This week in Council

City Council Gives Green Light to Long-Term Deals on Electricity, Gas, Fuel for City Facilities, Vehicles

Philadelphia's Municipal Buildings Could Save $10 Million Under New Deal, but Critics Say it Hurts Small Businesses: City Council approves 5-year contracts for utilities and fuel on behalf of the city's buildings and fleet.

230900

City Leases North Broad Property Space for Popular Nicetown-Tioga Library Branch Expansion

Residents near Nicetown-Tioga Library are about to see their neighborhood hub expand as city officials seek approval to lease a nearby property, potentially doubling the library's space and services for low-income families and seniors.

230864

Restaurant Owners Get Green Light to Transform East Ann Street into Bustling Sidewalk Café Destination

This bill allows a restaurant at 2636 East Ann Street to install and maintain a sidewalk café with tables and seating for approximately 78 people.

230863

Restaurant Owners Cleared for Sidewalk Café Expansion on Bustling East Allegheny Avenue Business Strip

Local Homeowners Face Higher Water Bills as City Council Considers Rate Hike to Fund Aging Sewer System Repairs; Residents in low-lying areas worry about increased costs on fixed incomes. Philadelphia Drivers Could See Fees Spike for Parking Tickets under New Proposal to Boost Revenue for City's Cash-Starved Streets Department.

230862

Staircase Encroachment Permitted on South 8th Street with City Design Approval Required

This bill allows the owners of a property at 1446 S 8th St to install a staircase that encroaches onto the sidewalk by about 3 feet.

230861

Previous Ordinance Repealed Regarding Addison Street Vacation and Sewer Right of Way

Residents who own property near Addison Street are holding their breath as City Council debates whether to revive stalled development plans or preserve a beloved community green space.

230860

City Takes Control of More Office Space at Historic Market Street Property

The City Council authorized an amendment to a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to allow the city to use additional space at 1101 Market Street for office space.

230859

City Expands Chestnut Street Office Space with 26,000 Square Foot Sublease Amendment

City Hall is set to double down on downtown with a major expansion of its office space on Chestnut Street, more than tripling its current footprint in a move that will bring in hundreds of city workers.

230858

City Clears Way for Luxury Development Above Viaduct Rail Park as Easement Deal Takes Shape

Luxury apartments may soon sprout above the trendy Viaduct Rail Park as city council gives green light to easement deal; nearby residents worry about loss of park shade and increased density. City gives Famell, LLC a free pass to build high-rise on North 13th Street by modifying easements near the popular Viaduct Rail Park.

230857

Sidewalk Vending Permitted in 6th Councilmanic District Neighborhood Business District

Residents and shoppers along Bustleton and Cottman Avenues are poised to see a colorful boost as city council votes to permit up to 8 street vendors to peddle fresh produce and bouquets in the bustling commercial corridor.

230856

City Leases Orthodox Street Warehouse for Five Years, Options for Renewal, in Deal Worth Thousands to Taxpayers

Philadelphia Small Businesses Face Increased Parking Fees Under New Ordinance Mandating Metered Spaces in High-Traffic Areas Council members propose raising parking meter fees to $4 an hour in high-traffic commercial districts, a move that could affect over 1,000 small businesses and thousands of employees.

230855

City Approves 15-Year Lease for Warehouse and Office Space on New State Road

Philadelphia taxpayers are on the hook for nearly $2 million in annual rent as City Council approved a 15-year lease for warehouse and office space at 6601 New State Road. Small businesses and residents along the growing corridor may benefit from the new facilities.

230854

Philadelphia Streets Come off Official Maps as City Prepares Way for Potential Development Projects

Low-Income Philadelphians Could Pay More in Water Bills Under Proposed Rate Hike, Frustrating Advocates Who Say It's Unfair to Those Already Struggling to Make Ends Meet. The rate hike would increase water bills by 3% annually for three years, affecting over 150,000 low-income households and seniors who rely on the city's reduced rate program.

230853

Melville Street and surrounding streets to be paved under new city authorization

Residents on eight west Philadelphia streets can expect smoother commutes after city officials greenlit a major road repair project that will resurface worn pavement and improve traffic flow.

230852

City Council Clears Way for Leases at Popular Southwest Philly Recreation Center

A long-awaited makeover could soon be in store for the Sayre Morris Recreation Center, as city officials voted to allow leasing of a key section to generate funds for upgrades. Local kids will reap the benefits of fresh facilities.

230851

Sidewalk Café Set for Powelton Avenue as City Council OKs Permits for Outdoor Seating Area

A new outdoor dining spot is headed to West Philly: the city council has approved permits for a sidewalk café on busy Powelton Avenue, despite neighbors' concerns about noise and trash.

230849

Philly Streets to Get New Layout in North Market District Area

This bill allows for revisions to be made to City Plan Nos.

230848

City Seeks Warehouse Space on Frankford Avenue for Municipal Use Under New Sublease Agreement

Plan to Convert Abandoned Lot into Affordable Housing Moves Forward; Council Seeks to Allocate $2 Million in Funding to Rebuild Vacant Land on North 52nd Street into 20 New Apartments.

230844

New Parking Rules Established in Four Philadelphia Neighborhood Areas

Residents of four West Philly neighborhoods face stiff new parking fines starting next month as council votes to impose time limits on busy streets, restricting drivers to just an hour or two in some areas.

230843

Parking Regulations Established in Philadelphia Neighborhoods Along Ellsworth and S. 16th Streets

This bill establishes new parking regulations in various Philadelphia neighborhoods, including time limits and days of enforcement.

230842

Canopies Approved for The Bellevue Building at 200 S Broad St.

This bill allows the owner of The Bellevue building at 200 S Broad St to install projecting canopies and planters on the west sidewalk, with certain restrictions to maintain clear passable space.

230841

City Plans to Lease Partial Control of Bainbridge Street Property for Homeless Shelter Services

Homeless residents may soon have a new place to call home, as city officials propose leasing city-owned property on Bainbridge Street to operate a much-needed shelter and support services for local vulnerable populations.

230840

City Council Approves Lease Amendment for Additional Office Space on Busy South Broad Street Corner

Developers eyeing coveted spot on Broad Street's vibrant intersection scored a major coup as the city council approved a key lease deal, paving the way for more offices to sprout up alongside trendy eateries and shops.

230839

City Council Renames Corner of Parkside Avenue and Belmont Avenue in Tribute to Philly's Negro League Legacy

Community activists hailed the decision, citing the park's proximity to Shibe Park, where the legendary Stars once played as part of the Negro Leagues, a vital piece of Philly's rich baseball heritage.

230838

New Sidewalk Café Coming to Fleming Street: Council Approves Permit for Outdoor Seating Area

Fleming Street businesses are about to get a boost as City Council gives the green light for an outdoor dining area, bringing more vibrancy to the historic neighborhood's commercial corridor.

230836

City Acquires City Land from Redevelopment Authority for Various Properties

This bill allows the City of Philadelphia to acquire land from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for various properties across the city.

230835

Philadelphia to Impose Two-Hour Parking Limit in Several City Neighborhoods

This bill establishes two-hour parking regulations in various locations throughout Philadelphia, including specific streets and intersections.

230834

City Leases Space in Downtown Building at 1500 JFK for Storage Use

Philadelphia residents could see a new "storage village" pop up near City Hall, with a proposed city plan to lease 20,000 square feet in a downtown building for storing city equipment and supplies.

230833

City Taps Sublease Deal for Broad Street Building Space Amid Ongoing Government Operations Needs

Philadelphia homeowners may see their property taxes increase as city council considers a measure that would allow for additional assessments on newly constructed homes and apartments in the city's hottest neighborhoods. Under the proposal, thousands of residents could face bigger tax bills each year.

230832

City Seeks New Storage Space on JFK Blvd as Public Property Commissioner Signs Sublease Pact

Philadelphia Homeowners Face Higher Tax Bills Under New Legislation as Council Approves Proposed Property Tax Increase of $70 per Average City Household. This bill raises property tax revenues by increasing the millage rate on commercial and industrial properties to fund city services and infrastructure improvements.

230831

City Council Approves Leases for North Broad Street Space From Charitable Trust Through 2033

Philadelphia Homeowners Could Face Steep Fines for Leaking Faucets Under Proposed Council Measure Proposed changes to the city's plumbing code could slap homeowners with fines of up to $1,000 if their leaky faucets waste more than a certain amount of water per day.

230830

City Unveils Ambitious Revitalization Plan for North 18th Street Corridor with Mixed-Use Developments and Public Spaces.

Residents along North 18th Street are set for a major transformation as a proposed development plan brings new shops, homes, and community spaces to the area; neighborhood leaders say it's long overdue but still raise concerns about gentrification.

230829

Vine Street Expansion Unveiled as City Claims 20 Feet of Public Roadway in North Philly

This bill officially declares a section of Vine Street in North Philadelphia to be part of the public right-of-way, making it open to traffic.

230828

City Secures Warehouse Lease on East Comly Street for Expanded Fire Department Operations

Philadelphia firefighters are getting a bigger home as the city leases a massive warehouse on East Comly Street to expand training facilities and house more emergency vehicles, just blocks away from the Northeast's busiest firehouses. The move aims to streamline response times in one of Philly's fastest-growing neighborhoods.

230827

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 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

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

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

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 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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zoning Changes Unveiled For Land Along Wharton Street to Newkirk Street Corridor

This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations for certain areas of land bounded by Wharton Street, Newkirk Street, Reed Street, and 29th Street.

230745

City Council Tries to Rewrite Rules for Properties Along Dickinson Street to 24th Street Border.

Neighborhood Residents Fear New Bill Could Bring High-Rise Apartments to their Quiet Streets as City Council Votes on Zoning Changes Along Dickinson Street to 24th Street Border Next Week.

230744

Philadelphia Council OKs Utilities Access on West Fairmount Park Section Bound By Wynnefield Avenue Extended and Belmont Avenue

A new law paves the way for electricity, water, and sewer connections along West Fairmount Park's western edge, where residents have long complained about limited access to basic services. Thousands of park-goers will benefit from improved infrastructure in the area.

230742

Basic Utilities and Services Cleared for Use at Specific East Fairmount Park Location

This bill allows Basic Utilities and Services to use a specific location in East Fairmount Park, bounded by CSX Railroad, Girard Avenue, and 33rd Street.

230741

University Plans Changes to Stuart Weitzman Hall on South 33rd Street Following City Council Approval

University students and faculty may see a transformed landscape on South 33rd Street as city officials approve major renovations to Stuart Weitzman Hall, including a new entrance and expanded green space.

230716

Zoning Changes Coming to Southwest Philly Neighborhood Along Pratt Street to Frankford Avenue Boundaries

Southwest Philly's Pratt Street neighborhood is in for a shake-up as city council members propose new zoning rules along the busy stretch from Frankford Avenue to Darrah Street, sparking concerns among residents and business owners.

230714

City to Ink Deal for New Version of Philadelphia Code in Print and Digital Formats

Philadelphia Residents Face Higher Parking Fees under Proposed Rate Hike The proposed increase would see metered parking rates rise by up to 75 cents in some areas, generating an estimated $4 million annually for the city's general fund.

230701

Trespassing in Retail Establishments Becomes Felony in Philadelphia with New $1,000 Fine Law

Philadelphia's Small Business Owners Relieved as Proposed Tax Credit Boosts Minimum Wage to $15 by 2025, Benefiting Thousands of Low-Income Workers

230700

Temple University Embarks on Major Expansion Plans Near Broad Street in North Philadelphia

This bill amends Temple University's Master Plan for a specific area around Broad Street and Montgomery Avenue to accommodate new buildings for Klein College of Media and Communications and Center for the Performing and Cinematic Arts.

230698

Philadelphia Updates Plumbing Code to Match National Standards and Boost Public Safety Measures

This bill updates Philadelphia's plumbing code to align with national standards and improve safety.

230653

West Philly Zoning Map Changes Signed into Law

Council Votes to Increase Minimum Wage for City Workers, Boosting Pay for 16,000 Employees to $15 Per Hour Starting Next Year; Mayor Hopes Measure Will Stimulate Local Economy.

230651

Philadelphia Hospitals Banned from Deporting Non-Citizen Patients Without Their Consent

Philadelphia's Newborn Screening Program Gets A Major Overhaul As City Council Passes Bill Requiring All Hospitals To Test For Rare Genetic Disorders At Birth.

230649

Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District Gets New Lease on Life in Philadelphia Neighborhoods

Philadelphia's largest BID would be allowed to raise $250,000 annually from local property owners under a proposed measure, with funds used for everything from street cleaning to holiday decorations.

230586

Aramingo Avenue Shopping District Extended Beyond Original End Date Amid Plans for New Improvements

Businesses along Aramingo Avenue will soon benefit from new upgrades after city council voted to extend the shopping district's lifespan, paving the way for a fresh wave of revitalization efforts. Property owners will chip in through special assessment fees.

230579

City Council Moves to Shield Exonerated Philadelphians from Job Rejection Based on Overturned Convictions

Philadelphia residents who've had their wrongful convictions overturned may finally get a second chance at employment, as City Council aims to ban employers from rejecting applicants with expunged records, regardless of past mistakes. Hundreds could benefit from this proposed legislation.

230571

City Prepares to Purchase Land for New Public Parks in Center City Amid Efforts to Expand Rail Park

Local Residents Worry About Increased Traffic as Council Considers Bill to Convert Broad Street into Pedestrian-Friendly Promenade A new plan to revamp Broad Street would dedicate three lanes of traffic to pedestrians and cyclists, potentially displacing businesses that line the busy thoroughfare.

230512

Philadelphia Mandates Lactation Rooms in All City Buildings Starting This Fall For Employees and Visitors

Low-Income Philly Seniors Face Higher Taxes Under Proposed Property Tax Relief Changes A new proposal would limit property tax relief for low-income senior citizens, raising concerns about affordability and fairness for vulnerable residents.

230403

Philadelphia Council Votes to Shield Displaced Contract Workers from Unfair Labor Practices Continuously

Displaced contractors who worked on city projects will soon have new shields against unfair labor practices, including wage theft and retaliation, under a measure set for final approval later this week.

230746

Philadelphia Businesses Ordered to Halt Certain Gambling Machines and Skills Games

Philadelphia small business owners face new fines for hosting illicit gaming machines; city officials say move is aimed at protecting vulnerable communities from predatory devices. A push to make Philly's streets safer: City Council bill seeks to ban cashless parking in residential neighborhoods, targeting companies that charge drivers via smartphone apps without clear signs.

230699

Council proposed law would protect Philadelphia youth's name, image, and likeness rights

Philadelphia Council Introduces New Law to Protect Student-Athletes from Predatory Marketing Tactics, requiring coaches and schools to warn young athletes about the risks of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals gone wrong.

220905

Retailers Must Charge Fee for Single-Use Bags Under Proposed City Ordinance

Starting next year, Philly residents who forget reusable bags at home will have to shell out 5 cents per paper or plastic bag, a cost that small business owners say will ultimately be passed on to consumers.

220364

Traffic Signal Coming to Busy Upland Way and Berks Street Intersection this Fall Season

This bill would install a traffic signal at the intersection of Upland Way and Berks Street to improve safety.

200658