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Consideration of proposal for the City to financially assist that request curb painting adjacent to their driveway approaches
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Submitted by:
David Simpson
Department:
Public Works
A. Issue
Alderperson Foley has requested that the City consider a financial assistance program for residents who utilize the City’s current Curb Painting Program (see attached memorandum).
B. Background/Options
In 2019, the City’s Transportation Affairs Committee established a voluntary curb-painting program (see attached) that allows property owners to request painting of the curb adjacent to their driveway approaches. The purpose of the program is to discourage vehicles from parking within four feet of either side of a driveway approach, as provided in Section 11.32.030(E) of the City’s Municipal Code.
The number of properties receiving curb painting over the past five years is as follows:
• 2022 - 4 properties
• 2023 - 3 properties
• 2024 - 5 properties
• 2025 - 3 properties
• 2026 - 12 properties (note this uptick was driven by one business location)
Program Costs
The current fee of $120 was established in 2019 to cover the cost of curb painting and program administration. The fee has not been adjusted since its adoption. In 2026, the lowest contractor bid was $15 per linear foot, resulting in a cost of $120 for eight feet of curb painting per driveway. Consequently, the current fee covers the contractor’s cost but no longer provides funding for administrative expenses.
Discussion
If the Committee wishes to offer free or reduced-cost curb painting to property owners, a funding source would be necessary, as the program is not currently funded as a separate budget item.
If the Committee wishes to reduce the fee, I recommend considering a cost-sharing approach rather than providing the service at no charge. For example, reducing the applicant’s fee to $60 would result in the City subsidizing approximately 50% of the contractor’s cost, while maintaining a financial contribution from the applicant. This approach would reduce the cost to residents while retaining a modest fee that may help ensure requests reflect a genuine need.
The financial impact of a reduced fee would depend on future demand. Based on the current contractor pricing, each application would require a $60 City subsidy, in addition to any administrative expenses not covered by the applicant’s fee. If demand remains relatively low, the additional cost may be manageable within the existing painting budget. A sustained increase in requests, however, would require additional funding in future budgets.
C. Strategic Plan (Area of Focus)
None
D. Fiscal Impact
Assuming 6 properties per year at the 2026 rate of $15.00 per linear foot the City would subsidize $360 per year.
E. Recommendation
Modify the City’s consolidated fee schedule to reduce the fee for eight feet of curb painting adjacent to a driveway from $120 to $60. Monitor program participation and associated costs to determine whether additional budget funding is needed in future years.