Council rejects proposed no-parking zone by public library after accessibility concerns

Keokuk City Council voted down the initial reading of an ordinance to prohibit parking on the south side of North Fifth Street adjacent to the public library after several residents said the change would make library access harder for seniors and people with disabilities.

The measure, introduced as an amendment to section 9.28.040, would have banned parking on the south (library-facing) side of North Fifth between Concert Street and High Street. City staff said the proposal came at the department head level as a safety response; library staff preferred keeping the current parking arrangement.

Several neighbors spoke against the proposed restriction. "I'm opposed to it because of the people that have disabilities," said Ken Martin, who identified himself and said the increased walking distance from the rear parking and elevator would be difficult for elderly patrons. Edward Mallaloy, who lives on North Fifth, said relocating parking could force children and seniors to cross more hazardous traffic flows.

Monica Winkler, library director, told the council she had contacted Seabus and received confirmation that the bus could be configured to drop off patrons at the rear entrance, though a drive-through test would be required. Winkler reiterated the library's preference to keep street parking as it is.

Council members debated smaller steps — an information campaign, routing changes for the bus, and targeted traffic calming — rather than an immediate blanket parking ban. After discussion, council members recorded opposition on the motion and the proposed ordinance failed to advance.

The council did not adopt changes to parking at this meeting and staff were not directed to implement the no-parking signs. The mayor thanked residents for providing local feedback and encouraged continued collaboration on safety alternatives.