Council delays decision on shortening downtown parking limits after business, resident concerns

City staff presented a Kimley‑Horn recommendation to reduce on‑street parking limits on sections of Green Street and Riverside Drive from four hours to two hours (proposed window 6 a.m.–9 p.m.) to improve turnover during peak times. Doug (staff) said the recommendation responds to observed 90% peak utilization and that the consultant proposed a two‑hour limit as one “low‑hanging” measure to increase turnover.

Business owners, the chamber and several restaurant operators urged caution. Molly, who identified herself during public comment as working with the chamber, said the proposed blanket two‑hour limit could discourage multi‑stop visits and said the city should first improve wayfinding and signage and address employee parking. Phil Sweeney, speaking for the American Legion, asked the council to consider longer limits for nights when the Legion hosts events and to add handicap spaces near the Legion building. Julius White, CEO of Heart Alliance (operators of DC Cobbs and Whiskey Diablo), said many private events and some reservations routinely exceed two hours and warned that guests who find tickets or are forced to move could be deterred from returning.

Council members repeatedly said they supported the consultant’s study but agreed to delay any ordinance change until new signage (the council approved a signage contract earlier in the meeting) is installed; they directed that staff revisit the issue six months after signage completion and continue outreach to businesses and residents. Suggestions discussed included a mix of two‑hour “premium” on‑street spots, dedicated short‑term 15‑minute spaces, more handicap spaces on Riverside Drive and stronger outreach to employees about off‑street parking options. No ordinance change was approved at the meeting.