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Council weighs safety and enforcement options for residents 'saving' parade spots
Summary
City staff and Council discussed policies used by neighboring cities to limit how long chairs and items can reserve parade spots, and asked staff to draft a recommendation that prioritizes sidewalk/right-of-way safety and resident education.
City Administrator Scott Darrington and Council members discussed recurring safety concerns over residents placing chairs and other items along parade routes days in advance to 'save' spots. Darrington emphasized that blocking sidewalks is unlawful and flagged hazards for scooters and emergency access. “I cautioned Council Members from reviewing text messages or social media messages during the Work Session and asking questions based on that public comment, as that could turn it into a public hearing,” Darrington said during the discussion.
Council Member Eric Jensen surveyed neighboring cities’ approaches—some limit unattended items to 12–15 hours before the parade; others remove unattended items or require permits for certain spaces. Parade Coordinator Lisa Young recommended designating a specific time items may be placed and emphasized an initial focus on education before formal enforcement. Staff will draft ordinance or guideline options and bring them back to the Council for review before the next parade season.
