Melrose Council Tables Odd-Even Parking Ordinance, Pursues Education Campaign First

MELROSE — October 23, 2025 — Melrose City Council tables odd-even winter parking ordinance, directs public outreach campaign. The council voted to hold Ordinance No. 2023-25, which would have required residents to alternate parking sides by calendar date between November 1 and April 1, after members flagged confusing ordinance language and a preference for education before enforcement. Police Chief Craig Mouse said the plowing problem stems from a handful of repeat offenders on residential streets, noting the city is now fully staffed for the first time in 22 months following the swearing-in of Officer Matthew Host. The council also authorized staff to negotiate with Verizon over a proposed lease reset that would drop annual tower rent from roughly $44,198 to $30,000 — a projected loss of about $75,000 over five years — with a response due in November. Community Development Director Sheila reported the Sauk River Park campground closed its best revenue season on record at $30,945.93, up from a previous high of $21,763 in 2024, and the council approved a $40,866 police vehicle purchase through Albany Chrysler.