Warren City Council has agreed to make two handicapped parking spaces along Second Ave. outside of First Methodist Church.

But one member of council asked whether the church had on-site handicapped spaces and whether a similar courtesy would be extended to local businesses.

Police Chief Joe Sproveri said the proposal would create two handicapped spaces as well as mark the areas in front of two sidewalk access points as no parking.

City Manager Mike Holtz said that church staff have posted signage in the area to mark these spaces but Sproveri said designating them formally “will give us an avenue for enforcement.”

Councilman Phil Gilbert said that people in Warren are generally concerned about parking and asked how many handicapped spaces the church had in its lot.

Holtz said that those who are handicapped can’t access the church from the lot.

Gilbert then asked if businesses would be given the same convenience by the city.

Sproveri said there is a handicapped spot there currently.

“We’re trying to clean it up and prevent people from parking … in front of the ramp,” Sproveri said. “That’s what we’re trying to avoid.”

Council approved the proposed arrangement 6-1 with Gilbert voting in opposition.