Residents, sheriff and commissioners discuss towing authority for Canyon Road parking

A resident and county staff described repeated incidents of vehicles blocking driveways and county road shoulders at an access point known locally as Canyon Road, prompting discussion about whether county ordinance changes would let the sheriff tow violators. Resident Mike (last name not provided) told the commission that visitors to the river often block three shared driveways and ignore existing “no parking” signs; he said homeowners have been verbally threatened when they attempt to move vehicles. Sheriff’s office and county staff noted that state law already prohibits blocking a roadway but that enforcement options are limited without a clear local ordinance that authorizes removal of unauthorized vehicles. Commissioners asked the county counselor and highway administrator to review options, including clearer “No parking—vehicles will be towed at owner’s expense” signage and an updated ordinance tied to existing towing procedures. Several commissioners said they preferred a focused work-study meeting to craft enforceable language and enforcement protocols before bringing an ordinance for a vote. Ending: Commissioners agreed to schedule a work-study session with the sheriff, highway administration, the county counselor and affected residents to draft enforceable signage and an ordinance amendment that can be enforced by the sheriff’s office.