Weekly recap
This week in Council
May 18 to May 24, 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
Phillies Get Approval to Install Security Bollards and Barricades Around Citizens Bank Park
Philadelphia Homeowners Face Higher Taxes as City Council Votes to Raise Local Property Reassessment Threshold to $500,000 Overnight. New Bill Could Allow Thousands of Renters in Philly's Most Expensive Neighborhoods to Use Their Leases as Credit History.
180422
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
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
City Extends Deadline for Market Street Businesses to Meet Encroachment Compliance Requirements
Small businesses on historic Market Street have been given a reprieve, as city council voted to extend their deadline to comply with rules governing sidewalk cafes and kiosks, averting potential penalties and fines.
180369
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
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
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
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
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
Philadelphia Updates Building Codes to Meet New National Standards in Major Overhaul of Construction Rules
A Proposed Parking Tax Could Generate Hundreds of Millions for City Funds, but Would Also Hit Philly Residents Hardest at a Time When Gas Prices are Soaring.
180176
Philadelphia Council Tackles Overhaul of City Building Codes to Align with State Regulations
This bill updates and clarifies Philadelphia's administrative code for construction projects, ensuring compliance with Pennsylvania state regulations.
180175
Philadelphia Buildings Fall in Line With National Safety Standards as Council Adopts Updated Residential Code
Homeowners in 1,200 older Philly row houses face costly repairs or risk being declared uninhabitable under a new city law requiring lead pipe removal and replacements. Philly Small Businesses Get Break from Fines as City Council Votes to Suspend Parking Violation Fees for Restaurants and Bars Downtown.
180174
City Council Clears Way for Expanded Sidewalk Cafes Along Busy Frankford and Cottman Avenues in Northeast Philadelphia
This bill allows sidewalk cafes to be set up on Frankford Avenue and Cottman Avenue under certain conditions.
180171
Truck Parking Banned on Both Sides of Busy Vandike Street After Prolonged Resident Complaints
This bill prohibits truck parking on both sides of the 6000 Block of Vandike Street in Philadelphia.
171114
City Mandates Reports on Hazardous Intersections After Serious Crashes, Launches Reward Program for Good Samaritans
Philadelphia Drivers Face New Rules: Speed Cameras Get Expanded Powers, Parking Tickets Soar New speed cameras will be installed on high-crash roads and in school zones, issuing fines to drivers caught speeding or running red lights. The changes aim to reduce traffic violence and increase revenue for the city's coffers.
170244
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Philadelphia Council Votes To Strip Guns From Individuals Who Pose Imminent Threat To Self Or Others
Philadelphia City Hall Is Now Required to Report Racial Breakdown of Gun Violence Incidents" A newly passed city council bill requires the Philadelphia Police Department to track and report the racial demographics of victims and perpetrators in gun-related crimes, sparking debate over policing tactics.
180553
City Seeks Voter Approval for Up to 181 Million Dollars in Bonds to Fund Capital Projects
Philadelphia Homeowners Face Steep Fines for Unlicensed Properties Under New Proposed Regulations. The proposed bill would penalize homeowners who fail to register their rental properties, imposing fines up to $2,000 and potentially displacing vulnerable tenants.
180552
City Council Seeks to Ban Tobacco Sales from Philly Pharmacies and Medical Centers
Pharmacies and medical centers would be barred from selling tobacco products under a new city council bill. The proposal targets locations that provide healthcare services and sell prescription medications.
180556
Utility Providers Get Green Light to Extend Areaways Deeper Into Philly Streets
Philadelphia homeowners could soon see deeper holes in their front yards as a new law clears the way for utility companies to excavate more of city streets under their easements.
180566
City Requires Developers to Pave and Mill Adjacent Roadways Under New Regulations
Philadelphia Businesses May Face Increased Fees for Food Waste Disposal as City Council Considers Mandatory Recycling Programs The proposed legislation would require businesses to pay up to $1,000 more per month to dispose of food waste if they don't meet the city's recycling standards by 2025.
180565
Council proposed bill would limit tax exemptions for homeowners with certain property improvements
Homeowners making costly improvements to their properties face stricter tax exemption rules as Councilmember Gym's bill takes effect, linking exemptions to actual improvement costs and requiring separate assessments by the Board of Revision of Taxes.
180564
Finance Department Ordered to Provide Monthly Breakdowns of City Income and Expenses
Philadelphia residents may finally get clear answers about how their tax dollars are being spent as the finance department is forced to unveil monthly financial breakdowns in a bid for greater transparency.
180563
City Expands "Plan 16" Benefits to More Employees as Pension Reform Package Takes Shape Downtown
This bill amends the City of Philadelphia's Public Employees Retirement Code to expand 'Plan 16' to include certain employees and change contribution rates for some employees and the city.
180557-A
Center City Store Owners Exempted from Sidewalk Sales Permits for Fresh Produce
South Philly Residents Face Higher Parking Fines Under New Council Measure Targeting Overnight Parkers; Fines for repeat offenders could reach up to $500.
180555
Philadelphia Officials Set to Impose Parking Bans Along Mantua Avenue for Greenway Construction
South Philly Residents Face Increased Taxes as Proposed Council Bill Seeks to Raise Parking Fines Up to $150 A new council proposal would double parking fine rates in South Philadelphia's commercial districts, potentially hitting local business owners and customers with higher costs for parking infractions.
180550
Private Water and Sewer Services Get Green Light for Planned Communities Across the City
Low-Income Tenants Face Higher Rent Increases with Proposed Changes to the Philadelphia Code Under a new proposal, landlords could increase rent by up to 5% annually in gentrifying neighborhoods, sparking concerns about affordability for vulnerable residents.
180554
Restaurant Owners in South Philly Get Green Light for Open-Air Café on Wolf Street Corner
Small Business Owners on North Broad Push Back Against Proposed Late-Night Curfew for Nightclubs; Council Vote Expected to Spark Heated Debate
180567
Buccann Gets OK for Sidewalk Café on Bustling Castor Avenue
Community Groups Balk as Council Considers Bill to Allow Large Chain Stores on Main Street A proposed zoning change would allow giant retailers like Walmart and Target to open on Main Street, sparking concerns from local merchants who say it will hurt small businesses.
180562
Castor Avenue Farmers' Market Gets Greenlight for Summer Season
This bill adds a new location for a farmers' market on Castor Avenue.
180561
City OKs Narrow Street Rezoning, Vacating Montour Street Section Between Adams and Foulkrod
Rooftop solar panels could soon be installed on 15 residential buildings along Roosevelt Boulevard, but some homeowners are fighting back against the proposal that would alter the neighborhood's character forever.
180560
Truck Parking Banned on Rising Sun Avenue Between Adams and E. Godfrey Avenues
Truck drivers in Northeast Philly face fines of up to $300 as a new parking ban takes effect today, banning big rigs from Rising Sun Avenue between Adams and E. Godfrey Avenues.
180559
Castor Avenue Café Expansion Clears Council, Sidewalk Eatery Coming Soon to Bustling Commercial Strip
Buccann's expansion plans are set to bring an open-air sidewalk café to Castor Avenue after Philadelphia City Council approval. The eatery will occupy two sections along the west footway of Castor Avenue near Cottman Avenue.
180558
Filbert Street Becomes One-Way Eastbound from North 38th to North 37th Streets
This bill makes Filbert Street one-way from North 38th Street to North 37th Street, eastbound.
180551