On Tuesday, March 31, we discussed Managed Access to Rio Vista Park during our 6:00 Regular Agenda.
Consider approval of Ordinance 2026-13, on the first of two readings, adopting fees to be charged for managed access to Rio Vista Park, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, including weekends and holidays, with exemptions from such fees for residents and those who reside within the San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District boundary; providing a savings clause; providing for the repeal of any conflicting provisions; and declaring an effective date.
At this time, staff noted that direction is to move forward with managed access in the most flexible way, and that Council was supportive of a $5 fee with kids entering free.
Additionally, we have a software solution for the managed access, but it is digital so people will have to purchase access ahead of time if they want to use cash.This explanation has also been including in the Council packet. Last week a resident emailed City Council and Ms. Case recommending a non-digital method for Local Area Participants to use a wrist band. Staff is getting quotes for this currently and will include them as an option for participants that would prefer a non-digital option when going to the river. It will require the requestor to register and pick-up the wrist band from the Parks and Recreation Department in person. The initial wrist band will be free, but replacements will have to be purchased. Replacement cost will be $5.
Paid Parking Follow-Up:
Consider approval of Ordinance 2026-12, on the first of two readings, amending Chapter 82, Article 4, Division 4 of the San Marcos City Code regarding parking citations by mail to define residents who are exempt from parking fees within city parking lots; providing a savings clause; providing for the repeal of any conflicting provisions; and declaring an effective date.
Following Council inquiry, Parks staff has evaluated the purview of our software and it is not possible to specify business days vs calendar days. However, while reviewing amendments, staff noticed we inadvertently worked off of language that was amended when the original ordinance 2024-55 was adopted on 12/3/2024. The 15 days was changed to 30 days at that time and that is what is within our City Code. This second reading reflects 30 days.
