Weekly recap
This week in Council
September 17 to September 23, 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
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Council Approves 100 Million Dollar Neighborhood Preservation Initiative with Immediate Funding Allocations
Philadelphia homeowners face new tax relief as City Council votes to freeze property assessments for low-income residents, potentially saving thousands from hefty annual hikes.
210681
City Council Tries to Tame Skyline with New Height Limits for Benjamin Franklin Parkway Area
A proposed law aimed at preserving the iconic skyline views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway would cap new buildings at 75 feet, sparking debate among developers and preservationists over the impact on Philadelphia's architecture.
210742
Philadelphia Schools Mandate Regular Safety Inspections as Council Votes to Boost Educational Building Codes
Philadelphia Tenants Could Face Stiffer Fines, Eviction for Rent-Related Code Violations Under New City Council Proposal Under the plan, landlords who fail to address code issues could face increased penalties, including steeper fines and more expedited eviction proceedings, impacting thousands of tenants citywide.
210685-AA
Business Owners Face Tougher Fines and Expanded Liability Under New Responsible Business Operations Rules
Business owners in Philadelphia face increased fines and expanded liability under new rules governing responsible business operations, including revised definitions of nuisance behavior and expanded mitigation measures. The updated regulations will require businesses to take more steps to prevent disruptions.
210674
Two-Hour Parking Limits Established in Four Philadelphia Street Intersections
Resident complaints about parking congestion are sparking a sudden shift on four busy Philly streets, where drivers will now face two-hour time limits to park in an effort to ease congestion for neighbors.
210746
Zoning Change Takes Effect in Specific Philadelphia Neighborhood Bounded by Germania and Linden Avenues
This bill changes the zoning in a specific area of Philadelphia from residential to commercial/mixed-use.
210744
City Council Votes to Temporarily Swap Zoning Maps in Northwest Philly Neighborhood for Two-Year Trial Period
Northwest Philadelphia residents face temporary zoning changes as City Council votes to swap maps for two-year trial period, March 31, 2024 through April 1, 2026. The area affected is bounded by 20th Street, Arch Street, Cuthbert Street, and 21st Street.
210741
Philadelphia Mandates Licenses for Mechanical Contractors Amid Overhaul of Trade Licensing Laws
This bill requires Mechanical System Contractors to be licensed and modifies the licensing requirements for Sheet Metal Systems Technicians in Philadelphia.
210740-A
Council proposes ban on tractor trailers from parking on Philadelphia streets
City Council bans tractor trailers from parking on public streets in Philadelphia without penalty. Tractor trailer owners will be required to pay for towing if parked illegally.
210691
Zoning Map Overhaul Underway in Northeast Philly as Council Approves Broad Street Land-Use Changes
This bill changes the zoning maps for a specific area bounded by Old York Road, Broad Street, and 65th Avenue to reflect new zoning designations.
210689
Center City Business Owners Face New Parking Rules as Council Debates Zoning Changes Overnight
Center City business owners must comply with new parking and loading requirements as City Council debates zoning changes to the Center City Overlay District. The regulations primarily affect specific areas within the district, as outlined in a summary table.
210688
Zoning Changes to Take Effect in Neighborhood Bound by Walnut, 9th, Locust, and 10th Streets
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps to change the zoning designation of certain areas in Center City.
210686
Philadelphia Continues Issuing "Gas Works Revenue Notes" to Finance City's Gas Projects
Philadelphia is tapping into a multi-million dollar funding source, issuing more "Gas Works Revenue Notes" to bankroll new gas infrastructure and repairs, with up to $150 million available for projects across the city.
210684
Philadelphia Hotel Owners Hit with New Fees as Council Extends Tourism Improvement District
Philadelphia's Fair Share of Tax Revenue at Stake in City Budget Battle Mayor's proposed budget plan would shift millions from city's general fund to new "public safety" kitty, sparking concerns among some council members that community programs and social services are being shortchanged.
210683
Citizens Police Oversight Commission Appointment Qualifications Revised Under Signed Law
Community advocates celebrate as city council votes to put outsiders in charge of policing; new rules bar cops from serving on oversight board, giving way to residents with a history of community work.
210680
Vending Allowed on Parts of 49th Street as City Council Passes New Rules for Street Vendors
Philadelphia Residents May Soon Be Able to Sell Food Outdoors Without a Permit Under Proposed City Council Legislation Aiming to Streamline Regulations for Street Vendors and Home-Based Businesses
210679
City Contractors Must Post Demolition Notices, Warn Neighbors Before Bringing Down Buildings
Families in row homes will be protected from surprise explosions under new legislation that forces demolition companies to alert neighbors with bright orange notices and timely warnings at least 10 days before leveling a building.
210677
Sidewalk Parking Fines to Double to $300 Under New City Ordinance
Philadelphia's busy business districts will soon see a significant spike in enforcement against drivers who park on sidewalks, a move aimed at keeping pedestrians safe as fine hikes take effect next month. Drivers of commercial trucks face stiff penalties under new regulations, with repeat offenders risking $5,000 fines and vehicle seizures if they block bike lanes or pedestrian zones downtown.
210675
City Orders Property Owners to Report and Maintain Private Water Lines After Conversion
City property owners must report and maintain their water, sewer, and stormwater lines after conversion to public ownership under new regulations set forth in Chapter 13-700.
210673
City Bans Selling, Storing Motor Vehicles on Streets, Increases Fines
Philadelphia's Streets Department will begin issuing stricter penalties, including increased fines up to $1,000, targeting vehicle owners who obstruct sidewalks with their cars, starting next month. Homeowners in densely populated neighborhoods will be most affected by the new enforcement.
210672
Philadelphia City Council Approves Zoning Board of Adjustment Expansion Plan
A proposed overhaul of Philadelphia's zoning process would give more power to community groups and require that applicants demonstrate a clear plan to benefit local residents when seeking variances. Under the proposal, developers seeking exceptions to city rules would be required to hold public hearings within 30 days or face penalties.
210669
Strawberry Mansion NCO Zone Expansion Takes Shape on Lehigh Avenue and Surrounding Streets
A proposed zoning change would bring new development guidelines to a longer stretch of Lehigh Avenue and nearby side streets in Strawberry Mansion, potentially altering the look and feel of the neighborhood for dozens of property owners.
210668
Fifth District Overlay District Limits Developer Bonuses Under Certain Conditions
Neighborhood residents are breathing a sigh of relief as proposed changes to Fifth District zoning laws would ban lucrative developer bonuses, but small-scale builders might still reap rewards with new exceptions.
210667
Parking Limit Set on South 13th Street Between Oregon Avenue and Johnston Street
This bill establishes a 2-hour parking limit from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM, Monday through Friday on the west side of South 13th Street between Oregon Avenue and Johnston Street.
210745
City Takes Control: Philadelphia to Acquire Private Water, Sewer Lines in Portion of Frankford Neighborhood
City Council bill would transfer ownership of water, sewer lines on Wells Street in Frankford from private companies to the city through agreements with property owners. The Water Commissioner would oversee the transfer under specific terms and conditions.
210676
Funeral Homes Ordered to Warn Heirs on Transferring Deceased Loved Ones' Property Titles
A new city rule will soon require funeral directors to advise grieving families about navigating the complex process of transferring their loved ones' property deeds, a potentially daunting task for those who have never done it before.
210671-A
Restaurants Feel Pinch as City Tightens Leash on Delivery Service Fees Again
This bill amends Philadelphia's law on food delivery services to limit fees charged to restaurants.
210670
Council Renews Effort to Rename North Philly Playground After Four Lives Lost in Tragic Venango Street Incident
Tragedy on Venango Street: Council Seeks Name Change for North Philly Playground, Would Honor Four Lives Lost in Shocking Accident Five Years Ago.
210743
Bryan Street Becomes One-Way Northbound from West Mount Pleasant Avenue to Allens Lane
Motorists on Bryan Street face a major change today as the city's traffic flow is reversed, with all northbound traffic now forced onto the one-way street from Mount Pleasant Avenue to Allens Lane.
210690
Trenton Avenue Corridor Lands Zoning Change Sent to City Council for Consideration
A zoning overhaul is coming to the heart of Northeast Philly: the Trenton Avenue Corridor could soon welcome more bars, restaurants, and shops, but also face increased pressure to address overcrowding and parking woes for residents.
210687
City Treasurer Gets Green Light to Revise Payroll Banking Deal with Citizens Bank of PA
Philadelphia City Council Votes Down Proposed Tax on Empty Storefronts Downtown The bill would have charged property owners up to $2,000 annually for vacant commercial spaces, but was defeated after complaints from small business owners and community groups.
210682
City Takes Aim at Parked Cars Along Allens Lane with New Summer Parking Restrictions
This bill establishes parking regulations on Allens Lane between Wissahickon Avenue and Orwell Road, prohibiting parking from April to October between 8am and 6pm.
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