Council works to deal with front-yard parking

The city is looking at spending up to $150,000 for repaving parts of 13 streets.
By SEAN BARRON
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
HUBBARD -- An ordinance to deal with people who park vehicles in their front yards, as well as a motion pertaining to a street resurfacing project, were two main items discussed at Monday's city council meeting.
In an effort some say will make the city more attractive, council considered an ordinance that would give police the power to cite residents who keep vehicles in their front yards. Exceptions would be made for those who park in their yards to wash or wax their cars, host parties and other short-term situations, Councilwoman Lisha Baumiller said.
A few residents expressed confusion over potential ramifications of the ordinance. A Moore Street man asked if such parking posed a safety problem; another resident who parks a truck in front of his garage near a side yard said he wondered if he would be in violation.
Councilman Raymond Moffitt said he thinks the parking situation should be dealt with by zoning officials instead of the police. Council did not vote on the proposal.
Possible spending
In other business, Councilman Ed Palestro introduced an ordinance to advertise for bids to pave parts of 13 streets in the city as part of a 2006 road resurfacing program. The city is considering allocating between $90,000 and $150,000 for the work, which could get under way in the fall. Funds also will need to be earmarked for demolition of the city building at 33 W. Liberty St., which will be torn down after a new safety center opens, several council members said.
Palestro also put forth a motion to enter into a contract with Valley Ford Truck Sales for the city to buy a 2007 dump truck at a cost not to exceed $49,000.
Also at the session, Mayor Arthur U. Magee announced a dedication ceremony for the new safety center at 220 School St. The event is set for 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the site.