Weekly recap
This week in Council
October 23 to October 29, 2020
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 Police Must Obtain Permission Before Using Less Lethal Devices at Public Protests and Demonstrations
At public gatherings like Black Lives Matter rallies and Eagles game tailgaters, police would need to clear their plan with a supervisor before using pepper spray or rubber bullets under new council proposal. This change aims to prevent overuse of force.
200538
Rising Sun Avenue Property Owners Get Extension on Compliance Deadline
Philadelphia's minimum wage would see its biggest hike in over a decade under new city council legislation, raising it from $7.25 an hour to a staggering $15 per hour for all employees working within city limits.
200517
Castor Avenue Parking Restrictions Set to Change as City Council Approves New "Authorized Vehicles Only" Rules
Council Okays Parking Permit Program for Northeast Philly Neighborhoods; Residents Will Now Need to Register Their Cars to Park in Certain Areas Under the new system, homeowners will be able to purchase permits that allow their vehicles to park on neighborhood streets, but visitors and non-residents will face stricter parking restrictions.
200500
Business Allowed to Install Sidewalk Café at 310 West Master Street Under Certain Terms
Philadelphia's Small Business Owners Face Higher Fees as City Council Passes Bill Raising Annual Licenses, Permits Costs 30% Tomorrow The new fee hike will directly impact over 5,000 local entrepreneurs, affecting everything from food trucks to retail storefronts across the city.
200499
City Rolls Out Curb Cut Restrictions to Speed Up Transit Platform Construction Across Philadelphia
This bill amends a section of Philadelphia's code to define curb cuts and limit where they can be built.
200496
City Council Votes to Make Eastbound Only: Ludlow Street Traffic Flow Altered Between Two Major Philadelphia Streets
Ludlow Street commuters are in for a change as the city's traffic grid shifts, with drivers now facing a one-way road restriction between two of Philadelphia's busiest thoroughfares: Market Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
200495
Keystone Gets Greenlight to Build Exterior Ramp at Historic Independence Mall West Site
A proposed exterior ramp will soon be built at the Independence Mall West shopping center, potentially boosting accessibility for shoppers with disabilities, but also sparking concerns about the site's historic integrity.
200423
City Council Greenlights PCDC to Transform 10th Street Median into Vibrant Pedestrian Plaza Space
Philadelphia's Chinatown is getting a major makeover: City Council just approved plans to turn the 10th Street median into a vibrant public space with art installations, landscaping, and more - but some commuters worry about congestion.
200422
Developers Must Disclose Ownership Information with Certain Permit Applications
Philly homeowners would be protected from secret landlords under proposed new transparency rules, as council members push to shine a light on property ownership behind the scenes of major building projects.
200417
Trucks Banned from Parking on Tolbut Street Between Torresdale Avenue and Street's End
Philadelphia Homeowners Face Higher Taxes Under Proposed Council Bill, With Properties Over $500,000 Seeing Up to 10% Increase Due to Changes to Tax Abatement Program.
200415
Radnor Property Group Gets Green Light for Pedestrian Streetlights on 440 North 15th Street
A new ordinance gives homeowners along North 15th Street the option to illuminate sidewalks, but opponents warn it could lead to "strip mall" lighting that overwhelms the historic neighborhood's charm and character.
200388
Gojjo Incorporated Cleared to Bring Sidewalk Café to Bustling Baltimore Avenue Business District
West Philly Residents Voice Concerns as Council Considers Plan for More Bars on Washington Avenue Nightlife Strip. A proposed ordinance would expand the number of bars allowed along this crowded stretch by up to 20%.
200373
Outdoor Sidewalk Café Approved for North Delaware Avenue Business with Certain Conditions
This bill allows a specific business to build an outdoor sidewalk café at its location on North Delaware Avenue, with certain conditions and regulations.
200259
Hair Texture and Hairstyles Added to Protected Characteristics in Philadelphia's Fair Practices Ordinance
Philadelphia Renters to Face Stricter Eviction Laws, City Council Proposes Major Overhaul of Tenant Protection Policies The proposal would limit eviction notices from three days to 30 days for renters who fail to pay rent in full or face a late fee.
200252
Truck Parking Ban Set for Busy Musgrave Street Segment in Northeast Philadelphia Neighborhoods
This bill prohibits trucks from parking on Musgrave Street between East Price and East Haines Streets at any time.
200211
Walnut Street Theater Corporation gets permission to build overhang above its property at 815-23 Walnut Street.
The City Council granted permission to the Walnut Street Theater Corporation to build a small overhang above their property at 815-23 Walnut St, with certain terms and conditions.
200210
City Implements New Two-Hour Parking Limits Across Seven Neighborhoods Amid Congestion Concerns
Seven Philadelphia neighborhoods are getting a taste of citywide congestion relief as new two-hour parking limits take effect, forcing drivers to find alternative spots or face costly fines.
200209
No Parking on North 31st Street's East Side Between Jefferson and West Thompson Streets
Philadelphia drivers are in for a change: parking is now strictly prohibited along one busy North Philly street, sparking concerns about congestion and alternative routes. The new no-parking zone could impact thousands of commuters daily.
200187
City Council Approves Bike Lane Network for Southwest Philly Neighborhood Streets
Residents of West Philadelphia are gearing up for a new cycling infrastructure as city council votes to transform three major roads into dedicated bike lanes, prompting concerns about lost parking spots and alternative transit options.
200186
City Council Approves Bike Lane Expansion on South Philly Streets Amid Parking Rule Changes
South Philadelphia residents will soon have more options for getting around by bike as City Council approves a plan to convert several streets into dedicated bike lanes, but some worry about lost parking spots.
200185
Farmer's Market Given Green Light on Busy Ogontz Avenue in Northeast Philly Neighborhood
Northeast Philly Neighborhoods Reap Benefits as Council OKs Zoning Change for Large-Scale Food Truck Park at 13th and Market Streets.
200179
Trucks Prohibited from Certain Philadelphia Streets
This bill makes it illegal to park trucks on Belfield Avenue between North 20th Street and Wister Street, and Ogontz Avenue between West Somerville Avenue and Lindley Avenue at any time.
200163
Fair Housing Commission procedures clarified and authority expanded in new city law.
Fair housing advocates are celebrating a proposed overhaul of Philadelphia's Fair Housing Commission, which would give the agency more power to enforce anti-discrimination laws and better protect vulnerable renters and homeowners.
200159
Alterra Properties Clears Hurdles to Build New Ramp and Steps at Arch Street Property Site
Plan for 40-Story Tower in South Philly Moves Ahead Despite Resident Concerns Over Traffic and Parking. A proposed zoning change would allow developer Hargrave Companies to build the tower at Broad and Tasker streets, despite opposition from local residents who worry about overcrowding.
200158
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Philadelphia Issues Tax-Exempt or Taxable Bonds to Finance Water and Wastewater Projects
Philadelphia's crumbling infrastructure is set to get a $1 billion boost as city council approves plan to sell low-cost bonds for major upgrades to water and sewage systems, benefiting 2 million residents.
200600
City Council Seeks to Revamp Zoning Around 30th Street Station With New Residential Overlay District
Residents and businesses around 30th Street Station could see changes with new zoning rules that prioritize dense, mixed-income housing and allow more flexibility for developers. Under the proposed overlay district, several properties along Baltimore Avenue would be rezoned.
200602
City Council Greenlights $1 Billion Bond Sale for Water and Wastewater Projects Including Commercial Paper Program
Philadelphia homeowners will soon see an increase in their annual sewer bills to help fund long-overdue upgrades to the city's aging water infrastructure, sparking concerns about affordability for low-income residents.
200599
City Prohibits Use of 3D Printers in Firearms Manufacturing Amid Growing Public Safety Concerns
Philadelphia could become a national leader in restricting 3D-printed guns as city council takes aim at a loophole threatening public safety with a bill targeting manufacturers and sellers. The proposal aims to plug a potentially deadly gap in existing laws.
200593
Police Start Issuing Tickets With Clearer Notices For Key Violations Under New City Rules
Police are issuing clearer traffic violation notices, including for certain Vehicle Code infractions, under new city rules aimed at improving policing practices. The changes clarify noticings for key Commonwealth Vehicle Code violations.
200603
Philadelphia City Council Creates Haverford Village Overlay District Amid Zoning Map Overhaul in West Philly Neighborhoods
Homeowners along the 3700 block of Wallace Street could see their properties re-zoned under new rules governing development height and density, sparking debate over gentrification in West Philly's Haverford Village neighborhood.
200601
City Maps to Undergo Major Overhaul as Council Approves West Passyunk Avenue Infrastructure Revisions
This bill authorizes revisions to city maps and infrastructure along West Passyunk Avenue and nearby streets for intersection improvements and road expansions.
200596
Philadelphia Council Proposes New Zoning Law Allowing Big Logistics Centers Near Transport Hubs
Philadelphia City Council is proposing a new zoning district that would allow large logistics centers near transportation hubs, sparking debate over land use and development in the city.
200594
Council Seeks To Rewrite Zoning Maps For Neighborhood Along Wissahickon Avenue And Hunting Park Avenue Streets
This bill changes the zoning designation of certain areas in Philadelphia from one type to another, affecting a specific geographic area bounded by Wissahickon Avenue, Hunting Park Avenue, Fox Street, and Roberts Avenue.
200592
Philadelphia Newsstands Expand Vending Options, Allowing Snacks, Drinks, and Electronics Under New City Rules
Small Business Owners Get Relief as City Council Votes to Suspend Parking Ticket Fines for Low-Income Residents in Tax Abatement Areas The new measure freezes parking ticket fines for low-income Philadelphians living in tax abatement areas, a move advocates say will help struggling families avoid debt and penalties.
200591
City Contractors Must Disclose Workforce Diversity Under New Rules Mandated by Council Resolution
Contractors doing business with Philly must now reveal how many minority workers they hire under a new rule aimed at promoting diversity in the city's $1.5 billion construction industry. The move targets companies that have been criticized for lacking racial equity on site.
200590-A
City Contractors Must Disclose Demographic Data of Employees Working on Certain City Contracts
This bill requires City contractors and subcontractors to provide demographic information about their employees working on certain city contracts.
200589-A
City Contractors Must Disclose Past Experience and Demographic Data in Bidding Process
Small Business Owners Protest Proposed Rule Requiring Contractors to Hire Local Residents for City Projects City Council's proposed ordinance would mandate that construction companies working on municipal projects hire at least 25% of workers from Philadelphia neighborhoods, sparking concerns among business owners who fear added costs and bureaucratic hurdles.
200588-A
Philadelphia Voters to Decide Fate of Proposed Economic Opportunity Oversight Board Creation Next Year
Philadelphia voters will decide next year whether to create an independent Economic Opportunity Plan Oversight Board, which would oversee workforce diversity and disadvantaged business participation in city contracts and assistance. The creation of such a board has been proposed by City Council members.
200587
Northeast Philly Neighborhoods Get Zoning Overhaul as Council Proposes Land-Use Changes for Woodhaven Area
Philadelphia's Low-Income Renters Could See Relief with New Bill Prohibiting Rent Increases Beyond 3% Annually in Certain Neighborhoods, a move aimed at curbing displacement and gentrification.
200604
City Plan Changes Unveiled Allowing Removal of Drainage Easement Along Former Hartranft Street Extension
Philadelphia's Minimum Wage Could Soon Match City's Living Wage, Boosting Pay for Thousands of Low-Income Workers, Under New Council Proposal
200598
Four Philadelphia Streets to be Repaved Under New City Ordinance
This bill authorizes the paving of four streets in Philadelphia: Frances Harper Drive, Pollock Street, Schuylkill Avenue, and Forten Way.
200597
Philadelphia Maps Get Major Makeover as Council Approves New Road Names and Layouts
This bill revises city maps to reflect new road layouts and names in certain neighborhoods.
200595