GRANTS PASS – The Grants Pass City Council adopted changes to the city’s downtown parking codes at their regular meeting Wednesday, Dec. 2. Restrictions on employees of downtown businesses have been lifted in favor of uniform timed parking restrictions throughout the Central Business District.
Director of Public Safety Warren Hensman explained to the council that local employers are under no obligation to provide his department with employee names and license plate numbers of employee vehicles, rendering enforcement of the previous code impractical. The new code changes create a uniform policy of enforcement of existing time limitations in various areas, including 15-minute, 30-minute, and 3-hour zones.
Hensman presented the council a look at the policies of some neighboring cities, and said the new codes are in line with what other municipalities have in effect.
Paid parking permits available for several downtown parking lots will still be offered and honored.
In addition to the enforcement changes, the council approved an increase in fine amounts for violations of the code. First offenses will now come with a $25 fine.
“I think $25 is fair, based on comparisons the Chief has provided,” said Councilor Tyler Flaming.
A second offence within a 30-day period will carry a $50. The fine does not increase with a third offence, but each new offence begins another 30-day period that could lead to another $50 fine for repeat offenders.
The new policies go into effect Jan. 1.
###