Henry Raymond

General => General Discussion => Topic started by: Stand Alone Defense on January 28, 2010, 05:26:35 AM

Title: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Stand Alone Defense on January 28, 2010, 05:26:35 AM
Just wanted to know what everyone thinks about a Curfew ordinance in our town on persons under 16?

Maybe it would help in the warmer months with preventing so of the vandalism that has been occurring over the last year.

Also what are thoughts on a ATV ordinance for the town?

I feel that these items seem to be long over due as a lot of towns have them.  Well post away.


Thanks,

Josh
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: mary on January 28, 2010, 07:10:28 AM
If you are not familiar with it, may want to review the state law regarding ATV use - Title 23, Chap 31.

Am not in favor of a curfew.
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: NorthFairfaxBoy on January 28, 2010, 11:00:32 AM
Curfews in my opinion do no good.  Yes, the "good kids" will follow it.  But, the "bad ones" wouldn't (thusly why they are the bad ones..).
And the same for the ATVs, honest law abiding people already know and follow the laws for them.  An ordinance would mean nothing for the "lawbreakers".
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: cestreet on January 28, 2010, 03:28:15 PM
I would be strongly against a curfew ordinance.  Way too "Big Brotheresque" for me.

ATV ordinance might not be a bad idea, assuming the intent would be to put rules around responsible and reasonable use of ATVs and not altogether banning them.  I personally hate the things, but wouldn't want to get all "Big Brother" on this one either.

Clarice Streets
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Rev. Elizabeth on January 28, 2010, 04:57:38 PM
And, is either enforceable?
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: red on January 29, 2010, 06:41:33 AM
I am against a curfew. I do not think it would change anything.
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: greenek on January 29, 2010, 07:10:52 AM
I disagree with a town curfew. I think it comes down to parenting. As parents, we all have the right and responsibility to set boundaries for our children, as well as get to know exactly who our children are hanging out with. I would also include getting to know our childrens friends parents.

I remember growing up that I had to be home at a certain time, and that if I did not, I knew what the consequences were. My mom always seemed to be able to find out if I was somewhere or doing something that she didn't approve of.

Kevin
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Stand Alone Defense on January 29, 2010, 08:06:33 AM
OK thank you all for the input.  Mary I'm aware of Title 23, chap 31 I was referring to 23 V.S.A. Sec. 3510 of chapter 31 covering a town ordinance on ATVs.  I'm in no way against the responsible use of ATVs in Fairfax, I am a avid rider myself.  It is the reckless operation that is concerning the wheelies on mainstreet and the racing around on public roads.  The point of an ordinance would be to hold people accountable for their actions if you don't follow the rules you pay a fine.  It was just a thought but it is not possible without public support that is why I was asking.

As far as the Curfew I'm seeing that that is not popular at all. LOL

Thanks again for the Input everyone.
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: cedarman on January 29, 2010, 08:10:48 AM
Josh,

Thank you for asking about these issues to see where people in our town stand. It's more than a lot of people in policy making do.
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Mike Raburn on January 30, 2010, 04:07:10 AM
FXDHS,

Excellent question.

Like the Rev. asked, is it ENFORCEABLE?
I think not.
You'd be opening a big arse can of worms if you tried.

Parenting is the issue, so I "think".

I try NOT to think....it hurts my head too much.


Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: trussell on January 30, 2010, 09:47:40 AM
Quote
I try NOT to think

And that's probably a good idea, Mike- when you start to "think" you tend to post.  A lot. Let's not tie us Henry's website too much ;)
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Stand Alone Defense on January 30, 2010, 11:54:10 PM
Yes the point of making a ordinance is to make it enforceable with a schedule of fines.  It would be no different then a Dog ordinance or speed limit postings
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Mike Raburn on January 31, 2010, 12:52:51 AM
Josh.

It is a good idea.... but who will enforce it?

How can you enforce it?

We have a similar ordinance here in Anchorage.

It seems the Popo let the bears eat the violators.
I do NOT agree with that, by the way.
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: slpott on January 31, 2010, 12:34:56 PM
Josh, I think a curfew would be wonderful. It would not affect the youth from being in their own yards or friends of theirs but it would hopefully encourage them to keep out of others. I also think it might help in making parents accountable for their kids. Fine the parents when their kids get into trouble and they might put forth more effort in raising good products of society. It is a much needed requirement. It is totally amazing to me the lack of responsibilkity some parents have. If you can not control your child what makes you think it is our responsibility. A lot of times laws are opposed because people are afraid they might get broken. This is only my opinion but if my child was to make the decision to do something illegal, I would certainly hope it was the last. Illegal to me includes violating someone elses belonging or self. Big or small, you have no right. Regardless, there is a curfew in my house and my children better not be roaming the streets. My husband does not agree with a curfew and feels children have the same rights as we do. Difference of opinion is good balance.
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Stand Alone Defense on January 31, 2010, 11:12:20 PM
Well Mike,  It being a town ordinance I could enforce it and write fines just as I do the Dog ordinance.  The idea actually came from a Military friend of mine that is a constable in Missouri.  Here is the ordinance reads

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person under the age of sixteen (16) to be present upon any public street, alley, or other public or quasi-public place in the City between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless:
1.   Accompanied by a parent, guardian, employer or some other person of legal age having charge of the minor's lawful care, custody and control;
2.   Returning home by direct route from and within thirty (30) minutes after a school activity, an activity of religious or supervised voluntary association, such as scouts, 4-H, community leagues or other community events.  Examples of community events shall include dances, community celebrations and carnivals;
3.   Is in a place or returning home from such place, connected with and required by some legitimate business, trade, profession or occupation in which the minor is permitted by law to be engaged.

(c) For the purpose of this Ordinance quasi-public place shall be defined as an area in private ownership which is established for the convenience of the public as a members, invited guests or business visitors and shall include, but not necessarily be limited to parking lots, business establishments, shopping center areas, school and church grounds or arcade amusement centers.


it's what they have in place again our town would need to make our own guide lines but it gives you an idea.  His fines seemed a little steep to me to $150 first offence and up top $500 for the the third.  Like I said it is something I was thinking about and just wanted some input before it started getting warm. 
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Mummy on February 01, 2010, 09:28:15 AM
I would never vote for it! 
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: msm on February 01, 2010, 01:01:08 PM


Josh,

What are the Vermont driving restrictions for teenagers ?

For Example,  in Florida,  16 year olds drivers can not drive after 11 PM.  ( with exceptions similiar to your friend provided ).   

With a State mandate,  the kids are supposed to be home by 11 PM.  The Hours of operation increases for a 17 year old,  they can drive up to the Midnight Hour. 

Using this approach the entire state plays by the same rules, thus enforncement is consistent.  Just another perspective.  It's not a curfew by name,  but is an excellent tool to ensure kids are not " Out and About'  doing things they shouldn't be doing.

Mike M


Mike M
Title: Re: Public input on ordinances
Post by: Stand Alone Defense on February 01, 2010, 11:19:36 PM
Hey Mike,

Vermont does have restrictions on Junior opperator Licenses witch is what persons under the age of 18 are issued.  It's been a while since Title 23 training but I pretty sure this is how it goes.

For the first 3 months junior opperators are only aloud to drive alone or with one of the following.

-    licensed parent or legal guardian
-    licensed adult that is a minimum of 25 years of age

 After 3 months up to 6 months you can drive with family members only no age restriction.  I also believe you can not drive after dark for the first 6 months.


If you receive 3 points on your driving license and you are under 18 you will also receive a 90 day suspension