Mayville business owner urges parking overhaul; committee refers issue to CDA

Rachel Smith, a Mayville resident and downtown business owner, told the City Public Safety Committee on Jan. 26 that parking problems on Main Street are costing businesses and deterring visitors. "The parking challenges, I believe, make downtown less accessible and... less welcoming for visitors and tourists," she said during the public comment period, and urged larger, brighter signs, reinstating short‑term spaces on Bridal Street and a simple interactive digital map.

The committee discussed the complaint later in the meeting. Members noted past local efforts to mark public lots and pointed to technical limits on pole size and sign placement downtown. One alderperson said some 10‑minute placards had been placed during the COVID period and that ownership changes had complicated the signage situation; staff and alderpersons agreed the city website refresh could be a place to host a digital parking map.

Committee members stressed trade‑offs. Staff cautioned that a formal usage study usually carries a cost and suggested starting with the Community Development Authority (CDA) to examine signage and low‑cost options before budgeting for a larger study. A member also raised safety concerns at a curbside corner near a downtown shop where strollers and pedestrians mix with traffic.

By motion and second, the committee voted to refer the downtown parking topic to the CDA for further study and recommendations. The motion carried by voice vote. Committee members said they expect the CDA to return with specific sign locations, any grant or budget needs, and potential changes to short‑term parking rules.

Next steps: the CDA will review the matter and the committee suggested staff post informational material about public lots during the website refresh. No ordinance or regulation changes were adopted at the Jan. 26 meeting.