By: Matt Scher, matts@977thebolt.com
Humboldt, IA – Humboldt City Council reviewed the city’s temporary restrictions at Taft Park and discussed a new system for enforcing city ordinances during Monday’s meeting.
The council discussed the mayoral proclamation issued Friday, October 3rd that requires people under age 16 to be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at Taft Park. The proclamation remains in effect through November 1.
City Administrator Amy Zeman said the city has received mostly positive feedback about the proclamation and that police reported no incidents at Taft Park over the weekend.
Zeman said the city has also authorized an additional four hours of police overtime each weekend for four weeks to increase patrols at city parks, with a particular focus on Taft Park. She said the city chose to start with Taft Park rather than immediately apply the restrictions to every city park, while leaving open the possibility of expanding the response if needed.
Mayor Walter Jensen said six assaults have occurred at the park, all involving minors. City officials said the incidents have primarily occurred during the early afternoon, with most activity reported around the playground and shelter house.
Zeman said the city will receive additional feedback from the police department before the next council meeting to determine whether the proclamation is working or whether additional action is necessary.
The council also discussed enforcement of the city’s e-bike and micromobility ordinance. Officials said the existing ordinance prohibits bicycles and certain other micromobility devices from being ridden on Main Street, but enforcement remains a challenge. Zeman said officials are reviewing potential changes involving classifications, weight, speed and age restrictions as manufacturers continue to modify devices.
A new four-tier code enforcement system is also being implemented this week.
The first tier will address issues such as mowing and garbage. The second will involve parking violations, followed by animals at-large in the third tier. The fourth tier will cover additional property-related violations, including campers not parked on a hard surface and vehicles blocking sidewalks.
Under the new process, city staff will report violations to the city. An officer will receive the list of addresses at 4 p.m., and property owners will generally have 48 hours to correct the violation. If the issue remains unresolved, the city may send a letter from its attorney and eventually pursue a municipal infraction.
The Humboldt City Council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 19 at 5:30 p.m.