Weekly recap
This week in Council
April 28 to May 4, 2017
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
Commission Gets New Tool to Temporarily Shut Down Repeated Offenders of Anti Discrimination Laws
Small businesses with a history of discriminatory practices may face a new threat: temporary closure; under the proposed measure, repeat offenders would lose their right to operate for up to 30 days.
170334
City Seeks to Buy Key Frankford Property Along Frankford Creek and Leiper Street Boundaries
Long-planned park project inches closer to reality as city officials seek to buy 5-acre waterfront property, potentially giving residents along Leiper Street a much-needed green space.
170309
Law Department Given Authority to Standardize City Code Appearance and Formatting
Philadelphia Small Business Owners Urge Council to Repeal Parking Meter Fee Hike, Calling it a "Death Sentence" for Local Shops. The proposed fee increase would bring in an estimated $30 million annually, but opponents claim it will strangle small businesses along commercial corridors.
170243
City Seeks Sublease Deal for 1101 Market Street Space Amid Downtown Office Shifts Continues
This bill allows the City of Philadelphia to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for the use of the premises at 1101 Market Street under certain terms and conditions.
170168
City of Philadelphia Subleases Office Space in Callowhill Center for 10 Years
This bill allows the City of Philadelphia to sublease office space at the Callowhill Center on N.
170142
City Allows Sublease of Kennedy Boulevard Building to City Use
City Council signs off on deal to house water authority in historic building, clearing way for Philly Water's move from aging headquarters.
170139
Free Library to Occupy Space at 1500 Spring Garden Street Under New Lease Terms with City Agency
Low-Income Seniors Face Rent Hike, Advocates Alarmed by Proposed Increase in Subsidy Program Fees Philadelphia's subsidized housing program is set to raise rent for low-income seniors, sparking concerns among advocates who warn that higher costs will displace vulnerable residents from their homes.
170108
Records Department Gets Authority to Investigate Suspected Deed Fraud Cases
Residents in neighborhoods plagued by rapid property flips may soon see a slowdown, as City Council passes legislation granting the Department of Records expanded authority to scrutinize suspicious land deals.
160010
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Hands Over Vacant Land Near East Ontario Street to PAID for Potential Redevelopment Projects
Vacant lot near East Ontario Street in Northeast Philly is about to get new life, but who will benefit from the potential redevelopment remains to be seen; the city is handing over the land to a development agency with specific guidelines.
170437
Zoning Map Changes Designate Neighborhood Along Knights Road and Red Lion Road as Residential
This bill changes the zoning laws for areas of land in a specific neighborhood bounded by Knights Road, Red Lion Road, East Keswick Road, Morrell Avenue, and Byberry Creek.
170436
Philadelphia Continues Issuing Gas Utility Bonds, Tying Repayment to Rate Collections Citywide
Philly homeowners may see their gas bills rise with new debt financing plan; City Council approved issuing $25 million in Revenue Notes, which will be repaid through utility rate collections citywide.
170434
Philadelphia City Council Approves 2018 PGW Capital Budget Touting $115 Million Investment Plan
Philadelphia's homeowners could face higher water bills next year as City Council votes on a plan to hike rates by up to 20% over five years to fund water infrastructure upgrades.
170433
Philadelphia Council OKs Plan to Sell New Gas Works Bonds Worth Millions Annually
Philadelphia Homeowners May Soon Face Higher Water Bills as City Seeks Loan from PennPAC to Pay Off Debt The proposed loan would raise homeowners' annual water bills by $150, adding pressure on low-income families who rely on the city's public water system.
170432
North Philadelphia zoning map revised to allow for new types of businesses and developments.
New Rules Aim to Make Philly's Streets Safer: City Council Passes Bill Requiring Bike Lanes on Major Roads Despite Concerns from Business Owners Hundreds of Philly Families Set to Benefit as Council Approves Affordable Housing Incentives for Developers Who Build Units in Low-Income Neighborhoods
170430
Philadelphia Health Board Gains Power to Tighten Food Establishment Regulations Citywide Immediately
This bill updates the Philadelphia Health Code to give the Board of Health more power to regulate food establishments in the city.
170429
ZONING SHIFT: Diamond Street Neighborhoods Get New Land-Use Rules Overnight
Small business owners along Diamond Street are scrambling as new zoning laws take effect, limiting where they can park trucks and requiring some to relocate within 24 hours.
170428
Philadelphia City Council Proposes New Hotel Tax to Fund Tourism Promotions and Services
Philadelphia hotels could soon face a new tax to fund tourism promotions, as city council introduces legislation for a business improvement district. The proposed levy would assess a special fee on hotels within its boundaries.
170431
Philadelphia Gas Works Secures Four Year Lease on Germantown Properties Amid Urban Renewal Push
Philadelphia's Largest Landlord to Get Rent Freeze on Thousands of Units Amid Ongoing Code Enforcement Debate A proposed bill would grant a two-year freeze on rent increases for Philadelphia Housing Authority tenants in 3,500 units owned by the largest landlord in the city.
170438
Homeowner at 5200 C Street Wins Reprieve on Public Space Encroachment with Council Approval
A contentious dispute over a South Philadelphia yard has been temporarily resolved, but the owner of 5234 Christian will have to wait longer for a final decision on her own property encroachment case.
170435