Weekly recap
This week in Council
January 15 to January 21, 2016
Coming up: public hearings
Committees hear testimony before voting. Open any bill and tap the bell to get a reminder the day before.
Thursday, November 12, 10:00 AM · CITY COUNCIL
Philadelphia City Council Seeks Public Vote on Establishing Independent Child Welfare Oversight Board
Philadelphia City Council is seeking public approval to establish an independent child welfare oversight board through a referendum, which would amend the city's Home Rule Charter.
260076
Council Introduces Bill to Acquire Land for Public Parks Between Vine Street and Fairmount Avenue
City Council bill would allow the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire land in Fishtown for public parks, expanding recreational space in the neighborhood. The proposed development would be bounded by Vine Street, Fairmount Avenue, 8th Street, and 12th Street.
250807
Philly Contractors Hired to Collect Garbage Must Use Recycling Facilities Not Incinerators Anymore
Philadelphia contractors hired by the city must now use recycling facilities instead of incinerators when disposing of collected trash. The change aims to reduce waste sent to incinerators under new city regulations.
250768
Bill Aims to Relax Parking Requirements in Philadelphia's Commercial Mixed-Use District
Philadelphia's commercial mixed-use zoning rules have been overhauled to allow for more multi-family housing in certain areas under new zoning regulations approved by City Council. Changes will affect what types of buildings can be constructed and how they are zoned.
260516
Zoning Map Changes Set for Neighborhood Around St Joseph's Preparatory School This Week
Changes to zoning map and code amendments proposed for neighborhoods around St Joseph's Preparatory School, affecting areas bounded by Thompson Street, Girard Avenue, and others. Councilmember Young sponsored the bill.
260462
Zoning designations changing in Philadelphia area bounded by Wharton Street, Broad Street, Reed Street, and Carlisle Street.
Zoning designations in an area bounded by Wharton Street, Broad Street, Reed Street, and Carlisle Street will be changed to align with new zoning maps, as proposed by Council President Johnson and Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.
260760
Zoning designations to be changed in area bounded by Wharton Street, 28th Street, Reed Street, and Newkirk Street.
Zoning designations in the Wharton Street to Newkirk Street area are set to change, shifting boundaries from existing designations on Map "A" to new ones on Map "B".
260759
Zoning designations for areas bounded by Roberts Avenue and Germantown Avenue proposed for change.
Councilmember Bass proposes changing zoning designations for areas bounded by Roberts Avenue, Germantown Avenue, and surrounding streets, as outlined in Maps "A1," "A2," and "A3".
260711
West Broad Street Businesses Exempt from Commercial Curfew with Limited Exception
Businesses along West Broad Street in the Eighth Councilmanic District will now be allowed to stay open until 6 a.m. under a limited exception to the commercial curfew, but violating the new hours will result in a $1,000 fine per day.
260710
Philadelphia's Eighth Council District Zoning and Land Use Overhaul Underway with New Overlay District Rules
Councilmember Bass is pushing to revise zoning rules in Philadelphia's Eighth Council District, limiting additional uses and making technical changes to the /EDO Overlay District.
260709
Northeast Philadelphia Zoning Districts Combined into New Tenth District Overlay District
Northeast Philadelphia's zoning map is getting a makeover with the combination of two existing districts into the new Tenth District Overlay District, streamlining zoning regulations in the area.
260704
Self-service storage facilities prohibited in certain locations under proposed zoning change
City Council proposes banning self-service storage facilities in certain locations, as defined in a new zoning and planning code amendment introduced by Councilmember Driscoll.
260703
Philadelphia Limits Loud Devices on Public Waterways to Prevent Disturbance
Loud devices on Philadelphia's lakes, rivers, and creeks are now strictly regulated to prevent disturbance, with violators facing a $2,000 fine and a maximum sound level of 100 feet from the device allowed.
260702
Philadelphia's Zoning Laws Revised to Define Adult Cabarets in New Way
Philadelphia's zoning laws are being revised to define adult cabarets, which include businesses that may serve alcohol and feature topless or exotic dancers, in a new way. The change affects business owners and patrons of such establishments.
260695
Philadelphia zoning laws revised in Main Street/Manayunk and Venice Island area.
Zoning laws in Main Street/Manayunk and Venice Island are being revised to revise boundaries, restrict additional uses, and update maps, aiming to maintain the area's unique character and commercial identity.
260694
New Southwest Center City Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District Created Amid Zoning Regulations Changes
Zoning regulations in Southwest Center City are set to change with the creation of a new Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District, revising boundaries and imposing specific rules on affected properties.
260690
Philadelphia Zoning Maps to be Amended with New Zoning Designations in Specific Areas Bounded by 65th Avenue and Chelten Avenue
Philadelphia's zoning maps are set to be updated in areas bounded by 65th Avenue, 3rd Street, Chelten Avenue, and 5th Street, with new zoning designations to be reflected on the maps. Councilmember Phillips' bill authorizes the zoning map changes within a specific area.
260687
Zoning designations for areas along Wyncote Avenue, Ogontz Avenue, and 68th Avenue are being changed.
Zoning designations for areas along Wyncote Avenue, Ogontz Avenue, and 68th Avenue are being changed to new zoning designations, with the exact changes outlined on Maps "A" and "B".
260686
Zoning Designations Changed in Area Bounded by Lehigh Avenue and Aramingo Avenue Streets
Councilmember Squilla's zoning bill changes designations in a neighborhood bounded by Lehigh Avenue, Belgrade Street, Aramingo Avenue, and Miller Street, altering uses and development in the area as shown on Maps 'A' and 'B'.
260800
Zoning designations in area near Lancaster Avenue and 62nd Street to be changed under new maps.
Zoning designations near Lancaster Avenue and 62nd Street are set to change under new maps "A" and "B". The exact changes will be indicated on the updated maps.
260796
Pennsylvania University's Master Plan Amended in West Philadelphia Area Bounded by Walnut and 33rd Streets
Philadelphia's University of Pennsylvania Master Plan is being amended in a West Philadelphia area bounded by Walnut and 33rd Streets, specifically related to the David Rittenhouse Laboratory. The changes will take effect immediately.
260795
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
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Philadelphia Council Seeks Big Cuts in Wage Taxes and Business Profits Levies Starting This Year
Philadelphia residents and businesses face potential tax rate cuts of up to 2.0344% under a City Council proposal. The reductions would apply to the city's Wage and Earnings Tax and Tax on Net Profits Earned in Businesses.
160023
Pet Shops in Philadelphia Must Source Animals from Shelters and Rescue Organizations
Under new regulations, Philadelphia's 15 remaining pet stores will no longer be able to stock animals from notorious "puppy mills," switching instead to adopt from local shelters and rescues.
160013
Philadelphia Council Passes Measure Allowing Performing Artists Priority Loading Zones Around The City
Council Approves Proposal to Expand Food Waste Recycling Program to Large Apartment Complexes The plan aims to divert more organic waste from landfills by requiring large Philly apartment buildings to participate in food composting programs starting next year, affecting thousands of residents citywide.
160026-A
Council sought to mandate at least 10% of funds for large performing arts events be spent on local artists receiving City financial resources.
Philadelphia now requires large events to spend at least 10% of city-funded funds on local artists. The new rule applies to events receiving $100,000 or more in city financial support for performing arts.
160025
City Turns to Private Collectors to Chase Down Overdue Taxes After Year-Long Delinquency
Delinquent taxpayers in Philadelphia will soon face collection efforts from private law firms after a year-long period of unpaid taxes. The City can now transfer delinquent taxes and fees to a qualified third-party agency for recovery.
160024
Philadelphia Residents to Vote in November on Creation of International Trade and Investment Authority
Philadelphia residents will vote in November on whether to create an International Trade and Investment Authority, aimed at boosting economic development through increased international trade. The authority's responsibilities would be defined in a proposed amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter.
160022
Voters to Decide Fate of New Board of Education Appointment Process This Fall
Philadelphia voters will weigh in on a proposed overhaul of the city's school board governance system this fall, with Councilmember Oh pushing for changes to the Board of Education.
160021
City Council Proposes Adding Financial Experts to Watch Over Philly Pension Funds Immediately
City Council proposes adding financial experts to oversee Philadelphia's pension funds, with new members tasked with ensuring responsible management and transparency. This would involve revising the board's membership to include independent advisors.
160020
Council Proposes Creation of Budget Office to Enhance Transparency and Efficiency in City Government Finances
Philadelphia city council proposes creating a Legislative Budget Office to enhance transparency and efficiency in city government finances, institutionalizing expertise and access to information. The office would serve the council as part of the city's legislative branch.
160019
Landlords Must Disclose Smoking Policies to Tenants in Multi-Family Buildings
Philadelphia landlords in multi-family buildings must provide written disclosure to tenants about smoking policies in individual units.
160018-AA
Council proposed updated regulations for 'Special Assembly Occupancies' in Philadelphia.
New Ordinance Targets Abandoned Properties in Philly Neighborhoods, Mandating Regular Inspections and Enforcement for Vacant Buildings Owned by Out-of-State Landlords.
160016
Philadelphia Businesses Must Share Economic Data with City Under New Transparency Law
Homeowners in Southwest Philly Could Face Higher Taxes with Proposed Land Value Tax; Councilors debate whether this new assessment method would raise revenue for public services or unfairly burden residents.
160015-A
Philadelphia Council Extends Tax Breaks for Longtime Homeowners in City
Council Passes Bill Protecting Tenants from Rapid Rent Hikes Amid Philly's Housing Crunch; New Law Mandates 12-Month Lease Term and Limits Annual Rent Increases to 4% per Year.
160012
Council Proposes Stricter Rules for Hoverboard Riders Under 12 as Safety Concerns Mount in City Streets
A new proposal would require parents of younger riders to face fines if their child is caught driving a hoverboard without proper safety gear in Philadelphia's streets, sparking debate over liability and responsibility. The city saw over 100 reported hoverboard injuries last year alone.
160008
North Philly Neighborhoods See Zoning Changes as City Maps Undergo Major Overhaul
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations for certain areas in North Philadelphia.
160006
Council Proposed City License for Restoration Contractors in Philadelphia
Philadelphia will require restoration contractors to obtain a city license, meet insurance and bonding requirements, and comply with other standards to operate in the city. Contractors must also meet specific certification criteria.
160005
City Contractors Face Penalties for Failing to Meet Workforce Diversity Goals Under New Ordinance
Contractors working with the City of Philadelphia must now make a good faith effort to meet Workforce Diversity goals or face penalties for failure. The new ordinance takes effect under terms and conditions outlined in the city's contract requirements.
160003
City to Abandon Right-of-Way Between Galloway Street and Pattison Avenue Under New Agreement with Property Owners
Neighborhood residents along the 1600 block of Pattison Avenue are breathing a sigh of relief as a long-standing eyesore is set to be demolished under a new plan that would rezone the area, paving the way for new development.
160014
Truck Parking Banned on Torresdale Avenue and Megargee Street in Philadelphia.
A new measure aims to ease congestion on northeast streets by banning truck parking, but owners of the large vehicles say it's a major headache for deliveries and small businesses that rely on them daily.
160011
Records Department Gets Authority to Investigate Suspected Deed Fraud Cases
Residents in neighborhoods plagued by rapid property flips may soon see a slowdown, as City Council passes legislation granting the Department of Records expanded authority to scrutinize suspicious land deals.
160010
Philadelphia's Green Roof Tax Credit Program Gets Technical Overhaul and Clarifications
Philly homeowners and businesses may soon see their costs for environmentally friendly rooftop gardens drop, but some critics argue the proposed changes will favor big developers over small businesses and residents.
160004
Banks Face New Philly Tax Bill for Property Use as Council Clarifies Tax Code
Banks in Philadelphia will now be subject to a tax on the use and occupancy of their properties under a new city law clarifying which businesses must pay this fee. The Realty Use and Occupancy Tax will apply to banks' property use.
160027
City Abandons Drainage Right-of-Way Along Former Jackson Street Corridor
This bill allows the city to remove a drainage right-of-way from City Plan No.
160017
City Contracts with Advocates to Represent Children in Courtroom Battles Daily
Low-income families on Philly's South Side could soon have a stronger voice in court thanks to a proposed law requiring city-funded lawyers for kids involved in contentious custody battles. The move aims to ensure vulnerable youth receive fair representation.
160009
Council Revives Bid to Repeal Pedestrian Walkway Ordinance Along Former Thompson Street
Bill 160007 aimed to repeal an ordinance that modified a pedestrian walkway and right-of-way in former Thompson Street, but was ultimately withdrawn.
160007