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Committee hears chief’s push for higher parking fines amid thin police staffing
Summary
Members discussed a prior conversation with Chief Cambridge who said fines and ordinances are a key tool given limited police resources; committee noted discretion, whether fines should be area‑specific, and that the select board would decide on any ordinance changes.
Members of the Richmond Parking Advisory Committee reviewed a prior conversation with Chief Cambridge during the Jan. 13 meeting, during which committee members said the chief emphasized enforcement options and suggested using higher fines as a deterrent given limited police staffing.
One committee member recounted that "he wanted the fine to be as much as $220," a figure discussed as a possible deterrent for serious problem areas. Members debated whether a high fine should apply only in designated trouble spots or be written to cover all town parking offenses; several participants urged discretion for officers based on conditions such as weather and neighborhood access.
Committee members also stressed that any change to fines or ordinances would be decided by the select board. A member noted: "eventually it's the select board who makes that decision," and that the chief might present the proposal at a select board meeting seeking support. The committee discussed coordination between the police chief and the constable, and said improved communication about enforcement would help avoid confusion.
Members recorded follow-ups: the committee may offer to provide input or public comment when the chief presents to the select board; no ordinance was proposed or voted on at the Jan. 13 meeting.
Next steps: Committee members expect Chief Cambridge to raise the matter with the select board; the committee discussed whether to attend or comment when that presentation occurs.
