WEST HOLLYWOOD—On Monday, May 4, it was proposed to the West Hollywood City Council to consider making changes to the city’s parking regulations. Councilmember Lauren Meister introduced the ideas for modification, and reportedly has the support of Councilmember John D’Amico.

Lauren Meister
West Hollywood City Council member Lauren Meister.

One of the most notable changes brought up would be to alter the hours of parking meters. The meter hours were extended only a couple years ago, in 2013, and Meister is now proposing that the running times from Monday through Saturday be until 8 p.m. rather than midnight. It was also mentioned that on Sundays there should be free parking along the streets in most areas.

The proposal aims to raise fines for traffic violations such as parking in a bicycle lane or crosswalk, while lowering the fine for remaining too long in a metered spot with an additional fine if the driver remains for two hours after receiving the first ticket.

John D'amico
John D’Amico

Another aspect of the proposal is a fine for the act of leaving an animal in the car unattended in hot weather. It is said that this would take effect in weather of 70 degrees or higher. Meister also brought forth the idea of implementing mobile applications for phones that would allow drivers to not only search for parking areas, but pay their parking meter electronically. Her proposal also asks that the Council to have new housing units re-evaluated for how many parking spaces would be necessary.