In order to maintain consistency, the Butte-Silver Bow Parking Commission will discuss simplifying the graduated fine structure currently used to set rates for vehicles and drivers that commit overtime parking violations in Uptown Butte’s two-hour parking district.
Graduated fines were implemented in June 2014, but have been difficult for parking enforcement staff to consistently apply due to complications related to the Department of Motor Vehicles’ (DMV) multiple plate type classifications and the parking violation tracking system. Inconsistencies could lead to the issuance of lower than appropriate fines to vehicles and drivers that commit multiple violations.
To maintain fairness and consistency in fines levied for parking violations, the commission is currently exploring a simplified structure where all overtime fines would be set at $10. The current graduated scale sets a fine for first-time violators at $5, with fines increasing to $10, $15 and $20 after each subsequent violation.
The Parking Department is also currently developing a plan to offer courtesy parking passes or ticket waivers that would support local businesses and create a tourist and shopping-friendly environment. The department’s overall goal is to keep spaces turning over in order to increase availability and encourage patrons to visit Uptown Butte.