Morganton council adopts downtown parking changes, raises fines and moves enforcement to T2 system

The Morganton City Council on Dec. 1 adopted an ordinance amendment and updated fee schedule for downtown parking that shifts many spaces to all‑day free visitor parking, extends time limits and strengthens enforcement.

Sharon Germolotsky, presenting the parking committee recommendations, said the changes were designed "for the customer and the visitors," and emphasized the committee sought to improve turnover and convenience for downtown businesses. Under the plan, two‑hour on‑street parking will move to three hours; the four sides of Courthouse Square will be designated as all‑day free parking for customers and visitors (three sides will allow residential permit access), and several lots now signed two‑ or four‑hour will be converted to all‑day free parking unless signed otherwise.

The proposal calls for increased enforcement tools. "All parking payments, notices, and collections will now be managed by T2 mobile systems," Germolotsky said, and added that the system will allow motorists to scan a QR code or call to pay. Council approved a 30‑day warning period through Jan. 5 before monetary enforcement begins to allow signage and public notice to take effect.

Council also approved changes to fines: same‑block violations will increase from $5 to $10; overstaying in 10‑minute loading/unloading spaces will carry a $30 fine; and unauthorized parking in or adjacent to handicap spaces will carry the state‑mandated fine (discussed in the meeting as $100). The city will boot vehicles with unpaid parking tickets more than 60 days past due; booted vehicles have five days to clear fines or face towing at the owner’s expense.

Germolotsky told council that the committee considered removing time limits and fines but found the option impractical because employees and business owners often occupy customer spaces. She said the committee recommended modern ticketing, clearer signage and consistent, impartial enforcement to ensure turnover.

Council members asked about timing and resident access. Germolotsky said new signs were scheduled to be installed immediately and that the online permit and resident registration system will allow residents to register guest vehicles; staff also said they could issue temporary placards via public safety if needed. Several council members noted the city leases many of the lots used for downtown parking and that some lots remain private and excluded from the changes.

Council voted by voice to adopt the ordinance amendment and the revised schedule of fees and charges as presented.

The ordinance and the fee schedule will be posted on the city website and the downtown site once signage and T2 training are complete; officials said the start of monetary citations may shift slightly after Jan. 5 if staff training or system delivery is delayed.