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Oshkosh council approves no-parking restriction on short Grand/Pleasant block after residents cite blocked emergency access
Summary
After multiple residents presented videos and testimony that parked cars block fire-truck and snow-plow access, the Oshkosh Common Council adopted Resolution 25575 to prohibit on-street parking on the block stretching roughly from Merritt Ave. to Hudson Ave.
The Oshkosh Common Council voted to adopt Resolution 25575 on Nov. 11, 2025, prohibiting on-street parking along the contested block between Merritt Avenue and Hudson Avenue after several residents said parked vehicles block emergency vehicles and prevent snow removal.
Residents who live on or near the block urged the council to act. Mark Burrow (552 Grand Street) said the street is too narrow for safe parking: “I don’t think there should be any parking on the road. It’s just not wide enough.” Chris Steinke (520 Pleasant Street) told the council he submitted video showing a fire truck that could not pass and warned that the state fire code requires a 20-foot unobstructed clearance for emergency access; he asked who would be liable if crews could not get through.
Other neighbors described practical hardships. Jeff Elman (514 Pleasant Street) raised driveway access and tree/vehicle damage concerns and asked the council to consider recusal if a member had a personal connection to a property owner. Don Shettle (548 Grand) said his lot’s layout and snow-storage limits make off-street parking infeasible and described the hardship of directing visitors and deliveries if on-street parking were eliminated.
Council discussion centered on public safety, fairness to individual property owners and available alternatives. Several members said they regretted hardship for affected homeowners but concluded that emergency access and public-works needs took precedence. One councilmember noted the Transportation Committee had recommended the restriction; another suggested staff work with the affected homeowner to explore private-side options and variances.
The motion to adopt Resolution 25575 was moved, seconded and carried on roll call. Council members directed staff to follow up with the affected homeowner to explore options (for example, a variance or other private modifications) while implementing the no-parking restriction.
The restriction takes effect per the city’s standard posting and enforcement procedures; staff will notify adjacent residents and adjust signage. No immediate financial compensation or buyout was authorized during the vote.
