Weekly recap
This week in Council
November 24 to November 30, 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
City Council Proposes Zoning Overhaul for North Philadelphia Neighborhoods Along Cheltenham and Cottman Avenues
Long-time owners of row homes along Cheltenham Avenue fear losing their businesses as City Council considers rezoning plans that would bring taller buildings, apartments, and new commercial spaces to the once residential corridor.
170924
City Council Proposes New Rules for Street Vendors on Olney Avenue and in Northeast Philadelphia District
Rising tensions between residents and street food sellers on Olney Avenue have sparked a new proposal to regulate where vendors can operate, sparking concerns about competition and public safety in Northeast Philly neighborhoods.
170905
City Council Eyes Zoning Overhaul in East Mount Airy to Curb Commercial Expansion Plans
This bill creates a new 'East Mount Airy /NCA Overlay District' in Philadelphia's East Mount Airy neighborhood, restricting certain commercial uses and rezoning several properties.
170902-A
City Signs Deal With Philly Redevelopment Authority to Fund Home Repair Program for Struggling Homeowners
Low-income homeowners in North Philly's Sharswood neighborhood will soon be eligible for free or low-cost repairs on their crumbling homes, thanks to a new city program aimed at stabilizing neighborhoods like theirs.
170878
Passyunk Avenue Group Wins Permit to Install Bike Racks and Planters Along Major South Philly Streets
Philadelphia City Council Votes to Ban Single-Use Plastics in All Public Parks and Recreational Facilities by 2025. The move aims to reduce waste and protect wildlife, affecting thousands of park-goers who visit FDR Park, Schuylkill River Trail, and other popular green spaces.
170855
City Hall Switcheroo: Convention Avenue Becomes Latest Identity to Fall in Renaming Shuffle
Philadelphia's Medical Center will now be even closer to home as City Council votes to rename the street outside its doors, but residents on the other side of the change are not thrilled about it.
170851
Parking Restrictions Tightened on Maplewood Avenue Amid Resident Complaints of Congested Streets
This bill restricts parking on Maplewood Avenue between Greene and Wayne Avenues to prohibit parking at any time.
170826
Council Extends Deadline for Pedestrian Project on Pearl Street Amid Ongoing Construction Delays
Community groups are breathing a sigh of relief as Council votes to push back completion date for Pearl Street makeover, giving contractors extra time to finish contentious renovation.
170825
City Plan Revamped Byberry Road Gets New Alignment and Sewer Right-Of-Way Added
Philadelphia drivers will soon navigate a new route on Byberry Road as city planners relocate a half-mile stretch, while residents near Knights Road can breathe easier with improved stormwater management coming down the pipe.
170824
City Council Approves Plan to Widen Carpenter Street and Create Pedestrian Zone from Broad to Fifteenth Streets
This bill authorizes the relocation of Carpenter Street's curbline to widen the road and create a pedestrian zone along that stretch.
170823
New Sign Regulations Take Effect in Philadelphia Streets
This bill updates regulations for signs in Philadelphia streets, specifically prohibiting portable signs from projecting beyond street lines and reducing sidewalk width.
170820
Zoning Map Changes Approved for Areas Bounded by Girard Avenue, 6th Street, Berks Street and 10th Street
This bill changes the zoning rules for certain areas in Philadelphia bounded by Girard Avenue, 6th Street, Berks Street and 10th Street.
170819
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.
170723
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.
170713
Port Richmond Neighborhood Improvement District Extension Approved to Keep Investing in Area Revitalization Efforts
Community Land Trust Measure Advances with Proposal for Citywide Expansion, Offering Low-Income Homebuyers More Affordable Options and Community Control Over Development Decisions.
170683-A
Trucks Prohibited from Parked Along North 76th Street in Overbrook Area
Philadelphia residents are breathing a sigh of relief as city officials aim to reduce truck traffic through residential areas with new restrictions on parking on one of Overbrook's busiest streets. Truck drivers will now face fines for ignoring the new rules.
170363
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Signs Deal with Johnson Controls to Slash Energy Bills at Three Iconic Philly Landmarks
Iconic landmarks are about to get a major energy makeover: the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Rodin Museum, and other city-owned buildings could save millions on bills under new deal with Johnson Controls.
171053
City Revises Official Map, Axes Harner Street to Make Way for Sewer Right-of-Way Through Northeast Philadelphia Neighborhood
Residents in Northeast Philly's Castor Gardens neighborhood are fighting back against plans to erase their street, Harner, to make way for a massive sewer system overhaul that could bring relief from frequent flooding. Some homeowners have already begun to question the city's motives.
171054
City Partners with PAFID to Fund Energy Efficiency Upgrades at Philadelphia Museum of Art Buildings
The iconic steps of the Philly Museum of Art are about to get a greener glow - literally - as the city pours millions into energy-efficient upgrades that promise to slash power bills for one of the city's most beloved landmarks.
171052