I apologize. That was a quote -- that was a quote. I'm sorry. That was a quote.
Okay. Well, whoever quoted it, they are not going to speak it in this body at all.
Yes, they -- yes they are, but it's okay. So we're talking about SEPTA. Thank you, Councilman O'Rourke, for introducing these resolutions supporting SEPTA, but we're talking about the workers and we just got to make sure that the workers and everyone knows that come May 20th, there's an election. So we're talking about SEPTA, we're talking about making sure the city's funded, and I'm glad to see some members of council finally are deciding to ride SEPTA once in a while, and let's do it. Raise your hand if you've rode SEPTA in the last two weeks. Oh, we got a winner here. Let's go, Councilwoman Gauthier. And the last thing I will say is even though the bills are being held, I think that Jesus would be for bike lanes. I think that safety over everything. I don't think we should be preventing bike lanes from being built in the city of Philadelphia over parking concerns, because realistically, that's what was coming down to. Safety, safety, safety. These studies were done, it's clear that bike lanes are safe. There's daylighting, and really when it comes down to that, they're upset about some parking. So let's pass these bills. Thank you.
We have Kate Perez, Jason Bowman, may Doris Cochran-Fikes, Holly Beck, Juan Madrigal Garcia, Ms. Patrice, Kate Parker, and Braheem Douglas also make their way to the podium.
Thank you, Council President. When I talk about respect in this chamber, that includes everybody. That includes everybody. We have to listen to everybody's public comment in here, but disrespect is unacceptable, and that includes you too.
Kate Perez, here to remind you that the occupying state of Israel has bombed every single university in the entire country of Palestine. Philadelphia students and faculty alike have been calling to divest university money and sever relationships that try to normalize bombing kindergartens and selfdefense. Visas are being revoked at random and citizens are being deported. The task force must investigate universities willingly handing over student and faculty information without warrants. Power to the Yale students protesting the internationally wanted war criminal from visiting their campus, Philly stands with you and war criminals are not welcome here either. Pope Francis died this Easter with every Christian Church in Palestine burned down. He was quoted saying, "I think of Gaza with so much pain, the level of cruelty, children being machine gunned, the bombing of schools and hospitals, what cruelty?" Just an hour ago, the occupation bombed an apartment building and children are arriving to destroyed hospitals --
Hey, Kate. How are you doing, Kate? Ms. Perez? Ms. Perez?
Greetings. My name is Doris Cochran-Fikes. I live -- I'm a homeowner at 48th in Baltimore. And I'm going to cut my remarks short in deference to others. But I just want to address the 48th Street part of the 48th and 47th Street's Traffic Safety and Complete Streets project. The separated bike lane that's been installed on 48th Street receives very little use from cyclists, yet 24/7 it disrupts sight lines and makes it difficult for pedestrians and drivers to see approaching cars. 24/7 residents exit cars directly into approaching traffic. Parking spaces have been eliminated on every block. Vehicle loading and deliveries are problematic. Traffic congestion has also increased due to the recent reroute of the number 64 bus. Separated bike lanes may improve safety on high traffic streets, but they are not well suited for streets that are primarily residential. Before muddling 47th, OTIS needs to conduct traffic engineering studies, follow federal guidelines and standards, realistically assess the potential usage by cyclists lead with truth and regain the trust of taxpayers like me. I'm a disabled senior due to that 48th street separated bike lane, I no longer feel safe crossing the street where I live. Thank you.
Good morning, City Council. My name is Jason Bowman. I am the Vice President of Philadelphia Black Pride. You-all can give a little clap for that. I'm here to support the resolution done by Kendra Brooks honoring Philadelphia Black Pride Week. Philadelphia Black Pride has started yesterday. I also want to say thank you to Councilperson Rue Landau and Kendra Brooks for hosting an event last night that honored local black and brown queer leaders in the city of Philadelphia. Too many times, we -- those leaders do not get acknowledged or honored for their hard labor of community work, so I want to say thank you. I also want to say thank you to this legislative body for making sure that when you guys are passing bills through the people's house, that you-all are making sure that queer communities, especially black and brown, disproportionate people are actually celebrated and uplifted in the bill that you guys passed. So thank you. I hope the city comes out to celebrate Philadelphia Black Pride Weekend. There's tons of events happening all throughout the city. You can visit our website at phillyblackpride.org and I thank you very much.
Good afternoon. Thank you, Council President. My name is Holly Beck and I work at Community Legal Services where I'm a divisional supervising attorney in our housing unit. And I'm here to testify in support of Council -Councilmember Landau resolution, urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to seal old eviction records. We at Community Legal Services of Philadelphia help more than 13,000 people each year when they face the threat of losing their homes, income, healthcare, and even their families. And our housing attorneys are in court every day representing tenants facing eviction. This council has led the way in eviction prevention. And thanks to the council's hard work and dedication over the years, evictions in Philadelphia are not what they used to be. The Eviction Diversion program, Right to Council, and Renters Access Act have made our city a national model in preventing eviction and homelessness. Yet there are still 14,000 eviction cases every year in Philadelphia and more than 357,000 eviction cases across the state since 2020. And so I'm proud to support representatives Smith Wade's historic legislation to seal old eviction records. And I thank the sponsors of this resolution. THE
We have Juan Madrigal Garcia, Ms. Patrice, Kate Parker, Raheem Douglas, may Vivian Chang, Silvana Mazzella, Benita Williams, and William Lawrence also make their way to the podium.
Hello, Council. My name is Juan Madrigal. I'm an attorney fellow at Community Legal Services, Philadelphia. It's a pleasure to be with you here today to support Councilmember Landau's resolution declaring April 2nd chance month. And also thank you to Councilmember Landau for her focus on, again, second chances, but also fair chance hiring. Really quickly, community legal services. We are the largest provider of free legal services to low income Philadelphians in Philadelphia. And we've long advocated alongside and with our clients with criminal records to remove their barriers that they face to gaining gainful employment. We champion clean slate legislation and at the state level that has already helped over 1.5 million Pennsylvanians seal their record and get that fresh start. We recognize though, that far too many people in Philadelphia, too many Philadelphians, are still struggling under the weight and the stigma of their criminal records. They're denied the chance to move forward and create gainful opportunities for themselves. We're thankful to Council for taking on the important issue of fair chance hiring for people with records and to have -- to give us the opportunity to inform on the changes that are needed for Philadelphia's Fair Hiring law. Philadelphia is already a leader in fair chance hiring. But based on the feedback from our clients and our own experiences directly representing them, there's still more we can do to make sure that Philadelphia is the best city in the country for advancing access to meaningful economic opportunity for justice impacted people. Thank you.
My name is Raheem Douglas. Good morning. Good morning, Council. I'm speaking on behalf of Councilmember Landau's resolution recognizing April as Second Chance Month. Once again, my name is Raheem Douglas. I'm the outreach coordinator of the UNITE HERE Philadelphia Hospitality Academy, and also the Vice President of UNITE HERE Local 274. Let me tell you a story about a man named Chris whom went through one of our training programs and graduated October of 2022. He passed testing, receiving a certification, went to the interview, secure a offer letter for one of our big-time employers here in the city. After securing the offer letter of employment, he had to submit a background check. He was a convicted felon, so therefore the company didn't move any further. We didn't stop there though. Spring of 2024, we tried with the same company, but a different location. Chris went on another interview; they loved him and therefore offered him a job again. But guess what? Yes, another background check had to be submitted. Once again, after accepting and securing the offer letter, they declined him. Let's just consider this real quick. Imagine completing a program, passing testing, graduating with stackable certificates, and going on an interview where you do so well that the company say, yes, we want to hire you. But the very necessary steps you're taking to better your condition is still being held back from your past trouble conditions. I wish I can go longer but I want to keep these conversations going.
Yes, thank you. Yes. Good afternoon, Council President and members of council. My name's Kate Parker. I am the Director of Policy at the Defender Association of Philadelphia. Chief Defender Hudson asked me to offer public comment today to thank you all for declaring April Second Chances month, and for your continued efforts to ensure Philadelphians who have been entangled with the criminal legal system have an opportunity to put their past behind them, and to be evaluated truly on their merits when applying for work. The Philadelphia's Fair Chance Hiring Initiative already has made strides towards breaking the cycle of incarceration, but we strongly support collaborative efforts led by Councilmember Landau to make the ordinance even stronger. As many of you are aware, our offer -- our office with the support of grant funding has recently launched our first formal re-entry program, Bridge Home. We're proud -- we're proud to announce we actively are serving over a dozen people. And while they are all individuals who have individual needs, they face systemic barriers. I also would be remiss if I didn't remind Council that we are asking for money in our budget this year to support similar programming for young people exiting the detention center or placements. Thank you very much for your support of our neighbors, our clients, our family members, and our community.
Silvana Mazzella, Lead Executive Officer at Prevention Point Philadelphia. I'm here today because I'm really wanting to thank the Council for all the work you do and the difficult decisions you make for the city. I'm very proud and honored to support Councilmember O'Rourke's resolution to honor our SEPTA workers. We have people that are extremely hardworking, brave and transport thousands of employees and students all across the city helping our economy. It's also a green alternative to car driving. We want to also support a very modest percentage of the general fund budget going into a Transit Access Fund. The Zero Fare program would be expanded through this. We have seen people benefit from this, some of our most vulnerable citizens who can't get to healthcare or volunteer events or other things without the Zero Fare program. And also to support expansion of the SEPTA Key program. We know many employees throughout the city that benefit from that transit subsidy. I also wanted to talk for a minute about the mobile ordinance. Also a very difficult choice, and we totally understand why a mobile ordinance is needed and there needs to be regulation. There are a few parts of this bill that are very concerning, including, first of all, the 45-minute requirement. To only be able to provide medical care for 45 minutes would barely allow a clinic to see one to two patients. It wouldn't allow for time to do all of the other referrals to additional types of medical care or social services, potentially employment linkage or something else. Additionally, the locations. There's a statement about other locations. We would ask that the city through the Health Department and others determine locations that have high rates of HIV infection, spikes in HIV, and spikes in fatal and non-fatal overdose, and decide those locations based on that. Finally, most clinics are required to give 60 days notice to patients about any change in location or any change in a service provider. And we think that there needs to be a minimum of that to be able to get patients to in building or other locations.
We have -- we have Vivian Chang, Benita Williams, William Lawrence, may Paul Birdsong, Chris Safa, Dr. Linda Stern, and Amy Stefan also make their way to the podium.
Hello, my name is Vivian Chang, Executive Director of Asian Americans United, and I'm proud to support Councilmember Nicholas O'Rourke's resolution honoring SEPTA workers. They're unsung heroes who ensure our buses, trolleys, subways, and rail lines are accessible. And as a former union member myself, unions make the world go round. As frontline workers, many transit employees lost their lives during their pandemic and they still face safety concerns today. SEPTA is a lifeline for so many of us, and that's why we have to do right by workers and riders. So supporting this resolution and supporting Councilmember O'Rourke's legislation to create a Transit Access fund that will help safety on SEPTA is a big issue. And a lot of that can be improved by helping everyone who needs it to get equal access to transit. The Zero Fare program and SEPTA Key advantage for employees have been secured for one more year, but we need a long-term solution. So a legislation like this would lock in those gains and ensure ongoing access, because it's not just about, you know, getting everyone to the right places on right time, but it's helping our most vulnerable residents. It's a smart investment and SEPTA needs it. Thank you.
Paul Birdsong. I'm going to try to make this fast as possible because of the time limit. On behalf of the Panther Party for Self-Defense, we support 250348. Things like Pennsylvania Act 135 are not uncommon in large cities around the United States or under the influence of developers who don't care about our people and Black communities target for redevelopment with ethically horrific and technically illegal means. As is stated in our 10-point program, we want an immediate end to redline, monopolies, ethnic cleansing, genocidal gentrification, and the disenfranchisement and theft of vulnerable historically black communities. Also on my face and my hand, I bear cuts and bruises I've acquired via my work in the community. No badge, nobody armor, no walkie-talkie, no funding, just a combination of concern and a feeling of obligation to stand up and protect the black community that I live in and that I represent. The PA chapter of the Panther Party for Self-Defense calls upon the 5,021 police officers and the 2,283 nonprofits of Philadelphia currently being paid and given resources to do what we are doing without any of that to meet us in the streets and help us save the community, the Black community of Philadelphia. All power to the people. Also, this Saturday at 2:00 p.m., we invite everybody to come to the Panther Party cookout. We got free groceries for you, we got free barbecue chicken for you, free community resources, and free reading program for the children.
Mr. Birdsong, also I know you've been advocating around the forensic lab and the young lady who has the bill will be having a hearing if you want to get a briefing on it when that bill becomes -- before the bill is coming to the floor and becomes the law, because there has been a long process. Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, I just want to point our out to that we did accomplish getting the forensic lab done because I know you've been advocating for it.
Yeah. My name's Chris Safa. Thank you. Good morning, everybody. It's good to see you. And I want to thank Councilman Harrity for introducing the Healthy Outdoor Public Spaces resolution to get that enforced. And then we also have to thank Councilmember Cindy Bass whose law this was. The Healthy Outdoor Public Spaces law was passed because toxic herbicides were the go-to for land management, even though safer options existed. And we've seen what happens when outdated unsafe practices go unchecked. When I was a girl, you probably remember this, we went camping and the DDT truck would drive through and all the kids would run out and play in the clouds of DDT pretending we were angels. And you would say, well, why did our parents let us do this? Because they were told it was safe. And later we were told that cigarettes were safe, and we were told that lead paint was safe. And I've been teaching people how to use these chemicals in their home gardens, and now I've been told that I have three kinds of cancer and I'm okay, but we're here because we would like this law enforced. And all over the country, other cities are doing this. New York City has 11 pilot parks, Drexel University in Jamie Gauthier's District just became the first school in Pennsylvania to have organic land management, joining Harvard and other schools throughout the country. Right across the street, you probably heard of this, in our Philadelphia Court System, $2 billion was awarded and then 70 million. I'm going to cut short. Thank you very much.
Good afternoon. My name is Lisa Bonitatibus. I'm in support of the resolution to hold hearings on the enforcement of the Healthy Outdoor Public Spaces ordinance. I'll keep this short. My full comments should be on your desk. 12 years ago I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. I'm now Stage 4, which is incurable. All we can do at this point is try to stop throwing gas on the fire, and that's why I'm here today. Most oncologists will tell you that the cancer wasn't your fault, it wasn't anything you did, don't blame yourself, it was just bad luck. But my surgeon was the only doctor who told it like it was. She said, my kind of breast cancer estrogen receptor-positive by far the most common type was almost certainly caused by environmental factors and not genetics. I was the first of my family to have cancer, so what happened to me? Environmental factors, which include diet and lifestyle, and most importantly, the many, many synthetic endocrine disruptors which come from the petrochemicals found in plastics, cosmetic products, laundry detergents, household cleaners, and of course pesticides. Most estrogenic breast cancers are caused by endocrine disrupting chemicals like 2,4-D and glyphosate. Our body is like a bucket. It can hold a certain amount of insults. You can run behind the DDT -- DDT truck and get away with it just as long as you don't fill your bucket to overflowing. Thank you for listening to me. My oncologist says we should not be spraying. THE
We have Linda Stern, Amy Stephen, Sophia Dantzic, Kelsey Leone, Jarret Johnson, Daniel Abramov, and Sam Piper also make their way to the podium.
Okay. My name is Dr. Linda Stern and I'm speaking on behalf of the resolution to enforce the healthy outdoor public space law. Most of my medical career was served at the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center. I treated many veterans who were exposed to the herbicide Agent Orange, they sickened and died. The Philadelphia Parks Department still sprays the herbicide 2,4-D, one of the two active ingredients in Agent Orange and glyphosate. We know these chemicals have high associations with many diseases, including non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Parkinson's disease, they cause DNA damage, and asthma. Philadelphia has one of the highest asthma rates in the country. A couple of take homes since I know I have to go short, there are no safe levels of herbicides, even small amounts are dangerous. And the park's myth that they can spray and it would be safe 24 to 72 hours later is not true. These herbicides linger in the soil where our children play. Children, pregnant women, and especially the applicators who spray are the most vulnerable. And I'll just conclude with one study from the University of Washington that showed a 40 percent increase of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with exposure to these pesticides. And of that study, 54,000 subjects were the appliers of the pesticide.
Hi. Thank you, Council President for the opportunity to comment. My name is Amy Steffen, and I support the resolution from Councilmember Harrity calling for hearings into compliance with the Healthy Outdoor Public Spaces law. You know, I've seen these chemicals sprayed in the park when people are walking by and around ball courts where people -kids throw their jackets and nobody knows they're even there. But since I've seen those things, Councilmember Bass introduced the Healthy Outdoor Public Spaces bill and it was passed unanimously by you over four years ago. Unfortunately, we need these hearings because the city doesn't seem to be following the law. In 2022, over 16 tons of the prohibited chemicals were sprayed on the park. In 2023, over 15 tons were sprayed, and in 2024, at least 13 tons were sprayed, all in violation of the law. You have my full comments, but just one thing, when you hear, oh, we've tried organic products, that's kind of a red herring because most cities are just returning to mechanical means like mowing and weed whacking for most of these things. These are safe jobs for people instead of unsafe jobs. Thank you so much.
Hello, City Council Members. My name is Sophia Dantzic. I'm a harm reductionist. I'm here today to mourn the death of Joshua Mister who died in a cell on April 3rd at the 24th and 25th Police district precinct, the same site where the Wellness Court proceedings occur every Wednesday. Members of this council have referred to Leslie Gabor's excruciating testimony after the loss of her brother Joey Gabor, as a reason, they feel moved to care about what happens to drug users who are incarcerated. Unfortunately, Leslie's vulnerability here did not bring justice. Although she was immediately put in touch with John Christmas from the Council President's office, and although she spoke with him more than once, every time she said she was forced to recount what gruesome details she knew and was asked to speculate on what she thought happened to her brother. Every time, somehow it was as though she were talking for the first time. She says, I would rather he hadn't engaged me at all. I felt humiliated, he knew nothing about me and my family. Crucially, there was no offer of support. Why do we keep coming back up here to mourn the loss of drug users in custody? Because Leslie's bravery and vulnerability are admirable, but absolutely should not be necessary for politicians to act. To recount that pain to an unresponsive political body represent -- replicates the same inhumanity that their loved ones confronted in the face of an inhumane system. We keep coming here to publicly mourn because families of people who use drugs, current drug users, and people in recovery are grateful for it and encourage us to do so. And truthfully, we're not speaking to you, we're speaking to them. Whether using or not, whether connected to family or not, drug users deserve to live. There are people who have and will die preventable deaths in prison custody without anyone to mourn them, that doesn't mean that their lives were disposable. Meanwhile, this Council seems to have plenty of resources to devote to policing exactly when and where folks can receive services. May Joshua's memory be for a blessing and may we all be moved towards empathy in his honor.
My name is Kateri Lee Andreal and I am here to speak against the mobile ordinance proposed by Councilwoman Lozada. I'm a harm reductionist, a street medic, and a person in recovery. Councilwoman Lozada has not been shy about her disdain for people like me, even though I have reversed dozens of overdoses in her district this year alone. The mobile service legislation targets mobile service providers, but they're not the only ones who disrupt the day-to-day operations in a neighborhood. Churches, community centers, schools, block parties all disrupt neighborhood operations, but they're not subject to this legislation. This bill is a naked attempt to target and penalize harm reductionists like myself. What does it say that the -- that the Councilwoman has spent her time and energy restricting mobile service providers rather than simply putting in more trash cans or public bathrooms in her district
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada, would you still like the floor?
No, I'm -- I'm fine, Councilmember -Council President.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to point out, I think it's okay to have a difference of opinion. But to say that there's a disdain because there is a difference of opinion is not appropriate and that it's -- it's okay to agree to disagree on how to address a problem, but to say that someone has a disdain for you because they disagree with you is not the way to go. It's not the way to make progress. Thank you, Mr. President.
We have Jared Johnson, Daniel Abramov, Sam Piper. May Aileen Callaghan, Lee Thomas, Wick Savage, Mark Clancy, Sonia Sanders and Steve Masters make their way to the podium.
Good afternoon. My name is Jared Johnson. I am a transit organizer for 5th Square. I'm here today to speak in support of the Transit Access Fund introduced by Councilmember O'Rourke in the Zero Fare program. When the pilot program was launched, it became a huge relief for residents that take public transit who are vulnerable and live under the poverty level and low income. When we heard that Mayor Parker was trying to get rid of it, we were shocked and we took immediate action as members of 5th Square and residents voiced our concerns and opinions. And thanks to our fight and voices, our concern, the mayor -- Mayor Parker decided to keep the -- keep the program for one more year, but we want it to become permanently. So with this, it will gain more access to these commuters and ensure ongoing access. It's not about helping our most vulnerable residents or living below the poverty level, it's a smart investment for SEPTA itself and a moment when the system needs stable ridership and support. So please help us in this fight and pass the resolution. And then on one level -- and on one personal note on the -- for the rally that was happening two weeks ago, we thank every city Councilmember that came up -- that came out and supported us. And that's it.
Hello, my name is Sam Piper. I'm a community organizer with Positive Women's Network. We're an organization for and by women living with HIV. I'm here to speak about Bill No. 246665, Councilwoman Lozada's mobile service provider ban. I'm a harm reductionist and from my standpoint, this bill poses serious dangers because it prioritizes aesthetics, control and punishment over public health, safety and dignity, especially for people who use drugs and rely on mobile outreach for lifesaving services, and here's why: It treats people who use drugs as public threats, not people in need of care. The language of this bill paints service recipients as dangerous nuisances. It even says phrases like, nuisance and criminal activity, and it blames residents trauma on exposure to people who are receiving these services in order to stay alive. It erects impossible barriers for non-medical providers. The 45-minute time limit plus the one-block a day rule makes it nearly impossible for outreach organizations to maintain consistent particular routes, and because of this HIV and Hep C rates will continue to rise. I have a lot more to say, but I see my time is running out. The bottom line is this bill may have been amended from a total ban and I appreciate that and thank you for working with me on that, but it still operates from a framework of control and punishment, not health and humanity in the name of dignity for one group, it's just -- it strips dignity for another. People will not stop needing care just because it's harder to provide, but they may die trying to find it.
Hello, everyone. My name is Daniel Abramov. I'm here to explain why I strongly oppose the 665 Mobile Harm Reduction bill. I wouldn't be here speaking if it wasn't for harm reduction. I've overdosed many times and, you know, it's because of Harm Reduction mobile services and, you know, the different programs that I'm still here and alive. And the language in the bill -
The language in the bill is very vague on purpose, which is going to cause more lives than save them. And I might not care about my life, but my family and a lot of people care about me. That's all I have to say. Thank you.
Thank you, everyone. My name is Aileen Callaghan. I live at Allegheny and Jasper in Kensington, and I'm the mother of an 11-year-old son. Every day when I take my son to school, I take Kensington and Allegheny, and every day I see people that my son can't tell if that they are alive or dead. They're laying on the steps, he can't tell if they're alive. They're laying on the sidewalks, he can't tell if they're alive. What would reduce the trauma that my son experiences on a daily basis is not a mobilization ban or permitting system. What would protect my son is the billions of dollars that the city receives to address the opioid crisis, so you put to the best use possible. Fully funded overdose prevention centers. The abandoned -- the abandoned buildings, which there are many in my community are actually already being used as DIY centers. There is no justification for us to not use these centers to keep more people alive each and every day. I do want my -- I do not want my son to think that the city of Philadelphia thinks that if you live outside, your life doesn't matter. That's the message my son gets. He deserves better. Our city deserves better. Thank you.
Good afternoon. My name is Lee Thomas, President of Philadelphia Black Pride. I'm here speaking on behalf of the resolution to have Black Pride named this week. I stand on the shoulders of the late Michael Henson, Dorena Kearney, Chris Alston, and Jeremy Taylor. Just as my vice president just mentioned, it is important that we honor those people while they are still here. He said a lot of things that I was going to say, so I'll just fast forward that our theme for this year is, love is love. And what we are looking for and what we want you to take from this weekend is to take what you need to fill your mind, body, and spirit. We have a whole list of events that we are celebrating and we hope that we are able to reach as many people so that you then can turn and join in this work with us. Thank you. THE
We have Wick Savage, Mark Clancy, Sonia Sanders, Steve Masters. May Robert Harris, Jordan Ford, Wanda Walker, Andy Feltzen and Ashley Miscavich also make their way to the podium.
Good afternoon, President, City Council. I'm here representing the city of Philadelphia. I first support Bill 250348 because we have to stop the slick lawyers. I have other subjects I'd like to talk about at this moment. My dear friend Councilwoman Cindy Bass states quite often, "The shooter is sleeping with you."
I want to stay on topic, Mr. Savage. You asked for Act 135, Special Committee, so could we stick with -remain to the topic, sir?
Yes, we can, Council President. But this also has to do with residents living in this city. We cannot have young people shooting and murdering 77-year-old men, adults, seniors, because they just went to work. This should be an all-out bulletin and reward for these individuals.
I'm working on being consistent, sir. So I want you to stick to the topic of Act 135, Special Committee has nothing to do with gun violence, sir.
Well, I beg the difference. If people are out of their homes, if people homeless, it affects that kind of behavior because they're desperate. And until we get our arms around this silly, unnecessary violence, I don't care how many homes you build, we won't be safe in the city of Philadelphia.
Good afternoon, members of Council. Steve Masters from JustLaws. I'm here to appreciate Cindy Bass for the legislation 250274, and to give you just a little backstory, encroachments sound like we're just talking about the physical things going on with the Streets Department. This is for Rittenhouse Soundworks. It's an iconic company that provides sound equipment, sound studios in Germantown, extremely popular. They put some planters out to beautify the street and also to stop cars from parking on on their property, and we needed an encroachment legislation. Councilwoman Bass was able to put together the legislation in record time and move it forward. We really appreciate all the help that you did, and the neighbors are thrilled that we're going to have the planters legalized. Thank you.
Good afternoon, Council President and members of City Council. My name is Robert Harris. I'm the Vice President of AFSCME District Council 47. I'm here to speak in support of the SEPTA Unsung Heroes Resolution and accompanied legislation because very much like our AFSCME members, our union siblings at TWU Local 234 and SMART Local 1594 make Philadelphia happen. AFSCME city workers are happy to see that the Zero Fare program and SEPTA Key advantage for employees have been secured for another year in a time when our collective bargaining units have a combined vacancy rate of close to 30 percent. It is a major tool for recruitment and retention, while providing much needed funds for SEPTA and reducing congestion population -- pollution and traffic crashes. We fully support Councilmember O'Rourke's resolution calling on the creation of a Transit Access Fund to ensure that our funding for these important programs continue and ask that all of council vote in the affirmative. Please stand with District Council 47 and our siblings at 33, and our ability to continue to negotiate strong benefits for our members, continue funding for SEPTA and much needed support for low-income Philadelphians to travel, to work, to worship, and to participate in the economy of Philadelphia. Thank you.
Good afternoon. My name is Jordan Ford. Good afternoon, Council President, and Council members, and thank you to Councilmember O'Rourke for your leadership on the legislation of the Zero Fare for for SEPTA. My name is Jordan Ford. I serve as a civic engagement manager at the Pennsylvania Immigration Coalition. We work with immigrant communities across Philadelphia who contribute to the city everyday as workers, parents, neighbors, and small business owners. For many of those residents, public transportation is the only way to get to work, school, medical appointments or to engage in civic life. But even a few dollars a day in fares can be a significant barrier for low-income immigrant families. Our coalition members have heard directly from people who have to choose between paying for transit and buying groceries, or from young people who miss out on opportunities because they can't afford the ride. We urge you to support this legislation and be a firm Philadelphia's commitment to equity inclusion and the vital role immigrants play in our communities. Thank you. And for more information you can check our website paimmigrant.org or email me at jordantford@paimmigrant.org.
Good afternoon, beautiful people. My name is Wanda Walker, and as always I'll be talking about generational wealth. I'm going to stay on the bills, the topics, I'm going to go with O'Neill's bill which states that the parking meters -- and that's bill number -- which bill is it? 271. So I agree with that bill. I also agree that we need to do something about the parking authority tickets since we were talking about having tenant's evictions sealed after seven years, maybe we could have tickets sealed or dropped off after seven years because that's really ridiculous. I want to make some points in reference to what's going on. A lot of us aren't understanding a lot that's being said. And so with -you're listing a lot of properties that are being given away by the Land Bank but that's not on this. We've asked before for transparent language so that we understand what is being said. Maybe we need to have a board so that some -- we can understand what's actually going on because a lot isn't being divulged on the papers that are being handed out. And I would like to also have a senior safety bill presented. I brought today -- brought with me today a lawyer that presented a bill and he's coming up after me and I'm hoping that you all adopt it. Thank you.
We also have Andy Phelpsen, Ashley Miscevich, May David Alexander Jenkins, Ogbonna Hagins, Junior Brainard, Seamus Tyler and Sultan Smalley also make their way to the podium.
Good afternoon. My name is Andy Phelpsen. I'm here for two reasons. The first is I would like to support Rue Landau's Bill 250343. I'm a lawyer who generally represents landlords during evictions and even I'm in favor of sealing records after seven years. Bit of a biochemistry nerd. After seven years all the cells in your body have divided and you're technically a different person. So it does not make sense that a eviction or a painful reminder should follow you in perpetuity. I hope the Council Members will support that bill. The other reason I'm here is I've penned an open letter to Philadelphia City Council regarding proposed changes to section 9-3901 and 9-3903 and proposed ordinance changes regarding certificates of rental suitability. The reason being that I think that the penalties serve as way too much of a deterrent and are grossly unfair to the landlord/tenant process. I would urge the committee to please read my open letter. Please read the proposed ordinance changes and if agreed with that someone in this committee would formally sponsor my changes. Thank you very much and have a wonderful day.
Good afternoon, members of City Council. Ashley Miscevich from the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia testifying on resolution 250353. I'm here today to urge your help to call on our state legislators to secure critical funding for SEPTA. Without action, SEPTA will be forced to implement 45 percent service cuts and raise fares 21 percent, a crisis that would threaten the economic future of our city and region. Approximately 400,000 commuters rely on SEPTA daily. For many, SEPTA is their only access to transportation. When employers can't fill jobs that have been cut off from the workers, they will soon take those jobs out of the region, reduce service and increased fares, widen economic disparities and hinder the city's progress towards equitable growth. A diverse accessible workforce is crucial for our competitiveness in the global market. If SEPTA's doomsday plan takes effect, we will witness the dismantling of our transit system and the subsequent contraction of our city. The Chamber of Commerce and our diverse member companies stand ready to work with the city elected leaders to fund our transit system. Thank you so much for your time today.
Mr. President, members and guests of chamber, David Alexander Jenkins. I rise in firm support of resolution 250343 calling under Pennsylvania General Assembly to pass the ready to rent act. We in this chamber know that nearly one in four renters in Philadelphia, more than 140,000 individuals carry an eviction record. Many of these are not the result of formal judgments, but they remain permanent black marks on the characters of our brethren. Locking citizenry out of housing, crudely and mercilessly denying them access to rudimentary stability. They're ready to rent actual automatically seal most eviction records giving our constituents the second chance that they deserve. In a city noted for its 10 percent increase in unhoused individuals and 38 percent increase in unsheltered neighbors, this is not merely a piece of housing crisis that we face, brothers and sisters of love. It is a matter of justice, a matter of safety, and a matter of public health. Let us unanimously urge our colleagues in Harrisburg, however, not to stop here but to pursue the legislation referred to in committee on the Urban Affairs and Housing over a year ago outlined in Senator Cappelletti's and Dillon's Bill 1095. Legislation that caps the rent increase above 10 percent per year and existing lease holders at 50 percent per annum for new renters. No family should be forced out of their house by predatory pricing, not in a country withholds to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness therein as a tenant of inalienable rights. Not in a commonwealth bound to principles of integrity nor in a city aptly named for brotherly love. May this chamber lead through charity and conviction with a resounding voice pro this resolution in a valiant pursuit of a city where housing is not a privilege but a promise and a commitment to all.
Before I start, there's like seven members of Council that are not here which is disrespectful. Respect goes both ways. When I look at this resolution for the tush push, it's clear that it's not about the children. It's an obvious misappropriation of time, focus and money. A tush push resolution? What a tangled web we weave, a cautionary reminder of the consequences of dishonesty. The Philadelphia Reparations Task Force is a disrespectful entity. A tush push resolution? This task force has been performative -- is performative politics, a ploy to misappropriate and capsize efforts of the freedmen from finishing the work of reconstruction and makes this city and nation, a laughing stock by not dealing with this. Keep the promise of reconstruction. Reconstruction is reparation. As far as I see, there is no task force, nothing has been done. Where is the original president, Breanna Moore?
Yeah, the tush push thing is crazy. Why hasn't Breanna Moore's departure been made public?
Does any council members know about this? The tush push resolution?
Thank you, sir. There's only one president at a time. Thank you, sir. Thank you, sir. Thank you sir. Thank you sir. Thank you.
Hello. I'm here to speak in opposition to bill 240665. I have worked over eight years to promote public awareness and prevention efforts, combating the ongoing HIV epidemic in Philadelphia. In my time doing this work and volunteering with Harm Reduction outreach, I've come to understand the biggest obstacles that stand in the way of ending these crises is the power of stigma and the systemic failures to provide basic needs such as healthcare and housing to those at risk. In Philly, our rate of new HIV infections is higher than national average. And last year we saw a recorded 1,122 unintentional overdose deaths. These numbers are a reflection of how stigma and systemic failure leads us to continue to struggle despite having the tools necessary to prevent HIV infection and overdose deaths. These numbers are also decreasing, which is a testament to the efforts of those providers on the frontline. Vehicular Mobile Service providers exist today as a critical response to an unprecedented public health emergency. As an epicenter of the opioid crisis, Philadelphia is like the canary in the cold mine where we succeed and where we fail, it ripples far beyond the 7th District.
I implore the council to honor the factual evidence behind harm reduction impact on public health. Don't restrict these services. Look beyond stigma. Place your efforts into organizing true partnership that supports public health wellbeing for all community members.
Hello. My name is Sultan Smalley and I'm a student at the Community College of Philadelphia, and I'm proud to support Councilmember O'Rourke's resolution honoring SEPTA workers. SEPTA keeps Philadelphia moving. Public transportation is a necessity for working class people and protecting our environment, and that's why I also support his legislation to create a transit access fund. So we need a long-term funding source for the Zero Fair Program and SEPTA key advantage and I know the importance of keeping public transportation affordable and accessible for working people because I've spent the past few months with my fellow students and professors from FSFCCP advocating for free SEPTA passes for students and staff. Transit access Fund is not just about helping our most vulnerable residents economically. It's also a way to lower emissions in our city, which has an asthma rate triple that of the national average. Black and brown kids bear the brunt of those hospitalizations. So for the sake of ensuring equitable access to transportation, let's pass this legislation and keep SEPTA funding. Thank you.
Council President, there are no further names for public comment.
That concludes today's public comment. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the second reading and final passes calendars. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250337? THE
A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 705, 709 and 713 North 35th Street, 3712 and 3714 Wallace Street, and 3810 Haverford Avenue located in the 3rd councilmanic district in accordance with the terms of chapter 16-700 of the Philadelphia Code.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250337.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250337 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250339? THE
A resolution authorizing the Committee on education to create a task force investigating the current state of higher education as this pillar of the Philadelphia regional economy and cultural landscape undergoes general change.
The chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore-Richardson for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250339 on behalf of Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Councilmember Thomas, I move the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250339 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250342? THE
A resolution calling on the Trump Administration to reverse the mass termination of Health and Human Services staff that manages Low Income Home Energy Assistance, LIHEAP, which distributes 4.1 billion annually to state governments to assist low income households in paying their utility bills, threatening the health and safety of vulnerable populations in extreme temperatures.
Cruel. The Chair recognizes the Councilmember Rue Landau for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250342.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded hat Resolution No. 250342 to be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read title of Resolution No. 250343? THE
A resolution calling on the general assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to pass ready to rent act, and increase housing opportunities for Pennsylvanians by automatically sealing most eviction records.
The chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau for motion regarding Resolution No. 250343.
Thank you, President. Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250347? THE
A resolution calling on the National Football League to abandon proposed rule changes to halt the usage of the Philadelphia Eagle signature quarterback sneak better known as the Brotherly Shove or The Tush Push.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey J. Young for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250347 to make sure we keep The Tush Push. Go ahead, bro.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250347 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250348? THE
A resolution authorizing the establishment of the special committee on reform of Act 135, the Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act to develop recommendations for reforming the act to prevent its use for exploitation of vulnerable communities.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250348.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is a very important substantive resolution. I move for its adoption.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250348 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250353? THE
A resolution urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to draft and pass bipartisan legislation that will secure necessary funding for SEPTA to prevent service closures, fare increases, and a decline in mobility and economic activity for the citizens of Philadelphia and neighboring counties.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250353.
Thank you, Mr. President. I do move for the adoption of that resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250353 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250354? THE
A resolution approving the appointment of James Lamont Rozier to the Veterans Advisory Commission.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250354.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250354 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250355? THE
A resolution approving the appointment of Myra Ralph to the Veterans Advisory Commission.
The Chair recognized Councilmember Driscoll for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250355.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250355 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250356? THE
A resolution approving the appointment of Dave Jeannette to the Veteran's Advisory Commission.
The Chair recognizes the Councilmember Driscoll for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250356.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250356 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250357? THE
A resolution approving the appointment of Darby Ford to the Veterans Advisory Commission.
The Chair recognizes the Councilmember Driscoll for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250357.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250357 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signified by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250358? THE
A resolution approving the appointment of Angela Dunston to the Veterans Advisory Commission.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250358.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250358 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250361? THE
A resolution authorizing the creation of a special committee on child separation in Philadelphia to review child separation practices in Philadelphia's child welfare system and develop recommendations to ensure compliance with State Child Protective Services Law, protect children, uphold due rights -- due process rights of families, and prevent the unnecessary breakup of families.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250361.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250361 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 250102? THE
An ordinance amending Section 2 of ordinance Bill No. 220639 approved January 10th, 2023, entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 27-S by striking from the city plan, the easterly 20 feet wide portion of Swanson Street from Wolf Street to Snyder Avenue, striking from the city plan and vacating the legally open portion of Vandalia Street from Wolf Street to Waco Avenue and reserving and placing on the city plan a right of way for sewage and drainage purposes within the portion of Swanson Street being stricken and authorizing acceptance of the grant to the city of the said right of way, all under certain terms and conditions, including the dedication to the city of the beds of the remaining unopened portions of Swanson Street from Wolf Street to Jackson Street and from Jackson Street to Snyder Avenue by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein.
This bill had been read on two different days. The question now is: Shall the bill pass finally? Will the Chief Clerk please call the roll? THE
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 250148? THE
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3400 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, Use of an Automated Speed Enforcement System to Improve Safety, by providing for the use, administration and enforcement of automated speed cameras on routes located within specified school zones, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill had been read on two different days. The question now is: Shall the bill pass finally? Will the Chief Clerk please call the roll. THE
Councilmember Gilmore-Richardson. COUNCILMEMBER GILMORE RICHARDSON: Aye. THE