Weekly recap
This week in Council
May 13 to May 19, 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 Code Gets New Provisions to Prohibit Certain Types of Public Disorderly Conduct
This bill makes it a crime to engage in disorderly conduct, fail to disperse when ordered by police, appear drunk in public, or obstruct highways and sidewalks.
160517-A
Philadelphia Zoning Laws Overhauled as Council Votes to Revamp Parking and Boundaries in Key Center City Neighborhoods
This bill updates Philadelphia's zoning laws to modify boundaries and parking requirements in certain areas of Center City, including Old City Residential District and East Callowhill Overlay District.
160526
Council sought to require Uber and Lyft drivers to obtain City-issued licenses.
Ride share drivers in Philadelphia must now obtain a license from the Department of Streets, providing personal and vehicle information, as well as proof of insurance, to operate with city approval.
160531
City Set to Claim Ownership of Two Vacant Lots in South Philly Under New Park Expansion Plan
Renters at Risk: Proposed Bill Would Allow Eviction Proceedings for Tenants Who Receive Subsidized Housing Vouchers Without Paying Rent. The measure would give landlords permission to take renters who receive subsidized housing vouchers to court if they fail to pay their portion of rent.
160529
City Garden Growers Get Break on Storm Water Fees as New Bill Exempts Community Gardens
Community gardeners in Philadelphia may soon save thousands of dollars on fees, but others will pay the price as Council proposes to shift costs to developers and large landowners.
160523
North Philly Zoning Map Overhaul Set to Redraw Neighborhood Boundaries Along E. Wingohocking Street
This bill changes the zoning designations of certain areas in North Philadelphia, bounded by E.
160522
ZONING CHANGE COMING TO KENSINGTON AVENUE NEIGHBORHOOD AS COUNCIL SETS NEW LAND USE GUIDELINES
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change zoning designations in a specific area bounded by Front Street, Coral Street, Boston Street, Emerald Street, Hagert Street, and Kensington Avenue.
160521
Zoning Changes Made in Area Bounded by Grays Ferry Avenue and Washington Avenue
Neighborhood residents are up in arms as a plan to rezone 15 blocks in Grays Ferry sparks debate over gentrification and affordable housing." Council Considers Proposal Allowing Homeowners Associations to Collect More Fines for Unpaid Fees "Homeowners in several Northeast Philly neighborhoods could face increased fines if a proposal to give HOAs greater power is approved.
160518
Council Passes Bill to Redefine Zoning in West Philadelphia Neighborhood Along Parkside Avenue
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas in a specific neighborhood bounded by Parkside Avenue, Belmont Avenue, Girard Avenue, Merion Avenue, and 52nd Street.
160515
Council proposes updated conflict-of-interest rules for city officials and employees in revised ethics standards.
City officials face stricter conflict of interest rules as Philadelphia City Council votes on ethics overhaul. The updated standards aim to prevent city employees from taking actions that benefit themselves financially.
160514
Philadelphia Seeks Federal Aid for Community Projects with Bill Authorizing Grant Applications
Low-Income Families Could See Relief from Higher Housing Costs as City Seeks Funding for Affordable Housing Initiatives; Bill to boost grant applications for programs like Section 8 vouchers and affordable homebuyer assistance is on the table.
160511
Council sought to reallocate $19 million from Mayor's Office to School District
City Council approves transfer of $19 million to Philadelphia School District, re-allocating funds within the General Fund under a new agreement. The transfer comes from the Mayor's Office of Community Schools and Universal Pre-K to the School District through the Director of Finance.
160509
Philadelphia Introduces Tax on Plastic Bottles Sold Within City Limits Amid Environmental Concerns
Philadelphia may soon charge a tax on plastic bottles sold within city limits in an effort to reduce waste and promote reusable containers. The proposed tax targets non-reusable beverage containers, such as plastic water bottles.
160508
City Council proposed law would require prompt payment to Philadelphia vendors
City vendors must be paid promptly under new council mandate that limits payment time to 15 days or less in most cases.
160530
Council Approves Plan to Axe Shunk Street and Give Sewer Space on Vacant Land
This bill revises a portion of Philadelphia's City Plan by removing Shunk Street from the plan and allowing the city to use it for sewer and drainage purposes instead.
160528
City Council Moves to Tighten Rezoning Requirements Amid Fears of Widespread Development Overhauls
Philadelphia homeowners could soon face tougher hurdles when trying to rezone their properties as City Council debates stricter guidelines on development overhaul proposals. A proposed rezoning rule aims to give neighbors more say in large-scale development projects.
160525-A
Council Gives Owner of 1140R S 15th Street Green Light to Cross Neighboring Property Line
This bill would grant an easement for water and sewer access to a property at 1140R South 15th Street, allowing its owner to cross another property at 1129 South Sydenham Street.
160519
Council proposed major zoning changes in Philadelphia neighborhoods bounded by major streets.
This bill changes the zoning map in two areas of Philadelphia and adopts a master plan for Philadelphia University.
160516
City Council Targets Zoning Changes Near Delaware Expressway in West Philadelphia Neighborhoods
West Philadelphians may soon see a surge in apartment complexes as City Council considers zoning changes along the Delaware Expressway, potentially displacing long-time residents with gentrification. Low-Income Philadelphia Residents Could Pay Less for Water Bills Under Proposed City Council Legislation This bill aimed to change the zoning classifications for specific areas of land near the Dela
160512
Sidewalk Café Clears Path for Ben Ayed's New Christian Street Gathering Space
This bill allows a business owner at 906 Christian Street to install and maintain an open-air sidewalk café with certain conditions.
160527
City Hands Over Troubled Ruan Street Property to PIDC Amid Plans for Potential Reuse and Revitalization
City Council authorizes conveyance of part of troubled Ruan Street property to PIDC, paving way for potential reuse and revitalization plans.
160524
Philadelphia Company Wins Approval for Outdoor Café on Bustling South Street Corridor Spot
South Street staple, Philly License Number One, is one step closer to bringing outdoor seating to the heart of its bustling location after city council approval for a sidewalk café at 1200 S. 21st Street.
160520
Newsstands Expand Offerings in Philly with Bill Allowing Sales of Snacks Drinks and More
Philadelphia Businesses Could Be Forced to Pay $15 Minimum Wage After Council Approves Living Wage Measure for City Contractors; thousands of workers would see a significant pay bump. Philadelphia's Parking Regs Get Overhaul with New Bill Requiring Cashless Payment Systems at Meters; drivers will have new options, but some are concerned about the added fees and technology requirements.
160513
City Treasurer Signs Agreement with Wells Fargo for Continued Payroll Banking Services Under Strict Terms
Philadelphia Residents Could Face Higher Taxi Fares as Proposed Ride-Share Fee Hike Advances Through Council Taxi medallion owners would see a 30% increase in annual fees under a proposal aimed at boosting revenue from ride-share companies operating in the city, but critics warn of higher fares for riders.
160510