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Police and staff push license-plate readers, virtual permits and tougher fines to curb parking abuse
Summary
Chief Duffy and staff urged visible enforcement, license-plate readers and online temporary passes; staff proposed increasing sticker and other fine levels to make violations less attractive to visitors and nonresidents.
Enforcement strategies were a central part of the workshop discussion, with the police chief and staff recommending both near- and longer-term changes.
Police Chief Ryan Duffy said making enforcement more visible (distinct uniforms, wrapped enforcement vehicles, and temporary high-visibility vests) would act as an immediate deterrent. He recommended a technology upgrade: "By using license plate readers, we could evolve into where we don't need to do these mass mailings, where we can use virtual stickers," the chief said, arguing readers would be a "force multiplier" for traffic aides and help the city identify vehicles not authorized to park in residential zones.
Staff also proposed that the city create online guest/contractor passes that can be bought for a limited time and tied to license plates, allowing short-term permits without physical placards. On fines, staff suggested raising handicap fines and sticker-parking fines and reexamining the general fine schedule so parking in a residential zone would be less attractive than proper paid parking. Councilors asked about legal limits and reasonableness; staff said municipalities have latitude but recommended keeping penalties proportionate.
