Changes To Skateboard Ordinance Approved By Warsaw City Council
By Dan Spalding
InkFreeNews
WARSAW — City Council has given final OK to a revision of the skateboarding ordinance.
While skateboarding is prohibited in the downtown Warsaw business district (bounded by Lake Street, Detroit Street, Main Street and Winona Avenue), language was added to include public parking areas and also establishes a series of fines that could be assessed against violators.
The new fines start at $250 for the first infraction and increase by $250 for additional offenses.
Mayor Joe Thallemer said he expects the fines to serve as a deterrent and that the chances of being fined are remote.
Councilwoman Diane Quance questioned whether more language is needed to address who would be fined when the case involves juveniles.
Others suggested that parents are, by default, held responsible for their children’s actions.
Some council members suggested they take a wait-and-see approach to see if that becomes an issue.
City officials sought the changes after realizing the city hall parking lot was becoming a magnet for skateboarders. Officials expressed concern over property damage from the skateboarding.
Council gave preliminary approval on July 6. There was no opposition voiced on the proposal on Monday night.
Council approved the policy change by a 6-0 vote.
In another matter, council approved two measures that are part of a financial agreement between the city and Nextremity over the company’s occupation in the Warsaw Technology Park.
Under the plan, the city will provide $250,000 as a loan over five years that will be forgiven if the company hits several benchmarks. The company has already moved into its new location and will celebrate its grand opening Friday.
The company employees 85 people, which is above its initial employment level benchmark established in the agreement
In other moves, council:
- Approved an increase of fees at Oakwood that were recommended by the Oakwood cemetery board on July 1.
- Announced City Council meetings on Aug. 2 and Aug. 16 will begin at 6 p.m. as it begins its annual budget review process.