Weekly recap
This week in Council
June 14 to June 20, 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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 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
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
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
South Philadelphia Zoning Map Changes Bound Tasker, 4th, Porter, and 9th Streets
A proposed rezoning of nearly 50 acres in South Philly could bring new development to long-vacant lots, but critics warn it will also push out low-income families and small businesses.
190415
City Council Greenlights PACE Program Allowing Commercial Owners to Finance Clean Energy Upgrades
Low-Income Families to Gain Access to Affordable Healthcare with New City Council-Approved Plan Under the new plan, thousands of low-income Philadelphians will be able to enroll in Medicaid or the state's Children's Health Insurance Program.
190412
Council Votes to Rewrite Zoning Maps Around Cobbs Creek Neighborhood to Spur New Development Efforts
This bill changes the zoning maps in a specific area of Philadelphia to allow for different land uses.
190409
City Council Moves to Revise Zoning Rules for Philly Neighborhoods, Preserve Unique Character and Aesthetics
This bill amends Philadelphia's zoning and planning laws to revise rules for Neighborhood Conservation Overlay Districts (NCO).
190408
Council Votes to Revamp Zoning Rules in West Philadelphia Neighborhood Along 56th and Spruce Streets
A proposal to transform a West Philly commercial corridor cleared a key hurdle as city council members voted to overhaul zoning rules on 56th Street, paving the way for new restaurants, shops, and apartments.
190407
Philadelphia City Council Approves $127.7 Million in Spending for Philadelphia Gas Works Projects This Year
Ratepayers to See Slight Increase: A proposed increase in gas rates is expected as part of the Philadelphia Gas Works' plan to upgrade aging infrastructure with $27 million worth of new pipes and equipment.
190385
Philadelphia Gas Works Budget Gets $474,060 Boost Amid Revised Forecast Uncertainty Looms
Philadelphia Gas Works Budget Gets $474,060 Boost Amid Revised Forecast Uncertainty Looms: A last-minute injection of cash into the utility's budget comes just as officials grapple with a revised forecast that threatens to upend long-term planning.
190384
City Approves Funding for Philadelphia Gas Works Upgrades Amid Revised Budget Projections
Philadelphia City Council Passes Resolution to Rename 52nd Street Station After Local Music Icon; Community Leaders Praise Tribute as "Long Overdue Recognition" of Jazz Legend's Contributions.
190383
Philadelphia Updates Parking and Commercial Rules for Properties with Multiple Street Frontages
Philadelphia Property Owners Will Soon Have More Flexibility to Use Their Alleys as Outdoor Spaces After Council Votes to Relax Zoning Restrictions on Accessory Structures The new law will allow homeowners to build larger decks, patios, or other outdoor features without needing a variance.
190380
Council Approves Plan to Pay Homeowners Up to $1 Per Watt for New Solar Panels Citywide
Solar Power Boost: Philadelphia homeowners could soon be rewarded with up to $1,000s in cash incentives for installing new solar panels on their rooftops and properties.
190378
City Council Seeks to Revamp Zoning Rules for Growing Neighborhood Near South Philly Waterfront
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas in a specific neighborhood.
190362
City Council Proposes New Rules for Vehicle Access, Pedestrian Safety on Historic South 9th Street Market
This bill creates a new 'South Ninth Street Market Overlay District' in South Philadelphia to regulate vehicle access and preserve pedestrian safety in the historic Italian Market.
190361
City Council Votes To Rewrite Zoning Maps For 9 Square Miles Near Northeast Philadelphia's Commercial Corridors
This bill changes the zoning designations for certain areas of land in Philadelphia to align with new development plans.
190360
Roosevelt Boulevard to Grant Avenue Zoning Map Altered to Permit New Development
Longtime Northwest Philly residents face possible displacement as a newly approved city council measure paves the way for high-rise apartments and commercial spaces on Roosevelt Boulevard, sparking concerns about gentrification.
190359
Philadelphia Council Votes to Ease Filing Burden on Small Businesses with Low Taxable Receipts
Small business owners will breathe easier under a new plan from City Hall, which would exempt firms earning less than $100,000 annually from paying annual taxes and filing paperwork in the city.
190358
Council Moves to Create New Zoning Rules for West Oregon Avenue Businesses and Residents
This bill creates a new 'West Oregon Avenue Overlay District' in Philadelphia, regulating signs, parking, and landscaping for properties along West Oregon Avenue.
190356
City Council Passes Bill Requiring Fresh Food Markets to Meet Minimum Square Footage Requirements
Smaller vendors face squeeze as city tightens rules on fresh food markets, forcing some entrepreneurs out of coveted spots along Main Street.
190313
Zoning Changes Along South Street, Schuylkill River to Allow for New Building Uses
This bill changed the zoning designations of certain areas along South Street, the Schuylkill River, Spruce Street (extended), and Broad Street.
190312
Council Proposes Ban on Two-Family Buildings in North Central Philly Overlay District Amid Zoning Overhaul
A proposed zoning overhaul for North Central Philadelphia would block new two-family homes from being built in the area, sparking debate among residents and developers about housing affordability and density.
190311
Council Passes Bill to Update Neighborhood Zoning in Venango Street Area
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas in a specific neighborhood bounded by Venango Street, 11th Street, Erie Avenue, and Marvine Street.
190306
Temple University Plans Major Expansion at North Philadelphia Site Amid City Council Approval Push
This bill amends Temple University's Master Plan and approves construction at 1835-99 N.
190305
Northwest Philly Zoning Overhaul Underway as City Council Targets Germantown Avenue Business District
A proposed zoning overhaul for Northwest Philly's busiest streets would transform the face of the Germantown Avenue business district, adding new office space and potentially pricing out some long-time small businesses along the strip.
190256
Zoning Designations Near Knights Road, Poquessing Creek, and Woodhaven Road Changed by New Law
This bill changes the zoning designation of certain areas in Philadelphia, near Knights Road, Poquessing Creek, and Woodhaven Road.
190254
Philadelphia's Zoning Laws Get Clarified for Adult Care Facilities and Child Care Services
City Council Passes Landmark Legislation Requiring Developers to Pay into Affordable Housing Fund. The new law mandates that all large development projects set aside 2% of their budget for affordable housing, a move expected to bring in millions for struggling Philadelphians.
190253
City Council Clears Path for Massive Schuylkill Yards Development in West Philly with Zoning Overhaul Underway
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Code to support a large-scale development project called Schuylkill Yards in West Philadelphia, allowing for increased density and specific amenities such as public spaces, sustainable buildings, and retail space.
190250
City Rolls Out Funding for Public Safety Makeover with Last Year's Bond Money Still Unspent
Low-Income Families Face Higher Utility Bills as City Council Considers Tax on Major Utilities; The proposal would add a new fee to energy bills to fund affordable housing initiatives.
190229
Zoning Changes Made in Area Between 30th and 32nd Streets, Market Street to Arch Street
Neighborhood Residents Fear Loss of Small Businesses as Council Votes on New Zoning Rules for Bustling Commercial Corridors Along 13th and 15th Streets.
190181
City Buildings Must Install Automated External Defibrillators and Advanced First Aid Kits Under New Law
Thousands of Philadelphians working in city-owned offices and facilities will soon be safer thanks to a new requirement for life-saving AED devices, with installation costs to be split between the city and building owners.
190099-AA
Philadelphia Fire Code Updated to Align with 2018 International Fire Code Standards
This bill updates the Philadelphia Fire Code to align with the 2018 International Fire Code.
181006
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Council proposed new firearm regulations for Philadelphia, sparking debate among lawmakers.
Philadelphia's new gun laws take effect immediately, imposing stricter reporting requirements on licensed gun carriers and restricting public carry of firearms under certain terms and conditions.
190604
Citizens Can Now Petition Courts to Seize Guns from Suicidal or Violent Individuals Temporarily in Philly
Philadelphia residents can now petition courts to temporarily remove guns from individuals at risk of suicide or harming others, with two concerned citizens needed to make each application.
190605
Philadelphia Police Ordered to Verify Concealed Carry Licenses During All Traffic Stops
Philadelphia police now required to verify concealed carry licenses during all traffic stops, mandating gun owners disclose their license and identification upon request when stopped by law enforcement.
190603
Philadelphia Owners of Large Buildings Ordered to Regularly Tune Up Energy and Water Systems
City Council Targets Parking Ticket Fines, Proposes Slashing Revenue for City's Coffers A new proposal would cut parking ticket fines by 50% in an effort to address a growing public outcry over aggressive enforcement tactics downtown.
190600
Philadelphia Students Get Boost with New Tax Break for Postgrad Expenses Paid Off Quickly
Philadelphia students may soon get a tax break to help pay off expenses from postgraduate education, thanks to a proposed bill authorizing a new "Student Debt Tax Credit". The credit would be administered under specific terms and conditions.
190616
South Philly Market District Takes Shape With New Special Property Assessments for Improvements Along 9th and Christian Streets
South Philly Market District taking shape as new special property assessments will fund lighting, landscaping, and cleaning improvements along several streets in the neighborhood. Commercial properties within the designated area will be subject to these assessments for improvement projects.
190615
Fishtown Businesses Launch Effort to Fund New Public Improvements through Local Property Taxes Assessment
Local businesses in Fishtown plan to fund public improvements through a new property tax assessment district that would cover streets including Frankford Avenue, North Front Street, and East Girard Avenue.
190614
City Council Loosens Restrictions on Historic Buildings Amid Push for Revitalization and Economic Growth Spurred by Local Business Owners
This bill amends zoning regulations to make it easier for owners of historic properties to use their buildings as they see fit.
190613-A
Council Approves Changes to Allow Accessory Dwelling Units in More City Neighborhoods
New homes within homes": under revised zoning laws, up to 40% of city neighborhoods will soon allow homeowners to build in-law suites and mother-in-law apartments, opening doors for caregivers and relatives.
190612
City Council Moves to Ease Parking Burden on Philly's Historic Neighborhoods Amid Zoning Code Revamp
This bill amends Philadelphia's zoning code to reduce parking requirements for historic buildings and make related changes.
190611-A
Philadelphia Retailers Must Use Specific Bags at Checkout, Charge Customers for Non-Compliant Options
A proposed city ordinance would force grocery stores and pharmacies to ditch single-use plastics for more sustainable options, but some business owners worry about the added costs of compliance.
190610-A
City Must Reveal Quarterly Breakdowns of Lawsuits Settled Out of Court Under New Reporting Measure
Philadelphia Residents Could Face Higher Parking Fines Under Proposed Council Bill Raising Penalties by Up to 50% The proposed measure aims to curb traffic congestion in commercial zones, but critics warn of potential unfair impacts on low-income residents and small business owners.
190608-A
Philadelphia City Council Moves to Shield Thousands of Domestic Workers from Unlawful Discrimination Practices
Thousands of low-wage caregivers could soon have better safeguards against workplace injustices under a new proposal aimed at closing loopholes that leave them vulnerable to exploitation and bias.
190607
City Rolls Out Streamlined Process for Selling Vacant Properties Amid Push to Revitalize Neighborhoods
Philadelphia Businesses Will Face Stricter Regulations on Single-Use Plastics Under New Proposal Aimed at Reducing Waste and Protecting Waterways. The measure would prohibit many single-use items, including straws, bags, and containers, in an effort to combat pollution.
190606-AA
Defibrillator Trained Staff Required at All Times When Using City Parks and Facilities Under New Proposal
Philadelphia's city parks and facilities will soon require a trained staff member on site at all times when permit or license holders use the properties, ensuring immediate defibrillator access.
190602
East Side of Academy Road Becomes Tow-Away Zone with No Parking Allowed
This bill makes the east side of Academy Road from Grant Avenue to Glenn Street a tow-away zone and prohibits parking at any time.
190609
Philadelphia Zoning Code Overhauled to Welcome Smoking Lounges Throughout City Limits
Philadelphia homeowners could soon be neighbors with "vapor dens" that cater to e-cigarette enthusiasts, sparking concerns about air quality and property values in densely populated neighborhoods. Under the proposed overhaul, any building can convert into a smoking lounge with minimal restrictions.
190601-A