Weekly recap
This week in Council
November 11 to November 17, 2022
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
Parking Restrictions Imposed on Philadelphia Streets Around Famed Landmarks
Small Businesses on South Street Fear Overly Restrictive Zoning Changes; City Council's proposed bill would limit storefront signage, citing aesthetic concerns but sparking worries about viability among long-time business owners.
220831
Parking Restrictions Established on Several Philadelphia Streets
This bill establishes parking regulations for specific streets in Philadelphia, including time limits and days of enforcement.
220830
Trucks Banned from Parking on Marlyn Road between Jefferson Street and Lebanon Avenue
Resident Concerns Spark Action: City Council Votes to Ban Overnight Truck Parking on Roosevelt Boulevard, Citing Noise and Safety Complaints. Under the new measure, big rigs are now prohibited from idling for more than 15 minutes in certain areas after midnight.
220812
Planter Permit Proposed for 3542 Calumet Street After Months of Backroom Negotiations
Rooftop Restaurant Expansion Stalls as Council Holds Up Approval for Proposed 10th Floor Eatery on Market Street A contentious plan to add an upscale restaurant to the rooftop of a Market Street building has hit a snag in City Hall.
220811
Truck Parking Ban Takes Effect on Philmont Avenue Amid Concerns Over Neighborhood Safety and Traffic Congestion
Drivers who own big rigs may soon have fewer spots to park in Northeast Philly as a new ban takes aim at traffic congestion and safety concerns on Philmont Avenue's commercial strip. Truck owners are speaking out against the measure, calling it an overreach.
220778
Trucks Banned from Parking on Pine Road at Night Amid Resident Complaints of Noise and Congestion
This bill prohibits trucks from parking on Pine Road between Bloomfield Avenue and Shady Lane from 6pm to 6am.
220777
City Council OKs One-Way Traffic Plan for Busy Gorgas Lane Section
A stretch of West Philadelphia's Gorgas Lane is about to become a one-way street, as the City Council voted in favor of a plan that will redirect heavy afternoon traffic.
220774
Trucks Banned from Parking on Both Sides of N. 75th Street in NE Philly Neighborhood Streets
This bill prohibits trucks from parking on both sides of N.
220773
City Set to Revamp Maps and Shutter Naudain Street Segment Between 15th and Eastern Terminus
Philadelphia's streetscape is in for a refresh as Council members consider a proposal to wipe Naudain Street off the map, effectively shutting down the segment between 15th and Eastern. Homeowners along that stretch will soon face major changes.
220772
Council Clears Path for Water Main Removal on North Side of Hartranft Street Near 17th Street
This bill allows a specific right-of-way reserved for water and gas mains to be removed from City Plan No.
220771
Philadelphia Allows Large Scale Animal Husbandry Operations to Move Forward at 3400 Reservoir Drive Location
A long-stalled project to establish large-scale horse and cattle operations at the old SEPTA facility is back on track after city council members voted to lift zoning restrictions for the 3400 Reservoir Drive site. The move will allow a major agricultural venture to break ground.
220769
City Plotting Utility Right-of-Way Near West Crown Avenue Intersection Moves Forward Slowly Amid Conditions
Utility companies inch closer to securing a coveted right-of-way near a busy NW Philadelphia intersection, but local residents still await word on whether their private properties will be impacted by the change.
220741
Sharswood and Harlan Streets in West Philly Set for Major Overhaul Amid City Plan Revision
Philadelphia's Aging Water Infrastructure Gets a Boost as Council Passes Bill Requiring Regular Inspections and Faster Repairs, Ensuring Safer Drinking Water for City Residents. Council Members Unite to Protect Philly's Low-Income Homeowners from Rising Utility Bills, Introducing Measure to Cap Annual Increases at 2%.
220735
Trucks Banned from Parking Near Rec Centers Libraries Parks Schools in Northeast Philadelphia's 4th Council District
Under New Bill, Philly Restaurant Owners Would Pay More for Trash Collection Amid Growing Concerns Over Public Health and Litter A proposed bill would double trash collection fees for restaurants across Philadelphia, targeting businesses that generate the most waste as city officials seek to reduce litter and improve public health.
220663
City Council Votes to Create New Zoning District for Affordable Housing in North Philly Neighborhoods
North Philadelphians could soon see more affordable housing options as City Council proposes new zoning rules limiting building heights in certain neighborhoods to preserve community character and prevent gentrification. The proposed overlay would target six North Philly zip codes.
220662-A
Yorktown Neighborhood Overlay District Created with Height and Roof Deck Regulations
This bill creates a new neighborhood overlay district in Yorktown, imposing specific height and roof deck regulations to preserve the area's character.
220661
North Philly Neighborhood Set to Get New Zoning Rules to Guide Development of Historic Village Area
Low-Income Families Face Rent Increases Under Proposed Bill to Raise Minimum Wage Requirement for Philly Landlords to Hire Workers A new city council measure would require landlords to pay their workers at least $18 an hour, a move that could increase costs for low-income renters and exacerbate Philadelphia's housing affordability crisis.
220658-A
Trucks Prohibited on Morrell Avenue Under New City Ordinance
This bill establishes a 'no truck parking' regulation on Morrell Avenue in Philadelphia, prohibiting trucks from parking at any time and making it a tow-away zone.
220637
North Philly Aims to Shine with New Business Improvement District on Bustling North Broad Street
A proposed business district on North Broad Street could bring a brighter future to the area's struggling small businesses and residents, who would see their property taxes increase to pay for upgrades.
220634
Truck parking banned on both sides of Columbia Avenue between 59th and 60th Streets.
This bill prohibits truck parking on both sides of Columbia Avenue between 59th and 60th Streets.
220580
Trucks Prohibited from Parking on Woodbine Avenue Between 76th and 77th Streets
Residential residents along Woodbine Avenue are rejoicing as a new law bans truck parking in the neighborhood, citing noise complaints and safety concerns after a string of near-misses with pedestrians and cyclists.
220579
City Council Votes to Close Unused Stretch of Krewstown Road Following Community Requests for Action
This bill allows the city to vacate a portion of Krewstown Road that is not used by traffic and has been requested by abutting property owners.
220454
Philadelphia Council Votes to Overhaul Zoning Laws with Stricter Height Limits and Parking Requirements
Low-Rise Revival: Council Proposes Stricter Height Limits for Philly Neighborhoods, Limiting Skyscrapers like the proposed 58-story tower on Broad Street's edge, which has sparked community debate since its announcement.
220418
Philadelphia Introduces Parking Restrictions Across South Philly Neighborhoods to Reduce Congestion and Boost Enforcement
This bill establishes parking regulations in specific areas of Philadelphia, including two-hour time limits and restricted parking permit (RPP) exemptions.
220383
Philadelphia Tightens Contractor Parking Permits with New Rules and Fees
Philadelphia Homeowners Rejoice as City Council Passes Bill Capping Rent Hikes at 5%, Protecting Tenants from Exorbitant Increases Amid Housing Crisis This bill updates the rules for rent increases in Philadelphia, capping annual hikes at 5% to shield tenants from rapid cost-of-living burdens and provide relief during a housing crisis.
210928
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
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Philadelphia Law Mandates Documentation for Vehicle Salvage and Repair Businesses
Auto thieves beware: Philadelphia City Council is taking aim at their lucrative trade with a new law mandating proof of business licenses and stiffening penalties for stolen catalytic converter thieves targeting Philly's cars.
220923-A
Philadelphia Council Moves to Shield Affordable Housing from Displacement Amid Rising Neighborhood Amenities
This bill amends zoning laws to protect affordable housing in areas with easy access to amenities like healthcare and education.
220921
Semitrailers Banned from Sixth Council District Streets to Reduce Traffic Hazards
Residents of South Philly's Fiumara Park Neighborhood Scramble to Save Their Community Garden from Proposed Zoning Change The proposed zoning amendment would eliminate the community garden's non-conforming use designation, forcing its closure unless a new home can be found within 500 feet.
220922
Zoning Map Overhaul: Certain Neighborhood Areas Set for Development Changes Along Henry Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard
Henry Avenue Businesses Face Uncertainty as Proposed Zoning Shifts Could Bring New High-Rise Developments, Displacing Longtime Owners; Residents Concerned About Overcrowding and Increased Traffic.
220919
City Council Moves to Rewrite Rules for Troubled Cobbs Creek Golf Course Property
Developers may soon be able to build high-end homes and shops on the historic Cobbs Creek Golf Course, but critics warn it could displace long-time residents and small businesses that have been priced out by gentrification efforts.
220918-AA
Zoning Maps Overhauled in West Philly as Council OKs New Land Designations and Park Utility Permits
Philadelphia's West Philly neighborhoods are set for a makeover as city council passes measures that redraw zoning maps and pave the way for park renovations along City Avenue. Homeowners and developers can expect changes to property boundaries and new development opportunities.
220917
City Council Tackles Wissahickon Avenue Zoning Rewrite Amid Calls for Community Input on Parks Development
Wissahickon Avenue area zoning designations are set to change as part of a Philadelphia Zoning Maps amendment, while also permitting Basic Utilities and Services in a section of Fairmount Park.
220916
Larger Fences Coming to Philly Water Plants and Sports Fields Amid Zoning Overhaul
This bill makes changes to Philadelphia's zoning laws and regulations related to utilities and services, specifically allowing for larger fences around water treatment facilities and athletics fields.
220915
Strawberry Mansion Residents Told What New Facades Must Look Like on Revamped Row Homes
Philadelphia's Historic Preservation Commission unveils strict guidelines for facelifts on century-old row homes, sparking debate among residents over preservation vs. progress in Strawberry Mansion's oldest streets.
220913
City Introduces Revised Civil Service Residence Rule
New city employees must now establish their residence in Philadelphia within six months of starting work, no longer requiring a one-year residency history before being hired through civil service.
220912
Council proposes renaming stretch of Langley Avenue to League Island Boulevard.
Langley Avenue's stretch near South Broad Street is set for a historic name change to League Island Boulevard in a gradual shift. The renaming will affect the road from South 26th Street to South Broad Street under certain terms and conditions.
220920
City Council Renames Hillside Recreation Center to Honor Beloved Coach and Community Leader Lonnie Cohen
Philadelphia homeowners face higher tax bills under proposed new assessment system that would see median home values jump by nearly $50,000 over three years, sparking concerns about affordability.
220914