Skip to content

Weekly recap

This week in Council

April 20 to April 26, 2018

16 introduced1 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.

260076

→
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.

250807

→
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.

250768

→
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.

260516

→
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.

260462

→
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.

260760

→
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".

260759

→
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".

260711

→
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.

260710

→
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.

260709

→
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.

260704

→
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.

260703

→
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.

260702

→
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.

260695

→
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.

260694

→
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.

260690

→
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.

260687

→
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".

260686

→
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'.

260800

→
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.

260796

→
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.

260795

→

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.

260764

→
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.

260697

→
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.

260689

→
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.

260688

→
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.

260855

→
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.

260851

→
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.

260896

→
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.

260895

→

Became law

Newly introduced

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

City Council·LapsedIntroduced Apr 26, 2018

Council Votes to Put Tax Hike Accountability Amendment on November Ballot for Philly Voters Decision

Philadelphia voters will get a chance to weigh in on proposed changes to hold City Council accountable for real property assessment increases. The accountability measure will be on the November ballot, following a council vote.

180398

→
Zoning & Development·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 7, 2018

City Council Votes to Revamp North Philly Redevelopment Plans to Align with City's Latest Master Plan

This bill amends the redevelopment plan for a specific area in North Philadelphia (Model Cities Urban Renewal Area) to make it consistent with recent city plans and policies.

180397

→
Zoning & Development·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 7, 2018

City Council Replaces Outdated Language in Realty Transfer Tax Law

Philly Landlords May Be Forced to Pay More in Taxes Under New Bill Aimed at Reducing Displacement of Long-Term Tenants; Councilmember Maria Quiñones-Sánchez says the measure is essential for preserving affordable housing stock.

180392

→
Business & Commerce·LapsedIntroduced Apr 26, 2018

New Digital Sign Permitted on Schuylkill Expressway Corridor Amid Zoning Designation Changes Spark Concerns

A digital advertising sign is now permitted in an area bounded by the Schuylkill Expressway, Greenland Drive, Martin Luther King Drive, and Montgomery Drive, under specific terms. Zoning designations for that area have also been changed.

180387

→
Zoning & Development·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 7, 2018

Council OKs Revised Plan for Cecil B Moore Avenue Renewal Area to Align with Philly2035 Blueprint

North Philly residents could see a major facelift along Cecil B. Moore Avenue as City Council gives the green light to a revamped urban renewal plan, bringing new life to long-neglected storefronts and parks.

180384

→
Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 14, 2018

Saint Lazarus Bar Gets OK to Open Outdoor Sidewalk Café on West Girard Avenue

This bill allows Saint Lazarus Bar to install and maintain an open-air sidewalk café at 102 W.

180396

→
City Government·LapsedIntroduced Apr 26, 2018

Council Votes To Overhaul Police Radio Broadcasts, Boosting Emergency Response Times Across Philadelphia Streets

Council repeals outdated laws governing police and fire radio broadcasts, paving the way for improved emergency response times in Philadelphia. Technical changes aim to ensure public safety through updated regulations.

180391

→
Transportation·LapsedIntroduced Apr 26, 2018

Broad Street Revamp Underway as City Council OKs Landmarks Plan Changes Today

Broad Street's easternmost lane is set to disappear as city council approves changes to City Plan No. 44-S, clearing the way for water mains and utilities to be installed in its place from Geary Street to a nearby point.

180390

→
Zoning & Development·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 7, 2018

Zoning Map Changes Signed into Law for Area Bounded by Ridge Avenue and Henry Avenue Streets

Philadelphia's commercial corridor along Ridge Avenue is poised to see significant changes under a proposed new zoning plan that aims to boost local businesses and curb over-development in the crowded neighborhood. Residents who live and work there are divided on the proposal's merits.

180385

→
Zoning & Development·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 7, 2018

Council Votes to Revamp Bustleton Avenue Neighborhood Land Use Designations

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing zoning designations in a specific area bounded by Bustleton Avenue, Solly Avenue, Eastwood Avenue, and Stanwood Street.

180395

→
City Government·Signed Into LawSigned May 24, 2018

Truck Parking Banned on Bennett Road from Roosevelt Boulevard to its Northwest Terminus

This bill prohibits truck parking on Bennett Road from Roosevelt Boulevard to its terminus.

180394

→
Budget & Finance·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 7, 2018

City Codifies Technical Fixes for Senior Tax Breaks in Quiet Legislative Move

Low-income seniors facing tax hikes could see relief as a new law clarifies eligibility for exemptions, but critics say it doesn't go far enough to address rising costs and outdated formulas.

180393

→
Zoning & Development·LapsedIntroduced Apr 26, 2018

Metal Staircase Set for Historic Washington Ave Building as Council OKs Encroachment Plan

A metal staircase is set for installation at 1805 Washington Ave, with City Council granting permission for the exterior structure under specific terms. The staircase will encroach onto a nearby sidewalk in Philadelphia's streetscape.

180389

→
Business & Commerce·LapsedIntroduced Apr 26, 2018

Phillies Get OK to Install Security Barriers Around South Philly Stadium Under City Supervision

Philadelphia Phillies get city approval to install security barriers around their South Philly stadium, subject to regulations and permits. The bollard encroachments will be located near the perimeter of Citizens Bank Way.

180388

→
Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned May 24, 2018

LeBus Bistro Wins Approval for Outdoor Café on Bustling Ridge Avenue Stretch

The City Council allows LeBus Bistro to install and maintain an open-air sidewalk café at its location on Ridge Avenue in Philadelphia.

180386

→
Business & Commerce·Signed Into LawSigned Jun 14, 2018

Louie Louie Restaurant to Open Sidewalk Café at Walnut Street Location

This bill allows a restaurant at 3611 Walnut Street to install and maintain an open-air sidewalk café with specific dimensions.

180383

→