By Luisa Loi
La Conner Community News
The La Conner Town Council approved an ordinance establishing parking restrictions on First Street beginning Jan.1.
The ordinance prohibits drivers from keeping their vehicles parked on First Street — between Morris and Commercial streets — for longer than four hours between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
First street residents may apply for a residential parking permit by providing proof of residence at that address and proof of ownership or legal control of the vehicle the permit is for.
Residents can also submit a visitor’s permit application once per year that is valid for multiple guest vehicles. Both residential and visitor permits will allow parking in the restricted areas for up to 24 consecutive hours and include free parking at the Town’s gravel parking lot at 803 South 3rd St. The council will set the cost of the parking permit fee at a later meeting in November or December; council members previously expressed their preference for a $15 price tag to avoid discouraging compliance.
Permit holders will receive a pass to display in their vehicle, which won’t guarantee a parking space, according to the ordinance.
The passes expire on Jan. 1 after the permit is issued.
Landlords or contractors can qualify for service parking permits to conduct building improvements in the restricted parking zone; the same goes for home health care providers who serve a residence in the restricted parking zone. These permits would be issued for up to 30 days unless the Town determines a longer period is warranted.
Luisa Loi is a general assignment reporter for La Conner Community News.
