Join us in opposition to Bill #251030

On November 20, 2025, Philadelphia City Councilman Mark Squilla introduced Bill #251030, to the dismay of the preservation community and various civic groups and cultural institutions citywide. RePoint has compiled a thorough analysis detailing the bill’s numerous problems, indicating why Councilmembers should vote “NO” on this bill when the time comes.

On December 4, 2025, the Philadelphia City Planning Commission tabled a recommendation vote for 45 days, giving city agencies and staff time to analyze the legislation, and advocates time to mobilize. Follow RePoint on social media for the most current updates.

Demolition Review Bills

Two separate bills recently introduced in City Council would, if passed, restrict the demolition of existing structures in specific councilmanic districts without permits for new building in place. RePoint contributed a comment for an Inquirer article about the proposed legislation.

RePoint’s statement points out the existence of demo review legislation in peer cities, and the need to incorporate such approaches into a modern, citywide framework to protect Philly’s unique historic and architectural character.

4024–34 Apalogen Road (“Tulipwood”)

Historical Commission staff recommended against designating this mid-century modern home for fear that that designation could “frustrate the owner’s investment-backed expectations” and potentially expose the City to legal challenge.

In written testimony, RePoint urges the Historical Commission to designate the property, following the Committee for Historic Designation’s affirmation of historic significance, and rejecting the staff recommendation to withhold or deny designation on litigation-avoidance grounds.

5831 Yocum Street Farmhouse

In a vote to recommend the designation of a modest 19th century farmhouse in Southwest Philly, the Philadelphia Historical Commission’s Committee on Historic Designation was torn over the question of integrity: has the structure changed too much over time to be worthy of designation?

In written testimony, RePoint urges the Historical Commission to respect the existing criteria of designation, which pertain to historic significance. Physical integrity, meanwhile, should be used only to assess post-designation permit review.

Good Shepherd Hall (5301 Wister St)

La Salle University has secured a demolition permit for Good Shepherd Hall. Please consider joining RePoint Philadelphia in expressing opposition to this proposed demolition.