Weekly recap
This week in Council
May 11 to May 17, 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
City Sets Sights on Buying Northeast Philly Land Parcel for Up to 18 Million Dollars
Philadelphia Could Soon Be Fined For Not Recyling Enough, Under New Proposed Law; City Would Face Hefty Penalties if Recycling Rate Falls Below 75 Percent.
180350
Smoking Prohibited at Enclosed Bus Stops in Philadelphia Under New City Law
Philadelphia City Council Votes to Increase Minimum Wage for Service Industry Workers to $15/Hour by 2026 Affects over 70,000 workers who rely on tips for their income.
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Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Toughens Up on Vacant Property Enforcement with New Abatement Penalties
Philadelphia Residents Could Save Big on Home Energy Bills if Council Passes Plan to Require City Utilities to Provide Affordable Rate Options for Low-Income Households.
180521
Philadelphia Seeks Millions in Grants to Fund Housing Initiatives and Blight Prevention Across the City
This bill authorizes the City of Philadelphia to apply for federal and state grants to fund community development projects, including housing programs and blight prevention.
180500
City Council Tries to Limit Board of Health's Power Over Tobacco Sales Permits in Philly
Council members seek to curb Board of Health's authority over tobacco retailer permits in Philadelphia, removing restrictions on transferring current permits and regulating locations. The move would limit the board's regulatory control.
180522
North Philly Zoning Map Changes Underway as Council Proposes New Land Use Designations Along Allegheny Avenue Corridor
Philadelphia's Minimum Wage Could Soon Rise to $15 as City Council Bill Aims to Boost Pay for Thousands of Local Workers, Including Those at Large Chain Stores and Restaurants.
180519
Zoning Changes Unveiled for Bustling Northeast Philly Area Along Roosevelt Blvd
Northeast Philadelphians Weigh In on Proposed Zoning Overhaul That Could Bring New Development to Bustling Roosevelt Blvd Corridor Amid Fears of Displacement for Longtime Residents.
180518
Pine Street Parking Rules Revised Between South Broad and South 22nd Streets
Council Proposes Drastic Change to Philly's Congested Roosevelt Boulevard with New Lane Reduction Plan Aimed at Slowing Speeds and Boosting Safety
180516
City Council Moves to Require Immediate Neighborhood Notifications on All Development Applications
Philadelphia residents would get just one week's notice before massive development projects are reviewed, sparking fears of gentrification in already-strained neighborhoods under a new proposal. Local groups claim this timeline is too short to mobilize effectively against potential disruptions.
180515
City Council Votes to Overhaul Parking Rules on Bustling Spruce Street Stretch
Rental Fees Set to Rise in Philly as Council Passes Bill Targeting Vacant Homes Amid Housing Crisis The measure aims to generate $10 million annually from city properties sitting vacant, with funds earmarked for affordable housing programs and community development initiatives.
180514-A
Parking Changes Take Effect on Pine Street Between Broad and Front Streets
This bill revises parking regulations on Pine Street between South Broad Street and South Front Street.
180512-A
City Council Proposes New Zoning Laws for Wissahickon Neighborhood to Preserve Historic Character
This bill creates a new 'Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District' in a specific area of Philadelphia bounded by Henry Avenue, Hermit Street, Ridge Avenue, and Wissahickon Creek.
180509
City of Philadelphia Acquires Riverfront Land for Public Use Along Schuylkill River
This bill allows the City of Philadelphia to purchase land and buildings along the Schuylkill River, between Hagys Mill Road and Port Royal Avenue, for public use.
180508
Philadelphia Council Votes to Convert Residential Areas along Haverford Avenue to Commercial Zones
Small business owners on Haverford Avenue are set to benefit from new tax incentives as a result of zoning changes that will transform their once-residential neighborhood into a bustling commercial hub. The shift could bring in up to $1 million annually for local businesses.
180505
City Council Aids Neighborhood Groups with New Funding for SLAPP Suits Insurance Coverage
Philadelphia neighborhood groups facing costly lawsuits over community activism will now have access to financial relief, thanks to a new City Council initiative aimed at shielding volunteers from frivolous SLAPP suits. The measure could save some organizations thousands in insurance costs annually.
180504
City Council Moves to Fortify Playground Safety near Philly Pre-K Sites Across the City
City Council votes to strengthen safety standards for playgrounds near pre-k sites across the city, requiring them to meet specific construction guidelines. Renovations to affected parks must adhere to new requirements within a half-mile radius of participating providers.
180502
Council Creates New Frankford Academy Overlay District Allowing Wider Curb Cuts Along Frankford Avenue Corridor
This bill creates a new 'Frankford Academy Overlay District' in Philadelphia, which affects properties zoned CA-2 between Frankford Avenue and Torresdale Avenue.
180501
City Council Bill Loosens Green Roof Restrictions Allowing More Philly Properties to Go Greener
Homeowners and developers could soon see a surge in eco-friendly renovations after city officials voted to relax strict rules governing the installation of green roofs across Philadelphia's neighborhoods.
180496
City Council Approves New Parking Rules on Spruce Street Between 15th and 22nd Streets
This bill changes parking rules on Spruce Street between 15th and 22nd Streets.
180513
Philadelphia Zoning Maps Undergo Changes as City Council Approves New Land Designations Along Conrad Street Corridor
A 12-block stretch of Northwest Philly is getting a zoning revamp as City Council votes to rezone a swathe of residential properties along the Conrad Street corridor, sending shockwaves through local homeowners' associations.
180507
Northeast Philadelphia Zoning Designations Changed to Allow Different Types of Development
This bill changed the zoning designations for certain areas of land in Northeast Philadelphia, allowing for different types of development in those areas.
180503
City Council Approves Lease Amendment for 1137 Chestnut Street Property
This bill approves a lease amendment between Philadelphia Gas Works and a private company for a property at 1137 Chestnut Street.
180524
Camping on Private Property in Philly Now Unlawful Without Owner's Consent
A new city law would hold individuals liable for trespassing on private property, including vacant lots and backyards, with penalties ranging from fines to jail time, sparking debate among advocates and community leaders about enforcement and accountability.
180523
Council Approves Renewal of Philly Gas Works Deals with Transco Pipeline Firm
Philadelphia homeowners could see a hike in their gas bills as City Council approved deals giving Transco pipeline firm a 15-year contract extension, sparking concerns about rate increases and environmental impact.
180520
City Council Proposes Major Rezoning for Northwest Philly Neighborhood Along Leiper Street Corridor
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations for certain areas of land bounded by Leiper Street, Oxford Avenue, Harrison Street, Oakland Street, and Foulkrod Street.
180517
Philadelphia Council Abandons South Broad Street Zoning Overhaul Amid Late-Session Drama
Business owners along the historic thoroughfare are breathing a sigh of relief after a contentious zoning overhaul targeting South Broad Street has been scrapped at the last minute; advocates vow to revive similar efforts in future sessions.
180511
Ridge Avenue Business District Update Underway as City Council Moves to Revise Local Zoning Laws
This bill amends the Ridge Avenue Neighborhood Commercial Area Overlay in Philadelphia's zoning code to make related changes under certain terms and conditions.
180510
City Council Approves Utility Project for River Road Neighborhood Amid Calls for Greater Community Input
This bill amends the Master Plan for a specific area in Philadelphia to allow for a subdivision and construction of a utility project.
180506
Sewer System Expansion Underway on Regent Square as City Council Greenlights Major Infrastructure Project
The City Council authorized construction of a sewer and appurtenant work in a portion of the 4200 block of Regent Square to provide public sewer service.
180499
Philadelphia Zoning Code Amended to Allow Property Owners to Request Minor Adjustments
Small Business Owners Win Big as Council Votes to Lower Parking Requirements for Certain Commercial Areas, Boosting Possibilities for New Shops and Restaurants Along Busy Streets.
180498-AAA
Philadelphia Signs Deal with Citizens Bank for Payroll Banking Services Amid Growing Budget Crunch Concerns
Under fire from city council critics, Mayor Kenney's administration has struck a lucrative deal with Citizens Bank to manage the city's massive payroll accounts, sparking debate over transparency and oversight.
180497