Enfield approves higher parking fines

Susan Danseyar, Journal Inquirer, Manchester, Conn.
·2 min read

Apr. 4—ENFIELD — The Town Council on Monday unanimously approved increased parking fines to be more aligned with those in surrounding towns.

Officials haven't determined the last time parking fines were increased but say it's been years.

The council approved a number of increased fines, with the highest at $100 for blocking a handicapped zone, up from $85. Parking in a prohibited zone, which has resulted in a $10 fine, will now be $20. Parking during a snow ban and overnight during the winter will now be a $25 fine.

Officials have been concerned about several parking issues, including snow removal during storms when violations have made it difficult for the Department of Public Works to clear streets, particularly in the Thompsonville section.

In addition, residents in the North Thompsonville section who live on streets near Jimmy's Pub have complained about patrons of the bar parking in their neighborhood and causing disturbances.

Residents have asked for a fine that will deter people from parking on their streets, saying that $10 is not enough.

Town officials have said that Enfield's fines have been lower than those imposed by neighboring communities.

In November, the Town Council voted to refer the list of fine amounts to its government and finance subcommittee for review.

Since then, the subcommittee has been studying fines in neighboring communities and working with police on bringing Enfield's fines in line with what other towns charge.

Before agreeing on Monday to amend the town code in order to revise the fines, the Town Council held a public hearing, but no residents spoke.

Before the vote on Monday, Town Council member Ken Nelson said he would support the amended fines but still has serious concerns about what he called "minimal" fines.

"This is a step in the right direction but I think we need to keep going with this," Nelson said.

He said some of the amended fines are not high enough. For example, Nelson said, $25 might not be enough to encourage people to go out in a storm and move their cars during a winter snow ban.

For more coverage of Somers and Enfield, follow Susan Danseyar on Twitter: @susandanseyar, Facebook: Susan Danseyar, reporter.