City Manager’s Assistant assigned this issue to Chelsea Police

Given that this is on private property, our parking enforcement does not have jurisdiction over this area. We will notify the Police Dept to observe and handle this issue.

I would like to know that this is being taken care of. This is a known and longstanding issue. Does the police department have jurisdiction over this issue? It was brought up in the community survey and other venues and still people are allowed to park here. How will I know that this has been addressed?

We have notified the Police Dept of this issue, they have confirmed that they do ticket for handicap parking and fire lane violations in that lot. They try their best to minimize this issue, but unfortunately an officer cannot be at the lot at all times. The Police Dept will continue to ticket for handicap parking and fire lane violations.

Also, the Fire Prevention office has been made aware of the situation and will patrol area and move cars along out of fire lane or issue fines.

There were 3 cars there this morning, so while I appreciate your response, it not satisfactory. You are essentially telling that people who go to Starbucks are allowed to disregard the law and Starbucks is allowed to ignore the law. Market Basket sends people out to tell customers not to park in the fire lane. I am unclear why this is not done with Starbucks. I do understand that the first responders cannot be everywhere and maybe the City should consider sending a letter to the landlord and tenant stating that they are breaking the law and are not being good neighbors. ..The posted signs and markings do not say, "only Starbucks customers can park in the fire lane."

The biggest offenders are the police and fire department who park there cars in the fire lane to go to starbucks and buy coffee. Is there someway they can lead by example and use the parking lot that is a 10 foot walk?

I'm closing this dated item based upon comments from City Manager's Assistant and Chelsea ISD.