Council holds first readings of traffic/parking code and manufactured-home/RV ordinance

The Alpena City Council conducted first readings of two code updates intended to modernize local traffic and property rules. An unidentified presenter summarized Ordinance 25-515, a rewrite of Chapter 94 (Traffic and Vehicles) that adopts portions of the Michigan Vehicle Code by reference, establishes a parking violations bureau and updates parking regulations including restrictions on parking on tree lawns and truck routes. The presenter noted municipalities cannot enforce misdemeanors carrying maximum penalties over 93 days, so parking violations remain civil infractions.

Council members asked how the proposed code aligns with comparable municipalities and about a redlined change affecting parking on 13th Avenue; staff said the package is broadly consistent with other Michigan cities and was based on a Michigan Municipal League draft ordinance.

The council also heard first reading of Ordinance 25-516, which revises Chapter 46 to address manufactured homes, trailers and recreational vehicles. The ordinance clarifies permitted uses, sanitation and wastewater disposal rules, inspection standards and occupant/occupancy distinctions. Notably, the enforcement section was revised so that a second violation of the article within one year could be prosecuted as a misdemeanor with a penalty up to 90 days’ jail and fines (up to $500) rather than remain solely a civil infraction. Staff said the changes were not in response to a single incident but to periodic concerns (for example, long-term occupancy of RVs in driveways and roadway parking causing safety concerns).

Council members requested clearer language distinguishing storage, seasonal parking and occupancy; staff said those distinctions are part of the revised ordinance. Both ordinances were presented for first reading and will return for second reading at the next council meeting.