Weekly recap
This week in Council
November 10 to November 16, 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
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Northeast Philadelphia Neighborhoods to Get New Zoning Rules After Years of Community Push
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations of certain areas in Northeast Philadelphia.
171002
City Council Votes to Rewrite Zoning Maps for Neighborhood Bordering Civic Center and University Avenue
Philadelphia's zoning maps are being rewritten for a neighborhood bounded by Civic Center Boulevard and other streets after Councilmember Blackwell introduced changes. The updates aim to alter existing zoning designations in the area.
170985
City Seeks Private Investors to Buy Unpaid Tax Liens in Effort to Bolster Revenue Streams Immediately
City officials seek private investors to buy unpaid property taxes through a securitized sale, aiming to boost revenue streams within four years. Excluded from this program are areas with outstanding liens.
170984
Council Creates New Sidewalk Vending Zone on North 20th Street Amid Controversy Over Olney Avenue Sales Ban
Small Business Owners Cheer as Council Approves Parking Ticket Amnesty Program for Low-Income Residents, but Critics Warn of Lost Revenue A new law waives parking fines for low-income Philadelphians and reduces fees for those who pay within 30 days, but some worry about the financial hit to city coffers.
171013
City Council Approves Bill Allowing Cell Phone Companies to Install Antennas on Public Poles
Philadelphia Council Eyes 15-Cent Tax Hike on Sugary Drinks to Fund Obesity Prevention Programs and Health Services for City Residents. New Parking Meter Regulations Would Require Drivers to Pay by Phone or Credit Card, Abolishing Need for Coins at Over 2,000 Machines Throughout the City.
171012
Philadelphia Property Owners Get Reprieve from Rising Tax Bills Amid Assessment Appeals Process
Property owners in Philadelphia can temporarily delay paying interest, penalties, or costs on Realty Use and Occupancy Tax bills while their assessed value is being appealed, thanks to a new measure from Councilmember Squilla.
171010
Property Owners Get Reprieve from Additional Fees While Appealing Tax Assessments in Philadelphia
Small Businesses Face Higher Fees for Street Closures Amid Philly's Growing Pop-Up Scene A new city ordinance would require pop-up vendors to pay significantly more in permit fees if they want to temporarily close streets and sidewalks in the city, potentially pricing out some entrepreneurs.
171009
Council proposes ban on outdoor drumming in areas near Delaware River and major streets.
Outdoor drumming banned near rivers and busy streets in Philadelphia to curb excessive noise, affecting areas around the Delaware River, Schuylkill River, Washington Avenue, and Spring Garden Street.
171005
City Prepares to Sell Unpaid Tax Liens Through Securitization Deals Expected to Generate New Revenue Streams
Philadelphia's unpaid tax liens will be sold through securitization deals, potentially generating new revenue streams for the city. Revenue Commissioner and City Solicitor will negotiate terms of the contracts, which may span up to four years.
171004
North Philadelphia Zoning Map Changes Unveiled Allowing New Businesses to Set Up Shop Along Allegheny Avenue Corridor
Business owners along Allegheny Avenue are rejoicing as a new city plan scraps outdated zoning laws, clearing the way for everything from trendy restaurants to hip gyms in long-neglected neighborhoods. New shops could pop up on every corner, boosting local economy and pride.
171003
Philadelphia Tweaks Rotational Towing System Rules Amid Calls for Greater Transparency and Fairness for Drivers
This bill revises requirements for participating in and administering Philadelphia's rotational towing system, including how tow trucks are selected and fees for tows.
171001
Townhomes Planned Along Schuylkill River in Manayunk as City Zoning Maps Are Set to Undergo Key Changes
Philadelphia Residents Could Face Higher Parking Fines Amid Council Proposal to Triple Penalties for Illegally Parked Cars in Residential Neighborhoods; Owners of multiple vehicles at home may be hit hardest by the increase.
170997-A
Zoning Changes Unveiled for North Philly Neighborhood Along Henry Avenue Corridor
This bill changes the zoning designations for a specific area in Philadelphia, bounded by several streets, to allow for different land uses.
170996
Ridge Avenue Neighborhood Zoning Map Overhaul Underway as Council Considers Land-Use Changes
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas in a specific neighborhood, bounded by Ridge Avenue and others.
170995
Zoning Changes Made in Neighborhood Bound by Oxford Street and 24th Street
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations for certain areas in a neighborhood bounded by Oxford Street, 22nd Street, Jefferson Street, and 24th Street.
170990
City Signs Lease Agreement for Holocaust Memorial Plaza in City-Owned Space
New Rules May Curb Late-Night Noise on South Street; Proposed Ordinance Would Limit Bar Hours, Fines for Noise Complaints at Nightspots Near University of Pennsylvania Campus.
170989
City Council Unveils Plan to Transform Southwest Philly Neighborhood with Zoning Overhaul Along Woodland Avenue
This bill changes the zoning designations for certain areas of land in Philadelphia, near the intersection of Chestnut Street and Woodland Avenue, to allow different types of development.
170987
City Council Approves Plan to Allow Taller Buildings Near Transit Hubs Amid Zoning Overhaul
Philadelphia's skyline is set to change as city council passes plan to boost building heights around major transportation hubs, opening up more space for development and potentially millions in new investment.
170986
City Moves to Acquire Three Key Properties on Germantown Avenue Amid Ongoing Redevelopment Efforts
A contentious plan to acquire three key commercial properties on Germantown Avenue has sparked concern among local business owners, who worry about the impact on their livelihoods as city redevelopment efforts continue to reshape the neighborhood's landscape.
171015
City Council OKs Revision of City Maps to Axe Lewellen Street Between Delaware and Canal Avenues
A 17-block stretch of North Philly's streetscape is about to get a major overhaul as Council votes to eliminate a small but contentious road that's been a source of frustration for residents. Lewellen Street will soon be erased from the city's maps.
171006
Germantown Avenue Parking Restrictions Take Hold This Week Along West Side Streets
Parking restrictions take effect this week on Germantown Avenue's west side between W. Phil-Ellena Street and Carpenter, Monday through Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. A two-hour limit will be enforced in the area.
171014
SEPTA Lease Amended as City Seeks Expanded Use of Market Street Property
This bill authorizes the Commissioner of Public Property to amend a lease agreement with SEPTA for use by the City at 1234 Market Street.
171011
Newsstand Owner Gets Green Light to Build Under North 9th Street for Electrical and Phone Hookups
This bill allows a newsstand owner to build conduits for electricity and phone service under North 9th Street, following certain rules.
171008
Newsstand Owner Clears Way to Install Conduits on Busy North 10th Street Corner
This bill allows a newsstand owner to install electrical and telephone service conduits on North 10th Street under certain conditions.
171007
City Leases Space on Bustling South Broad Street for Possible Expansion of Municipal Services
A plan to expand vital city services is taking shape on busy South Broad Street with a new lease deal that could bring more municipal offices to one of Philly's most vibrant commercial corridors.
171000
City Seeks Lease Option on Lindbergh Boulevard Property in Southwest Philly Amid Plans for City Use or Purchase
Philadelphians who shop at the nearby shopping center may soon see changes as city officials consider leasing and potentially purchasing the property, which could be repurposed for city offices or other uses.
170999
Council Seeks Reversal on Wyalusing Avenue Traffic Changes, All-Way Stops Could Be Removed
This bill reverts traffic controls at the intersection of 57th Street and Wyalusing Avenue back to what they were before a previous ordinance installed all-way stop signs.
170998
Philadelphia Approves Lease Amendment for Frankford Avenue Property Use by City Agencies
City Council OKs Deal for Philly's Largest Public Housing Complex, but Residents and Advocates Still Wary. The proposed legislation would extend a Section 8 housing contract with the Philadelphia Housing Authority through 2026, affecting nearly 2,000 families.
170994
Trucks Banned from Parking on Both Sides of Unruh Avenue Through Major Revamp Proposal
Unruh Avenue Residents Face Possible Price Hike Amid Proposed Rent Control Changes Under the new plan, landlords would be limited to a 2% annual rent increase for most properties, but could hike up to 5% for buildings with more than 10 units.
170993
Truck Parking Restricted on Bustleton Avenue Between Magee and Unruh Avenues
Residents of Bustleton Avenue will have a cleaner, quieter street as trucks are now barred from parking along the stretch between Magee and Unruh Avenues under new city regulations aimed at easing congestion.
170992
City OKs Lease Deal for Broad Street Space as Potential Home for Municipal Operations
In a move expected to free up space at City Hall, Philadelphia officials have greenlit a deal to rent a Broad Street building that could house municipal offices, freeing up coveted parking spots for employees. The new location would accommodate around 200 workers.
170991
City Seeks To Purchase Entire 3900 Block of Delancey Street From Current Resident Owners Association
The city has proposed purchasing the entire 3900 block of Delancey Street from its current owner, the Delancey Street Residents Association. The acquisition would allow the city to take control of all improvements on the property.
170988