This week in Council

Council Introduces Transparency Law Requiring Reporting on Non-Compete Contract Exemptions

Philadelphia's Small Business Owners Up in Arms Over Proposed Tax Hike: Council's 5-cent-per-bag tax increase could cost low-income families up to $100 more per year, sparking debate over equity and burden-sharing. Residents of North Philly's Sharswood Neighborhood Gear Up to Fight Proposed Zoning Changes: A proposed rezoning would open the door for high-rise development in a historic neighborhoo

250571

York Street Landmark Café Plan Gets Green Light Amid Community Concerns About Noise and Crowding

This bill allows a sidewalk café to be built near 2101 E York St in Philadelphia, subject to certain conditions.

250570

South Philly Residents Alarmed as City Considers Permitting Structures to Span South 10th Street Sidewalk

This bill allows certain structures to encroach on public space at a specific location near 2654 S 10th St in South Philadelphia.

250569

City Launches Initiative to Finance Affordable Housing Projects and Revitalize Neighborhoods Across Philadelphia

The city has partnered with the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to finance a comprehensive housing plan aimed at increasing affordable housing, reducing blight, and improving neighborhood infrastructure. The H.O.M.E. Plan includes programs for home affordability, owner and renter assistance, and contractor training.

250568

City Council Moves to Issue Bonds to Finance Major Upgrades to Aging Water Infrastructure

This bill allows the city to issue tax-exempt and taxable bonds for water and wastewater projects, with agreements that may provide credit enhancement or payment sources.

250567

Philadelphia City Hall Unveils Plan to Pour Millions into Community Revitalization Efforts

Millions in new funding could soon flood into Philadelphia's most troubled neighborhoods as city leaders unveil a plan to revitalize crumbling communities with cash for housing, jobs, and infrastructure upgrades that are long overdue.

250566

Philadelphia Purchases Seven Vacant Homes on Cayuga Street for Community Revitalization Efforts Underway

Seven vacant homes on Cayuga Street will be transformed into thriving community spaces as the city purchases the properties, paving the way for revitalized streets and new opportunities for local residents. The purchase is part of a broader effort to revitalize North Philadelphia neighborhoods.

250538

Germantown Avenue Revitalization Efforts Get Boost as City Moves to Acquire Key Properties Overnight

City Council approved authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to buy properties at 4368, 4370, 4372, and 4374 Germantown Avenue for public use, with unanimous support from council members. The acquisition is aimed at supporting revitalization efforts in the area.

250537

City Council Greenlights Sidewalk Café for South Street Business Owner at 762 S 9th St

A popular South Street eatery just got the green light to bring its outdoor dining experience right onto the sidewalk, pending a few conditions that are being carefully reviewed by city officials. Local Business Owner's Parking Spots May Be Replaced with Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Under New Plan

250536

Philadelphia Drivers Forced to Clear Fire Hydrants or Face City Fines Daily

This bill makes it illegal to park a vehicle in front of a fire hydrant, and requires owners to move or immobilize their vehicles if they are parked in this way.

250535

Farmers Market Relocated to North 22nd Street, Boundary Changes Made

This bill amends a section of Philadelphia's Code to change the location boundaries for farmers' markets on North 22nd Street.

250532

City Council OKs Revised Budget for Philadelphia Gas Works Amid Rising Expenses Predictions

Philadelphia residents are facing higher gas bills as City Council votes to boost funding for Philadelphia Gas Works, but critics argue ratepayers shouldn't bear burden alone, pointing out profits at parent company PECO.

250529

Council Approves Five-Year Plan to Upgrade Philly's Aging Gas Infrastructure System

Homeowners in Philadelphia can expect lower gas bills thanks to a new plan approved by City Council, which would allocate $350 million over five years to upgrade the city's aging gas infrastructure.

250528

City Council Votes to Rename Wissinoming Rec Center in Honor of Local Legend Marge Tartaglione

Wissinoming Recreation Center now officially named in honor of local legend Marge Tartaglione, a pioneering public servant and leader in Philadelphia's politics. The Margaret Tartaglione Recreation Center is the new name for the facility.

250526

Philadelphia Council Proposes New Two-Family Home Zoning District Amid Growing Neighborhood Development

This bill creates a new 'RTA-2' zoning district for two-family attached homes in Philadelphia.

250525

Parking Minimums Dropped in CMX-4 and CMX-5 Zoning Districts in Philadelphia

This bill removes minimum parking requirements for certain residential areas in Philadelphia, specifically the CMX-4 and CMX-5 Zoning Districts.

250524

City Council Tackles Zoning Puzzle with Clarity Act Streamlining Complex Rules for Homeowners

Property owners in West Philly are breathing a sigh of relief as Council proposes changes to make it easier to split large lots into smaller ones, potentially boosting neighborhood revitalization efforts.

250523

Philadelphia Widens Dover and Newkirk Streets to Boost Safety on Busy South Philly Routes

Safety advocates are breathing a sigh of relief as Council passes legislation to widen Dover and Newkirk Streets, diverting traffic onto quieter routes and potentially saving lives on one of South Philly's most congested corridors.

250494

Northern Philadelphia Residents Weigh In as City Prepares to Convert Port Royal Avenue into Bike Lane

A proposal to turn Port Royal Avenue into a two-way bike lane has residents divided, with some welcoming the change and others worried about losing street parking. It would eliminate one parking spot near the iconic Reading Terminal Market.

250490

Bike Lane to be Installed on South 59th Street from Market to Baltimore Avenue

This bill adds a bike lane on South 59th Street from Market to Baltimore Avenue, taking one travel lane in the process.

250489

Sidewalk Café Coming Soon to Bustling Corner of Spruce and Lombard Streets

This bill allows for a sidewalk café to be installed near 4248 Spruce St in Philadelphia, subject to certain terms and conditions.

250488

City Acquires Vacant Lots on West Cayuga Street for Future Development

The city is acquiring property at 1822-1830 West Cayuga Street for a yet-to-be-determined purpose.

250484-A

Cobbs Creek Properties Put Up for Sale as City Seeks New Uses for Undeveloped Land

A proposed law would enable the city to swiftly purchase vacant properties in Cobbs Creek, clearing the way for new development that could bring jobs and housing to long-neglected neighborhoods.

250483

City Council Passes New Ordinance Requiring Waste Collection in Public Areas

This bill makes it illegal to dump waste on public streets and creates a camera system to enforce this law, with penalties for violators.

250439

Curb Lines on Ludlow Street Revised Near Downtown Philadelphia

Residents and business owners along Ludlow Street will be forced to adapt as proposed changes to the street's layout could lead to lost parking spaces and altered traffic flow for thousands of daily commuters starting next month.

250437

City Hall Mandates Parking Regs for Public Garages Near Center City Development Sites

Philadelphia Residents May Soon Pay More for Parking Meters as City Council Bill Aims to Boost Revenue A proposed bill would increase parking meter rates in certain areas of the city by up to 20 cents per hour, generating millions for city coffers and potentially sparking commuter outcry.

250436-A

VDO Neighborhood Zoning Rules Loosened to Allow Smaller Houses Amid Growing Demand for Affordable Housing

Low-Income Families to Gain Access to More Affordable Housing Options as Council Approves Plan to Relax Zoning Rules in VDO Neighborhood, Doubling Maximum Number of Units Allowed on Residential Lots.

250432

City Officials Propose Revamping Zoning Laws in Northwest Philly Neighborhoods to Accommodate Growing Population

This bill changes the zoning designations in certain areas of Philadelphia bounded by Roy Street, 11th Street, Allegheny Avenue, and Germantown Avenue.

250431

Reserved Water Main Right-of-Way Removed from City Plan in North Side Neighborhood

This bill removes a reserved water main right-of-way from City Plan No.

250430

Anchor Street Neighborhoods Get New Parking Rules to Enhance Traffic Flow and Safety

This bill establishes parking regulations in several Philadelphia neighborhoods to improve traffic flow and safety.

250427

Council Approves Revision to Cresson Street Map After Years of Resident Complaints

This bill revises a city map by removing a portion of Cresson Street from City Plan No.

250425

Philadelphia Council Votes Unanimously to Make Winona Street One Way East Bound

This bill makes Winona Street one-way from Laurens to Morris Streets, going eastbound.

250384

Philly Council Votes to Raise Annual Funding Cap for City Sponsored Events and Initiatives

Philadelphia's annual funding cap for city-sponsored events and initiatives has been raised, allowing entities to receive more money from the Philadelphia Activities Fund each year. The new limit will apply in future fiscal years.

250379

Council Members to Receive Notice of Philadelphia's Historic Designations

Philadelphia City Council members are now required to be immediately notified whenever a new historic landmark is designated in the city. The notification ensures they stay informed about changes to historic buildings and sites.

250334

Philadelphia Businesses in Distressed Neighborhoods to Receive Expanded Tax Relief Incentives

This bill extends certain economic development benefits to businesses in Philadelphia's Keystone Opportunity Zones, Economic Development Districts, and Strategic Development Areas.

250332

Landlords Face Penalties for Unjust Evictions with Creation of Anti-Displacement Fund Established

This bill creates an Anti-Displacement Fund to help protect residents from being displaced by landlords and establishes penalties for landlords who displace tenants without a just cause.

250331

Council Tackles Renaming Controversy as Bristol Street Section to be Vacated

Philadelphia residents who own property along Bristol Street are facing the possibility of a major loss if council passes a plan to vacate the street section, leaving some homeowners feeling financially devastated. The move would also alter city maps forever.

250328

Philadelphia Council Relaxes Zoning Permits for Repeated Home Renovation Appeals

Homeowners looking to renovate their properties in Philly may soon find it easier to navigate the city's permitting process, as proposed changes would allow multiple appeals of rejected projects.

250293

City Council Proposes Loosening Rules on Affordable Housing Programs to Boost Homeownership Options

Philadelphia renters could soon own homes through city-backed programs as City Council considers new rules to ease the path to homeownership, benefiting thousands of low-income families and individuals. A proposed overhaul of the city's zoning code aims to speed up development in underserved neighborhoods, but critics warn it could displace long-time residents and small businesses.

250291

Philly Bans Sale of Certain E-Cigarettes to Minors, Introduces Stricter Enforcement Measures

This bill updates the rules for selling electronic smoking devices and unapproved nicotine delivery products in Philadelphia, including new definitions, penalties, and enforcement options.

250213-A

Philly Council Votes to Abolish Development Impact Tax Imposed on New Construction Projects Citywide

Property owners and developers breathed a sigh of relief as Philly Council voted to scrap the Development Impact Tax, estimated to save builders $10 million annually, with residential projects set to see the biggest savings.

250212

Council Proposes Boosting Realty Transfer Tax on Philly Property Deals Daily

Homebuyers and sellers could face higher fees for buying or selling property in Philly as council members push to raise the city's Realty Transfer Tax, potentially costing thousands more per deal.

250211

City Injects Millions More Into Affordable Housing Efforts as Housing Trust Fund Receives Boost from Deed Fee Hike

Philly homeowners will soon pay more when selling or refinancing property, with millions generated going towards desperately needed affordable housing projects across the city. Affected properties include single-family homes, apartments, and commercial buildings.

250210

City Council Seeks More Revenue with Stricter Limits on Tax Breaks for Large Properties

Landlords of Large Apartment Buildings May Face Higher Taxes Under New Proposal; Council members aim to raise millions in revenue by reducing tax breaks on high-value rentals and commercial properties.

250202

City Council Proposes New Tax Plan to Fund Philly Schools While Cutting Taxes for Homeowners

Low-Income Families in North Philly Could Benefit from City Proposal to Increase Rent Control Protections Under the plan, landlords would be prohibited from raising rents more than 1% annually for low-income tenants renting apartments with annual incomes under $30,000.

250201

City Council Moves to Double Parking Meter Fees Amid Ongoing Traffic Congestion Concerns

Philadelphia drivers could soon face a steeper price tag for parking downtown as City Council considers doubling meter fees, potentially generating an extra $10 million annually from commuters and visitors alike.

250200

Philadelphia Business Tax Rates Increased and Some Exemptions Eliminated

City Council has passed a bill to raise business tax rates and eliminate exemptions for large corporations, affecting companies with significant revenue in Philadelphia.

250199

Council Unveils Massive 5 Year Vision for Philly's Future with Over $1 Billion in Proposed Infrastructure Investments

Low-Income Renters Could See Protections Increased Under New Council Proposal that Would Raise Minimum Rent Subsidy Amounts by up to 25% City Officials are Set to Weigh in on Proposed Changes to Philly's 5-Year Budget, Including a Major Shift in Funding for Public Housing and Homelessness Services.

250198

Council Approves Allocation of $1 Billion for City Building Renovations and New Initiatives

Philly residents can expect a major face-lift as city council votes to pour $1 billion into renovating crumbling buildings, upgrading parks, and launching new community programs. Local business owners hope the investment will attract more customers downtown.

250197

Philadelphia City Budget for Fiscal Year 2026 Signed into Law

Philadelphia residents will face a 4% tax increase under a new city budget plan passed by City Council, with homeowners and renters alike feeling the pinch from rising property taxes. The budget also allocates millions for affordable housing initiatives.

250196

Council Proposes Significant Hike in Philadelphia's Wage and Business Taxes Across City

This bill revises tax rates under Philadelphia's Wage and Net Profits Tax law.

250195

City Council Votes to Give Struggling Families More Time to Pay Back Years of Unpaid Property Taxes

New Legislation Would Require Large Philadelphia Developers to Set Aside Affordable Housing Units in New Projects, Aiming to Boost City's Shrinking Stock of Low-Income Apartments.

250174

City Launches Initiative to Slash Energy Bills for Select Municipal Properties This Summer

Council President Johnson and Councilmember Squilla's bill authorizes a partnership between the city and Philadelphia Energy Authority to implement energy-saving measures at certain city-owned properties. This initiative aims to reduce energy consumption and operating costs at those locations.

250103

Philadelphia Landlords Ordered to Follow New Rules on Handling Tenant Security Deposits Daily

Tightening the screws on Philadelphia's rental market, a new city ordinance would require landlords to provide written receipts and annual accountings of tenant security deposits by January 1st next year.

250044-A

Philadelphia City Council Proposes Strict Rules to Keep Animals Out of City Parks and Recreation Centers

A new proposal would ban dogs from 70% of Philadelphia's park system, excluding only a few small dog parks, leaving many pet owners searching for alternative places to exercise their pets.

241082

Philadelphia Requires Gun Dealers to Display Signs Warning Against Straw Purchases

Gun Owners Sue City over New Requirement that Firearms be Locked Away when Not in Use; Councilwoman says measure will save lives, others claim it's an overreach of city authority.

241057

Citibank and Republic First Bank Stripped of City Treasurer's Deposit Privileges

A proposed law would boot two major banks from the city's roster of authorized depositories, potentially leaving millions in municipal funds scattered elsewhere if a new bank is not quickly added to the list.

241024

Event planners must have contingency plans in place for emergency preparations when seeking permits.

Event planners seeking city permits must now establish backup plans for inclement weather as part of emergency preparations.

240671

Philadelphia Council Votes to Boost Security Guard Training Amid Growing Public Safety Concerns

Concerned citizens and business owners may see a marked improvement in street security as City Hall moves to standardize training for private guards, who would now need 20 hours of coursework before taking the job.

250646-A

Philadelphia Updates Building Codes to Require More Energy-Efficient Construction

Philadelphia's building code is being updated to include new energy efficiency standards from the International Energy Conservation Code and the International Residential Code. All buildings in the city will be affected by these changes when they go into effect.

250644

Philly City Workers to Automatically Contribute to Retirement Savings Plans

Philly Residents Face Higher Parking Fines as Council Votes to Increase Penalty Fees on Delinquent Meters, Targeting Repeat Offenders and Negligent Property Owners. Parking enforcement workers will now issue fines starting at $100 for second-time offenders, a significant increase from the current $50 fee.

250651-A

Philadelphia Officials Urge Harrisburg to Boost Funding for Struggling City Mass Transit System Now

Philadelphia officials are urging Harrisburg to boost funding for SEPTA and mass transit across the state, calling on voters to support increased financial aid in an upcoming special election.

250650

City Council Proposes Major Overhaul of Surrounding Streets for Dedicated Bike Lane Installation

City Council proposes dedicated bike lane installation around City Hall, which would involve removing one travel lane under certain terms and conditions.

250649

Philadelphia Buildings Forced to Upgrade Plumbing Systems as New Safety Standards Take Hold Citywide

Philadelphia buildings must upgrade plumbing systems to meet new national safety standards, aligning local code with the 2021 International Plumbing Code. The change affects all construction and occupancy in the city.

250645

City Council Expands Business Voice on Economic Planning Committee

Local residents may see more jobs and investment in their neighborhoods as council tries to boost business input on city economic plans, potentially shifting the balance of power in development projects.

250654

City Council Moves to Give Big Boost to Live Music Scene with New Business Tax Break Proposal

City Council proposes tax break to incentivize businesses to hire local musicians, potentially boosting Philadelphia's live music scene. The credit would benefit merchants who meet certain requirements and hire Philadelphia-based performing artists.

250647

Outdoor Dining Expansion Approved on S 3rd St

This bill authorizes a 'Streetery' (a type of outdoor dining area) on a specific street in Philadelphia, allowing businesses to expand their seating areas under certain conditions.

250653

South Philly Residents to See dumpsters Permitted in Front Yards Under New Council Rule

A proposed ordinance could bring more trash to neighborhood streets: residents would be allowed to place dumpsters in front yards with permits, sparking concerns about aesthetics and public health.

250652

Council Proposes Zoning Shift for North and Broad Streets Area

Council proposes to change zoning designations in a Philadelphia area bounded by North Street, Broad Street, Wallace Street, and 15th Street.

250648