Weekly recap
This week in Council
December 7 to December 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.
Monday, November 9, 2:00 PM · Committee on Streets and Services
City Council Introduces Bill to Convert Dupont Street to Two-Way Traffic from Baker to Smick.
City Council votes to make Dupont Street a two-way street from Baker Street to Smick Street, starting from the westernmost portion of Baker Street.
250099
Eighth Councilmanic district imposes time limits on parking of large vehicles on public streets.
Eighth Councilmanic district restricts parking of large vehicles, including boats and RVs, to no more than 3 hours on public streets unless posted otherwise, citing public safety concerns.
260765
Drexel Institute of Technology seeks permission to install street tree planters along 3001 Chestnut Street.
Drexel Institute of Technology is seeking permission to install 28 street tree planters along its property line at 3001 Chestnut Street, with 4 planters encroaching onto Ludlow Street.
260761
Homeowners exempt from fines for missed trash collection days when city fails to collect on time
Homeowners can breathe a sigh of relief if the city misses trash collection days, as a new bill would exempt them from fines for missed pickups. The proposed change would cancel fines and provide refunds for payments already made.
260698
City to vacate Hartwell Lane and reserve water main and public utility right of way
Hartwell Lane is set to be vacated and a right of way reserved for water main and public utility purposes, with the city to accept a grant under certain terms and conditions.
260801
Property owner seeks permission to install 17 concrete planters along Walnut Street sidewalks
Property owner seeks permission to install 17 concrete planters along Walnut Street sidewalks, including 7 on the east curbline of South 19th Street. The planters will be located near the property line of 1849 Walnut Street.
260797
Civic Center Boulevard to be Renamed Roberts Way at Two Intersections Near Osler Circle
Osler Circle near Civic Center Boulevard and Curie Boulevard is set to be renamed Roberts Way at two intersections, according to a bill sponsored by Councilmembers Gauthier and Landau.
260831
South Philly Italian Kitchen owner seeks permit for sidewalk café at 2655 South 18th Street location.
South Philly Italian Kitchen owner seeks permit for sidewalk café at 2655 South 18th Street location, with plans for 12 tables and 36 seats, pending compliance with city regulations.
260830
Boats and large vehicles can be towed or immobilized after 30 days of street parking.
Philadelphia's streets will soon have new towing rules, allowing large vehicles, boats, and vending carts to be towed or immobilized after 30 days of street parking, as Councilmember Squilla introduces new regulations.
260854
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 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 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 Seeks Freedom to Reuse Rec Center Land Near Pennypack Park After 70 Years of Restrictions
This bill allows the City of Philadelphia to remove a restriction on land near Pennypack Park that was originally set aside for a recreation center and athletic field.
181045
Council Extends Emergency Powers for PGW to Secure Urgent Natural Gas Supplies
This bill extends a program that allows the Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation to quickly enter into contracts for gas supply, storage, distribution, transportation, and transmission on behalf of the Philadelphia Gas Works, with some approval from City Council.
181043
Philadelphia City Council Expands Powers of Energy Authority to Boost Clean Energy Jobs and Sector Growth
Small business owners and residents may see increased opportunities for solar panel installations and community solar programs after city council votes to expand the authority's role in advancing renewable energy projects. A new era of green jobs is on the horizon for Philadelphia.
181007
City Officials Set to Shuffle Millions Within Budget as Year-End Transfers Gain Approval
Millions will be reallocated within Philadelphia's budget, diverting money from underperforming programs into essential services as year-end transfers gain momentum despite critics' warnings about potential long-term consequences. The city's transportation agency is set to lose millions in funding after a contentious vote on a proposal that would redirect those dollars to the Mayor's office and
181002
City Council OKs Plan to Shuffle Millions Within City Budgets Amid Ongoing Fiscal Year 2019 Review
Philadelphia Renters Face New Requirements Under Proposed Bill Mandating Landlords Provide Proof of Licenses, Safety Certifications Before Tenant Applications Are Approved
181001
City Council Tinkers with Outdated Capital Budget Plan to Reflect Latest Fiscal Realities and Projects
This bill amends an existing capital budget ordinance passed in June 2018 to update its details.
181000
Council Updates City's Six-Year Capital Budget Plan with Revised Fiscal Roadmap in Place
Philadelphia's six-year capital budget plan is getting an overhaul as city council votes to revise the financial roadmap, prioritizing infrastructure projects and paving the way for fresh spending priorities that will impact every ward in the city.
180999
Philadelphia Council Passes Parking Regulation Bill for City Neighborhoods
City Streets Would Get More Than 1,000 New Parking Meters Under Council Proposal Aimed at Tackling Congestion in Busy Commercial Districts.
180995
City Council Moves to Boost Fees for Boilers and Incinerators in New Permit Proposal
Philadelphia could see a significant hike in costs for businesses that burn fuel or waste as City Council proposes new permit fees for boilers and incinerators, sparking concerns from industry leaders about economic impact on local manufacturers.
180994
City Council Moves Forward with Public Employee Retirement System Overhaul Amidst Changes in Contribution Rates
Philadelphia Teachers Could See Higher Pension Contributions as City Council Considers Plan to Shift More Costs onto New Hires; The proposal would affect thousands of educators, with some paying up to 10% more towards their retirement benefits.
180991
Market Street East Sign Regulations Tightened in City Council Bill
Philadelphia's historic Market Street East could lose some of its eclectic charm as city council votes to limit the number and size of street art installations along this iconic corridor, much to the dismay of local business owners. A new set of rules for signs along Philly's bustling Market Street East aims to bring order to a stretch that's long been known for its vibrant displays and creative
180979
City to Enter Agreement with Sensus for Automated Water Usage Data Collection Systems
Residential and commercial ratepayers will soon see their monthly water bills break down exactly how much they used - and at what cost - under a new $15 million deal that's set to transform the city's aging water management system.
180972
City Council Proposes Major Zoning Overhaul for Neighborhood Along Roosevelt Boulevard Stretch
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations of certain areas of land in a specific neighborhood bounded by Roosevelt Boulevard, Henry Avenue, Railroad Right-of-Way, and Scotts Lane.
180971
Northeast Philadelphia Zoning Designations Changed Along Major Roads
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change zoning designations for certain areas of land in Northeast Philadelphia, bounded by major roads.
180970
City Council Proposes Zoning Changes Along Parkside Avenue Corridor to Foster New Development Opportunities
Developers could soon build taller buildings along Parkside Avenue, but long-time residents worry about losing historic character as City Council votes on zoning overhaul near University of Pennsylvania campus.
180966
Larger Signs Permitted in Commercial Mixed-Use Districts Under Revised Philadelphia Sign Regulations
Small business owners along busy Broad Street may soon see a brighter future as city council votes on revised sign laws that could boost visibility and foot traffic for local shops and eateries tonight. The proposed changes would allow businesses to install larger, more brightly lit signs in Commercial Mixed-Use districts.
180954
Philadelphia Building Codes Updated to Conform with State Standards
Homeowners in flood-prone areas face steeper fines under proposed legislation raising minimum elevation requirements for new construction. The measure aims to reduce stormwater damage and protect city infrastructure.
180953
Zoning Map Changes Set for Swath of Neighborhoods Along Flamingo to Hillside Avenue
South Philly Small Businesses Breathe Easier with New Outdoor Dining Permits for Any Street-Level Establishment. A unanimous city council vote has approved permits allowing eateries to set up outdoor tables on sidewalks in densely populated neighborhoods.
180948
Philadelphia Establishes Two-Hour Parking Limits on Multiple City Streets
This bill establishes new parking regulations in several locations throughout Philadelphia.
180942
City Council Creates New Parking Zones to Ease Congestion on Busy Philly Streets
This bill sets parking regulations in specific areas of Philadelphia: near 45th and Spruce, Cedar and 47th, 34th and Brandywine, and Farragut and Walnut streets.
180941
Philadelphia Businesses Must Disclose Ownership Information for Commercial Licenses
Philadelphia Property Owners Face Stricter Rules on Tenant Evictions Amid Ongoing Housing Crisis Concerns A new city law now limits the reasons landlords can use to evict tenants and requires them to provide more notice before taking action against renters in rent-controlled units.
180940-A
Philadelphia Property Owners Must Provide More Detailed Information on Owner Accountability
Philadelphia Landlords Must Disclose Criminal Histories Under New Transparency Measure A proposed ordinance would mandate that landlords disclose the presence of certain convictions, including violent crimes, to potential tenants or face stiff penalties under new regulations.
180939-A
Businesses in Keystone Opportunity Zones Must Offer Apprenticeships to Career and Technical Students
Low-Income Philly Families Face Higher Parking Fees as Council Approves Plan to Raise Rates at City Lots and Garages. The new parking fees will go into effect this summer, with prices rising by $1 per hour on weekdays for drivers from outside the city's low-income neighborhoods.
180935
Philadelphia Zoning Regs Overhauled on Market Street as Council Votes to Redraw Retail Overlay District Boundaries
This bill modifies the zoning regulations in Center City Philadelphia by adjusting the boundaries of the Market Street East Retail Area and adding new sign regulations.
180911
Trucks Banned from Parking Along Darnell Road Between Decatur and Dutton Streets in New City Ordinance
This bill bans truck parking on both sides of Darnell Road between Decatur and Dutton Roads, with tow-away regulations in place.
180910
City Council Proposes Loosening Grip on Business Tax Burden with Extended Net Operating Loss Carryover
Small businesses in Philadelphia could soon breathe easier under new proposals that would give them more time to recover from financial setbacks, potentially saving thousands of dollars in back taxes owed to the city.
180909
Aspen Street to Become One-Way from North Markoe to North 46th Streets
This bill makes Aspen Street one-way from North Markoe Street to North 46th Street, allowing traffic to flow eastbound.
180865
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
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 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
Philadelphia Schools Must Meet Safety Standards Before Opening Doors Amid Lead Paint Worries
This bill requires educational buildings in Philadelphia to meet certain safety standards for lead paint and water quality before they can be occupied.
180700
Property Owners Get Reprieve from Additional Fees While Appealing Tax Assessments in Philadelphia
Small Businesses Face Higher Fees for Street Closures Amid Philly's Growing Pop-Up Scene A new city ordinance would require pop-up vendors to pay significantly more in permit fees if they want to temporarily close streets and sidewalks in the city, potentially pricing out some entrepreneurs.
171009
Philadelphia Mandates Environmental Justice Reports to Ensure Fair Treatment Across All City Communities Daily
Philadelphia's New Wage Theft Law Sets Sights on Small Businesses, Fines Those Who Underpay Workers Up to $2,000 a Year A new law taking effect soon will make small businesses pay closer attention to their workers' wages, as they face fines and penalties for any discrepancies that put employees below the minimum required by city ordinance.
170712
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Council Passes Parking Restrictions on 6 City Streets Amid Resident Complaints Over Congestion and Overnight Parking Abuse
This bill establishes parking regulations for six specific areas in Philadelphia, requiring drivers to park their vehicles within two-hour time limits and adhere to certain days of operation.
181104
City Council Revamps Tax Exemption Rules for Longtime Homeowners in Bid to Simplify Benefits Process
This bill amends Philadelphia's tax exemption policy for long-time owner-occupants of residential properties to revise eligibility and benefit determination standards.
181103
Philadelphia Voters to Weigh in on Plan to Boost Budget Stabilization Fund Mid-Year Transfers
City Council asks voters to weigh in on proposed change to allow mid-year transfers into budget stabilization fund, which would impact city finances and reserves.
181101
Philadelphia Establishes New Parking Rules on Busy City Streets Including Locust and S 45th Street
Tired commuters will have to adjust their morning routines as a new city ordinance restricts parking along congested streets like Spruce and Pine, limiting drivers to two hours on weekdays.
181099
Motor Homes Banned from Parking on Both Sides of Woodbine Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia Neighborhood
This bill prohibits parking of motor homes on both sides of the 5300 block of Woodbine Avenue.
181102
City Council Votes to Impose Strict Parking Rules Along Popular Park Avenue Stretch in Southwest Philly
Commuters and small business owners along Park Avenue will soon face stiff penalties for overstaying their parking spot, as a new rule restricts time spent in one location during peak hours.
181100
New Parking Limits Take Effect on East Side of 46th Street Between Larchwood and Osage Avenues Daily
This bill establishes a two-hour parking limit on the east side of 46th street between Larchwood and Osage avenues, from 8am to 6:30pm, Monday through Friday.
181098
Two-Hour Parking Limit Established on Haverford Avenue Between 31st and 32nd Streets
Haverford Avenue residents and shoppers face stricter parking rules starting this week as city officials aim to curb congestion in the popular West Philly neighborhood.
181097