Weekly recap
This week in Council
October 27 to November 2, 2023
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
Council Extends Deadline for Convention Avenue Work Until 2025 Amid Ongoing Infrastructure Projects
This bill extends the deadline for completing work on Convention Avenue and accepting grant funds from May 22, 2023 to May 22, 2025.
230652
City Council Axes Zoning Rules for Neighborhood Bounded by Arch, 50th, and Market Streets
Residents along the historic Avenue of the Arts may soon see a surge in new developments as City Council votes to relax zoning restrictions, paving the way for higher-density buildings and taller skyscrapers. The changes target areas near iconic landmarks like City Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
230650
Authority Seeks Control of Strawberry Mansion Properties for Proposed Housing Development Project Underway
Strawberry Mansion residents fear displacement as Philly Housing Authority targets 25 homes and vacant lots for proposed $15 million redevelopment that could boost neighborhood's affordable housing stock.
230630
Zoning Shifts Coming to Northeast Philly Neighborhood Bounded by Herman and Germantown Avenues
This bill changes the zoning designations of certain areas of land in Philadelphia within an area bounded by Herman Street, Baynton Street, Walnut Lane, and Germantown Avenue.
230629
Old City Business Boost Plan Clears Council Approval After Months of Negotiation
This bill approves a new plan and budget for the Old City Special Services District of Philadelphia.
230628
City Council Set to Revamp Zoning Maps for Neighborhoods Along Delaware Expressway
This bill changes the zoning designations in a specific area of Philadelphia bounded by George Street, 2nd Street, Laurel Street, the Delaware Expressway, Spring Garden Street, and 3rd Street.
230627
Sansom Street Buildings Face Zoning Overhaul as Council Tackles Bulk and Massing Controls Changes
This bill updates zoning regulations for two commercial districts (CMX-4 and CMX-5) in Philadelphia, specifically affecting buildings along Sansom Street between Front Street and the Schuylkill River.
230626
City Council Proposes Rezoning Land Along Germantown Avenue from Allegheny to Rittenhouse Streets
Small business owners along Germantown Avenue are facing uncertain futures as City Council debates rezoning plans that could bring in big-box stores and displace long-time eateries and shops. Neighborhood residents worry about losing their community character.
230585
Temporary Demolition Moratorium Established in Wissahickon Historic District Area
This bill creates a temporary moratorium on demolishing buildings in the Wissahickon Historic District, which is bounded by Ridge Avenue, Rochelle Avenue, Vicaris Street, and Hermit Street.
230578
City Set to Rezone Lex Street as Council Approves Vacation of Portion Along Thompson Street
This bill allows for a change to the City Plan by vacating (removing) a portion of Lex Street from the map and releasing the city from any liability related to this change.
230575
Zoning Maps Overhauled as City Council Votes to Redraw Boundaries Along Mayfield Street Corridor
This bill changes the zoning classifications of certain areas in Philadelphia from one map to another, which will affect how properties can be used within those areas.
230547
Council Approves New Salary Plan for City Officials Based on Annual Compensation Standards
City Hall Shake-Up: New Measure Would Cut Parking Privileges for Elected Officials, Focusing on Public Transit Instead This reform aims to promote sustainable transportation habits among Philadelphia's leaders, who currently get free parking in city garages and lots.
200253-A
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Unveils Expanded Traffic Calming Plan for Senior Housing and Schools Throughout Philadelphia Neighborhoods
Philadelphia Residents May Face Higher Fees for Water and Sewer Bills Under Proposed Rate Increase, Affecting Over 600,000 City Customers. The plan would raise the average water bill by $15 per month, with low-income households potentially seeing larger increases as the city seeks to address aging infrastructure costs.
230784
City Council OKs Emergency Budget Shifts as FY23 Shortfalls Loom Large Across Multiple Departments
Philadelphia's 911 Call Takers Set to Get a Pay Raise, But Some Fear New Minimum Wage Could Spark Resignations Amid Staff Shortages. The council bill aims to boost starting wages for EMTs and call takers by $2 an hour, but critics warn it may drive away some of the city's already scarce emergency responders.
230768
City Approves Plan for Business Boosts and Fees in Bustling South Street Headhouse District
This bill approves a plan for business improvements and administrative services in the South Street/Headhouse area of Philadelphia, with estimated costs and proposed method of assessment.
230783
City Council Approves Zoning Overhaul in Sharswood Neighborhood Near Temple University
This bill changes the zoning classifications for some properties in a specific area bounded by Clearfield Street, Witte Street, Ann Street, and Amber Street.
230782
Zoning Changes Take Effect in Emerald Street Neighborhood
Philadelphia City Council Seeks to Ban Cashless Stores in the City's Neighborhoods Councilmember wants to require retailers to accept cash payments, citing concerns that the current system excludes low-income residents from participating in local economy.
230780
Council proposed creation of /KEA Kensington El Area Overlay District in North Philadelphia.
Philadelphia's Kensington El area will be subject to new zoning regulations as a special overlay district is created, aiming to guide development in the North Philadelphia neighborhood. The district will encompass several city streets and include specific terms and conditions for land use.
230779
City Officials Tweak Affordable Housing Rules to Expand Options for Renters Across Philadelphia
Roughly 4,000 Philly renters could soon have more affordable options as a proposed overhaul of the city's affordable housing regulations aims to increase access to rent-controlled units in apartments above stores and restaurants on commercial corridors.
230776
City of Philadelphia Clears Path for Elevated Highway on Schuylkill River with Easement Deal with PennDOT
Neighborhood Residents Up in Arms as City Council Moves to Allow 10-Story Tower on Bustling South Street Corner A proposed high-rise development would bring new shops, restaurants, and residential units to a now-vacant lot near the intersection of South Street and 19th Street, sparking concerns about gentrification.
230773
Zoning Changes Approved for Bustling Center City Neighborhood Bound by Callowhill, 18th, Vine and 20th Streets
This bill amends Philadelphia's Zoning Maps and Code to change zoning designations for certain areas around Callowhill Street, 18th Street, Vine Street, and 20th Street, including limiting building heights in this area.
230770
Finance Director Authorized to Transfer Funds Between City Funds for Fiscal Year 2024
Millions in city funds are set to be shuffled into new budget accounts, a move that could affect programs serving low-income families and small businesses across Philadelphia.
230767
City Council Revamps $1.3 Billion Capital Budget Allocation Amid Funding Adjustments Downtown
Council Advances Plan to Boost Minimum Wage in Philly: Workers Would Earn Up to $15 per Hour Within Two Years, Affecting Tens of Thousands of City Employees and Contractors
230766
Philadelphia Council Passes Law Updating Zoning Regulations for Nightclubs and Event Spaces
Philadelphia City Council Debates Proposal to Raise Minimum Wage for Thousands of Municipal Employees to $18 an Hour
230764
Neighborhood Residents to Lose Roof Decks Under New Zoning Rules
This bill amends zoning regulations in a specific Philadelphia neighborhood to prohibit roof decks and modify parking rules.
230771
Philadelphia City Plan Undergoes Major Revision with Removal of Carlton Street and Utility Lines Near Twentieth Street
A beloved street is set to disappear from Philadelphia's City Plan, replaced by public green space: Carlton Street would be erased in a plan that also relocates power lines near bustling Twentieth Street.
230769
New Café Coming to South 4th Street as City OKs Sidewalk Eatery in Front of Historic Tavern
Philadelphia's Minimum Wage Hike Takes Aim at Working-Class Residents; Council Votes to Raise City-Mandated Pay Floor from $7.25 to $12 in 2024, affecting over 50,000 low-income employees across the city. City Hall Mulls Parking U-Turn Ban on Broad Street, with Council Considering Legislation that Would Prohibit Left Turns onto Eastbound Broad Street, potentially reducing congestion and improving
230781
Pennsylvania University Gets Green Light on Student Theater Plans for Chestnut and 33rd Streets Area
This bill amends the University of Pennsylvania's Master Plan in a specific area to include the Student Performing Arts Center (SPAC).
230778
Fifth Street Map Revision Approved, City Conforms to State Transportation Rules Locally
Philadelphia's official map is getting an update: a stretch of Fifth Street will be redrawn to meet state transportation standards, affecting residents who commute through the area every day.
230777
City to Relocate Erie Avenue Drainage Areas and Curblines to Meet State Requirements
Erie Avenue residents are facing a major makeover as city officials vote to relocate drainage areas and curbs along the busy street to meet strict new regulations from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
230775
City Seeks Control of Enterprise Avenue Land Near PHL Airport in Secret Acquisition Deal
A proposed city ordinance would grant the city's airport agency unprecedented control over Enterprise Avenue, potentially displacing residents and small businesses along one of the busiest roads leading to Philadelphia International Airport.
230774
Philadelphia Council Approves Rename of Alter Street Section to Reflect Modern City Layout Changes
Residents who live and work on "Fifteenth" Street are in for a name change, as City Council approved a bill to rechristen the stretch between Broad and Market Streets Alter Street after centuries of outdated mapping.
230772
City Council Tweaks Capital Budget Plan with Late-Year Fiscal Adjustments to Keep Project Funds on Track
Philadelphia Homeowners Face Higher Stormwater Fees Under New Tax Proposal Targeting Properties in Flood-Prone Areas Homeowners with properties located in areas prone to flooding will see a significant increase in their annual stormwater fees under the proposed tax hike.
230765
City Establishes Parking Restrictions in Four Philadelphia Neighborhoods to Combat Congestion and Promote Compliance
This bill establishes parking regulations in specific areas of Philadelphia: Warnock St & Nedro Ave, N 11th St & Champlost Ave, N 13th St & Chew Ave, and N 13th St & Nedro Ave.
230763