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Council advances amendment on ‘unlicensed vehicles’ to second reading after split vote
Summary
On first reading council approved an amendment to the property‑maintenance code that would stop enforcing licensing of vehicles parked on private property; the item passed first reading with one dissenting vote and will return April 28 for second reading.
The Lebanon City Council approved on first reading amendments to the city code addressing “unlicensed vehicles” on private property, moving the ordinance (Council Bill 68‑45) to a second reading on April 28.
City staff explained the change would remove a licensing requirement that staff said burdened enforcement resources without improving neighborhood appearance. Under the proposed language, vehicles parked on private driveways that are otherwise compliant would no longer be subject to licensing enforcement; vehicles parked in the street would remain violations under the code.
Councilmembers asked for clarifications about where the rule would apply and whether it would allow unlicensed vehicles to be parked in yards. The presenting chief said: “If it's parked in your driveway and not currently licensed…we're going to enforce that and we would like to change that,” clarifying the intent to focus enforcement where it affects public view and safety. The chief said the change aims to prioritize property‑maintenance enforcement that advances community beautification goals.
The motion for first reading was moved by Councilmember Jordan and seconded by Councilmember Evans. Roll call recorded affirmative votes from Mitchell, Maisel, Mechler, Wall, Jordan, Garner, Atkins, Evans and others; Councilmember Mizell voted No. The item was scheduled for second reading April 28.
Staff said they will provide a follow‑up with additional details (including any numerical limits on unenforced vehicles) at the next meeting. Council asked staff to check whether the change could be abused and to return with clarifications.
