The Cortez City Council will hold a public hearing Tuesday before voting to adopt a new ordinance that bans occupation of recreational vehicles or park trailers on private or public property.
The proposal, known as Ordinance 1179, states the issue has become a matter of public health, welfare and public safety concern. The public hearing is slated for 7:30 p.m. at City Hall.
At the last council meeting on May 28, city leaders said the ordinance would limit occupancy of such domiciles to 30 days per calendar year for out of town guests only, and compliance of the ordinance would be complaint driven. The issue recently came before the council when a man occupying a backyard RV began to modify and add onto that dwelling. The city's code inspector came under criticism for not being more lenient toward a veteran who needed a place to stay.
The proposal does not affect mobile home parks or campground type facilities. RVs stored on private property are also exempt from the statute.
City officials are also expected to address the parties liable when a complaint is lodged: the property owner, the owner of the RV or the occupants of the RV. Those found guilty of violating the ordinance could face a maximum $500 daily fine.
The Cortez City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month. Held at City Hall on Main Street, the 7 p.m. meetings are preceded by a 6 p.m. work session, both of which are open to the public. tbaker@cortezjournal.com
