Weekly recap
This week in Council
September 7 to September 13, 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
Council Proposes Stricter Eligibility Rules for Senior Citizens' Tax Breaks Amid Funding Concerns
Philadelphia Residents with Low-Income Jobs Could Get More Time to Pay City Taxes Under Proposed Council Bill Changes, extending payment deadlines by 30 days to help working poor comply.
180603
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
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
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Fire Sprinklers Mandated in High-Rise Buildings Over 45 Feet Tall Under New Law
New Requirements for Philly Property Owners: Starting next year, owners of buildings over 75 feet tall will have to install costly new fire suppression systems or face hefty fines.
180745
Council Allocates Recurring Funds to Boost Affordable Housing and Revitalize Neighborhoods Across Philadelphia
This bill allocates recurring funding to support affordable housing and neighborhood development in Philadelphia.
180744
Kensington Avenue Gets Zoning Boost Amid Push for More Density and Cleaner Streets
Kensington Avenue businesses and residents will be subject to new zoning regulations allowing for increased density, while also requiring on-site trash storage in certain buildings. The Market-Frankford Elevated Overlay District aims to clean up streets and boost development along this busy corridor.
180736
Philadelphia Council Ups Littering Fines, Adds New Penalties for Trash Dumping
Small Business Owners Blast Council Proposal to Raise Minimum Wage to $15/Hour, Saying Higher Labor Costs Will Devastate Local Economy and Force Closures A proposal to raise the minimum wage to $15/hour is sparking controversy among small business owners who claim it will lead to job cuts and bankruptcies.
180729-A
Philadelphia City Council Moves to Restrict Businesses in Eighth Councilmanic District Zoning Overhaul
Restrictions on businesses move forward in Philadelphia's eighth councilmanic district with a proposed zoning overhaul that bans certain activities like daycare centers and vehicle repair shops.
180751
Philadelphia City Council Moves to End Real Estate Tax Abatements for Select Construction Projects
Councilmembers Bass and Gym introduce bill aiming to end real estate tax abatements for select construction projects, citing termination date of October 31st, 2018.
180750
Private Waste Bins Get Green Light for Sidewalk Placement Under New City Ordinance Rules
Philadelphia Homeowners May Soon Be Able to Park Cars on Street Without Moving Car Share Vehicles, Thanks to Proposed Council Bill The proposed measure would exempt vehicles parked by homeowners from car share company regulations, giving residents a break from sharing lanes with commercial vehicles.
180748
Riverfront Property Owners Face New Inspection Mandate Under Proposed City Code Changes
Philadelphia residents who rent homes in gentrifying neighborhoods may see increased rental costs under a new city proposal that ties rent increases to rising property values, affecting thousands of tenants across the city.
180746
Philadelphia Council Moves Swiftly to Strengthen Laws Against Criminal and Defiant Trespassers Citywide
City Council strengthens laws against trespassers with new definitions and penalties across Philadelphia. The move aims to clarify procedures for dealing with criminal and defiant trespassers in the city.
180741-A
City Council Proposes Splitting Trust Fund into Separate Sub-Funds for Recording Fees and Other Revenues
Philadelphia Homeowners Face Higher Recording Fees as City Council Considers Bill to Create New Revenue Streams, potentially increasing costs for homebuyers and sellers by tens of thousands of dollars.
180739
Parking Restrictions Imposed Near Penn Street and Kennedy Street, Mascher Street and Norris Street
Resident Fears Condemning Small Businesses as City Council Approves Measure to Ban Overnight Deliveries in Residential Neighborhoods, citing noise complaints and concerns about traffic safety.
180738
New Parking Rules to Take Effect in Four Philadelphia Neighborhoods
This bill establishes new parking regulations in several Philadelphia neighborhoods, limiting parking times and days for certain streets.
180735
Parking Regulations Established Along Grays Ferry Avenue and Several Surrounding Streets
This bill establishes new parking regulations in specific Philadelphia neighborhoods to improve traffic flow and management.
180734
Parking Limits Enacted in Six Philadelphia Neighborhoods
Philadelphia Small Businesses Fear Increased Taxes Under Proposed Council Bill Aimed at Boosting City Revenue through Higher Property Tax Rates on Commercial Properties.
180733
Old City Business Owners Must Pay More Under Proposed 5-Year Plan for District Services
Philadelphia's 3,000 Small Businesses Could Face Higher Taxes as Council Considers New Tax Increment Financing Policy A proposed policy would allow the city to capture tax revenue from new developments in specific neighborhoods to fund public projects, raising concerns among small business owners who might see increased property taxes.
180749
City Hall OKs $Millions in Funding Transfers Amid Tight Budget Deadline for Fiscal Year 2019
Philadelphia City Council has approved funding transfers amid a tight budget deadline for Fiscal Year 2019, shifting funds from various accounts to the General Fund and Housing Trust Fund. The move was sponsored by Quiñones Sánchez, Clarke, and Squilla.
180740
Zoning Changes Set to Sweep Through Northeast Philly Neighborhoods Bounded by Parker Avenue and Ridge Avenue
This bill changes the zoning designation of certain areas in Philadelphia bounded by Parker Avenue, Ridge Avenue, Cinnaminson Street, and Mitchell Street.
180732
33rd Street Parking Rule Changes: City Council Approves Restrictions Between Haverford and Wallace Streets Daily
This bill establishes a new parking regulation on 33rd Street between Haverford Avenue and Wallace Street, allowing for two-hour parking during weekdays except Sundays.
180727
Philadelphia Implements Two-Hour Parking Limitations Along Several Streets Including Locust and 57th Streets
This bill establishes two-hour parking restrictions on certain streets in Philadelphia: Locust Street between 46th and 47th Streets, 46th Street between Larchwood Avenue and Cedar Avenue, and 57th Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets.
180725
Germantown Avenue Gets Green Light for New Farmers Market Location in Historic Area
This bill allows a farmers' market to be located on Germantown Avenue between East Church Lane and East School House Lane, under certain terms and conditions.
180753
Council Outlines New Parking Limits for Busy Streets Near Old York Road and Olney Avenue
Motorists navigating busy streets around Olney may soon face tighter parking restrictions as city council votes on limiting time spent on three crowded thoroughfares. Residents in those areas hope the changes will ease congestion and improve quality of life.
180752
Old City Special Services District Gets Term Extension Until 2038 Amid Ongoing Revitalization Efforts
Philadelphia's iconic Old City neighborhood will continue to reap benefits from its self-imposed tax for another three decades as city council votes to extend its special services district. Business owners are breathing a sigh of relief.
180747
City Sells Small Land Parcel at Grant Avenue Intersection to Developer for Redevelopment Project
The City of Philadelphia is selling a small parcel of land at the intersection of Grant Avenue and Academy Road to UL Grant Avenue, LLC, with certain terms and conditions.
180743
Council Approves Plans to Bar Trucks from Parking, Towing Away Vehicles on Busy Commerce Way Stretch
This bill prohibits truck parking and establishes a tow-away zone on Commerce Way from McNulty Road to its terminus.
180742
Esperanza Health Wins Approval for Patio Expansion at Busy East Allegheny Avenue Location
Philadelphia's Historic Districts Face Tighter Zoning Controls as Council Votes to Restrict New Construction Permits The measure aims to preserve the city's historic character by limiting large-scale developments in protected neighborhoods, drawing concerns from developers and business owners.
180737
Truck Parking Banned on Passmore Street Blocks
This bill prohibits trucks from parking on both sides of Passmore Street (4100 and 4200 blocks) at any time.
180731
Trucks Banned from Parking on Ditman Street Between Cottman Avenue and Rhawn Street
Residents along Ditman Street are breathing a sigh of relief as truck congestion is set to disappear with new restrictions now in place, but some business owners say the ban will hurt their bottom line.
180730
Newsstands Banned on North Side of Arch Street Between 18th and 19th Streets
This bill prohibits newsstands on the north side of Arch Street between 18th and 19th Streets in Philadelphia.
180728
Spring Garden Street Parking Time Limit Enacted on North Side of Philadelphia
This bill establishes a 2-hour parking time limit on Spring Garden Street, between 34th and 33rd streets, from 8am to 6:30pm, Monday through Friday.
180726