Planning commission asks council to add enforceable no‑parking language for streets

The Village of Corrales Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously recommended that the Village Council adopt ordinance language enabling enforcement of no‑parking zones, including clear signage and potential ticketing or towing, to address commercial parking on residential streets.

Staff presented sample language and photographs of signs used at local fire stations; the packet proposed that where no‑parking signs are present "violators may be ticketed or towed." Lori Stout, the administrator, said the language would give both the police and the code enforcement officer authority to enforce parking restrictions and suggested council would finalize fines and towing arrangements.

Residents and commissioners cited recurring problems with patrons of nearby businesses parking along residential streets — examples included Sandia Bar and a deli where customers originally parked in adjacent neighborhoods. Commissioners also noted the village has recently purchased public parking lots that can be used during events.

Some commissioners raised logistics concerns about towing, including whether the village would contract with towing companies and where to store towed vehicles. "If you use a towing company as a contractor to do it, they all have yards or they have agreements," staff replied, noting municipalities commonly use contract tow services.

Commissioner Harper moved to support the packet language enabling enforcement; the motion was seconded and carried on a roll call with all commissioners voting in favor. The commission recommended council consider specific wording, exemptions for community events, and implementation details such as fines and contracting procedures.

The commission included proposed redlined language and photos in its recommended materials for council review; the commission then adjourned.