Springfield to consider increasing parking fines

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Springfield City Council will consider amending a city ordinance to increase parking fines and penalties across the city.

The ordinance, requested by Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher and Alderwoman Lakeshia Purchase, notes a desire to increase revenue and is "...in the best interest of the City."

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Many of the initial fines would double. A violation for parking in a no parking zone would increase from $25 to $50. Parking in an emergency lane would increase to $100.

Tuesday's council agenda states the ordinance is necessary to, "...encourage greater compliance with parking regulations, improve traffic flow, and enhance public safety."

Here's a list of proposed changes:

Pedestrian violations: from $3 to $6
Overtime parking (including residential): from $10 to $20
No parking zone: from $25 to 50
Parking on private property: from $25 to $50
Violation of consecutive hour and day; parking on public streets: from $25 to $50
Improper parking: from $25 to $50
Improper parking across lines: from $10 to $20
Parking for persons with a disability (i.e. parking in a handicap parking space without a permit): from $250 to $500
Repairing a vehicle on a street: from $15 to $30
Plugging or tampering with parking meters: from $25 to $30
Bicycle, skateboard or human-powered vehicle violation: from $15 to $30
Emergency lane violation: from $50 to $100
All other traffic violations not listed: from $25 to $50
Restricted parking area: from $25 to $50

Most fines not paid within 14 days would double again.

The proposed changes come as Springfield sees fewer free parking options and an increase in private parking lot management.

The ordinance will get a first reading at Tuesday's meeting.