Weekly recap
This week in Council
June 7 to June 13, 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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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 to Assume Recycling Responsibilities Under Agreement with Contractor
Philadelphia residents could see reduced recycling rates under new city contract, as city council passes measure giving Waste Management control over trash-to-cash program. The pact promises cost savings, but critics warn of potential job losses and environmental risks.
190413
Eastwick Streets Get One-Way Makeover Under New City Traffic Regulation Plan
Eastwick residents can expect new traffic patterns as city council votes to restrict two-way traffic on several streets in the neighborhood, potentially alleviating congestion but also sparking worries about added commute time for local drivers.
190411
Broad Street Gets New Farmers Market Spot in Proposed City Council Bill
Councilmembers push for a bustling farmers market to sprout on Broad Street, bringing fresh produce to a long-stretching commercial corridor, with vendors set to descend upon the intersection of Morris and Broad next summer.
190410
Woodlin Wins Right to Expand Oversized Balcony at Busy 29th Street Location Despite Neighbors' Concerns
Philadelphia homeowners will soon be allowed to extend their outdoor living spaces into streetside areas, but not without strict new regulations designed to prevent over-development after a landmark ruling.
190405
Parking Rules Set for Six Philadelphia Neighborhoods
This bill establishes parking regulations in several Philadelphia neighborhoods, setting time limits and restrictions for parking on specific streets.
190381
Deadline to Revise City Plan 269 Extended as Project Completion Date Approaches Two-Year Mark
Philadelphia's ambitious plan to revamp Convention Avenue is running behind schedule, with city officials now facing a new October 2024 deadline to finalize the complex project affecting businesses and residents along the bustling thoroughfare.
190379
Parking Regulations Established in Six Philadelphia Locations Across City
This bill establishes new parking regulations in six specific locations across Philadelphia: S.
190365
Camac Street Parking Ban Established, Limits Time for Daily Traffic
This bill establishes parking regulations on specific streets in Philadelphia, limiting parking time and days for each street.
190364
City Council Passes Bike Lane Bill Adding North 10th Street and Columbus Boulevard Designations
This bill adds bike lanes to North 10th Street and Columbus Boulevard in Philadelphia's First Councilmanic District, and updates parking regulations along these streets.
190363
Philadelphia Council Votes to Convert Richmond Street into Bike Lane Amid Parking Restrictions Take Hold
This bill adds a bike lane to Richmond Street between Lewis and Berkshire Streets, removing parking lanes on both sides of the street.
190355
University of Pennsylvania Gets Reprieve on Time to Meet Requirements at Convention Avenue Site
The University of Pennsylvania is breathing a temporary sigh of relief as city council votes to give it an extra year to meet specific regulations at its high-profile Convention Avenue site, sparking questions about accountability.
190354
New Parking Rules Allow Ride Share Vehicles to Park Free in Designated Areas Overnight
Ride-hailing drivers will breathe easier tonight as Council passes legislation allowing them to park for free in designated areas, but some neighbors worry about increased traffic and noise in residential zones.
190321
Philadelphia Farmers' Markets Expand to New Locations Along Delaware River Waterfront District
Local residents along the Delaware River waterfront will soon have more opportunities to buy fresh produce as a new city initiative expands existing farmers' markets into high-demand areas, doubling the number of vendors and shoppers.
190320
City Council Moves to Boost Homestead Tax Exemption for Philly Homeowners Amid Rising Property Values Slowdown
Philadelphia Homeless Services Office Seeks Increased Funding for Emergency Shelters and Housing Programs amid Soaring City Rent Prices.
190317
City Approves Sublease Deal Allowing Philly to Occupy Office Space on Broad Street
Philly's next chapter in Broad Street revitalization takes shape as city officials secure prime office space, securing a long-term home for key departments near City Hall and Temple University.
190310
Spring Garden Street Vending Ban Takes Shape as Council Proposes New Regulations for the Popular Shopping Corridor
This bill amends a section of The Philadelphia Code to prohibit vendors from selling goods on certain parts of Spring Garden street.
190309
Council Votes to Rethink Land at Second and Germantown, Giving City Control Over Newly Created Cut-Back Area
Philadelphia's urban landscape is about to get a major tweak as City Council votes to hand over control of a key Germantown Avenue corner, but some residents worry it's a power grab that could price out local businesses.
190307
Council Approves Curved Corner on 34th Street and Curb Extension in Mantua Area
A new curved corner is coming to a bustling intersection in Mantua: the city council has given the green light for a redesigned 34th Street and Mantua Avenue intersection that will improve pedestrian safety.
190304
Voters Weigh In On Plan To Overhaul City's Contracting Process Starting This Fall
Small Business Owners Rejoice as City Council Introduces Bill to Require Public Bidding on City Contracts, Giving Local Companies a Fair Shot at Millions of Dollars in Revenue Each Year.
190290
Philadelphia City Council Approves Stairway Ownership Bill for North Front Street Property
Philadelphia Residents May Soon Face Increased Property Taxes Due to New City Bill; proposed legislation would hike tax rates by 10% for homeowners earning over $200,000 per year.
190289
Chestnut Street Property Owners Get Green Light for Pedestrian Ramp, Bike Racks Installation
Philadelphia's iconic Chestnut Street just got a lot friendlier for pedestrians and cyclists, thanks to a new development project that will bring accessible ramps and secure bike parking to the busy stretch near Drexel University.
190288
City Council Passes Bill for The Barn's Sidewalk Café at 4901 Catherine Street
Controversy over Commercial Zoning: Proposed Changes Would Allow Large Stores in Residential Areas, Upsetting Local Homeowners Under the new rules, buildings along Main Street would be zoned for mixed-use development, allowing giant retailers like big-box stores to move into historic residential neighborhoods.
190287
Temple University Clears Path for Non-Standard Lights Along North Park Avenue Frontage
Philadelphia homeowners near Temple's campus will soon be bathed in a rainbow of colors as the university gets approval to install custom light fixtures, sparking both excitement and concern about aesthetics.
190252
Philadelphia Establishes New Parking Regulations in Seven City Neighborhoods Across South Philly Streets
This bill establishes new parking regulations in various locations across Philadelphia, including specific streets and time limits for parking.
190211
City Seeks Control of Riverfront Lands and Abandoned Rail Line for Park Development and Public Use
This bill allows the City to acquire land along the Delaware River and in a former railroad bed for public parks and recreation use.
190208
City Seeks to Sell Land in Northeast Philly to State Under Negotiated Terms
This bill allows the City of Philadelphia to sell a portion of land in Northeast Philly (bounded by Tacony St, Levick St, Milnor St and Barnett St) to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with terms and conditions determined by the City Solicitor.
190207
City Taps PRA to Handle Sale and Development of Key Properties Under New Agency Deal
Philadelphia Schools Squeezed by Proposed Cuts in Tax Relief Program for Homeowners; Thousands of Families Could Pay More. Homeowners on Fixed Incomes May Bear Brunt of Budget Proposal to Scale Back City's Homestead Rebate Program, Leaving Many Struggling to Afford Rising Property Taxes.
190206
City Council Votes to Create Bike Lanes on Busy Philly Streets Amid Congestion Concerns
Philadelphia's drivers are about to lose some lanes as City Council votes to transform two major roads into bike-friendly corridors, shifting traffic patterns that could impact thousands of commuters daily.
190185
Property Owners and Business Leaders Face Liability for Human Trafficking on Their Properties
This bill makes it a crime for property owners and business leaders to knowingly allow human trafficking on their properties or in their businesses.
190182
Council Revises Wage and Profit Taxes Amid Growing Pressure on Local Businesses to Boost Revenue for City Services
Low-Income Tenants Face Possible Eviction as Council Considers Bill to Strengthen Rent Stabilization Ordinance; Landlords Warn of "Catastrophic" Consequences.
190155
City Hall Sets Spending Plan as Council Approves 2020 Operating Budget Allocation Proposal
Philadelphia Homeowners to Pay More in Water Bills Under Proposed Rate Hike Plan to Increase Revenue by $15 Million Annually, Impacting Upwards of 200,000 Residential Customers.
190154
City Council Approves Record Breaking $2.74 Billion Capital Budget for Philly's Infrastructure and Development Projects
Philadelphia homeowners can expect to pay more on their property tax bills with the city's new record-breaking capital budget, which will fund major infrastructure upgrades and development projects.
190153
City Council Approves Ambitious 6-Year Capital Plan Pumping $10.8 Billion into Philly's Infrastructure
$1 Million Boost in Homelessness Funding to Be Tied to Performance Metrics in Mayor's Proposed Budget Amendment A new City Council proposal would link a significant increase in homelessness funding to progress reports, requiring the Streets Department to demonstrate specific outcomes within six months of receiving the extra money.
190152
City Council Moves to Limit Parking on Busy Stretch of 22nd Street West During Rush Hours Daily
Commuters may soon face tighter parking options as City Council considers limiting spaces on 22nd Street West during peak hours; the proposed restriction would affect over a thousand drivers daily.
190119
City Officials Crackle Down on Parking on 13th Street West Side From Master to Jefferson
West Philadelphia residents are set for a parking crunch as a new city rule limits street time on 13th Street, forcing drivers to rotate in and out every two hours.
190098
Philadelphia Gas Works Clears Path for Liquefied Natural Gas Project on City Owned Land and Facilities
Philadelphia residents and businesses near the PECO generating station in South Philly could soon be dealing with a new neighbor: a massive liquefied natural gas tank and processing facility on city-owned land. LNG trucks would fuel it just blocks from homes.
181063-A
Fireworks Banned from Philly Street Vendors Amid Safety Concerns and Summer Heat
This bill prohibits street vendors and sidewalk sellers from selling fireworks in Philadelphia.
181004
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Buildings Must Install Gender-Neutral Bathrooms Under New Law Requirements
Philadelphia Residents Prepare for 5-Cent Charge on Plastic Bags as City Council Approves Bag Tax Ordinance The tax aims to curb plastic pollution in Philly's waterways and parks, with revenue earmarked for waste management programs.
190559
Philadelphia Schools and Youth Organizations Ordered to Adopt Transgender Protections by Summer 2024
Philadelphia City Council Passes Landmark Bill Protecting LGBTQ+ Youth, Mandating Inclusive Policies Across the City's Schools and Community Centers by Next Summer.
190558
City Acquires Land Along Schuylkill River for Public Recreation, Connecting Existing Parkland and Extending Towards Grays Ferry Crescent
This bill authorizes the City to acquire land along the Schuylkill River for public recreational purposes, connecting existing parkland and extending it towards Grays Ferry Crescent.
190554
Council sought to require Community Benefits Agreements for certain large projects in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia Residents Could Soon Be Able to Sue Landlords for Substandard Living Conditions Amid New Council Proposal A proposed law would allow city residents to sue landlords for failing to maintain safe and habitable living conditions in rental properties across Philadelphia.
190553
Zoning Map Overhaul Unveiled for Baring Street Neighborhood Amid Plans for Residential Development Spree
Philadelphia's Baring Street neighborhood is set to undergo significant changes with new zoning classifications poised to allow for 12-story residential towers and 6-unit row homes, sparking concerns from long-time residents about gentrification.
190551
Deadline Extended for Sewer and Drainage Improvements in City Plan Revision Area
Deadline Extension May Help Small Businesses Avoid Fines: Council voted to extend the compliance deadline for small businesses on Christian Street, citing concerns over costly upgrades to outdated sewers and drains.
190556
Council Approves Narrowing of Old York Road in Northeast Philadelphia, Requires Property Owner Agreements
Narrowing of Old York Road sparks concerns for Northeast Philly businesses, as council approves plan to squeeze road to just 50 feet in a specific stretch, affecting scores of property owners who now face costly reconfigurations.
190562
Frank Strawbridge Given Green Light to Install Sign at Busy Market Street Corner Spot
Small Business Owner Fights for Visibility on Bustling Market Street, Proposed Sign Installation Sparks Debate Over Aesthetic Appeal and Potential Traffic Congestion.
190561
City Transfers Ownership of Frankford Parcel to PAID Amid Plans for Possible New Developments
Philadelphia is set to transfer ownership of a parcel near Frankford Avenue to PAID, which will oversee possible new developments in the area. The city's Public Property Commissioner will facilitate the land transfer under specific conditions.
190560
City Council Approves Plans to Pave Troubled Sigma Way and Tackawanna Street Sections
Philadelphia drivers can breathe a sigh of relief as City Council greenlights a plan to repave two notorious traffic zones on Sigma Way and Tackawanna Street, but taxpayers won't be footing the entire bill.
190557
City Council Approves Plans for New Neighborhood Streets in Northeast Philly Under Developer Agreement
This bill revises a portion of Philadelphia's City Plan by adding Sigma Way and Tackawanna Street, northeast of Vankirk Street.
190555
Deadline Extended: City Gives Developers Another Year to Widen University Avenue Under Revised Plan
This bill extends the deadline for compliance with previous city ordinance (Bill No.
190552