RV parking sparks rage among some in Fountain Valley

-- ANGELIQUE FLORES

Perry Goldstein was upset when he noticed a recreational vehicle’s power

cord running across his sidewalk in August, crossing the path where his

children play and ride their bikes.

“At best, the children trip on it,” he said. “At worst, a bicycle chain

pierced the cord, and the child gets electrocuted.”

Concerned about the safety of his children, Goldstein called police and

City Hall to report the problem. He learned there were no laws

restricting recreational vehicles in Fountain Valley.

Although the city’s parking code does not allow overnight parking for

trailers and boats because they block visibility, RVs are subject to the

same laws as cars. They must be moved every 72 hours.

Running power cords or other items across the streets and sidewalks

violates city code, but parking an RV on a residential street is legal.

This sparked both protest and support of RV parking on residential

streets.

Betty Blank, a member of the Fountain Valley Recreational Vehicle Assn.,

said storage does not protect the RVs -- some worth $700,000 -- from

vandalism. She said owners have a right to park on city streets, which

should not be used as a playground for children.

Goldstein suggested that the city create a place where RV owners can park

at a discounted rate.

There is some talk of putting the issue on the ballot to allow voters to

decide the fate of RV parking. However, it will most likely be left for

the City Council to decide.

City officials are now reviewing the RV ordinance. A report of the review

is expected to be completed next month.

“We’ll more than likely make more stringent rules and regulations,”

Councilman John Collins said.