Code Enforcement must balance needs of safety, individuals and law
People sometimes assume we know more than we do, probably because we write this column, and we are often asked questions that we have no idea what the answer is. We don’t know whether to be flattered that people think we’re smarter than we are or whether to think we’re stupid.
Either way, recently we went to the source to get some answers.
We wanted to find out if it was legal to place a basketball goal where it faces the street rather than the driveway. How long can PODS or temporary storage units remain in the driveway? What about recreational vehicles, unused vehicles, etc. left in yards? What enforcement policies are there for people who disobey the codes?
We met with city of Rio Rancho Code Enforcement folks to find out the answers. They reminded us that the most confusing part of this discussion is that homeowners’ associations often set different standards than those set by the city. It is the responsibility of the association to enforce any rules different than those of the city; the city only enforces its own rules.
Capt. Ron Vigil of the Rio Rancho Police Department provided us with a lot of information, including copies of the ordinances that they enforce. It was a very enlightening meeting, and we were impressed with RRPD’s attitude and understanding. Guess that’s why Rio Rancho’s police department has such an excellent reputation; it deserves it.
Vigil said the code enforcement officers are always “looking for what is going to ensure the safety and well-being of the people” and they always consider the rights of both sides in a dispute. They must balance the wellbeing of the residents, an understanding of individual needs and circumstances, with the health and safety of residents and the codes put in place by the governing body. Those are a lot of different balls to keep in the air — and they are expected to keep them in the air while being courteous. Being in code enforcement isn’t a position for the weak at heart.
We learned a lot about city codes during our meeting.
We learned that temporary storage units can be parked at a residence unless they are a blight or block the sidewalk or right-of-way. Recreational vehicles can be parked within the property lines of a residence without blocking the sidewalk or rightof-way. They can only be parked on the street during daytime hours. Vigil said one unregistered vehicle is allowed if covered and 5 feet from a property line on the side unless people are actively engaged in repairing it. For basketball goals, we were told, “Streets are for vehicles, and pedestrians only have the right of way within a crosswalk. The roadway is never a place for juveniles to play.”
We learned a lot during our meeting and were surprised that some of these things were not illegal; however, we were impressed with our police officers, their concern for the residents, and their diligence when trying to resolve problems.
If residents want to report a violation, call the non-emergency number at 891-7226 or online at http:// rrnm.gov/2703/ReportRio-Rancho. If requested, a reporting person may remain anonymous, but this may limit violations to only those observed by city employees.
If someone believes the rules should be changed, contact your city councilor and begin a conversation. The police can only enforce the rules that are in place.
We hope we’re all a little more knowledgeable now.