HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013 04 15 Public Input-JohnsonDate: April 15, 2013
The attached were referenced during Public
Input by both Mr. Kevin Cannon and Dr. Ted
Johnson at the April 15, 2013 City Commission
Workshop.
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TUSCAWILLA HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
RESPONSE TO THE CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS ON -STREET PARKING MORATORIUM
On March 14, 2013, the THOA Board of Directors discussed the most recent developments regarding
the current moratorium and proposed changes to the On -Street Parking Ordinance. In keeping with
our Bylaw provisions to promote the continued beauty and safety of our community, please accept
the following concerns regarding any further action taken on this topic:
• The Needs of our Residents:
The Tuscawilla PUD represents more than 4,800 homes and has a unique diversity of HOA's
and Units without an HOA. None of these HOA's or Units have police powers with regard to
On -Street Parking. Currently, 15 Units have expired deed restrictions. The process for
restoring deed restrictions has been thoroughly researched and is not feasible given the
current interpretation of the Marketable Record Title Act. As a consequence of this on-
going expiration of deed restrictions, the residents in these Units must rely upon the City of
Winter Springs to enforce current ordinances including on -street parking.
• Property Values:
According to reliable forecasts from Property Appraiser David Johnson, Seminole County
property values are slated to increase. Winter Springs will see the largest increase in the
taxable value of property. This increase is estimated to be between 4 and 5 percent. The
Tuscawilla Community will help support this forecast IF the status of NO ON -STREET
PARKING remains in effect as it has been for the past 30+ years. Due to the negative impact
on rising home values, The THOA is adamant in opposing any change to the current On -
Street Parking Ordinance.
0 Consideration for All City Residents:
The THOA Board of Directors is sensitive to the needs of residents located outside of the
Tuscawilla Community. Given the varied requirements represented by these
neighborhoods, we respectfully suggest that the City Commissioners allow for flexibility as
applicable when removing or continuing enforcement of this ordinance. If the chief or his
designee has reason to believe that a resident is abusing this ordinance for an improper
purpose [vendetta against neighbor], the ordinance should contain a mechanism for the city
to take appropriate disciplinary action. The THOA Board of Directors recommends that the
Tuscawilla Community be exempt from any changes to the current On -Street Parking
Ordinance and that the City of Winter Springs continue to support our community by
enforcing the existing law.
• Safety:
Even though the current law forbids obstructions that prevent emergency vehicle access to
our homes, the reality is that this risk increases as more vehicles are permitted to park on
the street. The THOA has received information from homeowners regarding a variety of
instances where vehicles have been temporarily parked on the street in such a manner that
emergency vehicles would have been restricted. Additional concerns include the ability of
individuals wishing to commit robbery now being able to park on our streets for extended
time while looking for opportunities.
• Use of City Resources:
According to the data provided by city staff, approximately 20 calls to code enforcement are
placed each month regarding on -street parking concerns in Tuscawilla. This represents
approximately 13% of the total calls received for code enforcement attention. The THOA
Board of Directors do not consider this to be excessive, especially since the Tuscawilla
Community represents 1/3 of the city population and a significant percentage of the city's
property tax revenue.
Given the reasons listed above, The Tuscawilla Homeowners Board of Directors is adamantly
opposed to any change in the wording or enforcement of the existing On -Street Parking
Ordinance. We respectfully request that the entire Tuscawilla Community continue to have
the support of the city by continued enforcement of this ordinance as it currently exists.
Sincerely,
Dr. Ted Johnson Mr. Jack Rutherford
President: THOA Director
Mr. Kevin Cannon Mrs. Andrea Herman
15` Vice -President Director/Membership
Dr. Daniel Holsenbeck Mr. Donald Gilmore
2"d Vice President Director
Mr. Kurt Miericke Mrs. Nancy Shear
Secretary Director
Mrs. Beth King
Treasurer