Star council creates residential parking district near Freedom Park after neighbors cite safety risks

The Star City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to create a residential parking district covering portions of the Heron River (Parkstone) subdivision adjacent to Freedom Park, after staff and residents described crowded streets, blocked driveways and pinch points that can impede emergency response.

Zoning Administrator Sean told the council the plan would limit on-street parking in the marked area, require signage approved by Ada County (ACD), and provide each household in the district with four vehicle placards for visitors. “The parking district would include parking passes for residents and their visitors,” Sean said during the public hearing.

Neighbors and council members framed the issue as one of safety and accessibility. Resident Kurt Grundle urged the council to address “pinch points” near Otter Rock and Mirror drives, saying the roadway layout can make “that particular turn onto Otter Rock extremely difficult for EMS,” and that parked cars regularly narrow two-lane streets to a single lane.

Council members discussed enforcement and costs. Staff said ACD will provide required signs for public roadways and the city would cover the initial cost of placards from general funds (about $500 for 1,000 passes). The city’s current parking fine is $100; staff said towing or higher fines remain options if enforcement proves insufficient. Council members also asked staff to devise a way for officers to validate placards and to track lost or replaced passes.

After public testimony from several residents who described regular parking congestion on warm weekends, Councilwoman Salomson moved to approve the district with the updated map, 24/7 enforcement, issuance of four free placards per household and a planned two-year pass rotation; Councilman Day seconded the motion. The motion carried by roll call vote.

Next steps: staff will coordinate with ACD on final sign content and installation, prepare placard issuance procedures with the clerk’s office, and return to council if enforcement, fees or boundaries need adjustment. The council recessed shortly after the vote.