Weekly recap
This week in Council
March 30 to April 5, 2018
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
Philadelphia Council Revamps Realty Use and Occupancy Tax Calculation With Split-Year Assessed Values Rollout
This bill amends how the Realty Use and Occupancy Tax is calculated in Philadelphia.
180139
Code Changes Clarify Real Estate Tax Payment Agreements
Homeless Philly Residents Could Gain Affordable Housing Vouchers Under Proposal to Expand City Program The bill would expand eligibility criteria and increase funding for the city's housing voucher program, providing a lifeline for thousands of low-income residents struggling to find stable homes.
180138
City Council Votes to Revamp Zoning Maps for Northern Phila Neighborhoods Along Bustling Roosevelt Boulevard Corridor
This bill changes the zoning maps for a specific area in Philadelphia to allow new uses and developments.
180137
Zoning Overlay Added to St Mary's Area with Technical Changes and Parking Provisions
Proposal Would Raise Minimum Wage for City Employees to $15 an Hour, Potentially Impacting 2,500 Municipal Workers Including Police Officers and Sanitation Crews.
180135
Plan Adopted for Former St. Mary's Church Property Near Gay and Silverwood Streets
This bill changes the zoning designation of a specific area in Philadelphia bounded by Silverwood Street, Gay Street, Baker Street, and Carson Street, and adopts a Master Plan for the former St.
180101
University Expands on Locust Walk as Council Approves New Building Addition Amidst Growing Campus Development
Penn students and faculty are set for a transformed campus landscape as city council clears the way for a new addition on Locust Walk, sparking debate over the university's growing footprint in West Philly.
180097
Philadelphia Housing Authority Exemptions Unveiled in New City Council Legislation
A proposed city council measure would shield millions in Philly Housing Authority deals from a 3.4% tax, raising concerns about transparency for a public agency already criticized over opaque land swaps.
180096
Council Bill Allows Free Appeals of Parking Tickets with Winning Cases Only
Philadelphia Residents Could Face Fines for Allowing Unlicensed Vehicles on Private Property Homeowners who fail to register unlicensed vehicles parked on their property could face steep fines under new regulations targeting repeat offenders in the city's parking enforcement system.
180002
City Approves Plan to Issue Bonds Funding Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements Across Philadelphia
Philadelphia homeowners can expect to see a boost in their water bills next year as the city prepares to issue up to $500 million in bonds to upgrade its aging water and sewer system.
171111
Philadelphia Council Expands Tax Breaks for Longtime Homeowners in City's Aging Neighborhoods
This bill extends tax exemptions for longtime owner-occupants of residential properties in Philadelphia, adjusting eligibility and benefit determinations.
170901
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Philly Lawmakers Pass Bill Altering Public Notice Rules for Zoning Applications
Homeowners facing lengthy delays in getting their building projects approved may get relief with new rules requiring faster public notice, but critics argue changes to the "One Year Rule" will still favor developers over residents.
180295-AAA
Truck Parking Banned on Red Lion Road Between Jamison Avenue and Northeast Avenue
Residents along Red Lion Road can expect relief from large trucks parking overnight, a move aimed at alleviating congestion and pedestrian hazards on one of Philly's busiest streets.
180291
Philadelphia's Streets Get A Makeover As Portion Of Penrose Avenue Set To Be Vacated For Sewer Work
This bill revises city maps and vacates a portion of Penrose Avenue to make way for new sewer and drainage infrastructure.
180288
City Council Proposes Zoning Overhaul for North Philly Neighborhoods Along Girard Avenue and Broad Street
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations of certain areas in a specific geographic area bounded by Girard Avenue, Broad Street, Fairmount Avenue, and Corinthian Street.
180286-A
Council sought to change zoning for areas near Schuylkill River and University Avenue.
This bill changes the zoning designations for certain areas of land in Philadelphia, bounded by University Avenue and other streets.
180284
City Council Clears Way for Utility Lines to Run Through Revamped Section of South Philly's Packer Avenue
South Philadelphia residents are one step closer to seeing Packer Avenue transformed, as plans for utility lines to run beneath the street's revamped surface cleared City Council this week, bringing hope for a smoother commute.
180293
Carson Street Widened Between Baker and Silverwood Streets Under Revised City Plan
Carson Street commuters can expect significant changes as city council approves plans to widen a two-block stretch between Baker and Silverwood, sparking concerns about displacement and liability for local residents and business owners.
180287
Conlyn Street to Become One-Way, Eastbound Traffic Permitted from Wister to North 21st Streets
This bill makes Conlyn Street one-way from Wister to North 21st Streets, allowing eastbound traffic.
180294
Property Owner at 1332 Reed Street Wins Approval for Building Overhang at City-Owned Street
This bill allows a property owner at 1332 Reed Street to build an existing and proposed overhang (bay) that projects into Watts Street without needing special permission from City authorities.
180292
City Council Approves Paving of Relocated Road Section on Penrose Avenue Between Twenty-Sixth and Unspecified Location
Residents along Penrose Avenue can expect relief from potholes and rough roads as City Council votes to pave a long-delayed stretch of road, but many are still waiting for word on where the newly routed route will end.
180290
Property Owner at 2101 Reed Street Gets Reprieve from Encroachment Enforcement, With Conditions
This bill allows a property owner at 2101 Reed Street to keep an existing building and awning that encroaches on the sidewalk, but with certain conditions.
180289
University of Pennsylvania Wins Approval for Major Overhangs and Tunnels at City Hall Site Location
University of Pennsylvania gets green light for massive overhangs and tunnels at City Hall site, but critics warn about potential hazards for pedestrians and the surrounding historic district's character.
180285