Weekly recap
This week in Council
April 29 to May 5, 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
Became law
City Council Approves Land Use Changes for Properties Along College Ave Corridor Near Temple University
This bill changes the zoning designation of certain areas in Philadelphia from one type to another.
160246
City Council Votes to Loosen Zoning Rules Allowing More Types of Households in Busy Commercial Neighborhoods
This bill modifies the types of household living uses allowed in a specific commercial zoning district (CMX-3).
160227
Zoning designations changed for areas near Girard Avenue and 6th Street.
A long-standing debate over neighborhood character is heating up as city council considers changing zoning laws in a busy stretch of North Philly near Girard Avenue, potentially altering everything from small businesses to row homes.
160222
Authority Moves Forward with Eminent Domain Plan to Acquire Properties for Massive North Philadelphia Housing Project
This bill allows the Philadelphia Housing Authority to use eminent domain to acquire additional properties needed for a large housing development project in North Philly.
160221
Philadelphia Zoning Maps Changed in Specific Neighborhood Near City Hall
South Street's eclectic shops and restaurants could be getting a makeover as city officials rewrite zoning laws to accommodate growing crowds in the neighborhood.
160198
Zoning Map Rewrite Unveiled for Neighborhoods Along Westmoreland Street Corridor Boundaries
Philadelphia's neighborhoods along the Westmoreland Street corridor are set to undergo a major overhaul, with new zoning boundaries threatening the future of long-standing businesses and residents' quality of life. Under the proposed changes, 15 properties would see their commercial uses restricted.
160135
City Council Votes to Revamp Zoning Rules Along Busy Broad Street Corridor
Philadelphia's iconic Avenue of the Arts is getting a makeover as City Council votes to lift restrictions on high-rise development along Broad Street, sparking concerns about gentrification in the historic neighborhood.
160098
City Council Votes to Revamp Zoning Rules for Broad Street Business Owners Amid Controversy Over Parking Spots
This bill revises zoning regulations in Philadelphia's Center City Overlay District, specifically adding the Broad Street Area, Mid-South to this district and removing certain loading requirements exceptions.
160096
City Council Defines New Residential Zone Around Bustling Rittenhouse Square Neighborhood Limits
Homeowners in Rittenhouse Square face uncertainty as City Council proposes rezoning their neighborhood, limiting commercial development and potentially boosting property values for long-time residents.
160073
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
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Officials Bar Sidewalk Vending on Four Busy Philadelphia Streets Amid Merchant Complaints and Safety Concerns
This bill prohibits vending on specific streets in Philadelphia: Castor Avenue between Glenwood and Aramingo Avenues, Amber Street between Tioga and Castor Avenues, Butler Street between Frankford and Aramingo Avenues, and Frankford Avenue between Venango and Butler Streets.
160405
Vendors Face New Restrictions on Allegheny Avenue in Kensington as Council Moves to Regulate Sidewalk Sales
This bill prohibits vending on both sides of Allegheny Avenue between Kensington Avenue and Bath Street.
160404
Philadelphia Council Passes Stringent Parking Laws Along Bustling South Street Corridor Neighborhoods
South Street shoppers will face stricter parking rules, with time limits ranging from 1 to 4 hours on weekdays, as city council votes to revamp the iconic shopping district's parking landscape, sparking concerns about congestion and accessibility.
160403
Council Proposed $2 Million Transfer from Grants Fund to Parks Department for Infrastructure Support
Council approves $2 million transfer to rebuild city parks, facilities through Rebuilding Community Infrastructure Initiative. The funds will come from the Grants Revenue Fund and Director of Finance's Provision for Other Grants.
160401
Construction Moratorium Proposed in Southeast Philadelphia Area
This bill proposes a one-year construction moratorium in an area bounded by Carpenter Street, Broad Street, Washington Avenue, and Thirteenth Street, which would prohibit any new building or structure from being built during that time.
160400
City Council Votes to Redraw Zoning Maps for Swath of North Philly Neighborhoods Along 21st Street and Oxford Street
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations for certain areas of land in a specific neighborhood.
160398
North Philly Neighborhoods Welcome New Medical Offices with City Council Zoning Code Revision Taking Effect Immediately
Medical offices are now allowed in North Central Philadelphia after a zoning code revision took effect immediately, paving the way for new facilities to open in previously restricted areas. The change affects specific neighborhoods around streets including 20th Street and Ridge Avenue.
160396
Philadelphia Council Votes to Scrap Annual Alarm Fees, Shifts Penalty System Costs
Philadelphia residents will no longer be required to pay annual fees for alarm system registrations, under a new penalty system imposed by the city council.
160407
City Prepares to Buy Abandoned Schuylkill River Bridge Below Grays Ferry Amid Plans for Repurposing or Removal
This bill allows the City to acquire an abandoned bridge that spans the Schuylkill River, below Grays Ferry Bridge, and related properties.
160399
City Seals 15-Year Office Lease Deal at Market Street Building
This bill authorizes the City to enter into an amended sublease agreement with PAID for office space at 1101 Market Street, a 15-year lease with rent adjustments and renovation allowance.
160406
Philadelphia City Council Approves 118 Million Dollar Spending Plan for Philadelphia Gas Works Capital Projects
Philly homeowners will see gas bills rise, on average, by $20 this year under a new city spending plan that allocates $118 million for infrastructure upgrades at the Philadelphia Gas Works.
160402
Council Passes Bill to Revise Philadelphia's City Plan No. 120, Vacating Lambert Street
This bill allows for revisions to Philadelphia's City Plan No.
160397