Cedar Falls Council approves phased increase in parking citation and booting fees

The Cedar Falls Committee of the Whole convened on June 16, 2025, to discuss several key issues, primarily focusing on adjustments to parking citation fees and related policies. The meeting began with a review of current parking usage and citation statistics, highlighting concerns about low compliance rates.

The first significant agenda item was a proposal to increase citywide parking citation fees from $10 to $25. Council members expressed support for this increase, emphasizing the need for a phased approach to ensure compliance and address inflationary costs. A motion was made to implement this increase, along with a rise in monthly parking permit fees from $35 to $50, with a further increase to $70 planned for the following year. This motion received a second and opened the floor for discussion.

Several council members voiced their agreement with the proposed fee increases, noting that higher penalties could encourage better parking behavior. One member suggested that the council should review these fees more frequently to avoid large jumps in the future. The discussion also included the idea of implementing a tiered penalty system for repeat offenders, proposing that the fee for a second booting be set at $75 and a third at $100. This approach aimed to deter habitual violators while also generating additional revenue for the city.

Concerns were raised about the administrative burden of tracking repeat offenders and the feasibility of implementing such a system. However, it was noted that the necessary data could be accessed through existing parking citation records, making it manageable for city staff.

The council also discussed the potential for resetting penalties after a certain period, with suggestions ranging from three to five years. This would allow for a fresh start for individuals who may have changed their parking habits over time.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted a proactive approach to managing parking regulations in Cedar Falls, with a focus on increasing compliance through adjusted fees and penalties. The council plans to revisit these discussions in future meetings to assess the effectiveness of the changes and make further adjustments as necessary.