congressman Borski testified and made part of the record here, how this assessment was done. And when a resident refinances his or her property, often the system would use those figures as a measure of the market value. They may not be important to you, Rick.
All right. But it's important to the people of the Ninth Councilmanic District. Okay?
All right. And we know this predatory lending has inflated a lot of the market values and deflated equity in the homes in our District. And there are a lot of instances and examples that we can cite to show the disparity and the inefficiency of this system by which we tax people. We know people have to pay taxes, and they know that, too. But they want a system that is fair and that works and that they're being assessed fairly. We haven't really done too much Resolution - Congressman Borski for these constituents. Out of 228,000 people, the majority of those were below 15 percent. 73,000 were in the 15 percent range. So the majority of them get no relief. And we haven't done anything. And for the people in the Ninth Councilmanic District who vote, and who vote at a high rate, I'm sure that they will ask our Council Members who have not been supportive of any relief for their plight, what they plan to do and why they were not there for them when we tried to make a difference in their lives, for a short period of time. This is not for a long period of time. This is to give us a way to bring about some change in the BRT and how they do the assessment. And I just am really disappointed in our performance here. And I hope that we're able to overcome whatever the politics rests here on this Council and deal with the people in the District.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: I'll wait, Madam President. I was going to comment on my Resolution - Congressman Borski colleague, Councilman Rizzo's comments, but I'll refrain from that for the moment. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. You'll be amazed to know that I actually had not planned to speak on this particular issue. But I was concerned. And I'm not debating the issue, nor am I in any way in any conflict with my colleague and good friend, Councilman Rizzo. But I was concerned about some of the comments. And as we all seeking to make sure that the record is clear, I also, at least from my perspective, wanted to make sure the record is clear. The Councilman was explaining... Councilman Rizzo was explaining some of the details as laid out by the letter received from the Mayor last week. And he is correct about the provisions of the letter. My concern about the record here is that Councilman Rizzo sponsored a Bill. That Bill Resolution - Congressman Borski was passed by the City Council 17 to nothing, and it was actually signed by the Mayor, for which I congratulate the Councilman. But in our legislative process, bills still outrank letters. the Councilman's Bill requires six percent interest. The deferral is until the property is sold. There would be a lien placed and there are eligibility criteria. Some are detailed, and some are to be developed. Now, that's the Bill that we voted on. That's the Bill that was passed. That's the Bill that the Mayor signed. The Mayor has the authority and the right -- and I respect the Mayor, and his views, and his authority, and his rights -- to implement a program that the City Administration wishes to pursue. But in the final analysis, that program has no relationship to the Bill that Councilman Rizzo passed, other than the fact that they both used a 15 percent threshold as the only link between those two items. And I believe, in fact, what the Mayor's letter and what the proposal indicates is Resolution - Congressman Borski that the Mayor has no intention of implementing Councilman Rizzo's Bill, as passed by this body and as signed by the Mayor, but uses the 15 percent threshold as a bridge, if not a bit of a bootstrap to create a different program that has no interest. It's a deferral for one year. There is no lien, and there are no eligibility criteria. Now, the only linkage between these two is the 15 percent threshold. But a letter does not outweigh a Bill under our present City Charter. So, I think what you have here is the Mayor's actually not implementing Councilman Rizzo's Bill, but gives the guise, gives the impression of implementing it, with completely different criteria and standards, as compared to what the Councilman introduced and what this body passed. So I just wanted to make sure that as long as we're all trying to make the record clear, that at least for the body that I signed up for, bills outweigh letters every day. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. Resolution - Congressman Borski The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. We've been discussing property tax reform for several weeks, but we've also been discussing the lack of school funding for our Philadelphia public schools for many years. And though we all agree that the system is flawed and there enormous problems, my position has been and my position remains: I do not believe that we fix the system on the back of the Philadelphia school system. So I will continue to be hard pressed to support any legislation that dramatically adversely affects the Philadelphia school system. If my memory serves me correctly, anywhere between $3 million and $14 million become at risk in going to the Philadelphia school system. So I will end where I started and repeat the question asked by my colleague, Councilman Di Cicco: What is the rush? All of us unanimously agreed to support a Tax Reform Commission. Let us allow that body to do what we have some difficulty doing Resolution - Congressman Borski because of our pressing legislative schedules. Let us allow them to be very deliberative, thoughtful, and circumspect in how we fix the system for the long haul and not the short term. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. I'm not going to preface my remarks by trying to say I'm bringing clarity to the record or to anything else, because I am totally befuddled by what the situation is. Like the rest of the country, people were talking about the Presidential Election. And they look for reasons why the minority President who is in office now, why it happened that way. And they said, well, the Democrats did poorly. They didn't enunciate an economic message. And many of us just read that in a column and dismiss it. But we here in Philadelphia are Resolution - Congressman Borski beautiful at expressing every sense of division and trying to confuse every situation. Here in Philadelphia we have a Democratic Mayor and an overwhelmingly Democratic Council. But where the main support of the Mayor comes, the Democratic Mayor, is from the Republican Members, few in numbers but they get solid support. Last week there was an attempt to override that failed again, but ten Democrats voted to override the Mayor. Only four Democrats voted to sustain him. In the vote that took place today, a majority of the Democrats in Council voted to override the Democratic Mayor, but the Republicans voted, two-thirds of them today, voted to sustain the democratic Mayor. So I don't know what party is enunciating what. All I know is, one statement that Councilman Di Cicco made that I think is absolutely right, and that is that as a body we have failed to offer any property tax relief. We talk a lot. We use every conceivable excuse. The last one I heard boggles Resolution - Congressman Borski my mind, when we're told that this Council which is so loyal and supported the schools is considering matters that can hurt the schools financially. Right at the moment the schools have a ton of money. We voted $300 million that's available to the schools. They've never had that kind of a pool of money. And it was done by the Democratic Mayor pushing that the school system needed money. And we supported it. This Council's been very supportive of the school system, going far beyond the tax base, to offer additional funds all the time. There is no harm... There is no harm to the school system. There's only benefit when you right wrongs in government. And it's wrong. We have in Philadelphia a strong Democratic City. We have a total Republican system of taxation. The people that get hit hardest in Philadelphia are poorer people, low income people, women who maybe work out of the house part-time and earn $10,000 or $15,000. They pay taxes very heavily, much Resolution - Congressman Borski heavier in Philadelphia than in most of the rest of the nation. They even pay in Democratic Philadelphia much higher tax rates than they pay at the Federal level or at the State level, both governments of which are Republican. So, I don't know what kind of message this Council is trying to send. Government is half political, maybe more than half political. We elect government through political parties. We go through the motions of indicating this is not a political body. But somehow in Philadelphia the Democratic Executive is supported by the Republicans overwhelmingly. But the Democrats who nationally are supposed to be committed to raising the standard of living of working people, the Democrats in Philadelphia haven't got this message. I don't know what's going to happen during the Mayoral campaign. How is there going to be a distinction between the two parties? It's important to have that. I mean, you know, political parties are not social organizations. They are Resolution - Congressman Borski organizations that enunciate economic principles, social principles, and then fight in the community for support for those principals. In Philadelphia we have a totally muddled situation. The main supporter of the Democratic Mayor are the Republicans in the City Council. And that ought to cause people to be concerned and to think about the situation. What can they do to make it clear?
I don't know what we're going to be doing in this forthcoming election. I believe, you know... And, you know, to have 10 Democrats in City Council vote to override the Mayor, and to have the Mayor's power to veto sustained by the three Republican votes, as occurred last week, you know, makes a mockery of the political system in Philadelphia. So I think it's hard to clarify things. But I'm going to stick to one thing. And that one thing is, it's always been my belief that the democratic party stood for working people, stood for poor people, stood for those who didn't have money in the form of campaign gifts to influence the actions of government. Resolution - Congressman Borski It's always been my understanding that the Democratic Party supported labor, supported the people that needed help from government; that that was the purpose of government, was to assist people. And to me it seems a bad thing to have a tax system in Philadelphia that hits the poor. People have lived in their homes for 20 or 30 years, to have them threatened with having to move out of their neighborhood because they can't pay taxes is to me a real life's tragedy. And Democrats ought not to be doing things that create that condition. But what we ought to be focusing on is how to give people who need tax relief real tax relief, whether it's in the form of elimination or curtailment of the Wage Tax or whether it's in the form of property tax relief. Thank you, Madam President. )
At this time the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam President. I am sorry to hear that Resolution - Congressman Borski Councilman Cohen's having a lot of identity problems as a Democratic. But... And I won't go through point by point. I think too many of those points are too obvious. But I do appreciate being able as a Republican to be independent, when I make a decision to vote on an override or any other matter that the Mayor is for or against, independent of whether I'm in his corner in the Democratic party or the other corner, because that is what probably Councilman Cohen doesn't want to turn upon, and point to the three Republicans who made the right decision last week, as far as they were concerned, in supporting the Mayor. Why four Democrats didn't? I have no idea. But the Mayor doesn't need and this Council doesn't need Republican votes to override the Mayor. And let's make that clear. How you can blame three Republicans who aren't involved in the Democratic Party when four Democrats aren't just defies any reason that I can come up with. But getting back to the issue, there are, as Councilman Di Cicco and others have said Resolution - Congressman Borski several attempts to try to do something about the egregious situation occurring with the tax gouging that went on this year. It wasn't the first time that this system was out of kilter or showed its flaws. But I think because of the computers that were operating on their own and not with human oversight, things were worse than usual. It is my belief -- and every vote I've taken is based on that belief -- that whether it's a freeze, whether it's a four percent increase, whether it's a ten percent increase -and I exclude the deferral bill from that statement -- needs State authorization. We can run into court if we don't put it in our bill that we need state authorization. And we can tie up a lot of lawyers with a lot of money, and get a lot of publicity. And that's all we'd be doing. We do not have the authorization without the State Legislature to do these kinds of freezes or caps. As Councilman Cohen is talking about politics, we now have a Republican sponsored four percent bill which is law subject to the Resolution - Congressman Borski State Legislature's authorization. As of this morning, we have the second or third ranking Democrat in Harrisburg in the State House, Representative Evans, saying that he's going to support authorizing that four percent cap. Why are we sitting here talking about something that will never get authorized in Harrisburg? Never. No one in Harrisburg will authorize a freeze. We don't have a chance, let alone sitting on a brink of a bipartisan agreement, possibly, to support a four percent cap which may very well need two-thirds vote, many Democrats and many Republicans, to override a possible Gubernatorial veto. And when we're talking about timing, by the time we get back in session in February and start dealing with the Budget, we're not talking about a much different timetable than Representative Evans is looking at in Harrisburg. But I believe the ten percent was too high. I think it was well done. I complement Councilman Nutter on all the work he did. I have sat, as I've said at hearings, in thousands of Resolution - Congressman Borski hearings at the Board of Revision of Taxes with people in my District. The people in the Northeast are like a lot of other people in the neighborhoods. They're trying to make a go of it. They're not at the high end; they're not at the real low end; but that's probably 70 to 80 percent of the City, without any geographical context. Four percent has always been the area where, people if the assessor will come down, usually say: That's okay. I mean, I can handle that. That's a reasonable level. I know my house might be appreciating a little bit. I don't want to go through that appeal process. I don't want to take the risk of a higher assessment.
They also are usually pleased if the Board reduces their high assessment that usually starts in double digits, down to that four percent level. That is the only criteria I have used, is what's affordable, what's fair to the average homeowner in Philadelphia. I am not worried about money that the City hasn't received yet, because in case we Resolution - Congressman Borski haven't checked, that's not the City's money yet. That's still the taxpayers' money, the homeowners' money. And I apologize, tongue in check, for representing poor people and middle income people as a Republican. I make absolutely no apology. I make no apology for supporting labor. I make no apology for not seeing a distinction where I got to check my registration card before I decide on an issue in 2002, almost 2003, when that stuff might be going on in Harrisburg, although Representative Evans is a little bit contrary to that today. And I think often times Harrisburg comes up with bipartisan solutions. Washington is a total pit when it comes to everybody's got to look at their registration card before they make a decision. I don't run for Congress. I run for City Council. We don't have Democratic potholes. We don't have Republican school problems. We've got City problems that are affecting families in Philadelphia, kids in Philadelphia, poor people, middle class people, wealthy people that we're trying to attract in Philadelphia. Resolution - Congressman Borski Let's cut the garbage about whether we are Democrats or Republicans. That is ancient history, if it ever existed. To say that the tax structure in Philadelphia is a Republican structure? That's a joke. 5 to 5 percent. Come on. This is about forgetting party labels, trying to do the right thing based on your own judgment. My judgment is that all these things need State legislation. One of them is now before the State Legislature. I can't ask Republicans. And they wouldn't vote for a ten percent a year cap. That's just how I see it. And I also don't think it's fair to the people in my District. And I don't think, with the City getting no money, that a freeze is going to be acceptable in Harrisburg. The one thing is sitting there and it looks like it has a chance of bipartisan support. So I'm going to be voting as I have on this Bill. If you want to help people, keep Resolution - Congressman Borski trying to push the Board of Revision to better its system. It's a very difficult process. The appeals aren't perfect. And there's an awful lot of people who don't file appeals because they're just afraid of the system, and they stay at home and they take it. If they can leave the City, they do. If they don't, it just smolders within their house, about how rotten this system is. But if this system were at four percent, the Board of Revision -- we wouldn't have to worry about them being revenue driven. They could fix the values because we wouldn't be getting all that money. And I believe the fine City of Chicago, if I'm not mistaken, already has a four percent cap. I didn't know that when I put the Bill in, but I think that's the common sense, reasonable, working family cap. Okay. Thank you.
Madam Chair, we've been discussing this now for like three Resolution - Congressman Borski months. It seems like we go over and over it. Councilman O'Neill referred to the current reassessments that were sent out during the last month and a half as tax gouging. I think we all agree on that. I think there's a story today in the Daily News that says that... It raises questions about every one of the 268,000 Residential Property Reassessment Proposal 203. And this is being said not by City Council. This is being said by the people who did the reassessment. So right off the bat you have and probably you have lawyers getting ready to go to court, because you have the majority of the re-assessors willing, almost ready to be subpoenaed to testify that the system and the reassessments that they sent out were totally flawed, were wrong. But the computer system that they used to do it with did not work, was programmed wrong. And now what we're saying is that if Harrisburg doesn't give us permission, we don't act. In 1981 this Council didn't wait Resolution - Congressman Borski until Harrisburg told them to act. In 1981 this Council and some of the people that voted for that are still here. I think Brian O'Neill was still here. And I think Joan Krajewski was here and Dave Cohen and Anna Verna. At that point nobody raised the issue. No one raised the issue: Oh, well, Harrisburg will prohibit us from doing that. John Street said: We got to do it, because the taxpayers of the City demand us to do it. That's what John street said that time. And we did it. And we brought about a more equitable system by doing it. We didn't go to Harrisburg to ask permission. The Coleman-Green Agreement came about because City Council said it is unfair what they have done. What the BRT did in 1981 was unfair. They reassessed houses across the City. It fell on the working class. It fell on the middle class. It fell on the poor, the brunt of it. And we didn't wait until Harrisburg said to us: You can do it now. No. We said: We represent the people of Philadelphia. Resolution - Congressman Borski I wasn't here, but the current Mayor led that charge. And I don't think we can do less than what that Council did in 1981. Everything we have tried to work reasonably, to come about an agreement, to produce an equitable system of reassessment has failed. Everything we have passed in order to get into a negotiation process has failed. But let's get something done. Let's not play any more games. Let's go back to what we did in 1981. Let's put it back on the table. Let's do it. Let's not wait for permission. I don't think that the people of this City elected us here so that we could say: Well, we can't act because we don't have permission. No. No. Let's act and then tell them tell us, let them tell the taxpayers of this City that what we did was wrong; that's all. Let's act. Let's not hide behind certain things. Forget about Democrats or Republicans. It's about Philadelphians. The brunt of the reassessment falls on the poor, the working class, and middle class. Resolution - Congressman Borski It is not equitable. The Daily News says here that the people who did the assessments understand that they did it wrong. Citizens should be out there getting lawyers to take the BRT to court right now. I think they might do that after reading this, definitely. But I think it's about time that we acted. I think it's about time that if a Bill is vetoed, we did what this Council did with Bill Green: Override the veto. Then let's go to court, and then let's get a settlement done. Let's do it. But let's stop playing games with this issue. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. First, my colleagues are in the greatest spirit of bipartisanship, and I deeply appreciate the comments that Councilman O'Neill made. I have, under some difficult Resolution - Congressman Borski circumstances, actually been the beneficiary from time to time of support from our colleagues who happen to identify themselves on their voter registration card as Republican. Some of my colleagues will recall that the 12th vote on the override of Mayor Rendell's veto of the creation of the Police Advisory Commission came from Councilman Longstreth. Councilman Rizzo did today vote to override the Mayor's veto on the Economic Impact Statement Bill, which sought to make sure that this Council receive more information on major development projects of $50 million or more, as opposed to less information. And Councilman O'Neill and I have been working together recently on this particular issue, at both the City level and the Harrisburg level. So I will continue the nature of that relationship in a bipartisan and a friendly fashion. Today's issue, though, as raised by a number of members, when we talk about the impact of caps, I am certainly hopeful that our good Resolution - Congressman Borski colleague, Councilman O'Neill -- And I plan to support him -- will pursue this issue in Harrisburg, although Councilman Ortiz is correct that if we ended up in court, we're not sure what a court would do. The court did impose the Green-Coleman Agreement, and taxpayers at that time did see some form of relief. We did not have, as Councilman Ortiz laid out, we did not have the State authorization. But as I'm sure Councilman O'Neill knows, when you end up in court, you never know what might happen, and you might find yourself in front of a friendly judge. the four percent cap, from an economic standpoint, for our citizens... You don't have to be Milton Freedman to figure out that a four percent cap financially is certainly better than a ten percent cap, although I'm sure the Councilman shares that that will be a very interesting letter. I'm sure that we'll come up from the Mayor's office about the financial impact to either the City or the School District, based on Resolution - Congressman Borski the four percent. Councilman O'Neill and I do share the perspective, though, of whose money is it and at what time is it whose money? With regard to the School District and any impact on them, just for the record, a letter was sent last week from Michael Harris, the Chief Financial Officer of the School District. These are the facts as detailed in the letter from Mr. Harris of last week. 7 million, based on revenues to be generated and cost savings to be received by various actions taken by Mr. Harris and Mr. Valis. Councilman Cohen raised the deficit financing that we assisted in earlier this year. School District anticipates at the end of fiscal year 2003 they will have $187 million left from the $300 million financing, that is as yet unspent. Over the course of the next five years, fiscal years '03 through '07, School District anticipates spending down that $187 Resolution - Congressman Borski million, leaving in fiscal year '07 $13 million still left from the deficit financing that was effected earlier this year. Now, I'm going to be the first to say the School District has many financial challenges, but those are the facts about their finances, as laid out by their Chief Financial Officer in a letter last week. We will all certainly continue to support our School District, as their needs continue to grow, and as they continue to struggle with a structural deficit.
I think we all, though, can have some sense of faith and hope that now Governor-elect and soon to be Governor Ed Rendell will work with the State Legislature not only to solve financial problems in the Philadelphia School District but the other 500 school districts in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania have their own problems, and we're not the only school district that suffers a surplus. I'm sorry. Suffers with structural deficit problems. I am hopeful that an action will be taken here that moves this issue along. And if Resolution - Congressman Borski we're lucky, we may in the short-term end up in court to continue to discuss and debate this particular battle as City Council did some 21 years ago. That City Council was fortunate, because they were able to put an agreement into effect that did result in true legitimate tax relief for taxpayers at that time. And as I said last week, I would hope again that this City Council would at least meet that test and that standard and that challenge, so that we can continue to provide tax relief to citizens who desperately need it. This has been mischaracterized, I would say, by -- and I'm not critical of the news media. They report what they report, and they buy their ink by the truckloads. People who have means have spoken in a louder voice about the property tax issue, which in many instances has drowned out the true cry in many of our neighborhoods from people who are of a lower, moderate income or just working people who are struggling. They have not received the attention Resolution - Congressman Borski and the hype that many other neighborhoods have received. And that's not to discount other neighborhoods that have received larger percentage increases or larger dollar amount increases. There is a true problem here. And I think this City Council has some responsibility to take every step and every effort and every measure and use every tool available to us, whether legislatively or legally, and through the judicial system, to provide true tax relief to citizens here in Philadelphia. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. Councilman Cohen initially started off his comments, I believe, by expressing some concern over the confusion that reigns sometimes when we discuss these types of bills. And I think confusion is a good word to describe it. And not to be specific over these particular tax bills, but on other issues that we've dealt with through the course of this term, whether it was Civil Service Regulations that we Resolution - Congressman Borski were trying to change, to allow the City to hire differently than it does today, whether it was today's issue with Councilman Nutter's very well crafted bill to provide economic impact statements on large public projects, or whether it's these tax bills. We have a process in place where we have hearings. We have expert people come in, Administration people come in, they give their testimony. We do our due diligence. We listen to what they have to say, and then we formulate a vote, an opinion. We cast our vote. And on a number of these bills, whether it's the three I mentioned or others. The votes are 17 nothing, 16 nothing. We make a decision. We think about these things. We take this job seriously. And then the bills come back. And what happens in the two weeks that the bills come back, when we decide whether to cast our vote again for a bill or to sustain the Mayor's veto? And more times than I'd like to happen, on major issues facing the City, we have deliberated, we've had our process, and we've made Resolution - Congressman Borski our decision, and often that decision is unanimous. And then the bill comes back and it changes. And I think what's confusing, what people express to me in the community about this confusion is: Why did you change your mind? What happened in a two-week period or a one-week period that made you from one place in time vote to support an issue, and in another place not too far away you vote to reverse yourself? And I think the confusion in the community is that we need -- Look, I've had bills in this Council in the last eleven years I've been here that people have told me: I don't like the bill; I'm not supporting the bill; and I'm voting against it. And I shake their hand and say, you know what? Everybody's sent here for a reason, and you're doing your job. I think we need to be a little more consistent in the way in which we cast our vote and then stick to our vote. And I think that that's what's confusing people out there, is that we do one thing, and then a week or so or ten days later we turn around and do something absolutely Resolution - Congressman Borski different. So I really, you know, on this issue I think that Councilman Di Cicco is correct. We need to do something. I think that Councilman O'Neill, working on the four percent bill, is a valid issue. But I also believe that we need to be more consistent in what we do and what we say and how we vote. And I think that would eliminate a lot of confusion out in the community, as to what exactly it is we are doing or not doing, to help people deal with the pressing issues that are facing the citizens of this City. Thank you, Madam President.
Just one final word to correct Councilman O'Neill. I wasn't blaming the Republicans in City Council for anything. They're getting away with murder. What I was talking about was Democrats ought to vote like Democrats. And when the City of Philadelphia is that strongly Democratic, it ought to be reflected in the Resolution - Congressman Borski policies of the government. And I was really congratulating the three Republicans in City Council because I think they have confused the issue, to their credit, so the Democrats are beginning to think like Republicans in many cases. And that's what's wrong with this and that's what's causing the confusion. Let those of us who are committed to democratic principles, the targeted tax cuts, to always thinking of how government can improve life for people. Let's vote that way. Let's not find all kind of excuses to vote like Republicans. If, we're Democrats, be proud of it. You're doing God's work, in my opinion. You're doing the work that the people of Philadelphia have elected you to do, so please act like you're a Democratic after you get elected, not just during campaigns. Thank you, Madam President. (Applause.)
Thank you, Resolution - Congressman Borski Madam President. Councilman Cohen, you have never come off so much like a missionary, as you just did, but you may be helping my missionary cause. So I can get some registration cards handy real quickly if anybody buys any of what Councilman Cohen was selling and would like to join the Republican Party, based on that reasoning. But this may be an overwhelmingly Democratic City by registration, maybe an overwhelmingly Democratic State by registration. I just think registration means very little. And one example that I think just recently came into the room. In the last election there wouldn't have been a Mayoral election if we went based on registration. And happy holidays, Sam. But I want to just say again and again, let's not trip over the obvious. If I'm sitting on the second floor and I know that week in week out there may be 17 Council Members, but before they walk in the room it's seven against whatever Street's for, let's not kid ourselves. There's 10 votes left. And that's where it goes. Resolution - Congressman Borski And I can take you down chapter and verse on key issues. And because I could vote however I wanted to when Rendell was around, if I thought he was right. And I can vote however I want to on Street, I'd really hate for that to be labeled as a partisan issue. And the numbers reflect -- I don't think that staff work on the second floor is anything like the last time. And I think that's part of what I was just hearing from Councilman Kenney. Some of these issues come up and they're not well talked through, if you know what I mean, between the two branches of government, before they come here. They don't get the same kind of scrutiny ahead of time, and the real scrutiny often comes up in the last hour before a later vote. And that is not a real functional atmosphere to be working in, but we've been working under it now for three years. And it does produce some results that may be hard to figure out if you're not right in the middle of it. But I mean, I think we're going to continue to see strange votes if you call Resolution - Congressman Borski Republicans being with the Mayor or against him. I don't remember being with him on the Wage Tax reduction. I remember being against him for about five month while I was not being paid on a reapportionment issue. And I think I was the only vote that said we shouldn't send a $25 million present, a gift to the Gas Works that we were never going to see again. So I'm going to continue to just look at the issues and figure that I'm right, that in local government there are no Democratic or Republican potholes. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. Let me say first of all, I'm losing my voice. But this is probably a new version of campaign finance reform, where people can spend public time this way, because of cameras and there are media people, to actually push their themes of reelection next year. Let me talk about tax reform. Tax reform did not begin, in terms of policy in City Resolution - Congressman Borski Council, until the mayor decided that he was proposing to freeze Wage Tax cuts beginning next July. People decided to jump on that issue to get some mileage out of it, but something that was not going to happen until seven months from now, something we could have dealt with in two or three months. Property tax reform was not raised as an issue as a matter of policy in this Council until tax reassessments went out. This is so much political posturing that we can actually be sitting here supposedly debating whether to untable a bill and get into a discussion of veto overrides. It's not just an issue of Republican versus Democrat or bipartisanship. It's an issue of Democracy. And if you lose on a vote, still respect the majority. And that's what's not happening here. And this is just political posturing toward next year. I can tell you that I supported restoring the Wage Tax cuts quote, unquote crossing over to the other side. I supported the four percent and the Resolution - Congressman Borski ten percent cap, particularly the ten percent cap was amended. And I voted to override the Mayor's veto on that. Truth of the matter is, when people were saying, we need to do something now, there's nothing that we can do now. And I've said that before. You know that there's nothing we can do now. This is nothing but political posturing. There's nothing we can do to change this process right now. The truth of the matter is, in the end, we have a four percent cap that is law. You don't like it because it's not your bill. I'm voting against a freeze because it's a bad bill, and it's not legal.
Thank you. Are there any other statements from any of the Members? * (No response.)
Seeing none, a motion was made by Councilman Di Cicco and seconded that Bill Number 020490 be removed from the table. All of those in favor of taking that bill off the table will signify by saying Resolution - Congressman Borski aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
Motion carries. We will now consider Bill Number 020490. I would ask the Clerk to please read the title of the bill. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance amending Section 19-1301 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Taxes," by providing that real estate taxes imposed under that Section shall be based upon the assessed value of real estate as returned by the Board of Revision of Taxes in 2001, thereby freezing such real estate taxes at the level imposed for tax year 2002, under certain terms and conditions.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Yes. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Yes. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman O'Neill. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Vote is 7 to 10. The Bill fails. The next Bill to be called is Bill Number 020491. Councilman Di Cicco, do you still want that Bill to go forward? COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Madam President, yes, since we're giving the people -- I will refrain from the word I was going to use -- a Christmas gift that they will not enjoy, why not give them two. Call for the vote.
Clerk will Resolution - Congressman Borski please read the title of the bill. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance amending Chapter 19-1800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "School Tax Authorization," by providing that real estate taxes imposed by the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia for tax year 2003 and thereafter shall be based upon the assessed value of real estate as certified by the Board of Revision of Taxes in 2001, thereby freezing such taxes at the level imposed for tax year 2002, and by requiring that any other real estate taxes imposed by the Board of Education be based upon such assessed values, all under certain terms and conditions.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
No. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Cohen. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Resolution - Congressman Borski Reynolds-Brown.
Aye. Votes are 6 to 11. The motion fails. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020761. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance amending Bill No. 010529 entitled "An Ordinance amending Section 20-501 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to boundaries of Councilmanic Districts, by revising the boundaries of Councilmanic Districts, under certain terms and conditions."
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman O'Neill. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17 and the nays are zero. The Bill passes. Next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020666. COUNCIL CLERK: An ordinance approving the ninth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Eastwick Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Nutter. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17. The nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you, Madam President. I have to leave the Chamber on personal business. I'd like to leave my vote for all Bills and Resolutions as voting yes. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Madam President, I have to also leave the Chamber to attend Council business, and would like to leave the vote of aye for all bills.
Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I, too, must leave for Council business, and I would like to be reported as voting aye on all Bills and Resolutions.
Okay. Leave is granted. The next Bill being called for consideration is Bill Number 020667. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Greenway Resolution - Congressman Borski Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Ayes are 17, the nays are zero. The majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020668. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the thirteenth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the South Central Urban Resolution - Congressman Borski Renewal area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020669. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Point Breeze East Resolution - Congressman Borski Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes.
I notice that several of my constituents have been sitting in the hearing this morning. They waited very patiently. I want to thank them for coming in. And I certainly want to wish you a very happy Resolution - Congressman Borski holiday. Thank you for all your support. Next bill is to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020671. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the first amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Saran Allen Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Resolution - Congressman Borski Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Resolution - Congressman Borski The next Bill being called for consideration is Bill Number 020672. COUNCIL CLERK: An ordinance approving the first amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Parkside National Register Historic District Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Resolution - Congressman Borski Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Resolution - Congressman Borski The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020673. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the tenth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Mantua Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for Resolution - Congressman Borski consideration is Bill Number 020678. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the 45th and Sansom Urban Renew Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Keep going, please. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the Resolution - Congressman Borski Bill passes.
The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020679. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the first amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Kenney. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of Resolution - Congressman Borski all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020681. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the thirtieth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Kenney. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of Resolution - Congressman Borski all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020682. COUNCIL CLERK: An ordinance approving the ninth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Whitman Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Resolution - Congressman Borski Bill passes. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. Madam President, I'd like to be recorded as voting aye on Bill Number 020678.
The record will so reflect that. Thank you. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020684. COUNCIL CLERK: An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Roosevelt Boulevard, Grant Avenue and Blue Grass Road.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Cohen.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Rizzo. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020685. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance approving the tenth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Cohen.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Rizzo. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020686. COUNCIL CLERK: An ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Brewerytown Urban Renewal Area.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Clarke. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Rizzo.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020737. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance adopting an amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of the Old City Special Services District of Philadelphia.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Clarke. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Rizzo.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020738. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Snyder Avenue.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I just would like to briefly be recognized. I'd like to speak for a moment on this Bill. For those of you were not here at last week's Committee hearing, I took the Resolution - Congressman Borski opportunity to thank a number of people, 20 or 25 people, who have helped make this Bill possible, so that we can see the future development of the land down at the CSX yard at Delaware and Snyder. I referenced my thank you to Mr.Pat Smith, who is the regional real estate manager, I believe is the correct title, for Ikea, who was not here. He was here last week. He's present today. Just like him to stand up to be recognized. I want to thank you on behalf of all of us and all the citizens of Philadelphia. (Applause.) COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: For your commitment in choosing Philadelphia for your next Ikea store. Thank you very much. Thank you, Madam President.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Clarke.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Reynolds-Brown. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020742. COUNCIL CLERK: An ordinance amending Bill Number 990728, approved December 6, 1999, entitled "An Ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Redevelopment Authority of Philadelphia certain premises located at 1823-35 Callowhill Street.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Resolution - Congressman Borski Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Reynolds-Brown.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020474. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Carlisle Street, west side, Shunk to Oregon Avenue.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Resolution - Congressman Borski Reynolds-Brown.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020483. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance terminating a parking regulation on Allegheny Avenue. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Madam President, I would like to be excused. I will be returning. In the interim, I would like to be recorded as voting aye on all bills.
This Bill Resolution - Congressman Borski having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. voting aye. Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman O'Neill.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020503. COUNCIL CLERK: An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Fairmount Avenue.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the Resolution - Congressman Borski question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. voting aye. Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman O'Neill. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next bill to be called is Bill Number 020504. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Fairmount Avenue, side south.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. Resolution - Congressman Borski The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco voting aye. Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Ortiz.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. How about a consent agenda, Councilman Cohen? Councilman Cohen, did you hear me? Okay. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020505. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Taylor Street.
This Bill Resolution - Congressman Borski having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. voting aye. Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman O'Neill.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020548. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Forty-third Street.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the Resolution - Congressman Borski question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. voting aye. Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman O'Neill. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Councilman Cohen, we have a number of streets bills. Would you agree to a consent agenda since the hour is late?
I'm sorry. I can't hear you. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Same answer we Resolution - Congressman Borski got last year, the year before.
If it's a bill, it's got to go to a separate vote. UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: It's Christmas.
The Clerk will please read the title of Bill Number 020549. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Forty-seventh Street.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Tasco. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020565. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Hutchinson Street.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Council President Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be considered is Bill Number is 020566. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Christian Street.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Council President Resolution - Congressman Borski Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Bill Number 020567. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Montrose Street, north side.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Kenney.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Next bill to be called is Bill Number 020568. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Thirteenth Street, both sides.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Please continue. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Clarke.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Kenney.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski The ayes are 16, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Next is Bill Number 020570. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Camac Street, west side.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Please continue. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Clarke.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Kenney. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are zero. A majority of Resolution - Congressman Borski all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Bill Number 020571 is next to be considered. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Wolf Street, north side.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Resolution - Congressman Borski Bill passes. At this time Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I wish to be recorded as having voted aye for any bills I may have missed when I stepped out of the room for a moment.
Thank you. The record will indicate that Councilwoman Blackwell has voted aye on Bills Numbers 020568 and 020570. Thank you. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020572. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on McKean Street, both sides.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Clarke. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Rizzo.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Bill Number 020573. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Carpenter Street, both sides.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Cohen. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Tasco.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The Next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020574. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance revising parking regulations on Tenth Street, both sides.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Tasco. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Bill Number 020575 is next to be called. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Sixth Street, west side.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Council President Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. Next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020716. COUNCIL CLERK: An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Number 197.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Council President Resolution - Congressman Borski Verna.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the Bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is 020739. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Number 307.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Council President Verna. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The next Bill to be called for consideration is Bill Number 020740. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Number 58.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Kenney.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. Resolution - Congressman Borski The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. The final Bill to be called is Bill Number 020741. COUNCIL CLERK: An Ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Number 58.
This Bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the Bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Blackwell.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Di Cicco. COUNCILMAN Di CICCO: Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Goode.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Kenney. Resolution - Congressman Borski
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilwoman Krajewski voting aye. Councilman Longstreth.
Aye. COUNCIL CLERK: Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Miller voting aye. Councilman Nutter.
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are zero. A majority of Resolution - Congressman Borski all Members having voted in the affirmative, this Bill passes. I believe we now have the 13 Resolutions. Councilman Cohen, would you have an objection?
No. It does not apply to Resolutions. That's okay. Home Rule Charter applies only to Bills.
The Clerk will please read the titles of the Resolutions. COUNCIL CLERK: Resolution Number 020772, a Resolution appointing David Rubenstein to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020773, a Resolution appointing Robert Lane to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020774, a Resolution appointing Larry Howard to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Resolution - Congressman Borski Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020775, a Resolution appointing Randall Scott to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020776, a Resolution appointing Valerie Ferguson to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020777, a Resolution appointing Robert Williams to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020778, a Resolution appointing Dean Adler to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020779, a Resolution appointing Janet Calderwood to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020780, a Resolution appointing William Boone to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Resolution - Congressman Borski Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020781, a Resolution appointing Allan Kalish to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020782, a Resolution appointing Joseph Zuritsky to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020783, a Resolution appointing Judith Eden to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia. Resolution Number 020784, a Resolution appointing Ronald White, Esquire, to the Board of Directors of the Center City District of Philadelphia.
I think we can have a voice vote. All those in favor of the adoption will signify by saying aye to the 13 resolutions. (Chorus of ayes.)
Those opposed? Resolution - Congressman Borski (No response.)
The ayes have it. The Resolutions have been adopted. I think at this time, too, we ought to thank Pat Rafferty for really doing an excellent job during the year. (Applause.)
She sometimes speaks too slowly. Thank you very much, Pat. You've done a great job. COUNCIL CLERK: Thank you.
That concludes our calendar for today. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I move The Council stand adjourned Resolution - Congressman Borski until Tuesday, January 28, 2003. UNIDENTIFIED VOICES: Second.
It has been moved and properly seconded The Council stands adjourned until Tuesday, January 28th at 10 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Chorus of ayes.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Excuse me. I'm not finished. May I suggest Council Members go immediately down to the Caucus Room. Thank you. (Hearing concluded.) Resolution - Congressman Borski CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, and evidence are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the Stated Meeting of The City Council of the City of Philadelphia, taken on December 19, 2002, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. _____________________________ DAVID A. DEIK, RPR and Commissioner of Deeds (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)