SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE SUB- COMMITTEE
The Recreational Vehicle Sub-Committee Meeting was held on July 18, 2006, at 7:00 p.m. with Chairman Hogan presiding. Members present were Mrs. Hettinger, Mrs. Kinkus, Mr. Link,
Mr. Miller, Mrs. Sibbald, Mrs. Townshend and Colonel Welsh. Mr. Taraila was also present.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mrs. Hettinger moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Colonel Welsh and unanimously carried.
Mrs. Sibbald reminded members of the current vacancies on the committee. Mr. Hogan requested that any suggestions for replacements be sent to him via email or discussed at the conclusion of the meeting.
Types of recreational vehicles
Local resident, Mr. Tony Hummel, submitted to Mr. Hogan a comprehensive list (as on file in the Office of the City Clerk) of RV types, terms, and prices. The list defines recreational vehicles as motorized or towable vehicles that combine transportation and temporary living quarters for travel, recreation, and camping. It was the consensus of the members that this definition will be used in the revised ordinance. Mr. Hogan clarified that boats, utility trailers, and water recreation vehicles will also be included in the revised ordinance. Mr. Miller expressed his concerns regarding the inclusion of utility trailers that are under 31 feet in length, and are being used for commercial or business purposes. During the discussion, members reviewed the various photos of RV’s, utility trailers and boats. Mrs. Townshend explained that the neighborhood zoning ordinances prohibit the parking of utility trailers on residential streets. Enforcement was discussed with members agreeing that the current staff is unable to address the parking of utility trailer’s and RV’s on neighborhood streets. Residents are likely to complain about an illegally parked vehicle. Mrs. Townshend advised members that vehicles illegally parked in the right of way are the responsibility of the Police Department.
Setback - Definitions, Discussion and Photos
Mr. Hogan reminded members of the previous discussion and provided members with diagrams of side yard parking with and without screening. (Attachment #1)
Several members expressed concern with allowing residents the options, as outlined by Mr. Hogan. Colonel Welsh indicated that these options would place the burden of enforcement on the Inspections staff. Mr. Link clarified that properties that have driveways adjacent to the property line can park a recreational vehicle in the driveway, as long as it is behind the front setback of the house and screened appropriately. Properties that meet the setback distance would not be required to comply with the screening requirements.
Screening - Requirements and Definitions
Members discussed the screening requirement, with several members indicating that problems will arise with the type of screening that will be required. Mr. Link suggested using the term opaque to identify the different types of screening that will be acceptable.
Colonel Welsh stressed the need for the revised ordinance to be standardized and easy for residents to understand the limitations and restrictions.. He also stated that the committee should be looking for ways to make the existing ordinance enforceable. Mrs. Townshend stated that some residences will not be able to park a recreational vehicle on their property if the setback and/or screening requirements are placed in the ordinance.
It was suggested that recreational vehicles under 31 feet in length be permitted as long as they meet the set back requirement and are parked on an improved surface. It is difficult for staff to determine a vehicle’s length and width without physically measuring and weighing the vehicle. It was also suggested was that vehicles that take up more than 30% of the front and/or side yard would not be permitted. It was the consensus of members to defer the issue of vehicle length until the next meeting for further discussion.
Mrs. Townshend, addressing the concerns of members regarding the condition of RV’s, suggested requiring that all RV’s be operational and registered.
Members briefly discussed the different types of impervious surfaces acceptable for RV parking. It was noted that the maintenance of parking surfaces is enforceable through the property maintenance ordinance.
Mr. Hogan recessed at 8:12 P.M.
The meeting reconvened at 8:22 P.M.
After discussing the height of recreational vehicles, Colonel Welsh suggested that, when parked in the side yard an RV must meet the side setback and the depth of the RV’s can not exceed the depth of the main structure. If parked in the rear of the house, an RV must meet the rear setback and the depth of the RV can not exceed the width of the house. All members agreed that there will be no exceptions in the revised ordinance.
Items for discussion at the next meeting will include: review of the draft ordinance, number of vehicles allowed, grand fathering, types of impervious surfaces, and vehicle length < 31 feet.
Mr. Hogan proposed that Mrs. Townshend correct the terminology in the current ordinance and draft an ordinance which includes the committee’s suggestions for review at the next meeting. The final ordinance will be presented in brochure form and will include drawings that illustrate the requirements. It will also be placed on the City’s website for residents to review.
Setting of Future Meeting Date
The next meeting of the RV Committee is scheduled for August 16, 2006 at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers.
Mr. Link moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Miller and unanimously carried.
Meeting Adjourned at 8:55 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Kenneth L. Hogan
Chairman
KLH/hf
S:ClerksOfficeAgendas&MinutesCommittee-Minutes20067-18-2006 RV Sub.wpd
Attachments
Option #1 - RV parked within set back
Option #2 - RV parked not meeting set back