Weekly recap
This week in Council
October 3 to October 9, 2014
Coming up: public hearings
Committees hear testimony before voting. Open any bill and tap the bell to get a reminder the day before.
Tuesday, November 17, 10:00 AM · Committee on Rules
Philadelphia Code Amended to Impose Use Restrictions Within Fifth District Overlay District
Philadelphia's zoning regulations are getting a makeover in the Fifth District Overlay District, imposing new use restrictions on specific areas. Certain types of buildings and activities will be allowed in designated areas.
260764
Philadelphia Business Hours Restricted in Fifth District Neighborhoods
Philadelphia businesses in the Fifth District and surrounding areas will be restricted from opening between 11pm and 6am due to an amended ordinance. New streets affected by the restriction include N. 29th Street from W. Dauphin to W. Huntingdon.
260697
Philadelphia Tightens Rules on Removing Heritage Trees from City Streets
Philadelphia's rules for removing heritage trees from city streets are about to get stricter, making it harder to remove these trees without meeting specific conditions or replacing them. Heritage trees must now be documented in a landscape plan and can only be removed with special permission.
260689
Philadelphia's Zoning Laws to Get Overhaul of Retail Sales Use Categories Definitions
Philadelphia's zoning laws are getting an update, with changes to how grocery stores and pharmacies are classified under the retail sales use category definitions. The changes will be reflected in use tables throughout the city's zoning code.
260688
Zoning designations changing in area bounded by Rubicam Street, Ashmead Street, Wakefield Street, and Bringhurst Street.
Zoning changes are coming to a specific area of Philadelphia bounded by Rubicam Street, Ashmead Street, Wakefield Street, and Bringhurst Street, as authorized by Councilmember Bass.
260855
Retailers must meet specific standards and be located in certain districts for tobacco sales.
Philadelphia's zoning code is set to change, requiring tobacco retailers to meet specific standards and be located in certain districts. The new rules aim to regulate tobacco sales throughout the city.
260851
City Council Expands Center City Business Uses in Old City Residential Area, Core
Businesses like restaurants and tattoo parlors will now be allowed in Old City's residential area without special permission, as long as they meet certain conditions.
260896
Old City Special Services District Approves 7-Year Plan for Business Improvements and Services
Councilmember Squilla's bill approves a 7-year plan for the Old City Special Services District, outlining estimated costs and assessment methods for business improvements and services in the area.
260895
Tuesday, November 17, 1:00 PM · Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities
Wednesday, November 18, 10:00 AM · Committee on Law and Government
Wednesday, November 18, 1:00 PM · Committee on the Environment
City to Sign 4-Year Contracts with Major Waste Management Firms under Certain Terms and Conditions
Philadelphia is set to sign 4-year contracts with Waste Management, Republic Services, and ReWorld Sustainable Solutions to collect and dispose of municipal waste, with the option to extend for up to 3 more years.
260794
City to Enter Agreements with Vendors to Process and Market Recyclable Materials
City Council approves deals with vendors to process and market recyclable materials, boosting the city's recycling program. The agreements are the result of a comprehensive request for proposals from the Sanitation and Procurement Departments.
260793
Became law
City Council OKs Plan to Refinance Bonds Worth Millions With Help From Philly Authority's Financial Muscle
A plan to save taxpayers millions is headed to Mayor's desk as Council votes to let city partner with Philly Authority on refinancing effort, potentially shaving off nearly $6 million from debt costs.
140715
Philadelphia Voters Set to Decide Fate of City's Schools in Upcoming Special Election Referendum
A proposed city council ordinance would shift control of 40 underperforming schools from charters back to the Philadelphia School District, sparking debate over accountability and student outcomes. Thousands of students in these schools could see a change in leadership as early as next year.
140514-A
Automated Purchasing Machines Banned in Philly Amid Concerns Over Unfair Sales Practices Continue
Philadelphia Residents Face Higher Parking Fines as Council Votes to Double Meter Prices in Busy Neighborhoods The new law aims to deter congestion in popular areas by doubling parking meter rates, generating more revenue for the city, but sparking complaints from drivers already struggling with high costs.
130693-A
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Philadelphia Limits Size of Backyard Sheds and Outbuildings to 130 Square Feet Nationwide
Homeowners will soon face stricter rules governing the size of backyard sheds and outbuildings after a new city ordinance limits these structures to just 130 square feet.
140782-A
City Officials Break Ground on $1 Million Sewer Revamp Along Adams Avenue from Orthodox to Castor Streets
This bill allows the city to build a new sewer system on Adams Avenue from Orthodox Street to Castor Avenue to improve sanitation and prevent health issues.
140781
Council proposes amendment to Philadelphia Code regarding student notification requirements in Educational Housing Districts
Philadelphia council expands requirements for student notification in areas around local colleges and universities, mandating updates on address changes to property owners and institutions. Students in these districts must now keep their colleges informed of any address changes.
140780