Park With Caution: Fines Increased in Harrison

Parking illegally in Harrison just got a little more expensive.

Violators of local parking ordinances will now pay a more hefty fine after the town board approved an increase in penalties late last week. The biggest increases were for blocking driveways, blocking fire hydrants and parking in a handicapped zone.

In total the board increased fines for 14 violations, most by between $15 and $25. The biggest increase was for parking in a handicapped zone, the fine for which was increased from $100 to $250.

The town increased the fine for parking near the Harrison Train Station without a permit from $30 to $50 partially because non-residents where willing to risk the ticket as a cheaper alternative to parking in New York City.

"That's why we raised the fine, we found people were simply ignoring it — the $30 was not enough," Harrison Mayor/Supervisor Joan Walsh said.

Other penalties were increased because blocking a driveway and double parking on Halstead Avenue create traffic problems for a relatively small fine, members of the board said. Parking in front of a fire hydrant was increased because it is a safety concern.

"Our fine schedule is right in line with all of the neighboring communities if not a little under," said Harrison Police Chief Anthony Marraccini, who added that the town hasn't raised its rates in a number of years and that it was overdue.

Two residents addressed the board before the increases were approved — one said the fines were increased too much, the other said they should be increased even more.

"It just goes to show you that we can't make everyone happy," said Councilwoman Marlane Amelio.

The fine changes were approved March 3 and are already in affect. See the complete list of changes below:

• Permit Parking Violation: $30 to $50
• Prohibited Area: $40 to $50
• Overtime Parking: $20 to $25
• Double Parking: $40 to $50
• Parking More Than 12" From Curb: $25 to $35
• Obstructing Fire Hydrant: $60 to $100
• Fire Lane: $35 to $50
• Left Wheels to Curb (Facing Wrong Way): $25 to $50
• Handicapped Parking: $100 to $250
• No Inspection: $35 to $75
• Blocked Driveway: $35 to $75
• Exceeding 24 Hour Parking: $35 to $50
• Tow Away Zone: $35 to $50
• Other Parking: $35 to $50