Wednesday, June 15, 2016 | 4:39 p.m.
Hate parking fines but like helping others? You’re in luck.
The city of Las Vegas will pilot a program that will allow people who receive parking tickets during two designated times of the year to donate nonperishable food, toys or school supplies in lieu of payment. The donated items must be at least equal to the value of the parking fine.
The Las Vegas City Council passed an ordinance Wednesday establishing the program, although it didn’t receive full support. Mayor Carolyn Goodman and Councilwoman Lois Tarkanian opposed the ordinance, fearing it might become cumbersome for the parking services staff.
“I just think it’s confusing, unnecessary and government doesn’t belong there,” Goodman said, adding that she is not against helping others.
Councilman Bob Beers, who sponsored the bill, said the program stands to benefit downtown because people won’t be as angry about receiving a parking violation and, thus, likely will continue frequenting the area. Other cities offer similar programs, he said.
The option would apply only to certain violations — such as exceeding the amount of time permitted in a metered parking spot — issued within the designated time periods.
The City Council would need to authorize the time periods within which to operate the program. It’s unclear what dates will be selected and which charities will receive the donations.
City staff members said they would monitor the program’s effectiveness to determine whether to continue it in future years.
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