Council directs staff to study residential parking permits and mailbox parking ban after neighborhood complaints around Alexander High School

LAREDO, Feb. 18, 2025 — Neighbors near Alexander High School urged the City Council to study a residential parking permit program and a proposed ordinance banning parking within eight feet of mailboxes after residents reported driveways and mailboxes blocked by students and visitors.

Context and complaints Council members and residents described a long‑running shortage of on‑campus parking at Alexander High School; speakers said some students park off campus without valid licenses or insurance, creating blocked driveways, blocked mailboxes and safety hazards. Residents requested an expedited process for an on‑street residential permit program and asked whether towing or booting options could be streamlined to remove repeat violators.

Staff response and council action Traffic staff explained that a resident‑initiated permit program is governed by city policy and requires a petition signed by 67% of residents within the target area; staff offered an interim enforcement approach that includes tracking 311/parking enforcement complaints to establish documented need while residents gather signatures.

Council action Council moved to direct staff to return with a plan that: (1) shows the petition process and ordinance steps to create a limited residential parking/permit zone; (2) documents current enforcement activity and citation counts; and (3) outlines short‑term tools such as citation tracking, booting and possible tow practices or a designated tow zone with signage. The council also asked staff to consult with the school district on short‑term parking options and to return with recommendations and a timeline.

Provenance: Public comment and staff exchange during Feb. 18 meeting.