Mount Clemens advances ordinance change to allow residential permit-parking zones

The Mount Clemens City Commission voted to advance an amendment to city ordinance 20.2 that would permit the establishment of restricted residential permit-parking zones. City staff described the vote as the first step in a two-step process: the ordinance change grants authority to designate zones by resolution, and the commission will adopt specific zone maps, signage and permit-fee structures in subsequent actions.

City Attorney explained that the ordinance amendment authorizes the commission to "designate by resolution an area or areas of the city as a restricted residential parking permit zone" and prescribes penalties for fraudulently obtaining permits. He said the ordinance includes a severability clause and a repealer clause to remove conflicting provisions. The amendment as presented was moved, supported, and approved on first reading; staff said a second reading and required posting will follow and that an additional 10-day period is needed before adoption becomes effective.

Several residents described congestion and event-related parking problems, including difficulty parking for a funeral and frequent all-day postal parking in residential areas. Resident Ruthie Stevens said parking on Bain Street near the post office made attending a funeral difficult and questioned whether proposed signage and restrictions would be sufficient. Commissioners and staff agreed more detailed discussion and exhibits would follow at a work session before implementation.

Whereas the ordinance amendment sets the legal framework, specific boundaries and fees will be determined later by resolution and posted exhibits. The amendment does not itself create any specific permit districts or fees at this meeting.

Next steps: staff will provide exhibit maps and proposed fee structures and the commission will take up a second reading and resolution to create permit areas.