Weekly recap
This week in Council
October 14 to October 20, 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
No Stopping Zone Established on Henslow Place Between 10pm and 6am
This bill establishes a no stopping regulation on Henslow Place between South 74th Street and a point 300 feet west thereof from 10pm to 6am.
160842
Parking Regulations Established in Specific Philadelphia Neighborhoods with Two-Hour Time Limits
This bill establishes new parking regulations in specific areas of Philadelphia: Smick St and Dupont St, Race St and 61st St, and Dupont St and Fleming St.
160841
City Council Set to Axe Two Streets from Official Map in Major Revision to City Plan
This bill authorizes changes to Philadelphia's City Plan by striking two streets from the plan: Saybrook Street from Forty-Fifth Street to Melville Street and a portion of Forty-Fifth Street from Woodland Avenue to Linmore Street.
160807
City Plan Revision Clears Council: Herschel Road Line Set for Removal as Liability Concerns Linger
This bill allows the City to remove Herschel Road from its official city plan, but requires the property owners to agree to release the City from liability and make necessary changes to infrastructure.
160773
Truck Parking Banned on Pickering Avenue Between E Mt Pleasant and E Phil Ellena Streets
This bill makes it illegal to park trucks on both sides of Pickering Avenue between E Mt Pleasant and E Phil Ellena Streets at any time.
160771
Trucks Banned from Parking on Medary Avenue Between North Sixth and Eighth Streets in Philadelphia Limits.
Residents along Medary Avenue are about to see a drastic change as city council votes to ban trucks from parking on one of their main thoroughfares, citing concerns over street congestion and pedestrian safety. The ban will affect all vehicles over 10 feet long.
160770
City Officials Set to Erase Balfour Street from Official Maps in Narrowly Defined Corridor Area
This bill allows the City of Philadelphia to remove Balfour Street from the city's official map and make related changes, but with certain conditions and costs.
160769
Trucks Banned from Parking on Gorgas Lane Between Anderson and Crittenden Streets
This bill prohibits trucks from parking on Gorgas Lane between Anderson and Crittenden Streets at any time.
160724
Trucks Banned from Parking on Vernon Road Between Anderson and Crittenden Streets Overnight
This bill prohibits trucks from parking on Vernon Road between Anderson Street and Crittenden Street at any time.
160723
Carpenter Lane Made One-Way Westbound from Greene Street to Sherman Street
This bill makes Carpenter Lane one-way westbound from Greene Street to Sherman Street.
160722
Truck Parking Ban Slated for Gorsten Street Section Between Gorgas Lane and Vernon Road Boundaries
This bill prohibits truck parking on Gorsten Street between Gorgas Lane and Vernon Road.
160721
Dumpsters Restricted Near City Streets and High-Foot-Traffic Areas
This bill limits where dumpsters can be placed in public right-of-way by restricting locations near certain businesses and areas with high foot traffic.
160719
AION Partners Wins Extension on South Broad Street Construction Deadline Amid City Review Delays
AION Partners gets reprieve on South Broad Street construction timeline, but critics say the delay will only drive up costs and further burden already-taxed city residents.
160717
Parking Regulations Established in Seven Philadelphia Neighborhoods Bounded by Specific Streets
This bill establishes parking regulations in seven areas of Philadelphia.
160714
Terrace Street Café Expansion Plan Gains Approval as Council Okays Open-Air Sidewalk Diner Permits
Philadelphia's small business owners are getting a boost with the council-approved expansion of outdoor dining areas in commercial districts, paving the way for more al fresco meals and community spaces. The move is expected to benefit eateries like the popular Café du Jour on South Street.
160711
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
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 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
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
Metal Railings Get Green Light for West Footway on South 17th Street from City Council
Residents along South 17th Street will soon see the installation of metal railings lining the western sidewalk, a change city council approved after a property owner's request for aesthetic flexibility. The new railings are set to appear on six commercial properties in the area.
160616
Northeast Philly Neighborhoods Breathe Easier as Trucks Redirected Away From Orthodox and Hedley Streets
This bill restricts large trucks from driving through two specific blocks of Orthodox Street and Hedley Street in Northeast Philadelphia, and instead requires them to use Lewis Street as a designated truck route.
160613
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Council Proposes Zoning Overhaul for Logan Square Area Allowing New Venues and Fueling Stations
This bill creates a new zoning district called the Logan Triangle /NCA Overlay District in two subareas of Philadelphia.
160921
Philadelphia Council Passes Bill to Allow Taller Buildings in East Callowhill Neighborhood
This bill amends Philadelphia's zoning maps and regulations in a specific area bounded by Spring Garden Street, 6th Street, Callowhill Street, and 9th Street, allowing for increased building heights and modifying parking and loading requirements.
160920
City Council Proposes New Rules Allowing Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in Select Neighborhoods Across Philly
Disability Advocates Decry Proposed Bill Requiring Philly Residents with Disabilities to Register with the City Before Accessing Public Transportation; Critics Say It's an Overreach of Government Power.
160919
Zoning Map Changes Signed into Law for Properties Along Charles Street, Harbison Avenue, and Cheltenham Avenue
This bill changed the zoning designations of some areas in Philadelphia bounded by Charles Street, Harbison Avenue, and Cheltenham Avenue, allowing for different uses or development on those properties.
160918
Zoning Designations Changed in Philadelphia Area Bounded by Charles Street and Other Streets
This bill changes the zoning classifications in a specific area of Philadelphia bounded by several streets, allowing for new land uses.
160917
Northeast Philly Neighborhoods Face Zone Overhaul as City Council Approves Boundaries Change Proposal
Philadelphia's Low-Income Tax Credit Program Under Fire as Council Proposes Reforms to Expand Eligibility and Increase Funding for Affordable Housing Developers A proposed city council ordinance would triple the amount of funding allocated to the program, which benefits developers building affordable housing for low-income families, elderly residents, and people with disabilities.
160916