Council approves one-side parking restriction on Mallard Point after resident concerns

Mount Vernon City Council adopted Ordinance 2025-30 on Oct. 28 to restrict parking on one side of Mallard Point, a measure the administration and residents said addresses safety and emergency-access concerns.

During public comment, Dr. Edward A. Thomas, a neighborhood resident, described parked cars on both sides of Mallard Point that make travel between parked vehicles difficult, impede driveway egress and could delay emergency vehicles. "The situation not only creates a hazardous environment for drivers but also poses risk to pedestrians and children playing nearby," Thomas said.

A letter from Janice and James McCammon was read into the record and submitted for the public file. The letter described the McCammon home as a private residence where the couple provide round-the-clock care for their son, Kevin, a 48-year-old quadriplegic, and clarified that the property is not a licensed group home. The letter notes: "The specific noted vehicle is Kevin—s way of transportation at a moment's notice since he is quadriplegic. He therefore cannot be transported from our home in any vehicle without a ramp or a lift." The McCammons indicated they would comply with any ordinance and supported enforcement conducted irrespective of address.

Council action: The ordinance restricting parking on one side of Mallard Point was moved, seconded and adopted by roll call; all members present voted in favor. Council members and the administration said they had not heard organized opposition in the neighborhood and that the measure originated from resident safety concerns.

What the ordinance does not change tonight: Enforcement and timelines for compliance were not detailed in the public portion of the meeting; the city clerk and administration did not read an enforcement schedule into the public record during adoption.

Next steps: The ordinance takes effect according to the city—s standard codification schedule; residents should watch for any posted signs and formal notification from the city about the effective date and enforcement procedures.