A number of new laws went into effect at the start of 2019, including an increase to minimum wage and a new public safety fee being attached to annual vehicle registration fees. You can catch up on those more recent changes on page 1A of this week’s paper, but The Times wants to take this opportunity to provide a brief reminder about some new ordinances that went into effect locally throughout 2018.
Whether you are just returning to town or simply need a refresher, it’s important to keep in mind these new laws impacting things like excessive noise and public smoking.
First up, the town has passed and implemented a no texting while driving ordinance. This is not a secondary violation and drivers can be stopped and cited if they are seen texting while driving down the street.
The Town Council last summer also approved an emergency measure to address complaints about “nuisance parties.”
The ordinance describes “nuisance” as any gathering on any private property that involves disturbances such as excessive noise or traffic, obstruction of a public street by crowds or vehicles, drinking in public, the serving of alcohol to minors, fighting, disturbing the peace or littering.
Fines for violation are up to $1,000 for the property owner or responsible party if there is a third response by law enforcement with 90 days.
Finally, an ordinance was passed last June that prohibits smoking in all parks, trailheads and open space (Preserve). Currently, designated smoking areas for local parks are the parking areas.
