Decision remains "pending" on solutions to parking problems

Langel had asked certain streets in the area be posted as "no parking," namely along Second Street Southeast. Council members in delaying action on the request have at the same time requested Langel meet with Wells' representatives to about the possibility of the company establishing its own parking areas to accommodate employees seen as contributing to overcrowding of current street parking options.

The council earlier discussed as to whether the situation is one resulting from Iowa's recent ban on cigarette smoking, and if the parking situation reflects numbers of Wells' employees no longer allowed to smoke on company premises.

Randy Heissel, 221 First St. S.E., appearing Tuesday before the council, acknowledged the city's difficulty in finding a solution to the problem. At the same time, he said, the city's proposed restrictions penalized homeowners in the area and could be detrimental to property values for individuals like himself. He also noted that parking was less crowded during weekends when Wells' employees are not working

Tom Mullally, 227 Second Ave. S.E., suggested ticketing by police of motorists sitting in their vehicles the motors running and asked how the restricted parking would affect winter snow removal.

Council members, meanwhile, noted that the current parking issue involved safety considerations as well as available parking for residents of the area.

At the same time, they shared agreement that no readily available solution was at hand on the matter and said they would await outcome of the visit with Wells' officials before taking action.