Spring is fast approaching. Pitchers and catchers have reported to Spring Training. Unfortunately, in New Haven this traditionally has meant the illegal dirt bike madness will soon be here.
I’ve expressed our concerns with Mayor Elicker, Chief Reyes, and Asst. Chief Jacobson. The good news is they are working on a plan.
I believe we need the following:
1. The BOA to approve the ordinance recommended by Asst Chief Jacobson LAST August. Read about the ordinance below.
2. Funds to support aggressive enforcement; sell the Tens of Thousands of $$$’s in bikes previously confiscated by the City, or use money from Market New Haven
3. A Public Announcement and PR Campaign letting would-be riders know the behavior will no longer be tolerated in New Haven. State Law Enforcement should be invited.
4. Support from the New Haven business community; the business community has privately said the dirt bikes hurt business, but so far none have come forward to stand with the NHPD or the residents. It’s time for the business community to step up.
Let's make this year different by sending a message that New Haven will no longer tolerate the unlawful activity!
Dennis Serfilippi
The proposed ordinance would do the following:
1. Fine the drivers $1,000 with 100% of proceeds going to the City of New Haven
2. Allow the City to confiscate the bikes/ATVs and sell the bikes at auction with proceeds going to City of New Haven. Prior legislation required a criminal conviction at the State level.
3. Prohibit gas stations from selling gas for use in dirt-bikes, and fining $100 any gas station that does so.
4. Require gas stations to post notices FUELING OF UNAUTHORIZED VEHICLES PROHIBITED.
