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Weekly recap

This week in Council

April 1 to April 7, 2016

9 introduced7 became law0 failed or vetoed

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

City Government·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Environment·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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".

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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".

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Business & Commerce·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Public Safety·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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".

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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'.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Zoning & Development·Introduced

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.

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Tuesday, November 17, 10:00 AM · Committee on Rules

Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Business & Commerce·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Environment·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Business & Commerce·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Became law

Zoning & Development·Signed Into LawSigned Apr 7, 2016

Existing Wooden Fence at 841-43 N. Opal Street Gets Official Approval

This bill allows a resident to keep an existing wooden fence at their property at 841-43 N.

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Apr 7, 2016

West Philly Business Owners Clear Path for Outdoor Café Expansion on Bustling Baltimore Avenue

Proposed Tax Break Aimed at Philadelphia's Smallest Businesses Could Bring Much-Needed Relief to Thousands of Family-Owned Corner Stores

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City Government·Signed Into LawSigned Apr 7, 2016

New Parking Rules Implemented in Philly Neighborhoods Near Pine Street and Locust Street

Furious Bike Commuters Demand Safety Improvements Along Delaware Avenue as Council Debates Lane Usage Reforms for Busy Commercial Corridor

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Transportation·Signed Into LawSigned Apr 7, 2016

Thirty-Seventh Street and Surrounding Streets to Get Repaved Under New Law

This bill authorizes the paving of certain streets in Philadelphia, including Thirty-Seventh Street from Market to Filbert and Warren Streets, under specific conditions.

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Transportation·Signed Into LawSigned Apr 7, 2016

Street Revisions in Certain Philadelphia Neighborhoods Approved with Conditions

This bill allows for changes to be made to City Plan No.

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Budget & Finance·Signed Into LawSigned Apr 7, 2016

Magee Rehabilitation Hospital Clears Way for Construction of Liquid Oxygen Tank on North Philly Corner Lot

This bill allows Magee Rehabilitation Hospital to build a liquid oxygen tank and associated masonry enclosure at 1513 Race Street in Philadelphia, with certain terms and conditions.

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Apr 7, 2016

Farmers' Markets Allowed on Ann Street Under New City Ordinance

A stretch of Broad Street will soon become home to even more street vendors, thanks to a new city law that paves the way for an influx of food and crafts stalls between City Hall and Pat's King of Steaks. The neighborhood is already abuzz with excitement.

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Newly introduced

Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.

Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 16, 2016

Philadelphia Minimum Wage Hike Takes Effect Amid Calls for Faster Implementation of New Pay Standard

Minimum Wage for City Contractors Soars to $15.40 in July as Mayor Signs Executive Order to Align with New Federal Standard, impacting over 1,000 city vendors. Small business owners worry about increased costs and job losses under new rules.

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Zoning & Development·Signed Into LawSigned Sep 15, 2016

City Council Seeks to Redraw Zoning Maps Along Indiana Avenue Stretch in South Philly Neighborhoods

South Philadelphians could soon see new businesses and housing sprout up along Indiana Avenue as City Council introduces a plan to rewrite zoning rules that have frozen development in the area for decades.

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 16, 2016

Council Proposes One-Tenant Sign in Industrial Zone Along I-95 Near State Road

This bill allows for one large advertising sign in a specific area near I-95 and State Road, with certain conditions.

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City Government·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 16, 2016

Philadelphia Zoning Maps Get Major Overhaul as City Council Votes to Revamp Land Use Along State Road Corridor

This bill changed the zoning maps for certain areas of land near State Road, I-95, and Ashburner Street in Philadelphia.

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Environment·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 16, 2016

City Unveils Buffered Bike Lanes on Tyson Avenue with Removal of Travel Lane in Each Direction

Tyson Avenue commuters face a major overhaul as bike-friendly lanes take over, shaving off 10 feet of road space for drivers and adding protected space for cyclists between Roosevelt Boulevard and Frankford Avenue.

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City Government·LapsedIntroduced Apr 7, 2016

Council Introduced Plan to Restrict Tractor Trailers on Orthodox and Hedley Streets

This bill restricts tractor-trailer traffic on two specific blocks of Orthodox and Hedley Streets in Fishtown, but allows deliveries to residential areas.

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 16, 2016

City Council Approves Signage Bill Allowing One Giant Ad Board Near Magee Avenue Along Delaware River

Philadelphia Homeowners Could Soon Be Required to Pay Annual Fire Inspection Fees Under Proposed City Council Legislation A growing number of homeowners may need to shell out extra cash each year if the city passes new rules requiring annual fire inspections on residential properties.

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Zoning & Development·Signed Into LawSigned May 12, 2016

Council Approves Zoning Change for Brewerytown Site Allowing Over 500 New Homes and Parking Spots

This bill changes the zoning designation of a specific area in Brewerytown (between 31st St, Master St, 32nd St, and Jefferson St) to allow for approximately 592 new residential units with parking spaces.

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Public Safety·FailedIntroduced Apr 7, 2016

City Council Moves to Install All-Way Stop Signs on Hazardous Norcom Road Nature Road Intersection

Norcom Road and Nature Road drivers are set to face new traffic restrictions as city council votes to install all-way stop signs at the hazardous intersection. The changes aim to improve road safety for residents in the area.

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