Weekly recap
This week in Council
June 18 to June 24, 2021
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
Robots Invade Philly Streets as Council Seeks Tighter Reins on Personal Delivery Device Operators
Philadelphia's streets could become a minefield for careless delivery robots under new proposals that would impose strict liability on companies whose devices cause accidents or damage property.
210509
City Treasurer Authorized to Enter Agreement with Citizens Bank for Payroll Banking Services
Philadelphia's thousands of municipal workers will soon be able to manage their paychecks through online banking thanks to a new partnership between the city and Citizens Bank, cutting down on paper checks and trips to the bank.
210508-A
City Agrees to Extend Contract with MarketPlace PHL at Philadelphia International Airport for Food and Services Management
Airport travelers will continue to find options for dining and shopping as City officials greenlight a three-year extension of MarketPlace PHL's lucrative contract with modifications that benefit both the company and taxpayers.
210505
Council Passes Bill to Reconfigure City Plan 167 for Gas Main and Utility Infrastructure
Philadelphia's Zoning Code Gets Overhauled with Emphasis on Affordable Housing, Small Businesses to Get Boost from New Regulations.
210504
City Council Votes to Lower Evening Curfew Hours for Minors Across Philadelphia Neighborhoods
Minors in Philly will be able to stay out later under a new proposal that lowers the evening curfew from 10pm to 12:30am, but some community leaders say it's too lenient.
210503
North 13th Street Bicycle Lane Designation Signed into Law
This bill adds North 13th Street between Spring Garden and Green Streets to Philadelphia's designated bicycle lanes.
210502
Prevailing Wage Rules Expanded for Recipients of Charity Water Rates and Charges in Philadelphia
Low-income Philadelphians who rely on the city's charity water rates will soon earn at least $13 an hour on city-funded projects, a minimum wage increase aimed at leveling the playing field with private sector workers.
210500
Zoning designations changed in Philadelphia area bounded by Broad Street and Hunting Park Avenue.
This bill changes the zoning classifications for certain areas of Philadelphia, updating the zoning maps to reflect new designations within a specific area bounded by several streets.
210484
Neighborhood Bound by Allegheny Avenue and Surrounding Streets to Get New Zoning Rules
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land within a specific neighborhood bounded by Allegheny Avenue, Collins Street, Westmoreland Street, and Tulip Street.
210483
City Council Unveils Zoning Plan to Tame Heliports Over TJU Hospital Skies
Residents Living Along Elverson Avenue Fear New High-Rise Development A proposed zoning change would allow for taller buildings on that street, sparking concerns among residents who worry it will exacerbate existing traffic and parking woes in the neighborhood.
210482-A
Civic Center Area Zoning Map Changes Signed into Law
This bill amends Philadelphia's Zoning Maps to change the zoning designations for areas bounded by Civic Center Boulevard, University Avenue, Spruce Street, and 34th Street.
210480
University of Pennsylvania Moves Forward with Plans to Build on Historic Landmark Site along Chestnut Street
This bill amends the Master Plan for the University of Pennsylvania by approving a new building addition at 3317-33 Chestnut Street.
210479
Christian Street Properties Placed Under Temporary Demolition Freeze Amid Historic Preservation Review Efforts Begin
Neighbors of Christian Street Voice Concerns Over Proposed Condo Development That Would Replace Iconic Local Businesses A new proposal would transform a strip mall into upscale condos, sparking worries from longtime residents and owners of nearby bars and restaurants about displacement and gentrification in the South Philly neighborhood.
210473
Philadelphia's Permit Parking District 16 Boundaries Adjusted to New Locations in City
Residents along a 1.2-mile stretch of Broad Street are about to face stricter parking rules as Permit Parking District 16 expands, requiring thousands of new permits from drivers who once had free reign. Those without permits will now risk hefty fines.
210472
Parking Permitted on Ridge Avenue Property Under Certain Terms and Conditions
Philadelphia City Council Votes to Lift Parking Restrictions on Two Ridge Avenue Properties, But Advocates Warn of Long-Term Impact on Neighborhood Traffic and Safety.
210471
Market Street Digital Signs Get New Rules Amid Concerns Over Visual Clutter and Neighborhood Character
This bill amends sign regulations for digital display signs in a specific area of Philadelphia near Market Street, allowing for certain exemptions and restrictions.
210470
Council Proposes Zoning Overhaul for North Central Philly Areas Subarea B and C
This City Council bill amends zoning regulations for two specific areas in North Central Philadelphia (Subarea B and Subarea C).
210469
City Council Votes to Rezone Historic North Philly Neighborhood along Cecil B. Moore Avenue
Property owners on Cecil B. Moore Avenue are facing a potential windfall as City Council votes to allow mixed-use development in long-dormant lots; advocates say it's a boost for local businesses.
210467
City Hall Acts to Create New Overlay District Along Girard Avenue Amid Plans for Major Redevelopment Efforts
Riders on SEPTA's Route 11 bus may see fewer stops as City Council votes to eliminate five trolley stops along Market Street in an effort to speed up travel times during peak hours. Philadelphia small business owners could face stricter regulations under a new bill aimed at reducing litter and maintaining storefront appearances.
210468
Council Proposes Steep Fines for Litterbugs and Refuse Offenders Under New City Law
Small Business Owners May Face Big Fines: Proposed Law Would Raise Penalties for Commercial Littering from $500 to as much as $2,000, Putting Stricter Regulations on Large Companies and Restaurants.
210451
Council Tweaks Zoning Rules Allowing Larger Homes in Residential Neighborhoods Throughout The City
Philadelphia Homeowners May Soon Be Able to Build Bigger Backyards as Council Considers Loosening Restrictions on Single-Family Homes in Residential Zoning Districts Across the City.
210449
Council Approves Measure Easing Zoning Rules for Owners of Historic Properties Across Philadelphia
This bill amends zoning laws to make it easier for owners of historically designated properties in certain areas to use their land without needing special approvals.
210446
Philadelphia's Zoning Code Revised to Streamline Overlay Districts in Wynnefield, Overbrook Park and Allegheny West
Councilwoman Jamie Gauthier introduces zoning reform targeting 18 neighborhoods where small business owners may soon face new regulations on signage, parking, and building modifications. Her bill aims to balance preservation with economic growth.
210445
Philadelphia Hiring Entities Must Provide Workforce and Career Pathways Information to Job Seekers
Low-Income Families May Get Help with Home Repairs Under Proposed Council Measure The measure would establish a city program offering financial assistance and resources for low-income homeowners to fix up their homes, aiming to stabilize neighborhoods and boost property values.
210443
Contractors working with City must pay prevailing wages to employees on certain projects
Low-Income Philly Residents Face Rent Increases Under New Bill Allowing Major Commercial Developments in Residential Neighborhoods
210421-A
Philadelphia Council Seeks Zoning Changes for Overbrook Farms Office and Financial Services Expansion
Developers are pushing to transform 30 underutilized parcels in Overbrook Farms into bustling hubs for finance and tech companies, sparking concerns about parking, traffic, and community character. Residents say the changes would overwhelm a neighborhood known for its quaint charm.
210361
Landlords Must Be Transparent With Prospective Tenants Under New City Screening Rules
Philadelphia Small Businesses Hit Hard by Proposed Parking Reform Ordinance A new city law would eliminate free parking for drivers along major commercial corridors, shifting costs to businesses that rely on customer traffic to stay afloat.
210330-A
Landlords Ordered to Clearly Spell Out Rental Application Rules for Prospective Tenants
Philadelphia Landlords Must Reveal Hidden Fees, Credit Score Requirements in Plain Sight Under New Law; Failing to Comply Could Result in Hefty Fines for Property Owners and Rental Agencies.
210329-A
Truck Parking Ban Takes Hold on Saint Vincent Street Between Sackett and Hawthorne Streets
Philadelphia drivers can expect a major disruption as a new no-parking policy for large trucks kicks in, forcing overnight deliveries to find alternative routes along a busy stretch of Saint Vincent Street starting immediately.
210327
Sackett Street Truck Parking Ban Takes Effect, Tow-Away Zone Established from Cottman to Ryan Avenues
This bill prohibits truck parking and establishes a tow-away zone on both sides of Sackett Street between Cottman Avenue and Ryan Avenue.
210326
City Employees Who Contracted COVID-19 on the Job Eligible for Service-Connected Death Benefits
Philadelphia is set to provide new protections for its frontline workers, with a proposed law streamlining death benefits for city employees who lost their lives battling COVID-19 on the job during the pandemic. Families of fallen workers can now expect faster access to financial support.
210325
Council Weighs Overhaul of Philly Wage Tax Rates Amid Calls for Relief from Burdensome Tax Bite
Philadelphia Small Business Owners Push Back Against Proposed New Fees on Delivery and Food Service Firms as Council Debates Fair Share Tax Bill The measure would impose a new annual fee of $1 per delivery or takeout order on companies like UberEats and GrubHub, sparking concerns over increased costs for consumers.
210324
City Council Approves 2022 Operating Budget with New Allocations for City Departments and Services
Philadelphians can expect longer hours at rec centers and a bigger police presence in neighborhoods under the new city budget, which pours millions into community programs and public safety initiatives tonight.
210322
Philadelphia Allocates $3.061 Billion for Capital Projects in Fiscal Year 2022 Budget
A record-breaking budget for city capital projects is headed to the mayor's desk after a unanimous vote by City Council today, earmarking over $3 billion for everything from street repairs to new libraries.
210321
Philadelphia City Council Unveils Massive 6-Year Infrastructure Plan with $9.4 Billion in Upgrades
A proposed law would force the city to repair over 1,000 potholed streets within three years, a stark departure from current maintenance schedules that allow some roads to go unrepaired for up to seven years.
210320
Olive Street Sewer Construction Project Gets Greenlight with New Public Sewer Service Funding
This bill authorizes the Procurement Commissioner to enter into a contract for a new sewer construction project on Olive Street.
210280
Low-Income Philadelphia Residents Exempt from First Vehicle Parking Permit Fees
Low-income Philadelphia residents in designated neighborhoods can breathe a sigh of relief - no more paying up to $200 annually for parking permits, but those with multiple vehicles will still have to pay.
200712
Resident Parking Permit Rules Tightened for Multi-Family Households in Permit Parking District 38
Non-Profit Organizations Could Soon Get Tax Breaks on Unoccupied Lots Amid City Council's Proposed Zoning Overhaul Philadelphia's zoning code would be updated to allow non-profits to convert vacant lots into affordable housing and community spaces, potentially boosting development in underserved neighborhoods.
200711
City Council Votes to Redraw Permit Parking Map with New District Added and Boundaries Shifted Again
This bill amends the permit parking district boundaries in Philadelphia and establishes a new district (District 39).
200710
Philadelphia Police To Continue Using Tasers Under New Agreement with Axon Enterprises
Council Approves Deal Allowing Philly Cops to Keep Tasers, But With Stricter Controls on Use Amid Rising Complaints of Excessive Force Against Unarmed Citizens.
200655
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Philadelphia Police to Use Video Evidence to Support Traffic Ticket Issuances
Philadelphia City Council Proposes Overhaul of Rent Stabilization Laws, Capping Annual Rent Increases at 2% for Low-Income Tenants, a move expected to shield hundreds from price hikes.
210636-A
Philadelphia Council Votes to Create New Zoning Law for Affordable Housing in Select Neighborhoods
This bill amends Philadelphia's zoning laws to create a new 'Mixed Income Neighborhoods Overlay District' (MIN).
210633-A
Philly Police Must Record, Report Details of Vehicle Stops Under New City Code
Philadelphia Homeless Population Could See Relief with New Measure to Streamline Emergency Shelters and Services City Council is set to vote on legislation aimed at addressing chronic homelessness by requiring coordinated intake systems for shelters and services across the city.
210635
City Council Mandates Hiring Locals on Big Construction Jobs Under New Charter Amendment Proposal
Philadelphia contractors would be required to hire at least 50% of their workforce from city residents on construction projects valued over $100,000 under proposed charter amendment. Council President Clarke and Councilmember Parker are sponsoring the measure.
210630
South Philly Zoning Overhaul Unveiled: New Overlay District to Spur Mixed-Use Development in the Area
This bill rezones a specific area of South Philadelphia and creates an overlay district to allow for more mixed-use development with affordable housing.
210638
Council Proposes Easing Parking Rules For Historic Philly Buildings Amid Growing Concerns Over Space and Accessibility
Historic Philly homes may soon have more flexibility to adapt to modern living as city council considers relaxing parking rules, potentially freeing up space for apartments and reducing congestion in densely populated neighborhoods.
210637
Philadelphia Boosts Small Business Credit Amid Concerns Over Mistracked Minority Outfits Hurt By Inaccurate Counts
This bill clarifies how businesses owned by minorities, women, and people with disabilities (M/W/DSBE) are counted in Philadelphia's Economic Opportunity Plans.
210632
City Council Cracks Open Pipeline Secrecy Law Demands Water Sewer Line Ownership Revealed Before Home Sales Finalized
Home sellers in Philadelphia will be required to disclose who owns the city's water and sewer lines on their property before a sale is finalized, under a new city law. This change aims to shed light on often opaque pipeline ownership structures.
210631
Council proposed stricter parking rules for Automobile Repair & Care Shops.
Philadelphia automotive repair shops are banned from parking service vehicles on public streets unless they have permission to do so. Shops that ignore the rule will have to pay for towing their vehicles.
210639
Philadelphia Closes Nicholas and Turner Streets for Utility Infrastructure Upgrade
Philadelphia Residents May Soon Face Parking Perils as City Council Votes to Eliminate Overnight Street Parking on Certain Blocks Council Approves Measure to Limit Access to Some Parks During Evening Hours to Combat Crime and Vandalism
210629
University Of Pennsylvania Expands West Philadelphia Campus With New Land Use Proposal Unveiled
Big changes are coming to West Philly as plans emerge for a sprawling expansion of the University of Pennsylvania's campus, set to bring thousands of new students and faculty to the already densely populated neighborhood.
210634