Weekly recap
This week in Council
May 17 to May 23, 2019
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
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Philadelphia Awards Four-Year Trash Contract to Waste Management Amid Renewal Options
Waste Management wins four-year deal, but critics warn the city may be locked into a costly contract that could limit future competition from smaller, community-focused trash haulers.
190469
Philadelphia Tightens Rules on Junk Dealers, Waste Facilities Amid Growing Concerns Over Neighborhood Blight
Philadelphia is tightening rules on junk dealers and waste facilities in a bid to reduce neighborhood blight, with new regulations including fencing requirements and updated licensing procedures.
190459
City Seeks Millions in Federal Funds to Boost Affordable Housing and Fight Blight Across Philadelphia Neighborhoods
Low-Income Families Face Higher Utility Bills Under New City Proposal That Raises Rent on Section 8 Units by Up to 30% in Some Neighborhoods.
190441
City Council Approves Plan to Sell 185 Million Dollars in Bonds for Capital Projects and Expenditures
Homeowners could see a slight tax increase as part of a plan to issue $185 million in bonds for city improvements, with some arguing it will benefit neighborhoods while others decry added debt burden.
190431
City Council Approves Four-Year Contract for Covanta to Handle Philadelphia's Municipal Waste Disposal Needs
Philadelphia Residents Face 50% Hike in Trash Collection Fees as City Council Votes to Lock-in Covanta Contract for Four Years and Potential Renewals.
190468
Penalties for certain parking and stopping violations to rise in Philadelphia
Philadelphia's parking fines are set to increase sharply for several common infractions, affecting drivers citywide with steeper penalties now authorized by City Council.
190467-A
Council sought to revise permit fee and penalties for contractor parking in Philadelphia.
Contractors in Philadelphia must pay a higher fee, up to $1,000 in penalties, for contractor parking permits as revised rules take effect citywide.
190466
Bicycle Lane Expansion Unveiled for North 2nd Street, Impacting Parking Regulations Along Route
This bill adds North 2nd Street from Wood Street to Race Street as a designated bicycle lane and adjusts parking regulations in that area.
190465
City Council Revamps On-Street Parking Rules Allowing Longer Loads for Commerical Vans and Motorcycle Spots in Meter Zones
Small business owners breathe a sigh of relief as City Council votes to extend loading times for commercial vans, while bikers rejoice at new designated parking spots in congested neighborhoods.
190463
City Paves Way for Directional Signs Along Philly Streets as Long as They Meet City Guidelines
Small Business Owners to See Relief on Liquor Licenses as Council Votes to Repeal 3-Year Rule, Allowing More Firms to Qualify for New Permits.
190462-A
Council Approves Revamp of Philly's Hotel District Amid Plans for New Programs to Boost Tourism Industry Growth
Philadelphia's hotel district is set for a revamp as City Council approves a new plan and fees to fund programs boosting tourism industry growth. Hotel owners will pay special assessment fees to support development and promotion efforts.
190460
Philadelphia's Plumbing Code Adopted, Aligning with New International Standard
This bill updates Philadelphia's plumbing code to align with a new national standard from the International Code Council.
190455
Council proposed stricter gun manufacturing laws through updated Philadelphia Code.
Philadelphia now prohibits unlicensed use of three-dimensional printers to manufacture firearms, and buying or selling parts for gun assembly, with penalties for violators under new rules.
190454
City Plan Revised: Widening of Tenth and Darien Streets Moves Forward Amid Property Line Changes
This bill allows for widening Tenth Street and Darien Street by relocating some property lines and curbs.
190452
Zoning Changes Adopted for Area Between Washington Avenue, 25th Street, Kimball Street, and 24th Street
This bill changed the zoning classifications for certain properties in a specific area bounded by Washington Avenue, 25th Street, Kimball Street, and 24th Street.
190451
Bay Windows and Balconies Prohibited in Point Breeze and Grays Ferry Neighborhoods
Councilmember Johnson proposes ban on bay windows and balconies in Point Breeze and Grays Ferry neighborhoods. Residents in these areas may no longer construct such features under amended city ordinance.
190449
Ridge Avenue, Indiana Avenue, Hunting Park Avenue Zoning Designations to Be Altered
Neighbors on popular shopping strips are reeling as a proposed zoning overhaul threatens to displace beloved businesses and transform the character of their communities forever. The plan could impact scores of small shop owners on Ridge Avenue, Indiana Avenue, and Hunting Park Avenue.
190448
New zoning rules take effect in Philadelphia area bounded by Henry Avenue and Ridge Avenue.
This bill changes the zoning designations for a specific area of land in Philadelphia, bounded by Henry Avenue, Ridge Avenue, Northwestern Avenue, the County Line, Forbidden Drive, and Wises Mill Road.
190447
Bicycle Lanes Added to Germantown Avenue from North 2nd Street to Master Street
Germantown Avenue commuters are in for a shift: Philadelphia City Council has voted to turn a stretch of the bustling thoroughfare into bike-friendly road, sparking both excitement and frustration among business owners and residents alike.
190445
Zoning Changes Take Effect in Philadelphia Neighborhood Bounded by Race, 17th, Vine, 18th Streets
Philadelphia's smallest businesses would be priced out of historic districts under a new proposal that reduces parking requirements, affecting scores of rowhouse owners and entrepreneurs along South Street.
190444-A
Center City Zoning Regulations Amended to Allow for Height Increases Under Certain Conditions
Philadelphia's Homeless Population May Soon Have Access to On-Site Support Services with New Council Proposal Allowing Non-Profits to Operate in Residential Buildings. The plan would allow social service organizations to provide housing and services in residential zones across the city.
190443
Council Seeks to Boost Development Along Lancaster Avenue with New Zoning Rules
This bill amends zoning regulations in a specific area of Philadelphia known as the West Overlay District, allowing for more density and development along Lancaster Avenue.
190437
Zoning Designations Changed in Area Bounded by Summer Street and Natrona Street
A vote by City Council today paves the way for new businesses and developments in North Philly's Summer Street area, where mixed-use zoning will allow for shops, restaurants, and apartments to thrive on once-industrial streets.
190435
Philadelphia City Council Approves Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance to Fund Projects
City Contractors May Have to Pay Higher Fees for Philly Construction Projects Under New Council Proposal to Boost Revenue for Public Works Department
190433
Philadelphia Council Tackles Retirement Benefits for Quasi-Public Agencies Amid Staff Transfers and Job Changes
Thousands of retirees from city-linked agencies could see their benefits boost under new council rules, but critics argue it's a costly favor for workers making career jumps between quasi-public organizations.
190461
City Council Moves to Overhaul Hospital Assessment System in Major Code Rewrite Effort
Philadelphia hospitals could see a major shift in how they're taxed under new city council legislation that seeks to redefine what it means to be a "high-volume" Medicaid provider, affecting seven city hospitals with massive patient volumes. The proposed overhaul aims to level the playing field for providers serving low-income patients.
190440
City Transfers Control of Four Properties to PAID, May Regain Portion at Botanic Avenue Site
Residents near FDR Park may see increased police presence as council members consider mandating cameras and security personnel in public housing. The proposal aims to boost safety after recent crime spikes in the area.
190438
City Council Moves to Give Plumbers' Ditches More Flexible Permit Validity Periods
Local plumbers and excavators are in line for more leeway on digging permits, with City Council set to loosen up strict 30-day deadlines that have long frustrated the city's underground workers. A new rule could give them weeks or even months to complete projects.
190464
Property Owner at 1801 N Hancock Street Gets Approval to Build Exterior Stairway
A proposal to add an exterior stairwell to the facade of a busy North Philadelphia building has been approved by city council, paving the way for renovations that could increase accessibility and safety for residents.
190458-A
Bar Gets OK to Set Up Outdoor Seating Area on Busy North Philly Street Corner
This bill allows a bar at 1624 North Front Street to install an outdoor seating area with tables and chairs on Cecil B.
190457-A
Gonzalez Bills Allow Los Potrillos Food Truck Electrical Hookup on Hunting Park Avenue Block
Food truck vendors could soon have more places to plug in, but concerns over safety and aesthetics linger as Councilman Gonzalez's proposal aims to make way for mobile eateries in the Hunting Park neighborhood.
190456
Trucks Allowed to Park Overnight on South 11th Street Block Between Catherine and Webster Streets
This bill allows trucks to park overnight on a specific block of South 11th Street and establishes parking regulations for that area.
190453
City Officials Set to Revise Neighborhood Map with Alter Street Realignment Plans Unveiled
This bill allows for a change to be made on City Plan No.
190450
Trucks Prohibited on Ryan Avenue Between Leon Street and Crispin Street
This bill prohibits trucks from parking on both sides of Ryan Avenue between Leon Street and Crispin Street at any time.
190446
City Treasurer Authorized to Amend Agreement with Citizens Bank for Payroll Banking Services
Philadelphia taxpayers will now have their city paychecks deposited directly into Citizens Bank accounts, a move that could save the city $400,000 in annual bank fees, according to Council officials. The deal takes effect immediately.
190439
City Agrees to Temporarily Hand Over Public Land on Girard Avenue to Pa DOT for Roadwork
Residents and businesses along North Philadelphia's busy Girard Avenue will face traffic disruptions as city officials prepare to cede public land to Pa DOT for roadwork, sparking concerns about congestion and noise pollution.
190436
No Truck Parking Along Whitby Avenue Between 52nd and 53rd Streets Now Regulated
Frustrated residents say the constant stream of big rigs blocking their street is "a nightmare" - now city council is taking aim at the congestion with a new ban on truck parking on Whitby Avenue.
190434
City Approves Plan to Borrow Millions Through Airport Revenue Bonds for Commercial Paper Program Fund
Philadelphia Homeowners May See Tax Bills Rise with Proposed Council Approval of Higher Sewer Fee Rates A new proposal could increase sewer fees by as much as 24% next year, hitting property owners in some of the city's most densely populated neighborhoods hard.
190432
Philadelphia Enters Pact with U.S. Bank to Manage City Finances Under Strict Terms and Conditions
Philadelphia's finances are set to take a major turn as city officials prepare to hand over control of billions in taxpayer dollars to U.S. Bank under a new management deal, sparking concerns about transparency and accountability. The move is expected to save the city millions annually on banking fees.
190442