Parking permit cost increased to $25

One major piece of the Flathead High School parking plan was changed just before a final vote on Monday.

The Kalispell City Council increased the price of a parking permit to $25 apiece. The proposed cost was $10.

The council voted on the cost in a separate resolution from the ordinance that created the parking district. Council member Kari Gabriel moved to change the price and the amendment passed, with council members Chad Graham and Phil Guiffrida against.

Parking passes will be available for purchase by anyone, but they are aimed at Flathead High students and staff. Residents in the 15-block permit zone get two free passes.

Additionally, one side of the road will be reserved for residents only within the permit zone. That side switches annually.

Revenue from the permits is intended to offset the cost of posting signs at the parking district. That’s estimated at around $20,000.

The parking district ordinance takes effect in early September as the school year begins.