COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING City Hall, Room 400 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, April 24, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE-RICHARDSON COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN BRIAN O'NEILL ELIZABETH MCCOLLUM, CHIEF CLERK P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning, everyone. Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this council is present. All members have taken their seats, I'll ask for all visitors to please retire outside the rails and I will ask for all sidebar conversations to please be taken outside of the City Council chambers. Also, please put your cell phones on silent and/or vibrate. Thank you very much. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pandit Kasiram Ramakrishna, founder and head priest of the Vendagita Center, Inc., known as the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple. He's here today as the guest of Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad. Will all members and guests please rise? HEAD PRIEST RAMAKRISHNA: Hello, good morning. Namaskar to all. I want to thank Council President and all the city Councilmember, and special thanks to Nina -- Dr. Nina Ahmad for inviting me here today. I am going to recite a prayer from Hindu scripture called Vedas, which is the oldest scriptures in this universe. We all will pray together for wellbeing for all the whole human being and this universe. So I will recite, then I will give a small, brief explanation what I chanted, the mantras. (Reciting prayer in Hindu.) HEAD PRIEST RAMAKRISHNA: It just says, may God protect all of us. May he nourish us all together, may our studies be enlightening, may there be no hate among us. May we all work together with great energy to protect our universe, our country, United States of America, and especially the city of Philadelphia. May all sentient beings be at peace, may no one suffer from illness, may all see what is auspicious, may no one suffer from poverty. May all beings everywhere be happy and free and may the thoughts, words, and the action of our own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all. All shanti, shanti, shanti, shanti. It's peace, peace, peace. That is the main message from the scriptures. Thank you once again, and thank you the president for inviting me today here.
The Chair thanks you for your invocation. And Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 10th, 2025. The Chair recognizes the Majority Leader Gilmore-Richardson. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 10th, 2025 be approved.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 10th, 2025 stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the journal is approved. The next order of business is a request for leave of absence. And the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore-Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Jones.
Leave is granted. The Chair -thanks to Councilmember. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Kendra Brooks. The Chair recognizes -- at this moment, there are no leaves of absences for the minority. Councilmember GilmoreRichardson, for the record, are there any leaves of absences for the Minority Party?
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilmember Brooks, there are no requests for leave of absence on behalf of the minorities.
Thank you very much. So much for tri-partisanship. Isn't that what it's called? The Chair recognizes Majority Leader, Councilmember Katherine Gilmore-Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of council, and that not -- that were not listed on the calendar circulated prior to today's council session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of council, and as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters. Resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill veto by or recalled from the mayor, amendments to bills recalled from the mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or a resolution that is not on the calendar, and a motion placing a bill or a resolution on, or returning a bill or a resolution from the suspension calendar that is not listed on today's calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the calendar that was published prior to today's session.
It has been moved and properly seconded. The legislative matter stated by Councilmember GilmoreRichardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our council session. We appreciate you taking the time to join us as we attend the legislative affairs of our great city. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to recognize we have a group of young students here from St. Mary's right up here on the balcony up here on the left. And they're here to see democracy in action, to see what council is all about. I'd just like to give them a great round of applause for coming out here to witness.
Yes, they left. They were just here. So thank you for that. I'd like to thank you, Mr. President, the committee on appropriation reports. I have three bills with a favorable recommendation.
But thank you, Member. We're still going through welcomes. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I'd like to ask you to join me in welcoming three of the principals of the 7th Council District who were honored to have been recognized with the prestigious Lindback Distinguished Principal Award, Awilda Balbuena, Nichole Polk and William Lawrence. Please welcome. Thank you so much and congratulations. As well as Benita Williams and Vickie Melvin, who are from the Philadelphia Children's Alliance and we will be recognizing them as well later on in the session.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rue Landau.
Oh, I would like to recognize state rep Izzy Smith-Wade-El. Thank you so much for being here.
Thank you for joining us, Representative. And he's also in Harrisburg fighting to make sure we receive funding for SEPTA. So thank you for standing up and fighting for us. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll, who will present a resolution honoring and congratulating the Father Judge High School. Boys basketball team for winning the 2025 PIAA 6A Championship. Would Thomas Coyle and those accompanying them please join the Councilmember at the podium.
Joining Councilmember Driscoll is Councilmember O'Neill, Councilmember Harrity, and Councilmember Thomas. And Thomas Coyle is the athletic director.
Well, thank you, Mr. President. Today's a very special day for me personally to have a team in my district not only win the Catholic League Championship, but then go on several weeks later to win the state championship. It's a school that has been near and dear to my heart since I was a little boy. For those of you who are old enough to remember the Catholic school system, when I was at St. Martin of Tours, the wonderful nuns from the IHM they would tell you where you were going, when you were going, and how you were going. And I thought up until February of my 8th grade year, I thought I was going to Father Judge. And I explained to some of the champions today, I was very disappointed to learn in February of that year that I would be going to Cardinal Dougherty High School instead of Father Judge High School. The beautiful thing about that was that I not only maintained my friendships from the older guys and my brother who went to Father Judge, but I had a whole new class of friends from Cardinal Dougherty, and as father camp alone likes to say, when I see him, he says that, Mike, you're -- you'll always be an adopted member of Father Judge community. So I'm thrilled to be here today on behalf of these young men. This is not just an academic or athletic achievement; this is much more than that. Father Judge High School for boys wants to make sure these young men not only succeed in their athletic programs, in their spirituality, in their academic programs, they want to make sure these young men are prepared to go into life. And that's why I am always proud to support the programming up at Father Judge High School. They now -- Leader Richardson, I know you've been there, they now have an academic wing and, yeah, right, a program for with the welding and the trades. And so these young men are coming out with opportunities to go on to college or go on to make $100,000 in the trades right away. So -- but that's not what we're celebrating today. What we're celebrating is this wonderful achievement of these young men. The early morning hours they had to get up, the late nights, the practices, balancing their schedules with their academics. And so we as a council invited you here today to present to you and to the school a proclamation proclaiming your wonderful achievement. So I'll start out. Whereas on Saturday, May 29th, the Father Judge High School Boys basketball team finished its historic season by winning the 2025 PIAA Class 6A championship and cementing their legacy in crusader history. And --
Whereas under the leadership of head Coach Chris Rountree and assistant Coach Jim Reeds, who both played on Judge's last Catholic League championship team in 1998 and inspired by the trials and losses of seasons prior, The Father Judge Crusaders went 24 at seven this season.
I just want to take a moment of personal privilege to thank the district Councilmember for acknowledging these young people. And as a member of PIAA District 12 board, it's truly an honor to see Father Judge win a 6A championship. Whereas the season highlights included winning the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship, which I had the -actually the privilege to be at. And I can honestly say it was a phenomenal game, and it was a championship game that I won't forget anytime soon. Winning the Catholic League Championship for the first time in 20 years. The first state playoff run for the Crusaders culminated at the Giant Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where -- when they faced off against Roman Catholic for the 2025 PIAA 6A Championship. And whereas with the score tied at 36 entering half time, the Crusaders continued pushing with offensive excellence and a strong defense, winning the game 71 to 60 in the first state championship for Father Judge in school history. And --
Whereas through their historic victory and exemplary sportsmanship, the Father Judge High School boys basketball team has brought tremendous pride not only to their school, but to the entire Northeast Philadelphia and certainly to all the Judge families in my district. And establishing themselves in Coach Rountree's words, as the best team in Judge history, and that's really making a statement, whose legacy is now cemented in the record books as the first to achieve this milestone. Now therefore be it --
-- resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby honors and congratulates the Father Judge High School boys team for winning the 2025 PIAA 6A Championship and further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Father Judge High School boys basketball team with the utmost respect and admiration of this legislative body. And Mr. President, before you bring up the athletic department leadership, I also want to congratulate the young men and the organization of Roman Catholic High School, who also has wonderful programs and has a historic legacy in this city. And I should note that Coach McNesby, who is a -- will be a Hall of Fame coach in his own right someday, does a wonderful job with that program. But these young men behind me not only beat them once this season, not only beat them twice, but beat them three times. So one more time for these young men.
The Chair recognizes Thomas Coyle, Athletic Director.
Gratitude. I think as you see these young men here in front of you, we're a school located in northeast Philadelphia, and our friends from northeast Philadelphia that represent us, Councilman O'Neill and Councilman Driscoll, we're grateful for their work. But our gratitude really, as you see these young men, I think it's important that we mentioned that championship game was played in Hershey, this great state of Pennsylvania, this commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Father Judge's basketball team represented Philadelphia, and they really represented the great things that occur in those youth organizations, in those playgrounds, in those recreation centers. These young men stand behind me, they're young guys that went to a basketball court one day in the city of Philadelphia. And our school encompasses students that come from all across Philadelphia. They went to basketball practice, or they went to a basketball game one day with the parents, and they've been able to live out a dream. The last couple months for them have been outstanding, they've shared something that they'll remember for the rest of their lives, and that started as young people throughout the city of Philadelphia. I think the entire city should be proud of not only what our guys had accomplished, but the fact that Roman Catholic was able to accomplish so many great things. But behind me are young people who take their education serious, who are so legion gentlemen, who make sure that they do the right things every day in school, and certainly compete at a very high level. We couldn't be more proud of them, we couldn't be more grateful to the city of Philadelphia and the opportunities that the city's provided for these young guys throughout their lives. They're grateful. We thank you for everything you do for us. Thank you.
On behalf of the Father Judge basketball team, my name is Ryan Kilkenny. I'm an assistant coach. We'd like to thank Council for having us in today. As these young men behind us, we've discussed our motto at Father Judge is to be who you are and be that well. Our young student athletes have strived not only in the classroom with the commute -- with a cumulative, excuse me, 3.74 GPA. We also have two athletes one who's not with us here today, Everett Barnes who is a 4.0 student who will be going to Loyola Baltimore. Also, the state MVP, Kevair Kennedy, will be going on for a full academic and athletic scholarship to Merrimack University. As well as our other three seniors, Kevin Beck who will be going to Montclair State University, Kiev Rucker, who will be playing football at Lockhaven University, and Dylan Hanley, who will be continuing to play basketball at Elizabethtown University. So again, we thank you very much for the honor to be down here today and appreciate all the support.
Council will now be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair request that the Sergeant at Arm deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will the Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in her possession? THE
To the President and members of Council of the city of Philadelphia, I'm transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body, a resolution appointing Chris Collum to the Board of Directors of the Center City District, a resolution appointing Allan Domb to the Board of Directors of the Center City District.
Excuse me, Chief Clerk, please. The Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
A resolution appointing Jim Pearlstein to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. A resolution reappointing Carol Watson to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. A resolution reappointing Tina Byles Williams to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 100 Emily Street, 2315 South Marshall Street, 518 Pierce Street, 2549 South 3rd Street, 2117 South 6th Street, located in the 1st Councilmatic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code. And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 2045, 2054 East Auburn Street, 2051 East Rush Street, 518 Pierce Street, 2315 South Marshall Street in the 1st Councilmatic District of the city of Philadelphia. And further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 1416-405 of the Philadelphia Code. And resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1610 South 56th Street located in the 3rd Councilmatic District, in accordance with the terms of chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code. And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 4947 through 49, 4951, 4953, 4955, 4957, 4967, 4969 through 73, 4979, 4981, 4983, 4985, 4987, 4989, 4989-and-a-half, 4991, 4991-and-a-half West Girard Avenue located in the 4th Councilmatic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code. And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1412, 1416, 1421, 1429, and 1435 North 17th Street located in the 5th Councilmatic District, in accordance with the terms of chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code. And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 3101 North 8th Street in the 5th Councilmatic District of the city of Philadelphia. And further also authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of the Philadelphia Code. And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1520 through 40 Venango Street, and 1600 through 20 Venango Street located in the 8th Councilmatic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code. And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 423 through 27, 429 through 39, including 429 through 39 rear East Ashmead Street, 226, 260, 278, 313, aka, 313 through 15 East Bringhurst Street, 49 East Earlham Street, 4635 Germantown Avenue, 30 Good Street, 5608, 5618, 5619, 5642, 5669 High School Street, 4946 Kaiser Street, 5514, 5515, 5642 Morton Street, 6672, 6674 Musgrave Street, 53 East Pastorius Street, 207 East Penn Street, 248 East Phil Ellena Street, 4244 Rieger Street, 35 East Seymour Street, 227, 261, and 263 East Sharpnack Street, 218, 326, 342, and 343 Shedaker Street, 4951, 4957, 4961 and 4975 Sheldon Street, 111 and 112, Springer Street, and 4925 and 5222 Wakefield Street located in the 8th Councilmatic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code. And to the members -President and members of the Council of the city of Philadelphia, I'm pleased to advise you that on April 22nd, 2025, I signed the following bill, which passed Council audit session on April 10th, 2025. Bill No. 240333.
And pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 250175, approval with amendments. Bill No. 250207, 250241, 250242, 250243, 250291, approval with amendments 250293, 45 days. 250333 and 250334, 35 -- 45 days. Council President, there are no further communications in my possession.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Good morning, everyone. Thank you, Council president. I have one bill for introduction today and one non-privileged resolution on your behalf, Council President.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolution? THE
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance Bill No. 180560 approved July 10th, 2018, entitled an ordinance authorizing The Revision Of Lines and Grades on a portion of City Plan No. 250 by striking from the city plan and vacating the legally open portion of Montour Street from Adams Avenue to Foulkrod Street under certain terms and conditions by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a non-privileged resolution condemning the act of arson committed against Governor Shapiro at the historic Pennsylvania Governor's residence and expressing gratitude to the first responders for their heroic efforts, responding to the fire and denouncing all forms of political violence.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration. Our next session of council, the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Councilmember Katherine Gilmore-Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer three bills on your behalf and two privilege resolutions, one, on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolutions? THE
An ordinance authorizing an encroachment in the nature of planners and benches in the vicinity of 2300 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 2700 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing an encroachment in the nature of a staircase in the vicinity of 1855 Gladstone Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a -and a privileged resolution calling for the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold hearings to examine the feasibility of a citywide daylight initiative and help determine best practices to protect cyclists, ensure pedestrian safety and prevent needless traffic deaths.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passages calendar. THE
And a privileged resolution celebrating the selection of The Upcycled Self, a memoir on the art of becoming who we are by Tariq Trotter for the 2025, One Book, One Philadelphia program.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, Council President. Today I have two bills and one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and privileged resolution? THE
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Pelton Avenue, Preston Street, Filbert Street and 41st Street. And to amend Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code by adding Section 14-544 entitled CSI Forensic Laboratory Overlay District and making other related changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance amending Section 14-533 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Mixed Income Neighborhoods Overlay District to expand applicable areas of the overlay in the vicinity of 49th Street and Woodland Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the first graduating class of the West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars Program for their outstanding accomplishments, leadership and dedication to the values of conservation community and lifelong learning.
This resolution will be placed from today's final passages calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good morning, Council President and good morning colleagues. Good morning to the listening public. Nothing today. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you very much, sir. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues this morning. I have two -- one bill and one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolution? THE
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-3500 of Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards to amend definitions, add clarifications, and enhanced remedies, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a privileged resolution declaring April 2025, a Second Chance Month, in the city of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I offer two privileged resolutions and an amendment to a bill.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolutions and amendment? THE
An ordinance amending Title 10 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity by adding a new chapter concerning vehicular mobile service providers and providing for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the Philadelphia Children's Alliance, PCA, and the Philadelphia Department of Human Services, DHS, for their collaborative efforts in providing, healing and justice to child abuse victims during child abuse prevention month in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. THE
And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating principals from the 7th Councilmatic District for their excellence in leadership as recipients of the 2025 Lindback Award for distinguished principals.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey J. Young.
I have one bill and one privileged resolution and two non-privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolutions? THE
An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 115 East Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19125, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold hearings to investigate rail operators responsibilities for cleanup, maintenance and beautification of transit entry points into Philadelphia.
Okay. This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. THE
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner on Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 3101 North 8th Street, in the 5th Councilmatic District of the city of Philadelphia. And further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of the Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in our next session of Council. THE
And a -and a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1412, 1416, 1421, 1429, and 1435 North 17th Street located in the 5th Councilmatic District in accordance with the terms of chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution?
A privileged resolution honoring and expressing gratitude to Philly Black Pride for its ongoing work to center and support underserved black and brown folks in the LGBTQ+ community and recognizing Thursday, April 24th through Sunday, April 27th as Philly Black Pride weekend in the city of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed from today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Thank you, my brother. I have one privileged resolution co-introduced by me, Anthony Phillips and Cindy Bass. And one non-privileged resolution on your behalf, Council.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolutions? THE
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Labor and Civil Service and the Committee on Parks and Recreation to hold joint hearings investigating the city's enforcement of the healthy outdoor public spaces HOPS Law, and the risk that exposure to synthetic pesticides pose to the public and city employees.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. THE
And a non-privileged resolution urging the general assembly to pass legislation, allowing cities of the first class to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour, an essential step toward ensuring that all Philadelphians are able to keep up with the rising cost of living and have the opportunity to build a better future.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at our next session of council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicholas, Nick O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two bills, one non-privileged resolution and one privileged resolution that honors SEPTA transit workers, the unsung heroes of Philadelphia for their essential daily work to transport us throughout the city, keeping the trains on the track, the trolleys moving, the wheels on the bus going round and round no matter the conditions as it relates to the trains on the track, though, I just want to say that I'm honored to have joining us in the chamber today one of the people who do keep those trains on the track. Let's acknowledge Mr. Anthony Clark, who is one of our city's subway train operators who sent him back here representing SEPTA today. We thank you, Brother, for your service to our city.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolutions? THE
An ordinance providing for submission to the qualified electors of the city of Philadelphia of an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for a mandatory annual appropriation for the transit access fund as approved by resolution of the City Council, fixing the date of a special election for such purpose prescribing the form of ballot question to be voted on and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance adding Chapter 21-3500 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Transit Access Fund to establish the purposes for which appropriations to the transit access fund may be used, and to establish public reporting requirements related to the fund.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a non-privileged resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter providing for a mandatory annual appropriation through the transit access fund and providing for the submission of the proposed amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. THE
And a privileged resolution honoring SEPTA transit worker, the unsung heroes of Philadelphia, for their essential daily work to transport Philadelphians throughout the city no matter the conditions.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Morning, Mr. President. I have one bill today and one privilege resolution on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolutions? THE
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 306 by striking from the city plan and vacating Brill Street from Richmond Street to Salmon Street, striking from the city plan and vacating Salmon Street from Brill Street to the northeasterly required right of way line of Bridge Street and reserving and placing on the city plan rights of way for public utility purposes and authorizing acceptance of the grant to the city of said public utility rights of way, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of his holiness Pope Francis, the 260th Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, known for his commitment to peace, social justice, and humility on the occasion of his passing on April 21st, 2025.
This resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilmember Brian O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two bills, plus one bill on your behalf, co-introduced by Councilwoman Gilmore-Richardson and myself.
The good old bipartisanship. Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills? THE
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Fox Chase Road, Castor Avenue, Hoffnagle Street and Alma Street.
This bill will be referred to you the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance amending an ordinance Bill No. 887 approved September 16th, 1994, by amending an exhibit thereto in order to increase the limit of the amount of funding any entity may receive in any fiscal year from the Philadelphia Activities Fund.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance amending Section 19-1301.1 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Homestead Exclusion to increase the amount of the homestead exclusion, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. And I offer two bills, seven non-privileged resolutions, five on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolutions? THE
An ordinance authorizing an encroachment in the nature of pedestrian lights in the vicinity of 416 through 38 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance establishing parking regulations on the 1000 block of Ludlow Street between 10th Street and 11th Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE CHIEF CLARK: And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 2045 and 2054 East Auburn Street, 2051 East Rush Street, 518 Pier Street, 20 and 2315 South Marshall Street in the 1st Councilmatic District of the city of Philadelphia, and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of the Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the final pass to this calendar for consideration of the next session of Council. THE
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 100 Emily Street, 2315 South Marshall Street, 518 Pier Street, 2549 South 3rd Street, 2117 South 6th Street, located in the 1st Councilmatic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. THE
And a non-privileged resolution appointing Chris Collum to the Board of Directors of the Center City District.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in our next session of Council. THE
And a non-privileged resolution appointing Allan Domb to the Board of Directors of the Center City District.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. THE
And a non-privileged resolution appointing Jim Pearlstein to the Board of Directors of the Center City District.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in the next session of Council. THE
And a non-privileged resolution reappointing Carol Watson to the Board of Directors of the Center City District.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration in our next session of Council. THE
And a non-privileged resolution reappointing Tina Byles Williams to the Board of Directors of the Center City District.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two bills, one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolutions? THE
An ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on North 20th Street between Erie Avenue and West Tioga Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on Winona Street from Lawrence Street to Morris Street eastbound.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a non-privileged resolution directing the city pension funds to review and act on investments in El Salvador, ensuring transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility in light of recent developments.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration of the next session of Council. THE
And a privileged resolution recognizing Monique Moore Pryor's vision, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Free Library Foundation of Philadelphia and ensuring that the free Library of Philadelphia remains a beacon of hope, education, and opportunity for all Philadelphians.
This resolution will be placed on the final passage calendar for consideration of the next session of Council. The following resolution will be placed on today's final passage calendar. It was privileged. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Council will be at ease. I want to dispense from the -- thank you very much. I want to dispense from the regular order of business before we call out reports from committees. A resolution that I introduce honoring the life and legacy of the first Latin Pope, Pope Francis. I'm going to ask everybody to stand up for a moment of silence. He was a pope for social justice, come from very humble beginnings, and fought on behalf of those most in need. So we want to take a moment of silence honoring his life, legacy, and memory. (Moment of silence.)
The next order of business is reports from committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports out four bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title -- please read the report? THE
The Committee on Rules to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 250207, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an -- within an area bound by Federal Street, 13th Street, Wharton Street, and Broad Street. And Bill No. 250242, an ordinance repealing in its entirety, Bill No. 240972 approved December 23rd, 2024 entitled An Ordinance Amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Zoning and Planning by revising certain provisions of Section 14-906 entitled Market Street East Sign Regulations, all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 250243, an ordinance repealing in its entirety Bill No. 240971 approved December 23rd, 2024 entitled an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Zoning and Planning by amending certain definitions relating to signs, creating an area arena within the center city overlay district overlay and making related changes, including a master plan requirement and changes to accessory sign controls, all in connection with zoning rules for a proposed arena in center city and approving a master plan for the arena area, all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 250244, an ordinance repealing in their entirety the following ordinances all approved December 23rd, 2024. Bill No. 240966, granting the necessary authorizations for the city to help facilitate development of a new arena for the seven -Philadelphia 76ers. Bill No. 240967 authorizing the execution of a service agreement between the city and PAID. Bill No. 240968, authorizing striking Filbert Street from 10th Street to 11th Street from the City Plan. Bill No. 240969, authorizing striking certain aerial portions of 10th Street between Market Street and Filbert Street from the city plan. Bill No. 240970, authorizing the construction and maintenance of various right of way encroachments in the vicinity of the proposed arena. Bill No. 240963 amending the existing gallery at Market East Tax Increment Financing District in the arena of the proposed arena, and Bill No. 240973 approving the amendment of a neighborhood improvement district in the area of the proposed arena. Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Rules, Council President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass -Chairwoman Bass for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended, so I have to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk in today's assessment of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our first reading calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Squilla for a report from the Committee on Appropriations.
Thank you, Mr. President. The committee on appropriation reports three bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Would the Chief Clerk please read the report? THE CHIEF CLARK: The Committee on appropriations to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 250204, an ordinance to amend Bill No. 240182, approved June 14th, 2024, entitled an Ordinance to Adopt a Capital Program For The Six Fiscal Years 2025 through 2030, inclusive by revising various appropriation amounts and totals to conform to amendments to the FY 2025 capital budget ordinance, all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 250205, an ordinance to amend Bill No. 240181 approved June 14th, 2024, entitled an Ordinance To Adopt Fiscal 2025 Capital Budget by revising various appropriation amounts and totals, all under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 250206, an ordinance authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 2025 from the general fund, certain or all city offices, departments, board and commissions; the water fund, certain or all city offices, departments, boards and commissions; and the grants revenue fund, certain or all city offices, departments, boards and commissions; to the general fund, certain or all city offices, departments, boards and commissions. The aviation fund, certain or all city offices, departments, boards and commissions; and the transportation fund, certain or all city offices, departments, boards and commissions respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Appropriations, Council President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Chairman Squilla for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to admit the first reading this day of the bills that were just read into the record by the Chief Clerk.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of these bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our first reading calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committees with the suspension of rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the second reading and final passage calendar for the next session of council as there are no additional bills on the first reading calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore-Richardson for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the second reading and final passage calendars.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the second reading and final passage calendars today: Numbers 250337, 250339, 250342, 250343, 250347, 250348, 250353, 250354, 250355, 250356, 250357, 250358, 250361, 250102, 250148, 250176, 250177, 250203, 250208, 250209, 250240, 250241, 250271, 250272, and 25-274. The following bills and resolutions on the calendar are being held: 250303, 250266, and 250267, 240665 is being amended.
Thank you. Before considering the bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows, your public comment must concern matters on the second reading and final passage calendars for its possible action in today's council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hassen at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the signup sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public comment just will each have three minutes to speak. However, to the time limit it may vary from session to session. Today due to our extremely considerably long public comment list, we will be giving individuals one minute. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the one-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow, which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once one minute have passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant At Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not already done so. Now, I also reserve the right under -- the right pursuant to our rules of City Council to limit repetitions comments on the same subject matter. So we have extremely long list today, predominantly on several same subject matters. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker. THE
Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El, May Theresa Theo, Sister Mary McNulty, and Sister Beth Bartholomew, Father Ryan, and Reverend Geliebter, excuse me, Geliebter also make their way to the podium.
Representative, the floor is yours. REP. SMITH-WADE-EL: Thank you, Council President. Thank you members of Philadelphia City Council and of course, Councilmember Rue Landau for considering -- bringing up and considering the resolution supporting the Ready to Rent Act, which would help to seal evictions older than seven years in the Commonwealth. Having been a council president in Lancaster, I will try to faithfully respect the time limit. And so what I want to say is this, my mother was born in Washington DC in 1948 when it was segregated. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, taught 35 years at Millersville, and now there is a school named after her in Lancaster because her parents were able to provide for her through her entire youth a stable home. I am standing in front of you because two black parents were able to provide for their child a stable home and more and more in the commonwealth that is under threat. And so the Ready to Rent Act seeks to really stop us as we do under Pennsylvania law from making renter second-class citizens. Just as a bankruptcy or a foreclosure can fall off a credit report after seven years, pardon me, an eviction, a 7, or 10, or 12 years old should not prevent somebody from accessing housing in this Commonwealth. And among the tens of thousands of people against whom evictions are filed every year, some number of them, some large number of them, in fact, I think Holly Beck from -- there we go. Community Legal Services has the exact number. What they find is that the judge finds in their favor. But if you have been a landlord, as I have, you know that often, as soon as they see that eviction filing on the background check, they throw that application over their shoulder, which is to say there are thousands of Pennsylvanians being denied housing over evictions that have never actually occurred. And so I just want to say as we work hard to make sure that this bill passes the house and passes the Senate to get to the governor's desk in a bipartisan fashion, I welcome the support of the Council of the birthplace of American Liberty and appreciate your consideration this day. Thank you very much, Council president.
Hi, my name is Theresa Theo, and I'm here to speak on Bill 250266 and Bill 250267, which is the 47th Street Project 2 change the lane to a one-way direction from a two-way and reduced 47th Street to a single travel lane to install a 10 to 13-foot wide parking protected bike lane. We recently testified at the committee on the streets showing OTIS did not conduct the proper studies for this project. We have some issues that we'd like to raise with the key impacts of reducing 47th Street to a single travel lane, it creates a travel bottleneck. The OTIS plan lacks a solution for managing the high volume of vehicles during student drop off and pickup. We realize this is a school district issue with busing. However, until that knot is untied, the cars will still arrive at this intersection and we have no idea where they will queue and it's not included in the plan. We have a restricted emergency access. The EMT responses for strokes, heart attacks, or child injuries will be impeded on 47th and Springfield during peak times. And I know I'm running out of time, so I won't go through the rest of the testimony. I'd just like to say that we would like to encourage the full Council to suspend this plan until it can go back for further review with the proper studies done, because we believe the safety of the streets should not be decided by councilmanic prerogative. In this case, it should be the full Council who looks at this to make sure that OTIS is conducting the proper engineering studies and properly and honestly engaging with the community. Thank you.
Good afternoon, Council President and Council. My name is Sister Mary McNulty. I am principal of St. Francis De Sales School and I'd like to speak on 250266 and 250267. I just want you to know that our school we have children from 30-plus countries speaking 16 different languages in their homes and coming from 31 zip codes. With that being said, we have ages 4 through 14 in that school, and we have about 450 children. What happens is, I'm not opposed to the direction of the movement of traffic, that's fine, if it wants to go one way. I'm always looking out for safety. And I have walked around with the captain of police, making sure that our dismissal is staggered and making sure that we use all available exits and roads. However, I am concerned about the bike lanes. I do have a bike, so I'm not against bikes, but the one thing is the electric bikes. Children step out, parents step out. Well, sisters, we have elderly sisters, you don't get to retire in our life. So they're 83 plus and they're worried about the bike lanes as well. Most of the bikes that I've seen up and down are electric bikes, and I'm afraid someone is going to get hit and injured. Thank you. THE
We have Sister Beth Bartholomew, Father Ryan, Reverend Geliebter, may Virginia Lynn Hogman, Kristen Ostendorf, and Monique Moore Pryor also make their way to the podium.
Thank you. Good -- good afternoon. My name's Sister Beth Bartholomew, and I'm here to speak on behalf of Bills 250266 and 250267. And I just want to speak on some of the congestion issues that I have witnessed since I've gotten to St. Francis de Sales. I'm the vice principal there. We've had at least a handful of times an emergency vehicle has struggled to get through the traffic congestion at dismissal due to the blockage of the roads. We've had it in the case where individuals are out there yelling at the parents who don't always speak English, but they're yelling at them upset and expressing their frustration either at morning arrival or at dismissal. We've had at least three times that a driver of one car has decided to go through the school yard thinking that's a thoroughfare during morning arrival, which has been very concerning. We've had when school officials have been out to help with warning arrival and dismissal, individuals have expressed their frustration at them and at the traffic congestion. And we have had, as sister said, the sisters have been afraid with the bikes. Thank you.
Hi. I'm Father Ryan. I'm the priest in charge of St. Francis de Sales Parish and School, and I'm here for the Bill 250266 and 250267. Again, I'm not opposed to having the one-directional street, but safety is our concern because I've been there for like nine months, I have seen drop off and pick up it's kind of chaotic. Even our maintenance guys help out to -- with the kids crossing the street. And now with this bike lane, 10 to 15 -- 10 to 13-feet wide, you are going to cause congestion and conflict points that will force the bikers to weave around the kids, and the kids are unpredictable. We don't have a fully fenced school, unlike other schools, there's no fence. So kids can just run through the streets, and we have elderly sisters. So that's my concern, is the safety of our students.
Hello. My name is Lynn Hogman and I'm speaking against Bills 250266 and 250267. I'm a resident of the 4700 block of Windsor, which is a street directly affected by those bills. 47th Street between Baltimore Avenue and Kingsessing, which these bills would turn to a one-lane street is the sole access for two residential streets, 4700 Windsor and 4600 Regent. And this will deny people access to their houses. In addition, there is a traffic problem, as has been said at the St. Francis de Sales School. If this is a one-lane street, lines of traffic will build up all the way down, blocking access to these streets and will also, if alternatively, the traffic is -parents are forced to pull over and traffic is forced to go through, they will send parents around on Windsor Avenue, endangering small children on this residential street. And we can't even have speed bumps on that street because it's narrow. Thank you very much.
We have Kristen Ostendorf, Monique Moore Pryor, McKelly Richards, Jeremy Blatstein, Kate Perez, and Jacen Bowman also make their way to the podium.
Good afternoon. My name is Monique Moore Pryor. I come before you today to thank Councilmember Cindy Bass for introducing the resolution and for recognizing the work of the Free Library Foundation. Also, thank you, Council President Johnson and all members of City Council for your unwavering support of the Free Library. I'd like to acknowledge Library Director Kelly Richardson for all his support, who will be coming up shortly. And to thank Councilmember Katherine GilmoreRichardson for introducing the resolution on One Book, One Philadelphia. I have been at the Free Library of Philadelphia since August of 2023, and I'm the inaugural president. And it is with Humbleness that I share with you as a Phil -- a Native Philadelphian, and the daughter of two Philadelphia public school teachers that I'm living my life's mission. Please visit us at Free Library -freelibraryfoundation.org. Thank you.
Hi. I am Kelly Richards, President and Director of the Free Library of Philadelphia, and I'm here to comment on the One Book, One Philadelphia Resolution, introduced by Councilmember Gilmore-Richardson today, April 24th. I want to thank the Councilmember for her support, for libraries, and reading. And I'd like to thank the entire City Council for your support for the free library and our many programs that advance literacy, guide learning, and inspire curiosity throughout our great city. I'm excited to be here today to celebrate the One Book, One Philadelphia program. This is the 23rd season of One Book, One Philadelphia, which means that Philadelphia has the longest running One Book program in the country. So this year, our group of librarians, teachers, and other selected gem of book by Philadelphia, a legend, Tariq Trotter, known as -- known to many as Black Thought from Roots. Mr. Trotter wrote an amazing book. The Upcycled Life, which chronicles his youth in Philadelphia, providing rich insights and reflections, many of which are familiar to those of us who love this city. So I'm proud to be here to honor this black author, this Philly author, this artist, and his thought-provoking book, and I'm excited to be -- to this selection for the big-read this year. So a book this good should be celebrated and shared. So the Free Library Foundation, we thank them for sponsoring the many events between now and the end of May, and we welcome all to come and support these programs. So thank you.
Hello, Council. My name's Jeremy Blatstein. If you're going to talk shit, make sure you have your facts straight.
Time out. You coming and speaking during public comment, but could you respect the decorum of this institution?