Snow ban clarified

The March 24 snowstorm that blanketed much of northern Iowa hit Clarion hard, resulting in numerous cars getting stuck and snow ban tickets being issued. While most residents try to keep their cars off the street after a storm to allow snow plows to operate, there has been some confusion about how long the snow ban affects parking.

This week, the Clarion city council voted on Ordinance 584, clarifying the old snow ban ordinance. The new ordinance simply states that parking is banned on streets during and for 48 hours after the end of a snowfall event.

The old version stated that the ban “shall be in effect through the duration of the snow or ice storm and the 48-hour period after cessation of such storm except… upon streets which have been fully opened.” This caused some confusion about if parking is allowed after the snow plow goes through. However, the straight 48-hour clarification will allow streets to be fully cleared before street parking begins again.

Councilperson Josh Diamond motioned to approve the first reading of the ordinance and was seconded by Councilperson Dan Hennigar. After the third reading is approved, the ordinance will be adopted, and will start being enforced when snow hits again in fall or winter of 2018.

For more Clarion city council business, see the April 5 edition of the Monitor.