This week in Council

City Gives Streets Department New Power to OK Last-Minute Street Encroachments in Philly Neighborhoods

This bill amends a previous ordinance to allow the Streets Department to approve minor modifications and encroachments in certain areas of Philadelphia without needing additional legislation.

160566

City Council Extends Hope Street Sewer Project Deadline

Residents and business owners along Hope Street are breathing a temporary sigh of relief as Council votes to push back looming deadlines for major infrastructure work that has left some streets impassable.

160565

Tractor Trailers Banned from Both Sides of North 5th Street Near Spencer and Godfrey Avenues

This bill prohibits tractor trailer trucks from parking on both sides of North 5th Street between Spencer and Godfrey Avenues at any time.

160564

City Seeks to Buy Land Along Philly's Airport Corridor Through $2.5M Deal

A proposed deal could bring big changes for commuters: city officials want to buy up 13 acres along Roosevelt Boulevard, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety on one of Philly's busiest roads.

160563

City Acquires 1 Point 2 Acres at Island and Escort Avenues in Northeast Philly Purchase Finalized

Northeast Philadelphians Worry Over Uncertain Fate of Long-Vacant Land as City Purchases 1.2 Acres at Island and Escort Avenues Amid Rumors of New Development.

160562

City Lands Grabs Up Last Remaining Acres on Bustling Enterprise Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia

Northeast Philly Residents Voice Concerns Over Plans for 6-Story Development Along Roosevelt Boulevard, as City Council Weighs Zoning Changes to Allow Higher-Rise Buildings.

160561

City Seeks to Purchase Airpark Land Parcel as Part of Larger Redevelopment Plan Moves Forward

Philadelphia is poised to purchase a key piece of land at the city's airport, setting the stage for potential development projects that could create hundreds of new jobs and spark economic growth in South Philly. The move would clear the way for a major redevelopment project nearby.

160560

East Falls Corp Gets Green Light to Build Public Planters Along Ridge Avenue and Midvale Avenue Streetscape Project

This bill allows East Falls Development Corporation to build and maintain planters in public right-of-way on Ridge Avenue and Midvale Avenue for a specific project at 4168 Ridge Avenue.

160559

Council Approves Plans to Widen Buckius Street and Add Drainage Path Along Delaware River

Residents along the Delaware River are in for a major overhaul as city council greenlights plans to transform Buckius Street, but some worry about the impact on local businesses and riverfront property owners.

160558

City Leaders Clear Way for Playground Renovation with New Sublease Agreement at McArdle Park

A new ordinance aims to breathe life into beleaguered neighborhood parks, starting with 12 underutilized spaces in North and Southwest Philly, where community groups will have a say in planning upgrades and maintenance.

160557

City Paves Over Rough Roads in Northeast as Delaware Avenue and Buckius Streets Get New Facelifts

Philadelphia drivers are in for a smoother ride next year, thanks to a new plan that slaps fresh asphalt on rough Delaware Avenue and Buckius Streets in Northeast. Residents will soon see reduced pothole patches and improved road safety.

160556

City OKs Widened Delaware Avenue and Expanded Buckius Street as Part of Major Traffic Improvement Plan

A new traffic plan could soon ease congestion on Northeast Philadelphia's main roads, but some residents worry about increased noise pollution from widened Delaware Avenue. They fear the extra space will bring more speeding drivers to their quiet neighborhoods.

160555

Council Approves Lease Deal For Two City-Owned Parcels Near Delaware Avenue And Tioga Street

Philadelphia City Council approved a lease agreement between Philadelphia Gas Works and DelVal Realty Group for use of two city-owned parcels near Delaware Avenue and Tioga Street.

160554

City Sets Stage for New Development on Troubled West Glenwood Avenue Property

Residents Near 54th Street and Pine Street to Face Increased Traffic as New Bill Seeks to Rezone Land for Larger Apartment Complex A proposed zoning change could bring a four-story, 46-unit apartment building to the block, sparking concerns among neighbors about overcrowding and noise pollution in the already congested area.

160553

City Launches Tax Break Incentive for Local Stores Selling More Healthy Drinks Options

Small Business Owners Face New Regulations on Signage and Window Displays Council members are pushing for stricter rules on storefront signs, aiming to preserve historic neighborhoods' aesthetic appeal while allowing some flexibility for businesses to promote themselves.

160552

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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 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

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

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

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 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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

City Mandates Prompt Payment for Subcontractors on City Contracts

Philadelphia Small Businesses Brace for Tax Hike as Proposed Tax on Sugary Drinks Takes Aim at Obesity Epidemic The proposed tax would slap a penny-per-ounce fee on sugary drinks sold in Philadelphia, generating millions in revenue but drawing fire from some business owners.

160370

Neighborhood Revamp: Zoning Maps Overhauled Along Elkins Street to Wister Street Corridor

This bill changes the zoning designations of certain areas of land in a specific neighborhood bounded by Elkins Street, Olney Avenue, 20th Street, Belfield Avenue, and Wister Street.

160369

Camac Street Property Owner Gets Reprieve on External Stairway Despite Zoning Concerns

This bill allows a property owner at 2654 S.

160368

Council Votes to Lease City Property on Townsend Road to Local Senior Center for Use as Community Hub

Community Space Sought After Five-Year Search, Council Votes to Lease City Lot to Seniors.

160366

Council Votes to Toughen Benefits for Low-Wage Workers in New Wage Law Rewrite

Tens of thousands of low-wage workers could soon see their benefits boost under a rewritten wage law set for council approval. Thousands more would also get access to paid sick days under the proposed changes.

160364

Deadline Extended on Revamped City Plans as Council Delays Key Requirements Until 2018

Philadelphia Homeowners Face Higher Fees as Council Votes to Raise Cost of Zoning Permits Homeowners in Philadelphia will soon pay more for zoning permits after the City Council approved a measure hiking permit fees by up to 33% next year.

160363

City Council Advances Plan to Rewrite Zoning Map for 40 Acres of Northeast Philly Neighborhoods

Community Land Trust Seeks to Save West Philly Homes from Rising Rents with New Affordable Housing Proposal

160336

Zoning Regulations Revised in North Delaware Avenue and Delaware Waterfront Areas

Philadelphia's nightlife scene is in for a shake-up as City Council votes to ban adult entertainment venues from trendy neighborhoods, including the North Delaware Avenue area popular with students and young professionals. New zoning rules will also hike parking minimums for bars and clubs.

160335

City Transfers Land to PAID for Industrial Development

This bill allows the City of Philadelphia to transfer a parcel of land in the area bounded by Buttonwood Street, North 10th Street, Hamilton Street, Ridge Avenue, and North 11th Street to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development (PAID).

160334

Firefighters Given Green Light to Carry Cutting Tools in Public Under New City Ordinance

Philadelphia Homeowners Face Higher Costs as Council Proposes 50% Increase in Property Tax Abatement Fees A proposal before city council would raise fees for property tax abatements, forcing thousands of homeowners to pay more for relief from rising taxes on their primary residences and investments.

160333

City Transfers $18 Million from Various Funds to General Fund and City Departments

Philadelphia's general fund is set to get a major cash infusion this week as city council members voted in favor of transferring nearly $18 million from various accounts to cover ongoing expenses. The move will benefit several city departments, including police and sanitation.

160332

Philadelphia Law Mandates Safe Storage of Firearms When Children Are Present in City Homes

A new city law forces gun owners to lock up their firearms and ammo anytime kids are home, sparking debate about responsible ownership versus parental rights in Philadelphia neighborhoods.

160331

Zoning Changes Proposed for Neighborhood Near Roosevelt Boulevard and Kelly Drive

A proposed rezoning plan could bring new apartments, restaurants, and shops to a 50-acre stretch along Roosevelt Boulevard and Kelly Drive, sparking concerns about gentrification and community character. The changes would directly affect hundreds of local residents and small businesses.

160328

Northeast Philly Neighborhoods Get Zoning Overhaul as Council Unveils Major Land Use Changes

Councilmember Maria Quiñones-Sánchez Seeks to Halt Home Foreclosures with Proposal to Create Emergency Loan Program for Distressed Owners, citing rising evictions and plummeting property values across low-income neighborhoods.

160327

City Threshold for Economic Opportunity Plans Lowered to $100,000 on City-Funded Projects

Small businesses and community groups will soon see a boost as city-funded projects under $100,000 must now include economic opportunity plans, doubling the number of recipients who'll benefit from local hiring requirements and minority contracting goals.

160325

City Law Mandates Inclusive Parks and Playgrounds for All Ages and Abilities

This law requires all City-owned parks and playgrounds to be more inclusive for people of all ages and abilities by providing equipment and spaces that are accessible for children and adults with special needs.

160304

Philadelphia City Council Moves to Tighten Controls on Music Venues and Event Spaces Throughout City Limits

This bill updates rules and fees for businesses that host events with music, dancing, or performances, requiring a special license from the city.

160303

West Washington Avenue Overlay District Zoning Code Changes Signed into Law

This bill makes specific changes to Philadelphia's zoning code for the /WWA West Washington Avenue Overlay District, allowing certain uses and modifying parking requirements.

160302-A

Ryan Howard Training Center Dedicated at Marian Anderson Recreation Center Addition

Philadelphia's newest community gem is about to get a star-studded name, as a city council resolution honors the hometown hero with a wing dedicated in his honor at the Marian Anderson Recreation Center today.

160301

South Philly Zoning Shakeups Begin as Council Moves to Revamp Land Use Rules Overnight

A proposed zoning overhaul could soon bring big changes to the Fabric Row district, potentially displacing long-time artisans and forcing some businesses to relocate or close their doors for good. Local business owners are sounding alarms as council votes on the contentious plan.

160300

Council Targets Commercial Development Along Ridge Avenue with Zoning Map Overhaul Proposal

Ridge Avenue Businesses Face Uncertain Future as Council Votes on Proposed Zoning Changes That Could Limit Commercial Development and Force Some Owners to Rethink Their Properties' Use.

160299

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.

160278

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.

160276

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.

160275

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.

160274

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.

160272

City Mandates Clear Explanation of License Rules for Vacant Philly Properties Starting This Fall Season

This bill requires the City to provide a clear explanation of license requirements for vacant properties when issuing certificates to owners, including information about property maintenance and accountability responsibilities.

160249

City Council Gives Green Light for All-Way Stop Signs at Hazardous Intersection of Boone and Dupont Streets

This bill installs all-way stop signs at the intersection of Boone Street and Dupont Street to improve traffic safety.

160224

Council Moves to Revamp Zoning Laws on 4 Philly Neighborhood Streets Bound by Ford Road and Monument Road

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations for specific areas of land bounded by Ford Road, Chamounix Drive, Belmont Avenue, and Monument Road.

160223

Philadelphia City Council Moves Forward with Plan to Levy New Tax on Sugary Drinks Sold Within City Limits

Council Approves Proposal to Raise Minimum Wage for Thousands of Philly Service Industry Workers to $15 an Hour by 2025. Tipped employees at restaurants, bars, and cafes would see their wages jump significantly under the plan, which aims to alleviate income inequality and boost local spending power.

160176

City Officials Move to Revise Philly Wage Tax Rates Amid Calls for Economic Relief for Residents and Businesses

Philadelphia City Council Proposes Lowering Business Privilege Tax for Small Startups to Encourage Entrepreneurial Growth in Neighborhoods The proposed change would cut taxes by up to 75% for small businesses with fewer than five employees, benefiting dozens of local startups and mom-and-pop shops.

160175

Philadelphia Schools Win Right to Levy Property Tax, Bringing Much-Needed Revenue Back into City Budgets

Philadelphia's Small Businesses Are Getting Relief from Parking Fees, at Least for Now, Thanks to Council Action on New Zoning Law Changes Under the new law, some parking fees in commercial districts will be temporarily waived, giving local shop owners a much-needed break and potentially boosting the city's small business economy.

160174

Philadelphia Schools Set to Impose New Tax on Local Properties Under District Authority Control

This bill allows the Philadelphia School District to impose a tax on real estate within the district for general school purposes.

160173

City Adopts Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2017 Outlining Planned Spending

$150 million in new spending is proposed for Philadelphia's schools under a budget plan unveiled by City Council members today, sparking debate over priorities and funding needs. The increased allocation would support staff raises and classroom upgrades.

160172

City Council Approves Record Breaking 2.5 Billion Dollar Capital Budget For Philly's Fiscal Year 2017 Spending Plans

Philadelphia Homeowners May See Higher Property Taxes Under Council-Approved Plan to Increase Revenue from Vacant Land. A new tax on vacant lots would raise millions for city coffers, but critics warn it will unfairly burden struggling neighborhood residents who can't sell their properties.

160171

Philadelphia Council Approves Six-Year Spending Plan with Major Investments in Infrastructure and Public Services

Under the proposal approved by City Council, $4 billion will be allocated for new infrastructure projects, including upgraded sewage systems and 150 miles of road repairs, affecting every neighborhood in the city.

160170

City Halts Delinquent Businesses from Securing Licenses and Permits Amid Ongoing Tax Debts in Philadelphia

This bill requires businesses and individuals to be up-to-date on their City taxes and fees before receiving licenses and permits.

160138-A

Council Moves to Boost Tax Credits for Philly's Certified Socially Responsible Businesses

Small business owners who meet rigorous social responsibility standards could soon see bigger checks from the state, thanks to a proposed increase in tax credits aimed at Philly's growing B Corp community.

160133

City Council Seeks to Ease Burden on Emerging Eco-Friendly Ventures with Tax Relief Proposal

Philadelphia's fledgling green entrepreneurs would see significant savings under a proposed plan to slash taxes on eco-friendly startups, potentially freeing up more resources for growth and job creation downtown.

160132-A

City Contractors Must Hire Philly Residents First Under Toughened First Source Jobs Law

Philadelphia Homeless Shelters Face Increased Scrutiny as Council Proposes Stricter Oversight and Funding Requirements Amid Reports of Chronic Overcrowding and Safety Concerns.

160129

Business Owners Hit with New Penalties for Nuisance Activity on Their Own Property and Surroundings

South Philly Residents Could See Lower Parking Fines under Proposed Legislation Aimed at Increasing Revenue for Local Businesses, Not Just City Coffers.

160115

Landlords Required to Warn Tenants of Lead Hazards in Water Supply Under New City Ordinance

Philly Landlords Must Now Warn Tenants of Lead-Tainted Tap Water: A new city law mandates property owners to alert renters to the presence of lead pipes and other hazards in their building's plumbing system, potentially impacting thousands of families.

160687-AAA

Towing Companies Must Issue Tickets Before Removing Vehicles From Private Property in Philadelphia

Vehicle owners beware: under new rules, Philly tow truck operators must slap a ticket on your car's windshield before hauling it away - no exceptions for hospital parking lots downtown.

160682

Philadelphia City Council Proposes New Business District Along Bustling South 9th Street Corridor

This bill would have created a special business district along South 9th Street in Philadelphia, allowing for improvements and assessments on property owners within the area.

160686

Philadelphia Council Signs Zoning Bill Altering Front Street, York Street, Howard Street, Berks Street Areas

This bill changed the zoning classifications for certain areas of land in Philadelphia, near Front Street, York Street, Howard Street, and Berks Street.

160681

Zoning Maps Altered Near Schuylkill Expressway As City Council OKs Changes to Broad Street Area Land Use

This bill changes the zoning designation of a specific area in Philadelphia bounded by Jackson Street, Broad Street, the Schuylkill Expressway, Vare Street, Passyunk Avenue, and 24th Street.

160680

Council sought to create a vendor registry to improve vendor management and information processes.

Philadelphia creates vendor registry to streamline business with city, allowing companies to easily find contracting opportunities and submit necessary information.

160679

Council introduced bill to tighten vacant property maintenance standards in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia's property owners must now keep vacant buildings and land clean, safe, and secure under new city regulations affecting foreclosed residential properties and large commercial sites. Separate maintenance standards have been set for these areas.

160677

City Seeks Voter Approval to Merge Labor, Employment and Consumer Affairs Departments in Philly Charter Revision

Philadelphia voters will soon decide whether to merge three city departments - Labor, Employment, and Consumer Affairs - into one. A charter revision question will appear on the May 16 ballot.

160674

City Officials Move to Clear Popular Center City Corners of Sidewalk Vendors Amid Renewed Debate Over Street Sales Restrictions

This bill eliminates previously designated locations for sidewalk vendors in Center City, Philadelphia.

160673

No Parking Allowed on Spruce Street Between Delaware Avenue and 38th Parallel

Drivers face a new headache as city officials unveil plans to eliminate parking along Spruce Street from Delaware Avenue to the 38th Parallel, affecting over 50 businesses and residents.

160683

City Rolls Out Transparency Plan Requiring Public Disclosure of Non-Bid Contract Winners

City Council Votes to Hike Minimum Wage for Thousands of Philly Workers A proposed ordinance would raise the minimum wage for city employees and contractors to $15 per hour, affecting over 11,000 workers and giving them a significant pay boost.

160678

Philadelphia Council Votes to Revamp "Percent for Art" Rule Allowing More Flexibility in City Building Projects

City Council modifies "Percent for Art" rule, giving more flexibility in how cities set aside 1% of construction funds for art installations. The change aims to revamp a decades-old requirement.

160676

City Council Tackles Safety Concerns with Tough New Rules on Mobile Crane Use in Philadelphia Construction Sites

Mobile crane use in Philadelphia construction sites is set for stricter regulations with new requirements for inspections and definitions added to the city's code under a bill sponsored by Councilmembers Henon and Greenlee. The changes aim to enhance safety on building and demolition sites across the city.

160675

South Philly Business Owner Cleared to Build Two-Part Elevated Patio at 1549 S 13th Street Location

Philadelphia Residents Face New Parking Restrictions Near Temple University as Council Votes to Limit Street Parking Along North Broad Street Temple students and staff will soon have fewer parking options near campus under a new law limiting street parking on North Broad Street to encourage more walking and biking. The change aims to reduce congestion around the university.

160685

City Plan Revised to Remove Webb Street Segment in Northern Philadelphia Neighborhood

Northern Philly residents face a possible re-routing of their daily commutes as city officials consider axing a key stretch of Webb Street in the Sharswood neighborhood for a community park expansion project. Property owners would have to sign away future claims against the city.

160684

Fishtown Social Gets Green Light for Outdoor Café on Bustling Frankford Avenue

Small businesses are getting more space to thrive on Philadelphia's sidewalks as a Fishtown cafe wins permission to spill out onto bustling Frankford Avenue, sparking hopes for increased vitality in the neighborhood. The new outdoor café will seat 20 patrons at its four tables.

160672