Philadelphia City Council in 2013
Council's Busy Year: 345 Bills Introduced, Many Signed into Law
The year in summary
Philadelphia City Council dominated its agenda with zoning and business-related bills in 2013. A total of 345 bills were introduced, a decrease from the previous year. Of these, 258 became law, with a median passage time of 49 days. Business and housing issues saw increases, while planning and transportation concerns declined. Contested votes on contentious issues like paid sick leave, tax rates, and LGBTQ protections highlighted the council's willingness to tackle complex topics. Despite concerns over funding cuts in the operating budget, several significant bills were signed into law, including an infrastructure spending plan and a landmark bill protecting LGBTQ Philadelphians from discrimination.
AI-generated analysis grounded in 345 bills from official Philadelphia City Council records.
What council worked on in 2013
Rising vs 2012: business (+15), elections (+6), housing (+3), zoning (+3). Declining: planning (-25), parking (-21), infrastructure (-15), transportation (-12).
Highest-impact bills of 2013
Council approves $3.8 billion spending plan that slashes funding for parks, libraries, and community centers by 20%, sparking outrage from activists and advocates who claim it will devastate vulnerable neighborhoods.
Philadelphia Residents Face Higher Fines for Littering as City Council Votes to Triple Fines in an Effort to Keep Streets Clean. New regulations aim to curb littering, with fines increasing from $50 to $150 for first-time offenders in a bid to beautify neighborhoods and improve public spaces.
Philadelphia firehouses are expected to see a significant boost in morale after City Council approved funding for long-overdue raises and benefits that will put an end to years of contentious contract negotiations. Firefighters' paychecks will finally start reflecting the higher wages they've been owed since 2009.
Philadelphia Homeowners Could See 8% Tax Increase Under New Budget Proposal as Council Tackles Pensions and Infrastructure Costs Council Approves Sweeping Land Bank Reform Bill Aimed at Eliminating Blighted Properties in Philly Neighborhoods, Starting with 4,000 Vacant Lots.
Philadelphia Homeowners Could Face Stricter Rental Inspections Under New City Council Proposal Focusing on Safety and Code Enforcement
Most contested votes of 2013top 5 of 15
Most council roll calls are unanimous — these are the bills that split the chamber.
Most active sponsors in 2013
- Council President Clarke67 bills
- Councilmember Squilla64 bills
- Councilmember Jones28 bills
- Councilmember Johnson24 bills
- Councilmember Goode20 bills