Council extends Parking Commission jurisdiction to Hip Strip to enforce time limits and manage turnover

The Missoula City Council voted 9–2 on Nov. 17 to extend the jurisdictional boundaries of the Missoula Parking Commission to include the Hip Strip portion of South Higgins/Reserve, enabling the commission to enforce existing two‑hour time limits and to pursue neighborhood parking tools including permit programs.

Jody Pilgrim, director of the Parking Commission, told council the Hip Strip is contiguous to the commission’s current jurisdiction, is showing high on‑street utilization and has blocks where two‑hour signs are currently unenforced because they fall outside the commission’s boundary. Pilgrim said enforcement of existing two‑hour spaces should increase turnover in front of businesses and noted potential tools ranging from permit programs for residents near Hellgate High School to management agreements for private lots such as the senior center’s parking.

Business owners and neighbors submitted mixed views. Several speakers urged caution, saying expansion could harm small businesses and deter customers, while others supported better turnover and resident relief from long‑term commuter parking. Council discussion touched on oversight, the commission’s available tools, private lot management agreements and concerns that metered parking authority resides with the commission rather than the full council.

Councilors Campbell and Vasica voted against the resolution; the motion passed with nine in favor. Pilgrim said the commission would prioritize enforcing existing two‑hour zones and work with neighborhoods on residential permit options and ongoing public engagement.

Next steps: The Parking Commission will implement an initial enforcement plan focused on two‑hour time limits, continue outreach to Hip Strip businesses and residents, and evaluate permit options and private lot management agreements.