Weekly recap
This week in Council
May 6 to May 12, 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
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.
160271-A
Green Street, Second Street, Spring Garden Street, and Third Street Zoning Designations Revised
Plan to Rezone Bustling Area Along Green Street Sparks Fears Over Gentrification, as Business Owners Warn "These changes could displace long-time residents and small businesses in favor of new developments.
160228-A
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
SEPTA Deal Clears Council Hurdle as Love Park Gets Major Overhaul Plan Approved
Philadelphia's iconic Love Park is about to get a major makeover, courtesy of a deal between the city and SEPTA that grants transit officials control over valuable real estate in return for infrastructure upgrades.
160473
Philadelphia Realty Transfer Tax Rate Revised Under Certain Terms and Conditions
Homeowners and buyers face higher costs as Philly's Realty Transfer Tax jumps to 4.8% for most deals, affecting thousands of residents selling or buying properties each year. The tax hike aims to fund city infrastructure projects.
160471
Philadelphia Construction Permit Expiration Requirements Revised Under New City Law
This law updates the requirements for construction and demolition projects in Philadelphia, including how long a permit is valid before it expires.
160469
City Contractors Must Post Clear Project Details On Construction Sites Across Philadelphia
Homeowners Reel from Proposed Rent Control Measure Amid Fears of Reduced Investment in Philly Real Estate Market A city council proposal would freeze rent increases at 3% for most Philadelphia rentals, raising concerns among investors who claim it could stifle affordable housing development and lead to property devaluation.
160468
Zoning Changes Made in 6-Block Area Bounded by North 3rd Street and Oxford Street
This bill changes the zoning designations for a specific area in Philadelphia bounded by several streets, affecting how that land can be used.
160466
Zoning Map Overhaul Proposed for North Philadelphia Neighborhood Boundaries
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations of certain areas in North Philadelphia, bounded by North Front Street, West Berks Street, North 3rd Street and West Oxford Street.
160465
City Mandates Regular Fire Escape Inspections to Keep Philly Residents Safe from Falling Risks
This bill requires regular maintenance and inspection of fire escapes in Philadelphia to ensure they remain safe for residents.
160462
SEPTA Wins Right to Put Up Digital Billboards at Philly Subway Entrances Everywhere
City Council votes to bring giant video screens to 25 SEPTA stations, sparking debate over whether flashy ads will harm neighborhood character or boost local economy.
160461
Council Proposes Zoning Changes for North Philadelphia Neighborhood Along Diamond Street Corridor
This bill changes the zoning maps in a specific area of Philadelphia bounded by Diamond Street, Franklin Street, Berks Street, and 9th Street to accommodate new land uses or developments.
160460
Fairmount Park System Grows with Addition of City-Owned Parcels Near North Street
This bill adds several city-owned parcels of land to the Fairmount Park System, which is a collection of public spaces managed by the Department of Parks and Recreation.
160458
City Transfers Troubled Lot on Glenwood Avenue to Agency Charged with Revitalizing Vacant Land Sites
Philadelphia City Council has approved a plan to transfer a troubled lot on Glenwood Avenue to the agency charged with revitalizing vacant land sites. The parcel at 3303 West Glenwood Avenue is now set for redevelopment into a school.
160457
Philadelphia Schools Ordered To Install Drinking Fountains As Part Of City's New Clean Drinking Water Initiative
This bill requires schools in Philadelphia to have one drinking fountain for every 100 students, with at least one on each floor.
160472
Council Approves Transfer of $27 Million in City Funding to Manage Municipal Programs
Philly schools' arts and culture programs may lose funding, with proposed city budget realignment shifting $7 million earmarked for the district into general fund coffers next year.
160467
City Seizes Control of 8.5 Acres on Hog Island Road Amid Settlement with Tinicum Township Authorities
Philadelphia's acquisition of nearly 9 acres of land along Hog Island Road is sparking controversy among local residents and business owners who fear it will disrupt traffic and exacerbate flooding in the area.
160464
Philadelphia Gas Works Overhauls Pension Benefits Amid Changes to Death Benefit Rules for Employees
Philadelphia Gas Works workers with 25+ years of service will no longer qualify for a generous death benefit, while new hires under 55 can opt-in for the perk, sparking concerns about job security and financial planning among city employees' families.
160470
City Council Approves Land Deal for Airport Expansion with 50-Year Lease Signed by Tinicum Township
Philadelphia Residents Face Hefty Fees for Water Meters as Council Passes Bill Imposing Monthly Charges on Every Property Owner, with Average Household Costs Expected to Triple. City Officials Weigh Proposal to Create Public Bank in Philadelphia, with Council Voting on Potential Establishment of Institution to Serve Municipal Needs and Promote Economic Development.
160463
City Council Gives Green Light for New Open-Air Café on Bustling Front Street
The City Council has approved a plan for Mulherin Partners LLC to install and maintain an open-air sidewalk café at 1355 Front Street in Philadelphia.
160459