Philadelphia City Council in 2006
Council Passes Record Number of Bills in 2006
The year in summary
The Philadelphia City Council saw a flurry of activity in 2006, with a total of 333 bills introduced and 265 signed into law. Zoning and planning dominated the agenda, with 103 and 96 bills respectively. This marks an increase from previous years, with zoning up 19% and public-safety up 12%. In contrast, parking and government saw significant declines in bill introductions. One area of agreement was on contentious issues like smoking in public spaces and a massive infrastructure plan that includes upgrades to roads and water mains.
Contested votes reveal divisions within the council, particularly around economic development measures. For example, a 4-11 vote against lowering business tax rates highlighted concerns among some council members about spurring growth. Another area of debate was property safety regulations, with a narrow passage of a bill requiring rental owners to provide certificates proving rentals meet standards.
AI-generated analysis grounded in 333 bills from official Philadelphia City Council records.
What council worked on in 2006
Rising vs 2005: zoning (+19), public safety (+12), planning (+6), civil service (+5). Declining: parking (-43), government (-32), taxation (-18), traffic (-18).
Highest-impact bills of 2006
Council Approves Measure to Expand Philly's Recycling Program, Boosting Curbside Pickup Services by 75% Across All 9 City Districts.
Philadelphia's annual operating budget swells to a record $3.679 billion in Council's final approval vote; the massive spending plan will directly fund salaries and services for thousands of city employees.
Philly Set to Break Ground on Major Upgrades to Potholed Roads, Water Main Replacements, and Revamped Public Transportation Systems with Huge Infusion of City Funds.
Smoking is now prohibited in public spaces and workplaces across Philadelphia, with penalties for non-compliance, as a result of City Council's unanimous vote. New rules take effect immediately today.
Philadelphia's Poorly Lit Alleys to Get a Facelift Under New Council Proposal, aimed at enhancing public safety and reducing crime in some of the city's most troubled neighborhoods.
Most contested votes of 2006top 5 of 13
Most council roll calls are unanimous — these are the bills that split the chamber.
Most active sponsors in 2006
- Councilmember DiCicco57 bills
- Councilmember Clarke54 bills
- Councilmember Blackwell39 bills
- Councilmember Krajewski30 bills
- Councilmember Nutter23 bills