SIDNEY -- The Sidney City Council approved changing the hours public parks are open.

The proposal was made in the April 22 council meeting.

At the recommendation of Police Chief Sam Lovato and Parks Superintendent Chase Frerichs, parks will be closed from dusk until dawn, regardless of the time of day. Chief Lovato and Frerichs addressed two ordinances; one for the park and the second for the pond.

"As many of you know, we've been trying to evaluate different options and trying to make everybody feel safe in our parks. It's been an ongoing issue that we've kind of identified, that we've put a lot of resources into. The current ordinance, while I believe it was well-intentioned has presented us some challenges. We believe these proposed changes will address those challenges effectively," Chief Lovato said.

He said the current ordinances define park hours as 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Amending the ordinances would allow more consistent application of opening and closing.

"Doing something like this does seem pretty simple, but it also brings along several advantages. The first one's going to be enhanced safety. First and foremost, this change will significantly enhance our safety in our parks. Dusk to dawn closures align with the natural light cycles. This reduces the cover of darkness which tend to deter illegal activities; vandalism and other behaviors that put park property and people in the park at risk," he said.

He said the proposed amendment would allow for sports and fitness events.

"We do recognize the need for recreation, and the revised ordinance reflects that. We've included provisions that allow use of the ball field, basketball fields, tennis courts, beyond dusk provided there is adequate lighting available and while the residents enjoy the facilities so ensuring safety," Chief Lovato said.

The new ordinances will also maintain a process for events.

The ordinance amendments need three readings to pass.