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Giddings holds public hearing on limits for RV and long-vehicle parking; council to revisit ordinance
Summary
Residents told the Giddings City Council that RVs and trailers parked on streets and in alleys are blocking driveways and raising tax-classification questions. The council heard the public input, discussed options presented by staff and took no action, scheduling further research and outreach.
Mayor Joel Lopez opened a public hearing on Feb. 23 on a proposed amendment to Chapter 12 (Traffic and Vehicles) to update rules about parking and standing long vehicles, motor homes and trailers on city streets and alleys.
Several residents spoke during the hearing. Gail Saenz said parked vehicles in the alley and on the street near her home sometimes prevent her from getting out of her driveway. Calvin Burnham and Tim Langham each stated they opposed a ban on RVs parking on city streets, and Dwain Booher also voiced opposition to restricting trailers and RVs. Troy Eichler asked whether family members could stay in RVs, and Rodney Kessel said his RV is parked in his driveway and that the Tax Office had listed it as a dwelling, a classification that raised enforcement and taxation questions.
Interim City Manager Heather Garner told the council that approaches used by other Texas cities vary: the city could retain its current ordinance, clarify a limited-time allowance for on-street parking, or prohibit such parking altogether. Council Member Jacob Janda said council members need to research the issue and review a map of affected locations and then conduct public outreach. Council Member Kevin Rinn asked staff to consider sightline and view-blocking concerns; Council Member Mark Muniz said the map should be revised for clarity. The council did not take action on the item and directed staff to return with a draft ordinance after further study and public awareness efforts.
The hearing opened at 7:23 p.m. and closed at 7:50 p.m. The council’s next formal step will be to review a drafted ordinance based on staff research and community input.
