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HomeMy WebLinkAbout6.1 On Street Storage CITY CLERK File # [~~]-[][] AGENDA STATEMENT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: August 19, 2003 SUBJECT: Public Hearing - An Ordinance of the City of Dublin Repealing and Replacing Section 6.04.430 Regarding On-street Storage of Vehicles and Repeal and Replacement of Other Affected Sections of the Dublin Municipal Code (Second Reading) Report Prepared by doni Patti#o, Assistant City Manager, Lt. Glenn Moon, Dublin Police Services, and Marnie R. ~Vaffle, Assistant Planner ATTACHMENTS: 1. An Ordinance of the City of Dublin repealing and replacing Section 6.04.430, Use of streets for parking and/or storage of certain vehicles prohibited. 2. Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines, Revised, July 2001. 3. City of Dublin Parking Citation Sequence of Events flowchart. RECOMMENDATION: 1. Open Public Hearing and receive Staff presentation. 2. Take testimony from the Public. 3. Question Staff and the Public. 4. Close the Public Hearing and deliberate. 5. Waive the 2nd Reading and adopt the Ordinance repealing and replacing Section 6.04.430, Use of streets for parking and/or storage of certain vehicles prohibited. FINANCIAL STATEMENT: The cost estimate to implement the proposed Ordinance is $2,000, which would pay for the new street signs and their installation and the printing costs associated with the educational brochure. The Staff time associated with implementing this Ordinance is not known at this time. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: An Ordinance approving the repeal and replacement of Section 6.04.430, Use of Streets for parking and/or storage of certain vehicles prohibited. These changes to the Dublin Municipal Code will restrict the parking and/or storage of certain commercial vehicles, oversized motor vehicles, and non-motorized vehicles on the Public street. Table 1 compares the existing Ordinance regarding on-street vehicle parking and/or storage ~th the proposed new Ordinance. COPIES TO: Oversized Vehicle Committee Joe & Pat Banchero for the Willow Creek Residents ~ ~ ITEM NO. ~ Table 1 COmparison of Existing and Proposed Ordinances ELEMENTS OF ON-STREET VEHICLE STORAGE ORDINANCE Time Limits for Parking Movement Distance Required Definitions of Oversized - Non- Motorized Vehicles Guest Parking of Oversized Vehicle Restrictions in Proximity to Intersections Commercial Vehicle in Residential Area -Weight Limits Commercial Vehicle Restrictions in Residential Area CURRENT MUNCIPAL CODE ORDINANCE 6.04.430 DMC 72 Hour Maximum None Specified - allows minimal movement to avoid enforcement None None Specified None 6,000 lbs. No Parking except for 2 hr. loading/unloading PROPOSED OVERSIZED VEHICLE ORDINANCE 6.04.430 DMC 48 hr. for Oversized Vehicles 24 hr. Permit Extension 72 hr. Time Limit Total Outside City Limits or Moved to Private Property for a Minimum of 48 hrs. Yes - Commercial, Oversized Motor Vehicle and Non-Motorized. 5 Day Parking Permit Available from Police Services Vehicle Over 6 ft in Height Restricted from Parking within 45ft of an Intersection 10,000 lbs. No parking except for 2 hr. loading/unloading. No Parking between 2:00am and 6:00am. Cite and Towing Authority Yes Yes Parking Fee/Bail Schedule State of Emergency Clause 72 hr. parking violation - $50.00 CommerCial Vehicle in Residential Area violation - $ 50.00 None None Commercial Area Exception. 72 hr. Vehicle Parking Oversize Over 48 hrs. Oversize Over 72 hrs. Failure to Move from City Limits for 48 hrs. $100-$250-$500 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Offense in 12 Months. For all above offenses Would allow on-street parking of Oversized Vehicles during declared state of emergency Would allow on-street parking of Oversized Vehicles in commercial areas to allow customers to return oversized rental vehicles after normal business hours Vehicles parked and/or stored in violation of the proposed Ordinance may be cited or removed, or both cited and removed. If cited, the penalty for the first violation would be $100, the penalty for the second violation would be $200, and for the third and subsequent violations, the penalty would be $500 for each offense occurring within a one-year period. A violator could apPeal the citation in accordance with the City of DUblin Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines (Attachment 2), and Vehicle Code Section 40215. 2 Parking Citation Appeal Process: In response to the City Council's inquiry at the August 5, 2003 City Council Meeting regarding the appeal process for administrative citations, the process for appealing a citation is as follows (See Attachment 3): 1) Contestant completes Administrative Review form for review by Dublin Police Services, Traffic Sergeant. 2) Contestant is provided with written findings by mail advising of determination. 3) If contestant is found liable and still wishes to contest the citation, an Administrative Hearing, in person or by mail, may be requested. 4) The Administrative Hearing is scheduled by city staff and conducted by the appointed Administrative Hearing Officer (a City Council appointed volunteer and local attorney, Joe Devane). 5) The Hearing Officer's determination may be appealed to the local court. City Council Action: At the August 5, 2003 City Council Meeting, Staff presented the proposed Ordinance and asked the City Council to consider a modification to the Ordinance to allow for the parking of Oversized Vehicles on public streets in commercial areas. The purpose for this modification is to allow customers of recreational vehicle rental or service facilities to park an oversized vehicle on the public street fronting the business after normal business hours for the purpose of returning a rental vehicle or for repair. The City Council reviewed the proposed Ordinance, waived the first reading and introduced the modified Ordinance repealing and replacing Section 6.04.430, Use of streets for parking and/or storage of certain vehicles prohibited. ANALYSIS: As required by the City of Dublin Municipal Code, a second reading of the proposed Ordinance is necessary prior to final adoption of an Ordinance, which would then become effective 30 daYs after the second reading. Staff has recommended that the Ordinance not take effect until January 1, 2004 in order for Staff to conduct community outreach and education regarding the new Ordinance. RECOMMENDATION: Based on the City Council action of August 5, 2003, Staff recommends that the City Council: 1) Open the public hearing and receive Staff presentation; 2) Question Staff; 3) Take testimony from the Public; 4) Close the public hearing and deliberate; 5) Waive the 2nd reading and adopt the Ordinance repealing and replacing Section 6.04.430, Use of streets for parking and/or storage of certain vehicles prohibited. ORDINANCE NO. - 03 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN REPEALING AND REPLACING SECTION 6.04.430 REGARDING ON-STREET STORAGE OF VEHICLES AND REPEAL AND REPLACEMENT OF OTHER AFFECTED SECTIONS OF THE DUBLIN MUNICPAL CODE The City Council of the City of Dublin does ordain as follows: Section 1' Section 6.04.430 of Chapter 6, of the Dublin Municipal Code is hereby repealed. Section.2: A new Section 6.04.430 of Chapter 6, of the Dublin Municipal Code is hereby adopted to read as follows: 6.04.430 Use of streets for parking and/or storage of certain vehicles prOhibited. (a) Definitions. For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning. (I) (2) "Chief of Poli® means the Chief of Police of the City of Dublin, or his designee. "Commercial Vehicle" shall mean any vehicle having more than two axles, or any single commercial vehicle or combination of said vehicles, which exceed twenty (20) feet in length, any single commercial vehicle or combination of said vehicles eighty-four (84) inches or'more in width, or any single commercial vehicle or combination of said vehicles having a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of ten thousand (10,000) pounds or more. A Commercial Vehicle includes a track tractor, but does not include an oversized motor vehicle or non-motorized vehicle as defined herein or a pickup track without a cab over camper or sports utility vehicle. (3) "Oversized Motor Vehicle" shall mean any house car, pickup tmck with cab over camper, recreational vehicle or other vehicle that measures more than twenty two (22) feet in length OR is more than eighty-four (84) inches in width, OR more than eighty- four (84) inches in height. The term "Oversized Vehicle" does not include a commercial vehicle as defined herein, a pickup truck without a cab over camper or sports utility vehicle. (4) (5) (6) "Non-motorized Vehicle" shall mean any trailer or any other device that is not self- propelled. "Motor Vehicle" shall mean a passenger vehicle, pickup track without a cab over camper, sports utility vehicle, motorcycle and motor-driven cycle but shall not include a house car as defined in Section 362 of the California Vehicle Code~ "Residential District" shall mean any area within the City, which is zoned R-l, R-2, R- M, and those portions of planned development districts and specific plan districts that are specified for residential uses. x-4-~ ~, ~- I ATTACHMENT I (c) (d) Measurements: To determine the width or length of the vehicles defined in this section, any extension to the vehicle caused by mirrors, air conditioners, or similar attachments shall not be included. No person who owns or has possession, custody, or control of any motor vehicle, shall park or leave standing, such motor vehicle upon any public street, highway or alley for more than a period of seventy-two (72) consecutive hours. No person shall, at any time, park or leave standing any oversized motor vehicle or non-motorized vehicle on any public street, highway or alley except: (1) In residential districts, oversized motor vehicles or non-motorized vehicles which are attached to a motor vehicle or oversized motor vehicle, and parked on the right of way fronting the owner's residence, are allowed for the purposes of loading, unloading, cleaning, battery-charging, or other activity preparatory or incidental to travel for a period of time not to exceed forty-eight (48) consecutive hours. (2) In residential districts, oversized motor vehicles or non-motorized vehicles which are attached to a motor vehicle or oversized motor vehicle, parked on the' right of way fronting the owner's residence may be allowed for an additional twenty-four (24) consecutive hours, but no more than a total of seventy-two (72) consecutive hours, provided an extension permit has been granted by the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police shall establish general standards for an extension provided by this section. O) Any oversized motor vehicle or non-motorized vehicle which is attached to a motor vehicle or oversized motor vehicle, that is parked on a public street pursuant to either subsections (1) or (2) hereinabove shall, at the end of the permitted period of time, whether forty-eight (48) or seventy-two (72) hours, be removed from its location and shall not be parked on any public street, or posted private property within the city limits, for the purposes stated hereinabove for a period of at least forty-eight (48) hours. (4) Visitor Parking, A visitor to a resident of a single family or two family dwelling located in a residential district may temporarily park an "oversized motor vehicle" or a "non-motorized vehicle" attached to a motor vehicle or oversized motor vehicle on the right of way fronting the dwelling being visited, based on the criteria listed below. (i) O) (iii) (iv) (v) The visitor obtains a "Visitor Parking Permit" from the Chief of Police or designee. The vehicle is registered to, or leased and operated by, a person permanently residing more then fifty (50) miles from the visitation site. The vehicle complies with the definition of an "oversized motor vehicle" or a "non-motorized vehicle" which is attached to motor vehicle or oversized motor vehicle and is used for recreational housing purposes only. The vehicle shall not be used for habitation and cannot be connected to utility services for the duration of the visit. The vehicle may be parked for a period of time not to exceed a total of five (5) days in a thirty (30) day period. ~ D~7~ (f) (g) (i) (5) (6) In commercial districts, oversized motor vehicles may be parked for a period not to exceed twenty-four (24) hours on the fight of way fronting a business engaged in selling, repairing, or renting oversized motor vehicles for the purposes of allowing customers to leave oversized motor vehicles after normal business hours for repair or returm State of Emergency, The prohibitions provided in this Ordinance shall not apply to the parking of any oversized vehicle during any state of emergency declared to exist within the City of Dublin by the City Council. No person who owns or has possession, custody or control of any motor vehicle or non-motorized vehicle which is six (6) feet or more in height (including any load thereon) shall park or leave standing any such vehicle on a street or highway within forty-five (45) feet of any intersection. No person who owns or has possession, custody or control of any commercial vehicle exceeding a manufacturers gross vehicle weight of ten thousand (10,000) pounds, shall park or leave standing any such commercial vehicle on a street or highway which is prohibited to commercial vehicle traffic pursuant to Section 6.88.040 of this code. No person who owns or has possession, custody or control of any commercial vehicle exceeding a manufacturers gross vehicle weight of ten thousand (10,000) pounds, shall park or leave standing any such commercial vehicle on any restricted street between the hours of 2:00 am and 6:00 a~m. No person who owns or has possession, custody, or control of a commercial vehicle exceeding a manufacturers gross vehicle weight of ten thousand (10,000) pounds, shall park or leave standing any such commercial vehicle for more than two (2) hours on any public street, highway, roadway, alley or thoroughfm, except: (1) For such reasonable time in excess of two (2) hours that may be necessary for the purpose of making pickups or deliveries of goods, wares, and merchandise from or to any building or structure or for the purpose of delivering materials to be used for repair, alteration, remodeling, or construction of any building or structure upon a restricted street or highway; or, For such reasonable time in excess of two (2) hours that may be necessary when such vehicle is parked in connection with the performance of a service to or on a property in which such vehicle is parked; or, (3) For such reasonable time in excess of two (2) hours that may be necessary to make emergency repairs. No regulation adopted in this chapter shall apply to any vehicle owned by a public utility or licensed contractor while necessarily in use in the construction, installation, or repair of any public utility. Vehicles found in violation of this section may be cited or removed, or both cited and removed in accordance with section 6.04.210. 0) The City Engineer shall erect and maintain suitable signs notifying the public of the permissible weights and sizes of vehicles and their loads operated or moved upon those streets hereinafter designated. Section 3; Section 6.92.010 of Chapter 6 of the Dublin Municipal Code is hereby repealed. Section 4; A new Section 6.92.010 of Chapter 6, of the Dublin Municipal Code is hereby adopted to read as follows: 6.92.010 Established. No person shall operate any commercial vehicle, as said term is defined in the California Vehicle Code, having a gross weight, including load, in excess of five (tons) on any street within any residential district, as such term is defined in the California Vehicle Code, in the city; provided, signs are in place at city entrances giving notice of this prohibition. Section 5; Chapter 6.68 "Oversized and/or Overweight Vehicles" shall be renamed "Movement of Vehicles and Equipment" as to not be in conflict with Section 6.04.430. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 19t~ day of August, 2003. AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: Mayor City Clerk K2/G/8-19-03/ord-oversizedvehicles.doc (Item 6.1 ) PROPOSED BAIL SCHEDULE - OVERSIZED VEHICLE ORDINANCE The bail for the first, second and third offense in a 12-month period for the following violations of the Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 6 shall hereby be as follows: 6.04.430(c) 6.04.430(d)(1) 6.04.430(d)(2) 6.04.430(d)(3) 6.04.430(e) Vehicle Parking- over 72 hours I RV Parking-over 48 hours I RV Parking-over 72 hours I RV Parking- failure to remove RV for 48 hours I Vehicle over 6' height within 45' I of Intersection $100-$250-$500 $100-$250-$500 $100-$250-$500 $100-$250-$500 $50-$100-$200 PARKING CITATION ADMINISTRATIVE ADJUDICATION POLICY AND PROCEDURE GUIDELINES REVISED July, 2001 ATTACHMENT Z 1.0 ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE .................................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ........................................................................................................................................................ 1 1.1.1 Administrative Review Procedures .................................................................................................................................. 1 1.1.2 Appeal o_.[Administrative Review ..................................................................................................................................... 2 I. 1.3 Waiver of Parking PenaltF Deposit. ................................................................................................................................. 2 2.0 HOW TO HOLD AN ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING ................................................................................................... 2 2.._.!.1 GENERAL APPROACH TO AN ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING ........................................................................................................... 2 2.1.1 Informali~ o_o_o_~Administrative Hearing ............................................................................................................................. 2 2.1.2. The Role of the Administrative Hearing O~cer ............................................................................................................. 3 2.~2 QUANTITY OF EVIDENCE REQUtRED TO SUSTAIN CASE ............................................................................................................ 3 2.3 THE DECISION ........................................................................................................................................................................... 3 2.~4 LATE PAYMENT OF PENALTIES ................................................................................................................................................. 4 2.~5 FINE AMOUNTS .................................................................................. 2 ...................................................................................... 5 2.6 ALTERNATIVE PAYMENTS ..................................................................................................................... 5 3.0 ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING PROCEDURES .............................................................................................................. 5 3.1 PRE-HEARING PROCEDURES ..................................................................................................................................................... 5 3.2 BEGIN THE HEARING ................................................................................................................................................................. 6 3.3 REWEW THE PmMA FACIE CASE .............................................................................................................................................. 6 3.4 "ADMIT LIABILITY WITH EXPLANATION". ................................................................................................................................ 6 3.5 .... DENY LIABILITY .................................................................................................................................................................... 7 3.6 CLOSING THE HEARING ............................................................................................................................................................. 7 3.~7 RENDER A DECISION ................................................................................................................................................................. 7 4.0 THE PRIMA FACIE CASE ................................................................................................................................................. 8 4.1 REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 8 5.0 CONTINUANCES ............................................................................................................................. , ................................... 8 6.0 DEFENSES ............................................................................................................................................................................ 9 6.1 DENIALS ................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 6.1.1 Material Error in the Allegation ....................................................................................................................................... 9 6.1.2 Time o_.[Observation versus Time ~ Writing. .................................................................................................................... 9 6.1.3 Challenge to Issuing Officer's Judgment .......................................................................................................................... 9 6.1.4 Missing Signs .................................................................................................................................................................... 9 6.1.5 Obscured Signs ............................................................................................................................................................... 10 6.1.6 De_faced Signs ................................................................................................................................................................. I0 6...~2 EXPLANATIONS .............................. , ........................................................................................................................................ 10 6.2.1 Vehicle Breakdown ......................................................................................................................................................... 10 6.3 UNACCEPTABLE DEFENSES OR EXPLANATIONS ....................................................................................................................... 1 1 7.0 APPEAL OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING ................................................................................................................ 13 DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 14 Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 1.0 Administrative Procedure Pursuant to Chapter 1244, Statues of 1992 (AB 408), Vehicle Code Section 40200, et seq., the City of Dublin is adopting these administrative procedures to provide a process for review, both at the administrative level, and in the form of a hearing when requested, of citations issued for parking violations. There are two sequential review stages available to persons or entities desiring to contest citations for parking violations: 1. Administrative Review; and 2. Administrative Hearing. 1.1 Administrative Review A Contestant shall do the following: ao Make a timely written, telephonic, or in-person request for review of the circumstances surrounding citation issuance; and Submit a completed review request form providing reasons for the contest to Dublin Police Services. Police Services Staff shall do the following: Review and investigate the citation and the circumstances surrounding issuance of the citation; and Mail the results of the investigation to the Contestant within 20 days of receipt of review request form. 1.1.1 Administrative Review Procedures Application of Time Limitations - Within this procedure, there are various time limitations established for presentation of certain requests, including but not limited to requests for Administrative Review, requests for Administrative Hearing, and requests for copies of documents. For purposes of this procedure, the specified time limitations are jurisdictional. Untimely requests will be rejected. Waivers will not be issued. No person has authority to waive, or otherwise grant exception to a specified time limitation. Initiation of Administrative Review, Timeliness - A request for Administrative Review must be made within 21 days from the issuance of the notice of parking violation, or within 14 days from the mailing of the notice of delinquent parking violation. Written Statement of Reasons - A Contestant shall have the opportunity to provide to Dublin Police Services a written statement of the reasons for contesting the parking violation. The statement of reasons shall be made on a form provided by the City. State Law allows the person to request the review by telephone, in person, or in writing (CVC 40215). Investigation - Upon receipt of a timely request for Administrative Review and any statement of reason, Police Services staff will commence an investigation of the citation and the circumstances surrounding its issuance. The review shall consist of a determination of whether the citation contains all of the items required by California Vehicle Code Section 40202, and shall focus on the reasons for the request as specified by the Contestant. Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 Cancellation of Citation - If, based on the results of the investigation, Police Services staff is satisfied that the citation was not in accordance with the California Vehicle Code Section 40202, or based on the Contestant's statement of reasons, that the violation did not occur or the registered owner was not responsible for the violation, or in the interest of justice, Police Services shall cancel the citation and shall specify in writing the reason for canceling the citation. Determination of Validity - If, based on the results of the investigation, Police Services staff is satisfied that the citation was in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 40202, and that the reasons specified by the Contestant do not exist, or do not affect the validity of the citation, Police Services shall specify those findings in writing along with the supporting reasons for making the findings. g. Notification to Contestant - Police Services staff shall mail the results of the investigation to the Contestant by first class mail. The results shall be mailed to the Contestant within 20 days of submission of the request for review form. Service of the results shall be completed upon placement of the results in the United States mail, postage paid. 1.1.2 Appeal o_o_o_~Administrative Review The Issuing Authority's Administrative Review can be appealed within 21 days from the mailing date of the results. The Contestant can request an Administrative Hearing by telephone, in writing, or in person [CVC 40215(b)]. The Contestant must deposit the penalty in full as instructed by the City of Dublin, unless granted a waiver pursuant to Section 1.1.3 of these rules. The City of Dublin will provide copies of all information it has obtained in determining the case to the Administrative Hearing Officer. The Issuing Authority will accept an appeal request with full payment of the fine and help schedule a hearing date and time with the Administrative Hearing Officer~ In accordance with State Law, the appeal may be conducted by mail or in person at the selection of the Contestant. 1.1.3 Waiver o_.[Parking Penalty Deposit In accordance with CVC Section 40215(b), the City shall have a process to allow a person to request an Administrative Hearing without payment of the parking penalty. Said waiver may only be granted upon satisfactory proof of an inability to pay the amount due. The City shall develop a form to be completed by the Contestant under penalty of perjury. The City Manager or designee shall issue a determination related to the request for waiver. Failure to submit information required to verify inability to pay shall be cause for denial. · The decision of the City Manager or designee shall be final. 2.0 How to Hold an Administrative Hearing 2.1 General Approach to an Administrative Hearin~ 2.1.1 Informality o_o~Hearing The Administrative Hearing is an informal proceeding in the sense that the rules of evidence required in a court trial do not apply. This benefits the Contestant, who is most often a lay person unfamiliar with the intricacies of the legal process. The Administrative Hearing Officer should make this clear to the Contestant if the Contestant appears confused that the Hearing is not being conducted under the strict "rules of evidence." Despite the relative informality, each Administrative Hearing can be recorded on tape to preserve the proceedings in case an 2 Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 appeal is filed. The final decision in an Administrative Hearing, however, shall be rendered in writing to the Contestant. 2.1.2. The Role o_o_o_~ the Administrative Hearing Officer The Administrative Hearing Officer acts as prosecutor, defense attorney, and judge. As the prosecutor, the Administrative Hearing Officer cross-examines the Contestant and any witness(es) to determine the credibility of the defense and the authenticity of any documents presented. As defense advocate, the Administrative Hearing Officer examines the Parking Violation NoticeTor defects in the primafacie case and, in some cases, helps the Contestant articulate the facts of their defense(s). As the judge, the Administrative Hearing Officer listens to the Contestant's testimony, weighs the evidence, including any discrepancies elicited during cross-examination, and renders a decision based on the facts of the case and applicable laws. It is essential that the Administrative Hearing Officer remain independent and impartial. The Administrative Hearing Officer does not "represent" the City of Dublin in a H~aring, but rather "conducts" the Hearings and renders decisions in accordance with the rules, regulations, policies and procedures established by applicable laws. It should go without saying that any interest the City of Dublin maY have in collecting parking fines is simply not a permissible consideration during the hearing process. The Administrative Hearing Officer must be a neutral, objective, fact finder. Vehicle Code Section 40215(c)(4) in fact requires that the amount of fines upheld by the Administrative Hearing Officer must not be linked to the Administrative Hearing Officer's continued employment, performance evaluations, compensation or benefits. 2.2 Quanti~, of Evidence Required to Sustain Case. The Vehicle Code states that a properly completed Parking Violation Notice is primafacie evidence of the validity of the statements contained therein. What this means is that once a Parking Violation Notice is determined to be properly completed, and a primafacie case is therefore established that the violation occurred, the burden of producing evidence to rebut the charge shifts to the Contestant. If the Contestant wishes to deny the parking allegations (e.g., "The car was only parked for 48 hours and not 72 hours"), the Contestant must persuade by a preponderance of the credible evidence as weighed against the prima facie case presented by the completed Parking Violation Notice. A preponderance of evidence is evidence of a greater weight against the evidence opposing it, and has more convincing force and a greater probability of truth. If the Contestant wants to present an affirmative defense (e.g., trapped in a 20 minute zone by a double parked truck) or an explanation (e.g., medical emergency), the Contestant must prove the presentation by a preponderance of the credible evidence as measured against the incredible evidence, facts judicially noticed, various presumptions, etc. 2.~3 The Decision After the Administrative Hearing Officer has heard and weighed all the testimonY, the Administrative Hearing Officer must make a decision. All of the available facts must be applied to the law. The Administrative Hearing Officer must determine whether the City of Dublin's t~rimafacie case has been sustained by a preponderance of the evidence or, alternatively, has the Contestant convinced the Administrative Hearing Officer of a legally sufficient defense or mitigating explanation. If the Contestant has proven the defense to the Administrative Hearing Officer's satisfaction, the Contestant should be found "not liable" and the Parking Violation permanently dismissed. If the Contestant has not presented a Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 credible defense, the Contestant must be found liable and the full fine forfeited. Either the Contestant has adequately proven a defense, or the defense has failed. In the absence of other mitigating circumstances, a Contestant found liable forfeits the full fine. The only exception to this would involve circumstances pertaining to the application of late payment penalties. Only in those cases in which the Administrative Hearing Officer is convinced that sufficient mitigating circumstances prevented the Contestant from being able to make payment in a timely manner, may the late payment penalty be waived. Late payment penalties are discussed in detail in Sections 2.4 and 2.5. The decision of the Administrative Hearing Officer may be personally delivered to the person at the time of the Hearing, or may be sent by first class mail [CVC40215(c)(6)]. In the event that the decision is personally delivered, the Administrative Hearing Officer must never change a decision after having announced it merely because of the Contestant's objections to it. Only if, prior to the conclusion of the Hearing, the Administrative Hearing Officer realizes that an error has been made, should the Administrative Hearing Officer reconsider the decision. In other words, simple, even strenuous disagreement over the result cannot cause the Administrative Hearing Officer to change the decision. If the Contestant disagrees with the analysis and the outcome, the recourse is to appeal to the next level adjudication. Once announced, the decision shall be final for the Administrative Hearing. A written notification of the Administrative Hearing Officer's decision will be mailed to the Contestant. The mail date of the written decision begins the 30 day time period by which the Contestant may file an appeal [CVC 40230(a)]. 2.4 Late Payment of Penalties Typically, a citation considered by the Administrative Hearing Officer will not include late penalties, since the Contestant must request the Hearing prior to the accrual of late penalties. The Administrative Hearing Officer has the power to dismiss late payment penalties which have accrued, but only in the event that the Contestant has conclusively demonstrated that he did not have sufficient notice of the violation and that this lack of notice precluded a timely response. If the Contestant credibly testifies that he did not have knowledge of the original citation (perhaps because it was blown away or removed without the Contestant's knowledge), dismissal of the late payment penalty may be warranted. However, if the Contestant does not take appropriate action to pay or appeal the citation within 21 days of receipt of the mailed notice of Delinquent Parking Violation, dismissal of the late payment penalty would not be appropriate. If the Parking Violation Notice reflects an incorrect fine and money was paid, but not enough to close the citation, the possibility of confusion may be considered as possible justification for waiving a late payment penalty. The situation is complicated when the Contestant claims that notices went to the wrong address after the Department of Motor Vehicles had been notified of a change of address. Where the Contestant adequately demonstrates that a lack of notice under these circumstances precluded timely payment, late penalties may be dismissed, but only when the Contestant also credibly maintains that the original copy (attached to vehicle) of the citation was not received. It is incumbent upon the Contestant to provide sufficient evidence to establish that the DMV was notified ora change of address prior to the date that the address information was requested by the City of Dublin or its processing agency. The essential point is that late penalties must not be automatically or routinely dismissed without sufficient cause. It should also be remembered that a lack of notice that may be sufficient to support a dismissal of the late payment penalty does not automatically invalidate the Parking Violation Notice itself. 4 Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 The Administrative Hearing Officer should be wary of the Contestant who claims not to have seen or received a number of original Parking Violation Notices. Whensuch a claim is advanced, the Administrative Hearing Officer must be scrupulous in assessing the Contestant's credibility and powers of recollection. In most cases, subsequent mailed notices will render the issue moot if timely action was taken by the Contestant. Again, even ifa delinquent notice was mailed to a "wrong" address, the Contestant must prove that he fulfilled his/her responsibility by filing a timely change of address with the DMV. A Contestant's attempt to file a change of address with a processing agency will not be effective in directing future overdue notices to the correct address and will not fulfill the statutorily mandated responsibility to maintain a current address with the DMV. 2.5 Fine Amounts The Administrative Hearing Officer does not have the power to adjust the amount of a fine for a violation. Fine amounts are set only by City Council Resolution, adopted pursuant to Vehicle Code Section 40203.5. The fact that the same type of violation may "cost" a different amount depending on the month and year that a citation was issued, does not give a Hearing Examiner the authority to adjust fine amounts to achieve "uniformity." Likewise, parking enforcement personnel do not have the power to assess a different fine by writing in an amount on the citation. In such cases, the violator must be charged the fine amount authorized by the Issuing Authority's governing body at the time the Parking Violation Notice was issued. However, if the Parking Violation Notice reflects an incorrect parking penalty amount, the possibility that the Contestant was confused should be given considerable weight when reviewing the appropriateness of suspending a late penalty. 2.6 Alternative Payments City of Dublin staff may allow payment of the parking penalty in installments if the person provides satisfactory evidence of an inability to pay the parking fee in full. Requests for installment payments must be made in writing in accordance with the policy outlined by the City. 3.0 Hearing Procedures The Hearing process is generally informal. Nevertheless, there are suggested guidelines which are to be followed to ensure that proper records of the Hearing are created and maintained and to avoid any problems or irregularities. 3.1 Pre-Hearing Procedures 3.1.1 Upon the Contestant's arrival, the Administrative Hearing Officer will verify the Contestant's name and Parking Violation Notice number with information provided on the scheduled Hearing log and note the time of arrival. 3.1.2 A file should be prepared before the hearing begins. The file must contain a copy of the citation that was sent with the scheduled Hearing log, hearing disposition form, and license plate history printout. 3.1.3 Contestant may request one continuance of the hearing in accordance with CVC 40215(b). (See Section 5.0 of this Policy.) Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 3.2 Begin the Hearing 3.2.1. All interested parties will be escorted into the hearing room. This may include several Contestants who are scheduled to have their matters heard on the same date. 3.2.2 The Administrative Hearing Officer shall present an opening statement, which may include: ao Explaining the Hearing process Informing the Contestant that the Hearing can be recorded Informing the Contestant that the options for answering a citation are "admit with explanation" or "deny." Relaying to the Contestant that he or she will receive a written copy of the Administrative Hearing Officer's decision by mail. The Contestant wilt be informed of the right to an appeal and a brief explanation of the appeal procedures. 3.2.3 State the date and time and instruct the Contestant to give his or her name and address for the record. 3.3.4 Ask Contestant(s) if they are the registered owner of the vehicle involved. If not, ask Contestant to state their relationship to the registered owner or interest in the proceeding. 3.2.5 If witnesses are present, instruct them to give their name and address for the record. 3.2.6 Swear in the Contestant and witnesses by instructing them to put up their right hands and repeat the oath. If a party objects to taking an oath, any formal assertion of intention to testify truthfully will suffice.. 3.2.7 Recite the following oath: "Will you swear or affirm that the testimony you give will be the truth? If yes, please say 'I do.'" 3.2.8 Excuse all witnesses and inform them that they will be recalled when it is their turn to testify. 3.2.9 Read the Parking Violation Notice number, license plate number, state of registration, date, time, location and type of violation into the record. This information may be presented in written form prior to the Hearing. 3.3 Review the Prima Facie Case 3.3.1 Examine the citation to determine if all statutorily required and pertinent information has been provided by the issuing officer. 3.3.2 If any vital information is missing, dismiss the citation. 3.3.3 If no required information is missing, follow the steps outlined in 3.4 for a plea of "admit liability with explanation" or follow steps outlined in 3.5 for a plea of "deny liability." 3.4 "Admit Liability With Explanation" 3.4.1 If the Contestant admits liability but desires to submit a "mitigating explanation," ask the Contestant to testify to the mitigating circumstance. Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 3.4.2 Follow the Contestant's testimony, ask the Contestant if there is any additional testimony or evidence they wish to present for the record. 3.4.3 If the testimony does not clearly set forth the mitigating circumstance, ask the Contestant questions relating to the testimony. 3.4.4 Call in witness(es), if needed, one by one. Request that the witness(es) present their testimony for the record. 3.4.5 Review all documents and other supporting evidence. For the record, read aloud or describe any documents presented. Place copies of all documents or other supporting evidence in the case file. 3.4.6 Ask the Contestant if there is any further testimony prior to closing the Hearing. 3.5 "Deny Liability" 3.5.1 Ask the Contestant to present his or her testimony, explaining the circumstances of the Parking Violation Notice. 3.5.2 Listen carefully to the Contestant's testimony. If necessary, question the Contestant to clarify points relating to the issuance of the Parking Violation Notice. 3.5.3 Call in witness(es), if needed, one by one. Ask the witness(es) to present their testimony. 3.5.4 Review all documents and other supporting evidence. For the record, read aloud or explain any documents presented. Place copies of documents or other supporting evidence in the case file. 3.5.5 Ask the Contestant if there is any further testimony prior to closing the Hearing. 3.6 Closing the Hearing Direct the Contestant out of the Hearing room. In the event that the Administrative Hearing Officer has granted a continuance, the Administrative Hearing Officer must complete and file a continuance form. This continuance form should be logged and recorded (see guidelines for continuance). When a person to whom a continuance has been granted fails to reappear at the appointed time, the Administrative Hearing Officer must go on record and render the decision(s). The Administrative Hearing Officer must also complete the continuance form indicating that the Contestant did not appear at the appointed time. 3.7 Render a Decision 3.7.1 Make a determination regarding liability based on the testimony and evidence. 3.7.2 Enter the disposition on the hearing record. Enter the total amount of the fine to be forfeited. 3.7.3 Enter a brief written statement including the rational for the decision on the hearing record. Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 3.7.4 Administrative Services Staff shall inform Contestant of the results of the Hearing and of their right to appeal. The notice shall include a form in accordance with Section 1013 of the Code of Civil Procedure, to toll the 30 calendar day appeal period. 4.0 The Prima Facie Case 4.1 Requirements The following items must always be indicated on the Notice in the boxes provided and, if not, the Notice must be dismissed: a. The Vehicle Code or Municipal Code Section violated or Ordinance violated. b The location where the violation occurred. c. The vehicle license plate number (if displayed). d. The expiration date of the vehicle registration tabs (if visible to issuing officer). e. The color of the vehicle (optional and not cause for dismissal). f. The approximate time of the violation. g. The last four digits of the vehicle identification number(only if visible to the issuing officer). h. The make of the vehicle (sometimes subjective and not cause for summary dismissal). Note: When a Notice which has the tab expiration date and/or vehicle identification number filled in and a claim is raised by the Contestant that the Notice was issued to the Contestant's vehicle, the conflicting tab expiration dates and/or vehicle identification (VIN) indicated on the Notice and on the Contestant's vehicle may provide evidentiary value as to whether the vehicle cited was actualty the Contestant's vehicle. This does not affect the prima facie case, however, only a particular (substantive) defense. It should be noted that a claim that some of the above information on the Notice is factually incorrect is not a challenge to the prima facie case, but only a challenge to the correct identity of the vehicle that was cited. If Contestant successfully proves that his or her vehicle was not identified on the Notice, this does not Permanently dismiss the Notice, but rather transfers responsibility to another ~ehicle. 5.0 Continuances The Person requesting the Hearing may request one continuance, not to exceed 21 days [CVC 40215(b)]. Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 6.0 Defenses 6.1 Denials 6.1.1 Material Error in the Allegation The Contestant may contend that the issuing officer made an error in alleging the offense. Because the Parking Violation Notice is aprimafacie case, the case stands or falls as charged - at least as to the material elements of date, time and place. If the Contestant conclusively proves that the vehicle was not at the place charged at the time or on the date charge, or did not do what is charged, the Parking Violation Notice should be dismissed. Please note that it is not conclusive to prove where the Contestant was on the date of the violation, since the Parking Violation Notice was issued to a vehicle, not the Contestant. Discretion should be applied when considering street address or location (e.g., Parking Violation Notice cites location as 220 N. Main, and Contestant claims he or she was in front of 226). Discretion should also be used when considering obvious inversions of the date and time (e.g., "21/10/99" as the date or the insertion of "2 P.M." in the date space and "11/4/99" as the time.) This kind of error will not, without other proof, negate the charge. Minor and subjective differences in vehicle description (such as color) and variations on make (such as Ford or Mustang) should be overlooked as immaterial. Finally, reference to an incorrect section of the vehicle code may be overlooked so long as the Parking Violation Notice properly states the infraction in words or understandable abbreviations. 6.1.2 Time o_o_o_~ Observation versus Time o_.[ Writing The relevant time of any allegation is the time of observation of the infraction, not the time of writing the Parking Violation Notice. Therefore, where a Contestant proves that the Parking Violation Notice was written before the prohibition came into effect, such as a Parking Violation Notice time of 3:55 on a "No Parking 4:00- 6:30," it should be dismissed and the Contestant found not liable. On the other hand, if an officer has observed a violation before a prohibition expired (e.g., no parking 7:00-9:30 A.M. and a Parking Violation Notice time of 9:25 A.M.)and notes this time on the Parking Violation Notice, but actually completes and affixes the Parking Violation Notice to the vehicle after the prohibition has expired, the Parking Violation Notice is technically sound. It is not a valid defense to assert that the citation was actually completed and placed on the vehicle after a parking restriction had elapsed. 6.1.3' Challenge to Issuing Officer's Judgment A Contestant may claim that the officer was mistaken in his or her judgment that the car was parked in a crosswalk, etc. Again, reference should be made to the elements of the offense charged, to be followed by examination of the Contestant's proof. If, after such reference and examination, it appears that the Contestant has proven by sufficient credible evidence that the officer's judgment was incorrect, the Parking Violation Notice may be dismissed. 6.1.4 Missing Signs The California Vehicle Code does specify the number of signs that must be posted to announce parking restrictions or the minimal distance allowable between signs. The Issuing Authority may wish to post a sign at Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 the beginning and end of each block and every 100 to 200 feet within a block if it is deemed necessary because of surrounding conditions. An Issuing Authority may decide to post signs at the entrance of a parking lot. If it is proved that there was no sign anywhere in the block in question, a Parking Violation Notice may be dismissed; except that in certain circumstances, posting at the entry point may be sufficient, i.e. commercial truck parking restrictions. To assert this defense successfully, a Contestant must, by proof, eliminate the possibility of a sign anywhere in the parking area or block. Proof that a bare pole existed, or that there was no sign posted in a portion of the block, is not adequate proof of this defense. All evidence, photos, statements, etc., should clearly indicate the location referenced. The Parking Violation Notice, of course, will indicate where the car was parked. To give perspective, photos may be linked to give a complete picture of the location. Photographs which show the parking area should, of course, be examined closely to determine whether signs might have been hidden behind trees, canopies, etc. The Administrative Hearing Officer should also take special notice of the findings in the "Administrative Review" included in the file. When the evidence presented by the Contestant fails to prove that there was no sign anywhere in the parking area, the Parking Violation Notice should be sustained. Contestants should be reminded that they have a duty to search a whole block for signs and that an assumption based on the absence of signs in part of a block does not fulfill this duty. 6.1.5 Obscured Signs An obscured sign is not a defense unless the Contestant can prove 1) that the sign was so obscured that no one could read it from any angle and 2) that there was no other sign on the block indicating the restriction. The fact that a sign is partially covered by a barrier or hidden from certain angles by a tree or canopy is irrelevant. All rh°~°:iSS~s h~e' h dfi~ t° see and obey all signs POsted. ~ 6.1.6 De_faced Signs To successfully maintain a defense of defaced signs, the Contestant must prove two points: 1) the sign was so defaced that no one could read it; and 2) there was no other sign in the area indicating the same restriction. If both are not proven, the defense should not be sustained. The Contestant should be questioned carefully about his or her familiarity with the area, how often he or she has been there, etc., as well as, about his or her knowledge of the removal or defacement of the sign. 6.2 Explanations There are certain explanations which, if proven, may be a basis for dismissal under certain circumstances. 6. 2.1 Vehicle Breakdown If a vehicle suffers a mechanical breakdown, and if reasonable efforts are made to have the vehicle removed from the street, a Parking Violation Notice for illegal parking issued while the Vehicle was incapacitated may be dismissed. To maintain the claim of "mechanical breakdown," four elements must be proven: 10 Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 a. The Contestant must prove that the breakdown actually occurred. b. The Contestant must prove that the vehicle was not illegally parked before the breakdown occurred. c. The Parking Violation Notice must have resulted from the breakdown. d. Reasonable steps must have been taken to remove the vehicle from the situation that caused the violation. Note: If the Administrative Hearing Officer is fully convinced that all four elements of the claim have been sustained by a preponderance of the Credible evidence, the Administrative Hearing Officer may find the Contestant not liable. If Contestant's proof on any of the first three fails, the Administrative Hearing Officer should sustain the Parking Violation Notice and find the Contestant liable. 6.3 Unacceptable Defenses or Explanations The parking laws were promulgated and penalty schedule set to discourage illegal parking by, not only the people who had no reason to violate the law, but also for those who do have a reason. The illegal parking problem is fundamentally the result of an accumulation of normal, human reasons or simple misunderstandings. A large number of illegal parkers firmly believe, at least in their own minds, that they had a valid reason for ignoring the law or that their special extenuating circumstances should be reason enough to dismiss a Parking Violation Notice. This, however, does not address the parking problem. It is precisely because so many people believe that they should not be subject to parking laws or that the laws are of so little consequence that they can be ignored, that the parking problem continues. The excuses outlined in this section should never form the primary basis for a dismissal. Acceptable excuses and defenses should be limited to those outlined above and others which the Administrative Hearing Officer determines are bona-fide and legally sufficient. The list of unacceptable excuses or defenses should not be viewed as comprehensive, but is set forth only to provide examples. Note: It should be clear, however, that just as defenses and explanations that are unbelievable and without merit are to be rejected, credible and meritorious defense and explanation should be accepted and given appropriate weight when rendering a decision. "Going to the Bathroom" "Short Errands" "Doctor/Dentist Appointment/Late for Class" "Business or Personal Appointment" "I Have a Valid Placard" "The Officer Apologized But Wrote in His Book" "I Didn't See the Sign" "The Sign Was Obscured" "I Didn't Understand the Sign" "No Place Else to Park/The Lot Was Full" "Only Part of My Car Was Illegally Parked" "I Left Someone in the Car" "I Left a Note in the Car as to My Whereabouts" "The Officer Saw Me Park, Didn't Say Anything, or "The Motor was Running" "It was Only a Few Minutes" "Nobody Else Got a Ticket" "The Whole Block was Parked" "Someone Else Had My Car" "The Officer Told Me..." "This Violation Has Not Been Enforced in the Past" "I've Done it for Years/Everybody Does It" "I'm Doing a Service for the City of Dublin" "I Had Permission" "Diplomatic Immunity" "I Left my Parking Lights On or Blinking" "The Fine is Too High" · "Out of Town Driver/Do Not Read English" 11 Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 Said it Was OK for a Few Minutes..." "New to the City of Dublin" Note: The above are simply examples of cases that are anticipated during Hearings and are meant only as examples. The Administrative Hearing Officer must decide each case on its own merit. 12 Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 7.0 Appeal of Administrative Hearing The Administrative Services Department will notify the Contestant of the right to appeal the decision of the Administrative Hearing Officer. The Contestant has the right to appeal the Administrative Hearing Officer's Review within 30 days of the mailing of his/her decision. The Contestant can pay the court $25 filing fee and schedule a hearing as directed by the Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin Municipal Court. The Court will request and receive copies of all information from the Administrative Hearing Officer's case file, including the Administrative Review, computer printouts, a copy of the citation and other supporting documentation. 13 Parking Citation Administrative Adjudication Policy and Procedure Guidelines Revised July, 2001 DEFINITIONS o Parking Penalty: includes, but is not limited to the applicable civil penalty for the violation specified in the citation, together with any late payment penalty, administrative fee, assessment, process service fees, or other costs of collection related to civil debt collection. Citation: includes, but is not limited to notices of parking or standing violation, and notices of delinquent violation. Administrative Review: the initial citation review process, initiated by a Contestant's timely request, and conducted by Police Services. Administrative Hearing: a hearing process with respect to a citation, conducted in accordance with the procedures specified herein, initiated by a timely written request of a Contestant dissatisfied with the results of the Administrative Review. Appeal: the action taken by a Contestant to request an administrative hearing. Parking Violation: any violation of any regulation governing the standing or parking of a vehicle under the California Vehicle Code, under any federal or state statute or regulation, or under any City of Dublin Ordinance. Contestant: (same as Contestant) any person or entity who is the registered owner, driver, rentee or lessee who is liable for parking penalties in accordance with the provisions of California Vehicle Code Section 42000, et. seq. and who contests or disputes liability for the parking penalties. Administrative Hearing Officer: Individual designated by the City to perform the duties and responsibilities associated with conducting the Administrative Hearing according to the guidelines set forth in this manual. In addition, the Administrative Hearing Officer must have completed a minimum of 20 hours of training pursuant to California Vehicle Code section 40215(c)(4)(B). 14 City of Dublin Parking Citation Sequence of Events Registered Owner Receives Citation Payment due within 21 days I NO payment made within 21 days. Phoenixsends notice of delinquency to Registered Owner I Fee is paid within 21 days. No further action. Registered Owner Requests Admin. ReNew. Must be requested w/in 21 days of citation or 10 days from date of receipt of notice of delinquency. I Traffic Sergeant Reviews Citation I I Contestant found liable. Advised by letter, can pay w/in 15 days or request Admin. Headng w/in 15 days. Notice mailed Dismissal of Citation Review. within 20 days of receipt of request for Admin. Contestant and Phoenix advised of action. Contestant requests admin, hearing. Must deposit penalty and indicate whether a headng is requested in person or by mail. Admin. H~ng scheduled and conducted by independant headng officer. t I I I Contestant found not liable. [ I Contestant found liable. Deposit returned by City.I I deposit forfeited. No further action Contestant requests headng through Court w/in 25 days ofI admin, headng decision. Pays court fee of $25. I Not liable. City refunds deposit plus court fee. IContestant liable. Deposit and court fee forfeited. ATTACHMENT