In a move that's sure to have New Braunfels' residents scrambling for their coolers and sunscreen, the City Council has just given the 'ole thumbs up to a parking shake-up that's all about giving locals the VIP treatment at their coveted river parks. According to a statement posted on the city's official website, non-residents will be digging deeper into their pockets, as parking fees are being introduced at River Acres Park along the scenic Guadalupe River.

Starting from May 1, those who don't call New Braunfels home will have to cough up $20 for parking on weekends and holidays, during the prime river-dipping season that lasts until Labor Day. The city clearly hopes this will free up spots for locals, who can snag a parking space for nada, provided they've got a Resident River Parking Pass clinging to their windshield. With the added bonus of more than a dozen freshly painted parallel parking spots, and a dedicated emergency response area, the fair lanes of River Acres Park will be bustling.

But wait, there's more. At Cypress Bend Park, they're thinking outside the box and turning what used to be a shuttle whisper into a parking haven — adding 25 public parking spots. The handy 10-minute loading zone isn't going anywhere, so families can still unload their floats and coolers with the efficiency of a pit crew.

Now, residents who are itching to get these prime parking perks will need to pay a visit to either the Parks Administration Office or Das Rec, armed with enough paperwork to prove they're not just tourists in disguise. They'll need a driver's license or photo ID, plus a current NBU bill and proof of auto insurance for every set of wheels they want to slap that sticker on. Each little sticky gem is good for a whole three years, making it a long-term love affair between your bumper and New Braunfels river fun.

Of course, for those driving to Prince Solms Park, don't get too sticker happy — everyone pays there, residents included. For the full breakdown on how to claim your resident perks or discover more about the city's river recreation, residents and curious out-of-towners alike can splash around the city's website for details.