Weekly recap
This week in Council
June 7 to June 13, 2024
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
Philly Businesses and Homeowners Must Follow Guidelines for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Renters and drivers in Philly face new fees as city council introduces measure to regulate EV charging station rates and installation permits, sparking concern among property owners about added costs and bureaucratic hurdles.
240500
Philadelphia Council Moves to Restrict Business Hours on Bustling Street Corners Throughout City
This bill adds specific locations to a list of establishments that have limited hours of operation and outlines penalties for those businesses.
240498
Philadelphia Approves Sidewalk Café for Busy Baltimore Avenue Spot Despite Noise Concerns
Residents and business owners along bustling Baltimore Avenue are abuzz over the city council's decision to permit a new outdoor café at a popular eatery, sparking debate about noise and crowds.
240497
City Council Approves Sidewalk Café Plan for Busy Catharine Street Corner Spot
Catharine Street shop owners are cheering after City Council approved plans to turn a historic corner spot into a bustling outdoor café, but some neighbors worry about added noise and congestion.
240496
Beaumont Street Officially Vacated from 51st Street to Its End Point
Beaumont Street closed permanently between 51st and its terminus after city council votes to vacate it. The street's closure is effective immediately following the council's approval.
240495
City Officials Launch Bid to Snag Federal Dollars for Philly's Neighborhood Makeover Efforts
Philly's South Street could soon see a major facelift as city officials push for millions in federal funding to revamp neglected neighborhood blocks and bring much-needed housing and services to struggling areas.
240494
City Approves Outdoor Dining Permit for Busy Snyder Avenue Spot Amid New Regulations
Philadelphia's Minimum Wage Hike Hits Small Business Owners Hard as Council Votes to Raise City-Wide Minimum to $15 by 2025. A proposal to raise the city's minimum wage to $12 this summer and $15 in two years has sparked debate among business owners who fear the added expense.
240493
Philadelphia Council Passes Law Regulating Business Hours in Two North Philadelphia Areas
This bill regulates the hours of operation for certain businesses in two specific areas of North Philadelphia.
240476
Philadelphia Residents Face New Rules Limiting Large Vehicle Parking in Neighborhood Streets
Boats, motor homes, and RVs will no longer be allowed to park in certain areas of Philadelphia under new rules imposed by City Council. The restrictions aim to limit large vehicle parking in neighborhood streets.
240475
Business Hours Restricted in Area Bound by East Allegheny and Kensington Avenues
This bill regulates business hours and sets penalties for certain establishments in a specific area bounded by East Allegheny Avenue, Kensington Avenue, Torresdale Avenue, and Frankford Avenue.
240474
Midvale Avenue Sidewalk Café Wins Approval for Expanded Permits to Operate Downtown
This bill allows a specific sidewalk café to operate in a designated area on Midvale Avenue, subject to certain terms and conditions.
240473
City Council Moves to Boost Economic Growth in Designated Neighborhoods Through Extended Incentives and Perks
A new proposal would forgive up to 75% of property taxes for Philadelphia's small business owners in low-income neighborhoods, a move aimed at spurring job growth and revitalization in underserved communities.
240470
City Council Votes to Allow Eruv Markers in University City as Part of Proposed Orthodox Community Development
Tensions rise between residents and developers in University City as City Council approves plan for 20 miles of overhead markers to be installed, sparking concerns about aesthetics and impact on local businesses.
240469
Philadelphia Council Votes to Enforce Strict Business Hour Restrictions on Ogontz Avenue Businesses
This bill regulates hours of operation for certain businesses in a specific area bounded by Ogontz Avenue between Haines Street and 66th Avenue.
240468
City Council Orders Philly's Big Hospitals to Chip In for Municipal Expenses
Philly's largest hospitals will soon be writing bigger checks to City Hall, as a new mandate requires them to kick in millions more each year for municipal expenses like street cleaning and police services.
240467
Zoning Board Quorum Rule Undergoes Dramatic Shift Amid Growing Community Concerns About Transparency
Philadelphia residents who pack zoning board meetings will now have a majority of their voices represented, as the number of required board members shifts from four to just two.
240466
Speed cameras installed on Broad Street to enhance public safety and related technical adjustments made.
Automated speed cameras are now being deployed on Broad Street as part of an effort to improve public safety. The move is based on a city code amendment allowing the use of automated speed enforcement systems on Broad Street under certain terms and conditions.
240434
City Signs Lease Agreement Allowing New Operator to Set Up Shop at NE Philly Airport
A new company will soon set up shop at Northeast Philadelphia Airport under a lease agreement approved by city officials. The deal paves the way for a new fixed-based operator at the airport.
240433
City Officials Gain Power to Negotiate Lucrative Billboard Deals at Philly International Airport
Airport Expansion Plans Stall as City Council Delays Vote on Land Acquisition Bill
240429
Philadelphia Leaders Move to Block State Lease on West Philly Property Amid Fierce Community Opposition
This bill prevents the City of Philadelphia from renewing or extending a lease with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for property at 2100 W.
240428-A
Roosevelt Boulevard Neighborhood Zoning Maps Revised to Classify North and West Sides
This bill updates zoning maps for certain areas in Philadelphia, changing their classification and possibly affecting development projects.
240426
City Council Votes to Bring Fresh Produce to Parkside Village on Busy Parkside Avenue
Residents of South Philly's Parkside neighborhood are about to have fresher food options: a long-awaited farmers' market is finally coming to Parkside Avenue, bringing local produce and vendors to the community.
240424
Ridge Avenue Zoning Changes Signed into Law After Bounding Area with New Overlay
This bill amends the Philadelphia Zoning Maps and adds a new overlay to Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code for a specific area bounded by Valley Avenue, Domino Lane, Ridge Avenue, Paoli Avenue, Pechin Street, Hermit Street, and Henry Avenue.
240421
Parking Ban Implemented Overnight on Certain City Streets Including Cobbs Creek Parkway
No Parking Allowed: Overnight restrictions kick in tonight for drivers on 12 city streets, affecting thousands of residents who rely on these roads to get home after dark every night.
240420
City Council Signs New Parking Regulations Along Walnut Street, Spruce Street, Locust Street, and Chestnut Street
This bill creates parking regulations on specific streets in Philadelphia.
240419
Philadelphia City Council Introduces Parking Regulations for Eight Busy City Streets
This bill establishes parking regulations on several streets in Philadelphia, likely to improve traffic flow and public safety.
240418
Philadelphia Council Votes to Boost Gas Works Budget with Major Infrastructure Overhaul
Philadelphia Homeowners Could Pay More for Water Bills Under Proposed Rate Hike, Council to Vote on Measure Affecting Thousands of City Residents.
240417
City Council Takes Aim at Revamping Island Avenue Zoning to Spur New Development
Philadelphia City Council proposes re-zoning 15 blocks in Southwest Philly to allow for more dense development near Temple University, potentially bringing thousands of new students and residents into the area. Neighbors are divided over the plan's merits.
240415
Ogontz Avenue Businesses Must Close by 1 AM to Meet New Late Night Regulations
Longtime residents along Ogontz Avenue are rejoicing at the prospect of quieter nights, but business owners are crying foul as City Council votes to impose an 11 PM curfew on bars and restaurants. The new rules aim to alleviate noise complaints from nearby homes.
240414
South Philly Zoning Shifts Boundaries Along Historic Snyder Avenue and 7th Streets
A South Philadelphia neighborhood is about to get a major facelift as zoning laws are rewritten to allow for taller buildings and more commercial space along busy streets, sparking both excitement and concern among residents.
240385
Sidewalk Café Permit Approves Outdoor Seating at 944 North 2nd Street in Philadelphia
This bill allows a sidewalk café to be built at a specific location near 944 North 2nd Street in Philadelphia.
240384
Small Businesses Get Sign-Posting Flexibility in Philadelphia Neighborhood
This bill authorizes private entities to install and maintain structures near certain addresses in Philadelphia's Roxborough neighborhood.
240382
Farmers Market Stands Permitted on South 52nd Street Between Pine and Osage Avenues
Residents of West Philly's Parkside neighborhood are in for a tasty treat as City Council approves plans for two new farmers market stalls on 52nd Street, bringing fresh produce to one of the city's food deserts.
240380
City Simplifies Non-Profit Contract Bids with New Requirements
City Council passes bill simplifying rules for non-profit contract bids, modifying requirements for these organizations under new terms and conditions. Non-profits will face changed regulations in city contracts.
240379
Council Votes to Inject Millions into Philly Gas Works Budget Amid Forecasted Expenses Surge
Philadelphia's struggling gas department is set to receive a financial lifeline as City Council members approve a plan to inject millions into its budget, but critics warn it may be a Band-Aid on a larger problem.
240378
Philadelphia Signs Exclusive Payroll Banking Deal with Citizens Bank Amid Growing Fiscal Pressures
Families of Philadelphia School District Staffers May Receive Additional Benefits Under New Council Bill. A proposed law would require the district to provide life insurance coverage to part-time and substitute teachers starting in January next year.
240377
Philadelphia City Council Approves Major Borrowing Package to Fund Pothole Repairs and New Infrastructure Projects
Residents can expect a smoother ride thanks to a new borrowing package approved by city council, which allocates $300 million for pothole repairs, street resurfacing, and other infrastructure upgrades across 20 neighborhoods.
240376
City Council Tries To Untangle Red Tape Surrounding Airport Revenue Bond Fund Management
Philadelphia airports could start getting millions more in annual revenue for infrastructure projects as City Council aims to streamline management of a 25-year-old bond fund, potentially benefiting SEPTA's airport shuttle service.
240375
City Council OKs $500M Airport Borrowing Increase
Philadelphia Airport Set to Soar on Wings of $150 Million Windfall, But City Taxpayers May Foot Bill for Massive Loan Increase as Council Votes to Raise Revenue Bond Ceiling.
240374
City Begins Selling Bonds to Fund Long Overdue Sewer Pipe Rehabilitation Project
City sells bonds to fund sewer pipe rehabilitation and refinance debt, as authorized by a recently passed City Council ordinance. The bond sales aim to cover costs for long-overdue capital projects and existing financial obligations.
240373
City Council Approves Plan to Issue Bonds to Fund Airport Upgrades
A plan to upgrade Philadelphia International Airport is taking off with a unanimous vote by City Council, which authorized borrowing $200 million to revamp terminals and roads serving millions of travelers each year.
240372
City Council Proposes New Rules to Curb Hazardous Tree Branches Damaging City Properties Daily
This bill amends the Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code to add restrictions and remedies for encroaching trees.
240371
New Zoning District Established in Chestnut Hill Lower East Neighborhood
Chestnut Hill's boundaries are about to change with a new Neighborhood Commercial Overlay district. City Council has officially approved the creation of this zone, setting specific terms and conditions for development in the area.
240336
City Council Moves Forward with Overhaul of Industrial Area Along American Street
This bill updates the redevelopment plan for a specific industrial area in North Philadelphia to make it consistent with a new citywide redevelopment plan.
240332
Sidewalk Café Permitted in Front of 795 North 24th Street Property
Councilmember Young's bill allowing a sidewalk café at 795 North 24th Street has been approved by City Council, paving the way for outdoor dining on this busy street corner. The permit comes with certain conditions.
240305
City Council Moves to Clarify Airport Fees as Mayor's Office Reassesses Passenger Charge Regulations
Philadelphia City Council has clarified roles and responsibilities for the Department of Aviation, eliminating outdated provisions related to passenger charges. The changes are part of a larger effort by the Mayor's Office to reassess airport fee regulations.
240157
Developers Forced to Build More Affordable Housing or Pay Hefty Fines Instead in Philly Neighborhoods
Developers in Philly neighborhoods now required to build more affordable housing or pay hefty fines, under new city law affecting certain building projects. The rule change aims to increase affordable housing availability in those areas.
240058
Philadelphia Officials Mandate Licenses for Eviction Specialists Handling City Residential Evictions
People involved in tenant evictions at residential properties in Philadelphia must now be licensed under a new law, requiring professionals to meet certain terms and conditions. Eviction specialists handling city residential evictions are now subject to licensing requirements.
240018
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Supervisors Ordered to Immediately Alert Police to Potential Construction Site Hazards through Emergency Line
Construction supervisors must now alert police to potential hazards on job sites through the emergency 911 line, using language that describes a "substantial threat" to safety. The new rule aims to prevent serious harm to people and property.
240609
City Council Passes Simplified Disability Parking Rules to Streamline Access
Philadelphia's disability parking rules are being overhauled with new standards and procedures for residential spaces, including a limited-use application process and an administrative hearing process.
240613-AA
Fishtown Businesses to Pay Fees Again as City Council Votes on BID Reauthorization
Fishtown businesses to continue paying fees for services like street cleaning and security after city council votes on reauthorization. The Fishtown Kensington Area Business Improvement District will remain in place, affecting local businesses within designated boundaries.
240612
Philadelphia Council Proposes Stiffer Affordable Housing Rules for Neighborhood District
Philadelphia City Council proposes stricter affordable housing rules for a specific neighborhood, requiring a higher percentage of affordable units and setting income limits for tenants in the newly designated overlay district.
240610
City Council Approves Plan to Repair Power Lines Over North Broad Street Businesses Ahead of Schedule
City Council Approves Plan to Allow Installation of Encroachments Near North Broad Street Businesses Ahead of Schedule. The bill grants permission for certain structures near 615 N. Broad Street in Philadelphia.
240611