Did You Know...

06-19-08 Now that we are finally experiencing some warmer and dryer weather as well as moving our way into summer, it is also time that I revisit the annual topics of nuisance violations, curfew ordinance, and park use. All of these topics can and do affect every one of us at one time or another so it is good to get the proper information out there and correct any misinformation. City Ordinance 756 or more commonly known as "Nuisance Abatement". The spring season has brought back the growth of grass, weeds, and tree foliage, all of which need to be maintained. Nuisances are an on-going issue around Vernonia and often the source of much discontentment for many people on both sides of the subject. I often get asked why the police respond to this type of complaint with more serious crime issues around. The easy answer is that the department addresses most all complaints of statute and ordinance violations regardless of seriousness. The deeper answer is that nuisance complaints can affect the "livability" of a community or neighborhood or present safety issues. If our community wants to attract good citizens, visitors, and employers, we need to have attractive and safe neighborhoods. The department and city are committed to working with citizens to correct nuisances is a timely manner but if not corrected there is the possibility of being fined. As a quick review, "nuisances" cover; trash, dangerous structures, vermin or fire hazards, stagnant water, junk vehicles, attractive nuisances, right-of-way obstructions, noxious vegetation, trees, illegal dumping, dumping in waterways, maintaining ditches or culverts, nuisance animals, radio interference, barbed or electric fences, and commercial zone violations. For a detailed copy of Ordinance #756 stop by the police station or city hall. The last topics I will touch on are curfew ordinance and park usage. Vernonia City Ordinance #313 addresses the City Curfew. The main points to remember are: It is unlawful for children under 18yrs old to be on the streets, alleys, parks, or other public place unless accompanied by parent, guardian, or other person 21yrs or older who is authorized by parent or by law to have custody of the minor between 10:00pm and 5:00am the following day (Sunday through Thursday) and 11:00pm and 5:00am the following day (Friday & Saturday). This does not include a child traveling to or from work, school, or religious function, an emergency, or going to or from legally established place of recreation with consent of the above mentioned adults. The ordinance also addresses officer and parental duties. Offending juvenile to be taken into custody and referred to the juvenile department as well as parents who knowingly allow children to violate this ordinance can be fined from $100 to $1000. As for park usage, I would remind everyone that if you are going to use Vernonia Lake and are a citizen paying the park surcharge, make sure to come to City Hall and get a parking sticker. Otherwise, even residents are subject to the $4.00 parking fee.