LANDIS — The Landis Board of Aldermen approved updates to the parking ordinance Monday night.

Alderman Tony Corriher asked city staff what prompted the need for an update. Town Manager Reed Linn said officials began looking at options after the homeowners association at the Oaks of Landis approached the town with a problem.

“… Once we looked at our parking ordinance, we decided we would amend all of it and bring everything up to current standards,” Linn said.

Police Chief Kenny Isenhour said the update was an opportunity to improve town roads for firetrucks and school buses.

“What drove this from the Police Department’s point of view, we have got to get firetrucks and school buses through that,” Isenhour said. “It has been a big problem with parking too close to intersections, and buses can’t make it through.”

Shelly Morgan, who is with the homeowners association, asked during the public hearing how residents will learn about the parking ordinance.

Capt. Roger Hosey said the town would post the updates on social media and phase enforcement in by giving violators a warning.

Nadine Cherry also spoke during the hearing with concerns about the part of the regulations that state, “No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle on a sidewalk.” She asked how this would affect lawn mowers.

The aldermen said the ordinance addresses exceptions, like her example.

Cherry said the ordinance should be fairly enforced.

“If this passes, I just want to make sure it’s going to be enforced,” Cherry said. “Rules go for everybody, or they don’t go for anybody.”

The ordinance passed and goes into effect immediately.

The board passed several other items, including:

• Adopting a resolution to approve a water shortage response plan.

• Closing Main Street for the South Rowan Christmas Parade.

• Closing City Hall at noon Nov. 20 for the parade.

• Seeking funding to install a force main at the Oaks of Landis.

Public Works Director Ron Miller gave an update on the impact of Hurricane Michael, which caused wind damage and power outages across the town.

Zoning Manager Brandon Linn said this year, the town has issued about 95 building permits, with the majority for new homes. He expects the total to hit 100 permits by the end of the year.

Nadine Cherry raised concerns about her neighbor’s chickens being on her property. Linn said he had contacted the state Department of Agriculture. 

Mayor Mike Mahaley reminded people at the meeting to vote today.