The Berrien County Board of Commissioners has approved some amendments to the county parking ordinance to allow for the city of St. Joseph to use the courthouse parking lot this summer.
While the city works to address ongoing parking issues downtown during the busy season, it back in January asked the county for use of the courthouse lot. In February, a county committee granted its permission, but then it was discovered that allowing the city to use the lot would violate the existing parking rules. Therefore, commissioners on Thursday approved the newly amended rules.
The amendments change language in the ordinance regarding which law enforcement agencies can patrol the lot and when it can be used.
The agreement between the county and the city stipulates the city can only use the west courthouse parking lot on Mondays through Fridays after 6 p.m. and then on Saturdays and Sundays. Appropriate signage will be put on display.
