The Pella City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance Tuesday that would move parking near the downtown square.

City of Pella Finance Director Corey Goodenow says they are working on changes on Washington Street.

“Staff was directed to undertake a study with the assistance of Snyder and Associates for parking on Washington Street between Broadway and Main,” he says. “What was approved was an ordinance removing the parking of the north side of the street and changing the director from 45 degrees to 60 degrees in the parking on the south side of the street which will allow for the straightening of that street.”

Pella Police Chief Robert Bokinsky and Public Works Director Denny Buyert both received concerns about safety along the stretch of road as it stands at the council meeting.

The next hearing of the ordinance is scheduled for March 15th.