2003-02-07 Committee on People with Disabilities Minutes

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handicapped signs, access aisles, etc. are in compliance with the law. She felt a press release should be published announcing the duties and responsibilities of the volunteer enforcement officers. R. Zirnstein reported their duties are to enforce handicapped parking in a proper way. They warn violators first before issuing a citation such as no visible placard or an expired placard. A. Mitchener asked if counties are now able to recoup money from the tickets or is there still an effort towards passing legislation so the funds can be returned to the counties. A. Levin responded legislation is being considered, but nothing has passed yet. After the legislature's first deadline of February 14 we will have a better idea of the bills that are still alive. J. Souza asked if there is a number that he could call to report a violation and he gets their license plate number? J. Zirnstein said they have a phone number where they can fax the license plate number if they are not on duty. The Police Department will follow up with a letter to the registered owner of that vehicle. The Traffic Services Section phone number is 961-2305. The Police Department also has a TTY number for hearing impaired persons. J. Zirnstein said they work in pairs. There are five volunteers in West Hawaii and two in Hilo. They can work anytime as long as they log in one m when they want to work. They are taught where to stand, what to do, and what to say, etc. They serve 5 hours a week: approximately four hours in the field and one hour at the police station on paper work. M. Martin asked where would the recorded tickets be available for the public. J. Lawhead replied police officers send their tickets directly to the court at the end of their shift. However, the volunteer enforcement officers send their tickets to Sergeant Apele. J. Lawhead clarified this is a pilot program and hopefully changes will occur. Right now they work in teams of two, which is awkward because they have five volunteers in Kona. N. Olesen stated that he is not clear on the instructions given to volunteer officers when the signage is not fully compliant. What if there is a sign that is not up to date? J. Lawhead responded that the person receiving the ticket has three options. He/she can send the money for the ticket, write to the court explaining a reason, or go to court and argue with the judge. In all probability, if the sign is not in compliance the person could possibly get out of paying the fine. N. Olesen indicated there is a document being forwarded by DCAB having to do with signage and whether fines can be enforced unless notification is given ahead of 2