This week in Council

City Council Increases Parking Tax Rate to 22.5% for Fiscal Year 2016 and Beyond

Drivers are in for a surprise as City Council votes to hike parking taxes, adding extra dollars to every parking ticket, toll bridge, and garage fee starting July 1st.

150534

City Council Approves Tax Hike on Real Estate Owners Effective Next Year

Property owners will face a 2.9-cent increase per $1,000 of assessed value under a new tax hike set to kick in next year, with the average homeowner expecting to pay around $10 more annually on their city real estate taxes.

150533

City Sets Ground Rules for Airlines at PHL as Commerce Chief Gets Leasing Power

Riders in South Philly Neighborhoods Will Pay Less for Parking Thanks to City Council's New Meter Rules Council Passes Bill to Allow Electric Scooters on Bike Lanes After Company Agrees to Safety Improvements

150531

Philadelphia School Board Seeks Power to Impose New Tax on Commercial Properties Downtown

Councilmembers Introduce Plan to Ban Single-Use Plastics in Philly Restaurants and Cafes Next Year Philadelphia businesses will have 12 months to switch from throwaway cups and straws as council members push for a ban on single-use plastics in restaurants and cafes throughout the city.

150535

Banner Pole Allowed at Ridge Avenue Location Under Specific Terms and Conditions

Ridge Avenue shop owners face uncertainty as a proposed banner pole at their busy intersection is set to be installed, sparking concerns about added noise and visual clutter for nearby residents and businesses.

150516

Philadelphia Council Approves Banner Pole for Jason Cohen's Ridge Avenue Business in Conditional Deal

Small business owners are cheering as the city council approves a special permit allowing them to install large outdoor signs, but some neighbors are voicing concerns about potential clutter on busy streets like Roosevelt Boulevard.

150515

City Council Gives Go Ahead for All-Way Stop Signs on Eva Street and Port Royal Avenue Intersection

Drivers will soon be forced to come to a complete halt at one of Philadelphia's most congested intersections, as city council votes to add all-way stop signs on Eva Street and Port Royal Avenue.

150514

Bay Window Build-Off Kicks Off On Bustling South Bonsall Street Amid New Council Approval

South Philadelphia homeowners are abuzz over a new council-approved variance allowing for expanded outdoor living spaces, with one long-time resident set to break ground on a contentious bay window project next month.

150513

City Seeks to Acquire 27-Acre Property, Lease to Economic Agency for Job Creation and Growth

City Seeks to Acquire 27-Acre Property, Lease to Economic Agency for Job Creation and Growth." A proposed deal would transform a sprawling international business complex into a hub for local businesses, potentially creating hundreds of new jobs in Philadelphia's economy.

150512

Mayor and Officials Greenlight $Millions in Airport Debt Relief through New Revenue Bond Issue

This bill authorizes the Mayor and City officials to issue Airport Revenue Refunding Bonds to pay off outstanding debt related to Philadelphia International Airport.

150510

City Treasurer Greenlights New Deal with Wells Fargo for Streamlined Payroll Processing Services

Wells Fargo's deal to handle Philly's paycheck processing is set to get a $1 million price hike, raising questions about transparency in city contracts and whether the savings are worth it for taxpayers.

150509

City Council Approves Pact Allowing PAID to Offer Economic Aid and Secure Funding for Local Businesses Growth

Philadelphia small business owners can now tap into up to $10 million in aid, courtesy of a new City Council pact that gives PAID the power to secure funding for local growth initiatives. The deal aims to boost economic development across Philly's neighborhoods.

150508

City Seeks Approval from Voters to Borrow Up to 155 Million Dollars for Capital Projects

Philadelphia's mayor is pushing for a massive borrowing plan that would sink taxpayers into debt, but critics argue it's a necessary investment in crumbling infrastructure and underfunded schools. The proposal would borrow $155 million to fund projects like road repairs and new school buildings.

150507

Philadelphia Parking Authority Gets Greenlight for Arch Street Constructions

Developers' plan to revamp Philly's financial district hits speed bump as city council votes to grant parking authority green light for major construction project on iconic streets.

150506

City OKs Changes to Washington Avenue in Downtown Philadelphia Area

This bill allows for a change to be made on City Plan No.

150504

Philadelphia Law Clarifies Farmers' Market Rules

City officials aim to boost local food sales with new regulations that permit home-based bakers and cheesemongers at farmers markets, but also target unlicensed vendors selling counterfeit goods.

150503

City Acquires Pedestrian Easement in Market Street Corridor for Enhanced Accessibility

Residents and Business Owners Alarmed as New Zoning Laws Loosen Restrictions on Vacant Lot Development Philadelphia's zoning laws are being rewritten to allow for more flexibility in building on vacant lots, sparking debate over gentrification and community displacement.

150501

Philadelphia to Require Lower Sulfur Content in Commercial Fuel Oil Sales

This bill updates regulations for fuel oil sales in Philadelphia to reduce sulfur content and minimize environmental impact.

150500-A

Temple University District Established for Sidewalk Vendors with Limited Spots and Boundaries

Sidewalk entrepreneurs are gearing up to set up shop outside Temple, as city council votes to create a new "Temple University District" allowing select vendors to peddle everything from snacks to souvenirs around campus.

150498

City Council Eyes Zoning Changes for Neighborhood Blocks Along Hunting Park Avenue and Wissahickon Avenue

Residents near Hunting Park Avenue could see new high-rise apartments and businesses move in as City Council considers zoning overhaul that would triple allowed building height on some streets.

150490

City Council Proposes Zoning Changes for Southwest Philly Neighborhood Along Hagys Mill Road

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change zoning designations in a specific area bounded by several streets and the County Line.

150489

Zoning Changes Made to Philadelphia Area Bound by Disston Street and Algon Avenue

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change zoning designations in a specific area bounded by several streets.

150488

Philadelphia Zoning Maps Overhauled in Revamp of Neighborhood Land Use Boundaries

This bill changes the zoning designations for a specific area of land in Philadelphia, bounded by several streets.

150487

Philadelphia Zoning Maps Get a Shifting Bound: Arizona to Coral Streets

This bill changed the zoning designations for certain areas in Philadelphia from Arizona Street to Coral Street.

150494

City Council Eyes Looser Rules on Curb Cuts for Philly's Busiest Mixed-Use Streets and Narrow Neighborhoods

Philadelphia Residents May See Shorter Pedestrian Crosswalks on Busy Streets Under Proposed Zoning Overhaul, Sparking Concerns Over Safety and Accessibility for Seniors and Families.

150492

New Zoning Boundaries Designate Priscilla Street Over Several Blocks in Philadelphia

Families Living Near Eastern State University Could See Rent Hikes Under New Ordinance Allowing Luxury Condo Development in Their Backyard, Sparking Fears of Gentrification.

150491

Philadelphia City Council Proposes Tough New Rules for Street Parties Amid Resident Complaints Over Noise and Safety Concerns

Philadelphia Homeowners May Face Higher Property Taxes Under New City Proposal to Fund Affordable Housing Programs with Increased Levy on Vacant Land Owners.

150474

Zoning Maps Overhauled Along Bustling Spring Garden Corridor Amidst Plans for New Development Projects

Philadelphia's vibrant Spring Garden neighborhood is about to get a major makeover with new development projects underway, but residents are worried about the impact of relaxed zoning restrictions on their community character.

150473

City Tightens Screws on Special Inspection Agencies as Council Moves to Boost Registration and Fees Requirements

This bill requires special inspection agencies and inspectors to register with the City of Philadelphia's Department of Licenses and Inspections, meet specific qualifications, and pay fees for certifications.

150472

City Transfers Control of North Philly Land Parcel to PAID Under New Agreement Terms

This bill allows the City to transfer ownership of a parcel of land in North Philadelphia to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development (PAID) under certain conditions.

150469

Farmers Markets Get Green Light on Busy West Tabor Road Section

Small business owners along West Tabor Road are cheering as a long-awaited amendment opens up a coveted stretch of sidewalk space for vendors selling fresh produce. The change could bring more foot traffic to the area's shops and eateries.

150468

North 4th Street Business Owner Gets Green Light for Outdoor Café Expansion Plans

This bill allows a specific business owner to install and maintain an open-air sidewalk café at their property on North 4th Street in Philadelphia, with certain conditions.

150467

City Seeks Millions in Federal Grants to Boost Affordable Housing and Fight Blight Across Philadelphia Neighborhoods

Philadelphia homeowners facing foreclosure could soon get a financial lifeline as the city pushes to expand its program allowing property tax payments to be deducted from paychecks, potentially saving thousands in fees and interest.

150466-A

Zoo License Deal Gets Green Light: City Agrees to Renew Long-Term Parking Pact With ZSP

Philadelphia's iconic zoo gets a reprieve from parking woes as a contentious deal between city officials and the Zoological Society of Philadelphia is approved, paving the way for continued use of city land for vehicle access.

150465

Philadelphia Tax Exemptions Remain Locked In Once Set by Longtime Owner Occupant Program

Under proposed changes, Philly homeowners locked into LOOP tax breaks won't see their benefits revoked by rising market values, but could still switch to a more lucrative homestead exemption if they meet certain requirements.

150445

Philadelphia City Council Votes to Transform Troublesome Intersection on Norcom Road and Nature Road into Safer All-Way Stop Zone

This bill requires all-way stop signs to be installed at the intersection of Norcom Road and Nature Road in Philadelphia.

150444

Philadelphia Council OKs Extension of Gas Supply Contracts Without Advance Approval

A measure passed by Philadelphia City Council expands power over city gas supplies, allowing the facilities management corporation to negotiate deals without council oversight - a move critics argue undermines accountability.

150443

Philadelphia City Council Approves PGW's $115 Million Capital Budget Amid Strict Funding Guidelines

Philadelphia's struggling low-income residents are set to benefit from an expanded eligibility threshold for PGW's energy assistance program under a new city council-approved plan, tripling the number of households receiving aid this winter. Philly homeowners can breathe easy after a long-awaited delay on sewer rate increases was lifted by the city council, but some community leaders warn of im

150442

Philadelphia City Council Moves to Ease Short-Term Rental Rules as Tourism Booms Across the City

Local Business Owners Could See Spike in Competition as Proposed Bill Allows More Philly Neighborhoods to Host Short-Term Rentals, Wiping Away Years of Restrictions that Favored Certain Areas Over Others.

150441-A

No Parking Zone Established on South Side of Spruce Street Between Columbus Boulevard and West

This bill establishes a no-parking zone on the south side of Spruce Street between Columbus Boulevard and another point approximately 50 feet west, for two parking spaces.

150414

AION Partners Cleared to Build Vestibules on One South Broad Street Amid Strict City Oversight Requirements

Philadelphia's skyline is set for a new addition as developers are given the green light to construct three glass-walled entrances at One South Broad Street, but city officials have imposed strict safety protocols.

150413

City Council Proposes Major Shift on Spruce Street as Two-Way Traffic Takes Hold Through Central Philly

Toll Relief on the Horizon: City Council Bill Seeks to Freeze E-ZPass Toll Increases for Next Year's Budget Cycle, Providing Temporary Reprieve for Thousands of Drivers. A proposed city ordinance could cap E-ZPass toll hikes for one year, giving commuters a much-needed break from rising costs.

150412

Callowhill Street Transformation Underway as City Leaders Vote to Make Traffic Flow Two-Way

Philadelphia's first new two-way street in years is set to become a reality, bringing increased pedestrian safety and easier commutes for thousands of residents who live and work along the newly transformed stretch.

150411

Philadelphia Council Votes to Ban Parking on Busy Callowhill Street Stretch Ahead of Rush Hour Traffic

Philadelphia Council Targets Congested Roosevelt Boulevard with New Bill Limiting Delivery Trucks in Residential Areas The proposed legislation would restrict delivery trucks from parking on Roosevelt Boulevard between 5th Street and 12th Street, forcing them to unload packages elsewhere, impacting businesses that rely heavily on online deliveries.

150410

PHA Moves to Condemn Properties along Cecil B Moore Avenue for Redevelopment Efforts Under Proposed Council Bill

Cecil B Moore Avenue residents face uncertain futures as city council considers giving PHA power to seize buildings for redevelopment, prompting concerns about displacement of long-time tenants.

150409

Mt Vernon Street Section Added to Permissible Locations for Farmers' Markets

This law allows farmers' markets to be held on a specific section of Mt.

150405

City Council Approves TIF Funding for Major Revamp of Market East Shopping Hub

This bill creates a Tax Increment Financing District in Center City Philadelphia, specifically the area around Market East, to support redevelopment and urban renewal.

150380

Market Street East Retail Area Added to Philadelphia Zoning Code with New Sign Regulations

New Regulations Coming to Center City's Busiest Streets: Proposed Changes to Sign Codes Could See a Spike in Billboard Removals Along Market Street and Surrounding Neighborhoods. Property Owners Must Comply with New Zoning Code by Year's End.

150379

City Council Gives Green Light to Massive Overhaul of Market Street East Shopping Hub

This bill approves a plan to redevelop the Market Street East Urban Renewal Area in Center City Philadelphia, including rehabilitating The Gallery at Market East as a mixed-use retail center.

150378

Market Street Pedestrian Bridge Construction Gets Green Light Amid Controversy Over Private Ownership Rights

Local businesses along Market Street are celebrating a major infrastructure upgrade, but residents and advocacy groups are sounding alarms over a provision allowing a private firm to control public access to a beloved pedestrian bridge. A contentious new law poised to change the face of Philadelphia's streetscape is set to take effect next year, sparking debate over who should have control over p

150377

City Council Clears Way for Revamp of Iconic Gallery Mall Shopping District along Market Street

Small Business Owners Alarmed as City Council Votes to Permit Major Redevelopment of Bustling South Street Corridor A contentious bill to relax zoning restrictions on several blocks of South Street, a hub for local shops and restaurants, has been approved by the city council despite opposition from many long-time merchants and residents.

150376

City Officials Given Green Light to Sign Deals for Redevelopment of North Market Street Properties

This bill authorizes officials to sign agreements and make decisions for the redevelopment of properties on Market Street between 8th and 11th Streets in Philadelphia.

150375

Council Votes to Rewrite Zoning Rules for Growing Neighborhood Along Girard Avenue Corridor

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations for a specific area bounded by Thompson Street, 4th Street, Girard Avenue, and Lawrence Street.

150351

Philadelphia Zoning Maps Get Major Overhaul as City Council Votes to Rezone Broad Street Neighborhoods

This bill changes the zoning designations for certain areas of land in Philadelphia, bounded by Broad Street, Dauphin Street, Watts Street, and Susquehanna Avenue.

150350

Neighborhood Zoning Overhaul Affects Area Bounded by Front, Amber, and several City Streets

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas in a specific neighborhood.

150289

Philadelphia Zoning Designation Change Affects Specific Block Bound by Mifflin, 8th, Dudley, and 9th Streets

This bill changes the zoning designation of a specific area in Philadelphia from Mifflin Street to 9th Street.

150288

City Imposes Tougher Rules on Urban Experiences Amid Growing Concerns Over Community Impact

Large public art installations must now make a deal with city officials before going up, committing thousands of dollars in funding for community programs in surrounding neighborhoods. Local artists say it's a compromise between creative freedom and social responsibility.

150285

Zoning Changes Adopted in Philadelphia Neighborhood Bounded by Tulip Street, Tucker Street, Memphis Street, and Albert Street

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing zoning designations in a specific area of the city bounded by Tulip Street, Tucker Street, Memphis Street, and Albert Street.

150284

City Council OKs Street Vending on Busy North Philly Block Amid Concerns Over Safety and Sanitation

Residents on a bustling North Philadelphia corner are about to see a change: street vendors will be allowed to set up shop on the 5500 block of North 13th Street, bringing new food and goods options to the area. Small business owners nearby worry that the influx of vendors will bring increased competition for parking and sales.

150267

City Approves Plan to Sell Commercial Tax Liens to Aid Cash-Strapped School District Finances

Tighter purse strings at City Hall could ease the financial strain on Philly's schools as a new measure OKs selling off unpaid business taxes to boost school coffers. The move aims to inject millions into cash-strapped district finances.

150265

Terrace Street neighborhood zoning designations changed by new city ordinance

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations of certain areas in a specific neighborhood.

150236

Pennsylvania University to Renovate Historic Mellon Building at 3457-59 Walnut Street

Philadelphia's Affordable Housing Crisis Hits Home for Low-Income Renters: A proposed new law would raise the annual income cap for Philly Housing Authority tenants by 20%, affecting 1,400 struggling families.

150232

City Council Moves to Redraw Zoning Maps for Large Section of North Philadelphia Neighborhood

Small Businesses Fear Eviction as Proposed Bill Allows Major Development on Bustling South Street Corridor; Property owners are pushing back against the measure citing concerns about gentrification and displacement.

150215

Red Light Cameras Installed at 26th Street and Penrose Avenue Intersection

This bill authorizes the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of 26th Street and Penrose Avenue to prevent red light violations.

150213

Philadelphia Code Revised to Adjust Wage and Net Profits Tax Rates for Residents and Businesses

Philadelphia Small Businesses Hit Hardest by New Ordinance Mandating Free On-Site Recycling Bins; Owners Citing Costs as Major Concern Amid Ongoing Economic Strains

150167

City Council Advances Plan to Hike School Property Tax by 25% Starting Next Year

Philadelphia Residents Face Possible Double-Digit Rent Hikes as City Council Considers Bill Allowing Landlords to Pass Through Rising Property Taxes onto Tenants.

150165

Council Adopts Finalized $3.8 Billion City Budget for FY16 Amid Some Cuts and New Spending

Philadelphia's homeless population will be impacted by a proposed plan to close two shelters on North Broad Street, citing rising costs and declining occupancy. The move would leave around 100 residents without immediate housing options.

150164

City Adopts $2.7 Billion Capital Budget for Fiscal Year 2016

Taxpayers will foot the bill for a new police headquarters in West Philly, part of a $2.7 billion budget plan approved by City Council today that includes upgrades to city buildings and transportation systems.

150163

City Council Approves Six Year Roadmap for Major Infrastructure Projects Across Philadelphia

This bill established a 6-year capital program (2016-2021) for the City of Philadelphia, outlining projects and funding for infrastructure development.

150162

City Playground on East Indiana Avenue Officially Renamed Hope Park to Reflect Community Renewal Efforts

This bill renames a City of Philadelphia-owned playground on East Indiana Avenue as 'Hope Park' to reflect the community's commitment to making it a clean and safe space for children.

150052

Zoning designations changed in area bounded by Tacony Street, Bridge Street, and Delaware River.

Frankford Residents Fear New Zoning Changes Will Bring Higher Density Housing to Tacony Street Corridor Next Month, Sparking Concerns About Traffic, Parking, and Community Character.

140895

City Council Passes Sign Regulations Bill Amidst Changes to Outdoor Advertising Fees

Small business owners face new costs as proposed zoning changes raise minimum parking requirements, forcing some shops to scramble to meet the demands of a changing cityscape. Local convenience stores could be forced out of business if City Council approves a measure restricting access to certain retail corridors.

130656-AA

Council Transfers $25 Million to Philly Schools Amid Ongoing Budget Negotiations

Philadelphia Homeowners Could Face Increased Property Taxes Under New Bill; Residents 65 and Older Would See Stipends Eased, but Thousands More Would Pay Higher Rates.

150612

Philadelphia Council Approves Revised Eight Billion Dollar Capital Spending Plan This Year

Philly taxpayers will shell out $50 million more to upgrade City Hall facilities under a revised capital spending plan approved by Council; the move is part of a larger $8.9 billion budget that allocates funds for schools, roads and public safety upgrades.

150611

Council proposed tougher bike lane rules with harsher penalties for obstruction.

Cyclists will be required to use designated bike lanes when available, with increased fines for vehicles blocking these lanes under new traffic code amendments.

150617

Finance Director Ordered to Track Diversity on City Projects and Set Future Workforce Goals

City Contractors Must Pay Workers Stipend for Parking Permits After Council Votes to Boost Bottom Line Under new rules, contractors who bid on city projects will be required to pay construction workers a $20 monthly stipend for parking permits.

150614

Green Roofs Gain Zoning Edge in Philly as Council Eyes Easier Construction Rules Now

Green roofs gain advantage in Philly zoning rules, allowing for smaller residential plots with approved green roof installations in some areas.

150613

Council proposes mandatory installation of food waste disposers in all new Philly kitchens

New residential construction in Philadelphia starting next year will be required to install food waste disposers in kitchens, aiming to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

150610

Council Bill Would Open Floodgates to New Development on Bustling South Broad Street Corridor

South Broad Street businesses could soon accommodate rooftop decks and parking garages under new zoning regulations. Restaurants would also be allowed in this area, with certain terms and conditions applying.

150606

Company Wins Approval for Brighter Sidewalks and Benches at Bustling Market Street Intersection

This bill allows a private company to build and maintain certain structures on Market Street in Philadelphia, including an illuminated sidewalk inlay and two pedestrian benches.

150602

City Council Adds New Projects to 2016 Capital Budget in Mid-Year Revision

Philadelphia's capital budget gets a mid-year boost as City Council adds new projects and revises existing ones, building on the 2015 legislation. The total project value now stands at nearly $2.7 billion.

150609

City Set to Shave Off Triangular Corner of Lancaster Avenue Near Market Street and 32nd Street Limits

Lancaster Avenue Revamp on the Horizon: A tiny triangle of land is set to be shaved off a busy Philadelphia intersection, sparking questions about who will foot the bill for lost development space.

150601

Council proposed special district around Drexel University for sidewalk vendors in West Philadelphia.

Drexel University District created, allowing sidewalk vendors with assigned spots and $2,750 annual fee; new rules will take effect immediately. West Philadelphia streets bounded by Market and Chestnut are now subject to specific regulations for street vendors.

150600

City Nears Deal to Abandon Gas Main Right of Way on North Dickinson Street

A proposed zoning tweak could soon pave the way for new development along North Dickinson Street, but only if the city can secure deals with local property owners and a major utility company to relocate aging gas mains.

150616

Holy Redeemer Expansion Plan Moves Forward With New Cafeteria and Office Space Added

A long-awaited upgrade to Holy Redeemer's healthcare facilities is one step closer to reality as city council greenlights plans to expand the skilled nursing building with modern amenities for residents. The renovation will bring much-needed space and services to seniors.

150615

Council Approves Garage Extension Plan for North Philly Corner Lot at 4165 N 6th Street

Council approves plan for garage extension at North Philly corner lot on N. 6th Street, allowing Monica Torres to build into the right-of-way under certain conditions.

150608

City Allows Stair Enclosure to Remain at Whitaker Avenue Building Despite Initial Zoning Objections from Neighbors

Philadelphia Council Votes to Ease Parking Ticket Fines for Low-Income Drivers with New Proposal Residents earning below the federal poverty level could see up to 75% of parking ticket fines waived under a new measure aimed at reducing debt burdens on low-income Philadelphians.

150607

Philadelphia Plots New Sewer Right-Of-Way Through Neighborhood Near Pattison Avenue

A new stretch of sewer infrastructure is planned to snake through a Southwest Philly neighborhood, but residents are wary of potential disruptions and unclear compensation for affected property owners. Homeowners along Pattison Avenue are facing the possibility of lost parking spaces and outdoor recreation areas.

150605

Council Proposes Looser Fuel Oil Reporting Rules for Businesses Seeking Exemptions

Councilmember Henon's bill proposes relaxing fuel oil reporting rules for businesses seeking exemptions, allowing the city to grant extensions on a case-by-case basis until 2025.

150604

Newsstands on Broad Street Get Green Light to Dig for Electricity and Phone Conduits

This bill allows a newsstand owner to construct and maintain conduits for electricity and phone service under Broad and Vine streets in Center City Philadelphia.

150603