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Weekly recap

This week in Council

September 8 to September 14, 2017

15 introduced3 became law0 failed or vetoed

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

City Government·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Environment·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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".

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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".

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Business & Commerce·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Public Safety·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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".

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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'.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Zoning & Development·IntroducedHearing Nov 12

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.

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Tuesday, November 17, 10:00 AM · Committee on Rules

Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Business & Commerce·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Environment·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Zoning & Development·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Business & Commerce·In CommitteeHearing Nov 17

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.

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Became law

Newly introduced

Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.

Business & Commerce·LapsedIntroduced Sep 14, 2017

Philadelphia Council Approves Plan to Waive Business Taxes for New Megabusinesses Creating Thousands of Jobs

Philadelphia City Council approved a plan to waive business taxes for new megabusinesses that create thousands of jobs and invest billions in construction. The tax incentive would slash business net income tax rates to zero for up to 10 years under certain conditions.

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Budget & Finance·Signed Into LawSigned Feb 22, 2018

Voters to Decide on Mandatory Police Advisory Commission Funding in Special Election

Shining a Light on Law Enforcement: A special election next month will ask Philadelphians whether a minimum $500,000 annual funding commitment is necessary for an independent police watchdog agency.

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Community & Neighborhoods·Signed Into LawSigned Dec 13, 2018

Philadelphia Mandates Environmental Justice Reports to Ensure Fair Treatment Across All City Communities Daily

Philadelphia's New Wage Theft Law Sets Sights on Small Businesses, Fines Those Who Underpay Workers Up to $2,000 a Year A new law taking effect soon will make small businesses pay closer attention to their workers' wages, as they face fines and penalties for any discrepancies that put employees below the minimum required by city ordinance.

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City Council·Signed Into LawIntroduced Sep 14, 2017

Council Tackles Contract Transparency with New Oversight Measures for Minority and Female Business Participation

Small business owners are calling on council to hold contractors accountable for meeting diversity targets as a new proposal aims to boost transparency and enforcement of Economic Opportunity Plans on major city projects.

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Education·Signed Into LawSigned Oct 26, 2017

Libraries and Recreation Centers Must Post Hours of Operation Online and On-Site

Philadelphia's 25 Recreation Centers Will Soon Be Required to Have On-Site Health Services Staff After a Council Vote. Philly Restaurants Could See Higher Fees if a New Bill Passes Requiring Them to Pay for Employees' Sick Leave

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Oct 12, 2017

Center City Sidewalk Vendors Face Uncertainty as Council Votes to Scrap Designated Vendor Zones

Free-for-All or Fairness? Council's Vote to Ditch Sidewalk Vendor Zones Raises Fears Among Small Business Owners and Locals Who Rely on the Area's Street Vendors.

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Oct 12, 2017

City Council Loosens Rules for Signs in Bordered Neighborhood Near South Philly's Bustling East Passyunk Avenue

Business owners along East Passyunk's busy stretch are cheering a proposed relaxation of sign regulations in the surrounding neighborhood, but some nearby residents worry about the visual impact on their historic community. South Philly business leaders hope new signs will give struggling shops on 16th Street a needed boost as the street undergoes revitalization efforts.

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Transportation·Signed Into LawSigned Oct 26, 2017

Philadelphia Officials Plot New Sewer Routes as Old Utility Lines Get the Axe Southeast of Delaware Avenue

A major makeover is coming to Philadelphia's sewer system, with city officials announcing plans to tear down old utility lines on Delaware Avenue and replace them with modern pipes.

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Budget & Finance·Signed Into LawSigned Dec 14, 2017

City Council Simplifies Process for Receiving Fiscal Impact Statements Amid Bill Debate Proceedings

Philly Residents Could See Big Changes in Zoning Laws with Council's New Proposal to Reform Community Engagement Process This change would allow for more public input on zoning decisions, potentially affecting thousands of property owners in neighborhoods across the city.

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawIntroduced Sep 14, 2017

City of Brotherly Love Offers Zero Taxes for 3 Years to New Sustainable Businesses".

This bill expands tax relief for new sustainable businesses in Philadelphia by providing zero percent business and income receipts tax for three years after certification as a sustainable business.

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Environment·Signed Into LawSigned Oct 12, 2017

Philadelphia Lawmakers Tighten Squeeze on 'Short Dumpers' as State Legislation Takes Hold

This bill updates Philadelphia's law on refuse and littering to reflect recent state legislation on vehicle forfeiture for 'short dumping' (illegal trash disposal).

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Zoning & Development·LapsedIntroduced Sep 14, 2017

Council Tightens Redevelopment Contract Rules Amid Concerns Over Unapproved Changes

Council tightens rules on redevelopment contracts, requiring approval for changes including assignments, price modifications, and project plan alterations. Changes aim to increase transparency and accountability in city development projects.

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Transportation·Signed Into LawSigned Oct 12, 2017

Red Light Cameras Coming to Rising Sun Avenue and Levick Street Intersection

This bill allows for the installation of red light cameras at the intersection of Rising Sun Avenue and Levick Street to prevent red light violations.

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Nov 30, 2017

Germantown Business Group Wins Approval for Bollard Installation Along Bustling Maplewood Mall

Maplewood Mall merchants are breathing easier with Council's approval of new security measures: 10 steel bollards will soon block traffic along the busy shopping strip in Northwest Philly.

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Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Nov 30, 2017

South Philly Condo Association Gets Greenlight for New Sign Installation at 2601 Pennsylvania Avenue

Philadelphia Homeless Shelters Could Soon Accept Pets Under Proposed Legislation to Ease Strained Families' Lives The measure aims to provide temporary housing options for families with pets by allowing participating shelters to have small animals present during overnight stays.

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