Alerts and Updates
Changes Proposed to Philadelphia Zoning and City Planning Provisions
October 6, 2006
On September 21, 2006, Philadelphia Councilmembers Kenney and DiCicco introduced three bills designed to improve the development review process and modernize the Zoning Code.
Bill Nos. 060699, 060682 and 060683 ask that the following questions be placed on the ballot for the May 15, 2007 election:
- Bill No. 060699 - "Shall the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter be amended to provide for the creation, appointment, powers and duties of an independent Zoning Code Commission which would recommend amendments to the Philadelphia Zoning Code to make the Code consistent and easy to understand, and to enhance and improve Philadelphia's city planning process while encouraging development and protecting the character of Philadelphia's neighborhoods?"
- Bill No. 060682 - "Shall the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter be amended to provide that the six appointed members of the City Planning Commission shall include an architect, an urban planner, a traffic engineer, an attorney experienced in land use issues, and two representatives of Philadelphia community groups that participate in land use issues?"
- Bill No. 060683 - "Shall the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter be amended to provide that the five appointed members of the Zoning Board of Adjustment shall include an architect, an urban planner, a traffic engineer, an attorney experienced in land use issues, and a representative of Philadelphia community groups that participate in land use issues?"
These bills have been referred to the Committee on Law and Government. We will continue to track the status of these bills and provide you with updated information as it becomes available.
These bills, in addition to the efforts of groups like the Building Industry Association and the Design Advocacy Group, recognize the need for change in the way in which development is regulated in Philadelphia.
For Further Information
For more information or assistance, please contact Marc D. Brookman, David I. Haas or any of the other Philadelphia members of our Real Estate Practice Group.
Disclaimer: This Alert has been prepared and published for informational purposes only and is not offered, nor should be construed, as legal advice. For more information, please see the firm's full disclaimer.
