Philadelphia · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Philadelphia public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Victory Gardens/Emerson Landfill remediation and training facility
An ordinance would let the City lease the Victory Gardens and Emerson Landfill site to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for environmental cleanup and a training facility.
Incineration of Philadelphia's trash in Chester
An ordinance would bar companies hauling the city's trash, recycling, and compost from burning discarded material. It's an air-quality and environmental justice measure that could change how Philadelphia's waste is handled.
US policy toward Cuba
Council weighed in on federal foreign policy, urging the removal of Cuba from the state sponsors of terrorism list and an end to the embargo. Dozens of residents testified on both sides — some citing the humanitarian crisis on the island, others saying Council should focus on Philadelphia's own crises.
Green stormwater infrastructure expansion
Council authorized hearings on how the Green City, Clean Waters program is performing and whether vegetated GSI should expand, especially on private and commercial properties. Advocates say it cuts sewage overflows, cools neighborhoods, and improves water quality.
Bird Town Pennsylvania conservation participation
Council committed the city to Bird Town Pennsylvania and community-based conservation to protect birds and wildlife — Philly sits on the Atlantic Flyway.
Dumpster locking and neighborhood cleanliness
Council passed a law requiring locking dumpsters to fight illegal dumping and litter. A block captain also complained that sanitation team leaders can't meet residents after 3 p.m.
Locking dumpsters requirement
A held ordinance would require dumpsters to be locked, aimed at reducing illegal dumping and litter.
Locked dumpsters and illegal dumping
A bill requiring locking dumpsters to curb illegal dumping was held, though advocates testified about the citywide dumping problem and the city's goal to end it by 2028.