Committee refers Chapter 41 snow-emergency revisions back to public safety for broader package

City staff presented a proposed amendment to Chapter 41 aimed at filling an apparent omission in snow-removal language by explicitly adding side streets to the existing emergency snow-route procedures.

The draft, discussed in committee, would add side streets to the ordinance provisions that currently reference only designated emergency snow routes (examples cited included Pipestone, Territorial, Main Street, Empire and Agate). Staff and the clerk said the redlined draft omitted some related sections and that the committee should return a complete Chapter 41 package, including definitions of secondary streets and odd/even parking rules, before sending it forward.

The clerk of the City of Benton Harbor emphasized the need for resident outreach and public education, including diagrams or maps explaining the odd/even parking scheme. The chief of public safety said the city delayed punitive enforcement this winter but wants to prepare a year in advance for next season — including signage and alternating-side parking plans — and noted budget constraints could limit the number of new signs the city can install.

Commissioners and staff agreed to send the ordinance back to the public safety committee and to involve the city attorney in drafting clearer language. No changes to enforcement policy or fines were adopted at the meeting; staff said further work and public outreach will precede any punitive measures.

The committee asked staff to return a complete, user-friendly package that includes the side-street language, an expanded odd/even parking definition suitable for street sweeping and seasonal enforcement, recommended signage and an outreach plan.