People who receive a parking ticket in Geneva will have more time to pay the fine before incurring additional penalties effective Monday, July 10.

As part of the 2016-17 budget, the City Council directed staff to research Geneva’s parking fine structure with surrounding and comparable communities. After months of studying, an ordinance was adopted last year that increased the fines and additional fees for late payment. Those issued parking violations had 10 days to pay the initial ticket with increasing fine amounts up to a maximum of an additional $125 in administrative fees. The change was significant and there was an adjustment period for the public and Geneva Police Department.

After evaluating the new fee structure for one year and receiving feedback from the community and staff, the City felt it was appropriate to be flexible and responsive to the public. A revised ordinance, approved by the City Council last month, provides people 30 days to pay their ticket and scales back the fees charged for late payment.

For example, a $25 parking ticket issued in:

• July 2016 - Went up to $150 ($25 ticket plus $125 fees) after 45 days of non-payment.
• July 2017 - Reaches a maximum of $100 ($25 ticket plus $75 fees) after 60 days.

“The City of Geneva and Police Department hope these changes are easier to understand and will continue to allow us to balance the parking needs of residents, merchants, employees, commuters and shoppers who visit our incredible community,” Police Chief Eric Passarelli said.

A full chart outlining Geneva’s full parking lot fee structure can be found on the City’s website.