The Plymouth City Council members took time Monday night to continue discussions on an ordinance that focuses on regulations surrounding the parking of vehicles on residential lawn areas.
The ordinance would restrict motor vehicle parking in a lawn area of a front yard or side yard of a lot zoned for residential use. It does not pertain to vehicles that display a valid disability license plate or parking placard. The ordinance would allow such parking during the Blueberry Festival.
For each violation, the registered owner of the vehicle shall be assessed a $25 fine.
City Attorney Sean Surrisi explained that he made changes as requested by the council members from the last meeting including definitions of front yards, side yards and rear yards, along with a vehicle definition. Only rear yards would be available for parking. Parking in front yards and side yards would not be allowed if on-street parking is available.
Residents spoke out against the ordinance. John Carlton commented that the roads are narrow so if people park on both sides of the road it would be difficult to pass down the street. He also stated that he has two vehicles and an enclosed rear yard with a privacy fence so it will be difficult to park a vehicle. He also stated that ordinances are already in place that address vehicles so this ordinance seems redundant, which was echoed by Bruce Gearheart.
Bobbie Milliser spoke against the ordinance and stated she believes there is no solution to the problem and asked where people should park if they cannot park on their property.
Utility Superintendent Donnie Davidson said he is in favor of the ordinance stating that some town property is often damaged due to parking in yards which is costly to the budget. He listed curb stops that are valves that control water to the homes, water valves, main line valves, meter pits, manhole castings, and catch basins which are located in the terraces and often driven over and damaged.
Police Chief David Bacon was asked about enforcement and he replied that it would be difficult to enforce and residents will be upset. The assistant police chief acts as code enforcement, but he stated that the city should have its own dedicated code enforcement officer so the assistant chief can focus on police matters.
Councilman Greg Compton said he thought the definition of vehicle should just include cars or trucks. Councilman Randy Longanecker suggested a review on existing ordinances concerning parking and driveways. Councilman Robert Listenberger had concerns about enforcement and narrow roads.
Councilman Don Ecker made a motion to approve the ordinance with the changes listed by Compton, which was seconded by Compton. Council members Greg Compton, Duane Culp and Don Ecker voted yes, while council members Jeff Houin, Robert Listenberger, Randy Longanecker, and Shiloh Milner voted no. With that, the ordinance failed to pass.
