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Borger introduces parks ordinance: midnight closures, smoking limits, and parking-lot conduct rules
Summary
Ordinance O-018-25 was introduced to set park hours (midnight–4 a.m.), prohibit smoking/vaping around others, and ban loitering or habitation in park parking lots; the council moved to introduce the measure on its first reading.
Council discussion moved to parks regulations under Ordinance O-018-25, which Speaker 1 described as a response to recurring complaints and the loss of a juvenile-curfew tool the state previously allowed.
Speaker 1 said the ordinance would close parks between midnight and 4 a.m., with exceptions for city‑sponsored events that obtain a park‑event permit. On smoking and vaping, Speaker 1 said the city will prohibit smoking or vaping in park areas when other people are present or within a reasonable proximity where smoke or vapor may affect others, and signs will explain the rule.
The proposal adds a parking‑lot conduct section that limits vehicle use in park parking lots to parking and accessing park facilities. The draft bans loitering, extended idling, using vehicles for habitation or as a place of rest, and behavior that interferes with other patrons. Speaker 1 said warnings will precede enforcement.
Speaker 1 framed the changes as giving police clearer tools to address loud music, litter, and loitering without having to wait for an explicit offense. “If you’re just hanging out in the park in the parking lot… go do that at home,” Speaker 1 said while explaining intent and enforcement discretion.
Speaker 4 moved to introduce Ordinance O-018-25 on first reading. Speaker 2 called the vote and announced approval to introduce; the ordinance will return with finalized language for a second reading.
