Drivers in Glen Cove may want to pay closer attention to where they park. The city has approved higher fines for several parking violations, with officials saying the changes are intended to improve compliance with local parking regulations and make streets safer.

The new fines are now in effect and represent a significant increase from previous penalties, which generally ranged from $50 to $75. Under the updated schedule, drivers who are caught double parking will now face a $120 fine. Parking more than one foot from the curb will cost $125, while parking in a fire lane now carries the city's highest parking penalty at $135.

Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck said the increased fines are aimed at deterring illegal parking rather than generating additional revenue for the city.

"Every little bit helps, but that isn't really why we did that, to fill a big budget hole," Panzenbeck said. "If you want to continue to break the rules, it's going to cost you more. Sometimes if a fine is so low, it doesn't stop people from what they've been doing."

Some residents say they understand the city's reasoning behind the higher fines.

"I suppose it is better than raising our taxes," said Glen Cove resident Christopher Krako. "I do see, when I'm driving down the street, a number of cars ticketed because they are parked in areas where they are not supposed to be."

He added that double parking, in particular, can create safety hazards because narrow streets force drivers and pedestrians into potentially dangerous situations.

"It does somewhat create a hazard because the streets are only so wide. People are crossing in between. There are issues there."

Others, however, believe the higher penalties may be too steep.

"In my opinion, there are not many public parking spaces in Glen Cove," said resident Danial Sheraifi. "It seems a bit harsh. Parking shouldn't be that big of a deal."

Krako said he believes the most important thing is making sure drivers are aware of the changes before they receive a ticket.

"It's better to know beforehand so you can make adequate preparation, than to learn afterwards when you have to pay the fine," he said.