November 15, 2024

In recent weeks, it seems the government have been in a battle regarding the parking ordinance. With vehicles being towed and clamped, people grew concerned about the legality behind traffic services. However, in recent days, we spoke to Cletus Taylor, Director Of Los Santos Traffic Services about the matter. We also discovered some important developments in regards to the parking ordinance. New Parking Ordinance The parking ordinance has been completely rewritten for 2024 and includes several key changes following public feedback. These changes will improve both the parking situation in Los Santos and also the penalties towards vehicle owners. You can view the Full Parking Enforcement Ordinance here. In essence, many of the parking violations that resulted in your vehicle being removed, have been replaced with penalties in the form of a fine. This comes direct from the Los Santos Government. Key changes include; § 201 – Prohibited Parking (Major Offenses) Vehicles may not be parked in the following locations and will be subject to immediate towing: a. Within or within 5 feet of any intersection or crosswalk [PCT001.1] b. On private property without authorization [PCT001.2] c. Abandoned on any roadway [PCT001.3] d. With three or more wheels on the sidewalk [PCT001.4] e. Within ten feet of a bus stop [PCT001.5] f. In marked no-parking zones [PCT001.6] g. In tunnels, on bridges, or on highways [PCT001.7] h. Blocking emergency services, exits, or fire lanes [PCT001.8] § 202 – Citation Violations (Medium Offenses) The following violations will result in citations with specified penalties: a. Expired parking slip in pay-to-park zone [$250] [VC002.1] b. Parking against flow of traffic [$500] [VC002.2] c. Snow-route violations during plowing operations [$500 + Impound] [VC002.3] d. Parking outside marked spaces [$250] [VC002.4] e. Parking in construction/maintenance zones [$500 + Impound] [VC002.5] f. Parking without required special permits [$250 + Impound] [VC002.6] g. Handicapped zone violations [$500] [VC002.7] h. Within 15 feet of fire hydrant [$250-$750] [VC002.8] i. In pay-to-park lots without payment [$500] [VC002.9] j. In maximum timed zones beyond posted time limits [$500] [VC002.10] Note: Fire hydrant violation fines increase by $250 for each repeat offense by same registered owner, maximum $750 Cletus Taylor, Los Santos Traffic Services Director Following the release of the new parking ordinance, we spoke to Director Cletus Taylor about traffic enforcement and towing in Los Santos. He said; “Parking enforcement is about keeping our city tidy. People shouldn’t be parking their vehicles across sidewalks and driveways. As a vehicle owner, you are responsible for your own vehicle and parking. It’s important that you are mindful of what you are blocking or interrupting. In recent days, the parking ordinance has been rewritten by the government. Personally, I feel that the penalties for parking offences in Los Santos were viable. However, the new changes will help vehicle owners to keep their vehicles, on the road. Where they belong. Make no mistake though. We don’t care about your position. Your knowledge. Your job title or role in the community. Parking enforcement is not to be taken lightly. We will continue to enforce strict traffic laws against vehicles in Los Santos. We will also use the full strength of the law against those who disrupt or hinder our traffic operators. Do the right thing. Park properly and enjoy what this great city has to offer.” What Does This Mean? Overall, the parking ordinance has been revised to reduce the amount of towing in Los Santos. This keeps vehicles on the road, and reduces the costs to vehicle owners. A positive change. We will continue to liaise with the government on their parking ordinance and policies as we continue into Q4 2024. 0 0

Following a recent announcement regarding Vehicle & General Taxes, Interim Mayor Emma Nilsen has also released an announcement in regards to the LSPD. In previous months, the LSPD has had many issues. From corrupt officers to wrongdoing overall. We did try to liaise with the previous mayor to tackle these issues, but heard nothing. However, it seems Emma Nilsen is looking to take a stand early on the situation. The announcement from Emma Nilsen included several sections. Strengthening the Los Santos Police Department, Ensuring the Safety of Los Santos, Upkeeping New Vehicle Mandates and Swift And Safe Response to Violent Crime. We have covered the announcement below. Strengthening the Los Santos Police Department The announcement from Interim Mayor Emma Nilsen said; “The LSPD is at the heart of our city’s safety efforts, and we must make sure our officers have the tools, resources, and support they need to carry out their mission effectively. I am committed to ensuring that our police force is well-equipped, well-trained, and held to the highest standards of accountability. This includes increasing investment in training programs that focus on de-escalation, community policing, and handling sensitive situations with care. Additionally, I am advocating for more advanced technology and equipment to support law enforcement efforts while also ensuring the safety and well-being of our officers and residents alike.” Ensuring the Safety of Los Santos With safety being at the top of our priority list, it’s great to see that the Interim Mayor has taken action on this matter early. “To keep our city safe, we must take a proactive approach to preventing crime while addressing existing issues head-on. I am calling for enhanced coordination between the LSPD, community organizations, and local leaders to tackle public safety in a way that is both compassionate and effective. I believe in a city where police work in partnership with the community to prevent crime before it happens, and I will ensure that we invest in programs that promote community engagement, youth outreach, and conflict resolution.” Upkeeping New Vehicle Mandates “Another important focus of mine is to ensure the success and enforcement of the new vehicle mandates we’ve put in place. As part of our efforts to improve environmental standards, public safety, and overall infrastructure, it’s crucial that these mandates are enforced fairly and consistently. I will work with the LSPD and city departments to ensure that these regulations are upheld, ensuring that vehicles on our streets meet safety and environmental standards. We want every driver to feel safe and confident in our city, and that includes knowing that all vehicles on the road are operating responsibly.” Swift and Safe Response to Violent Crime “The safety of our residents is non-negotiable, and that means we must have swift, decisive responses to violent crime. I am committed to ensuring that the LSPD has the resources and support needed to respond to violent incidents quickly and effectively, with an emphasis on minimizing harm to victims, officers, and the broader community. We will be implementing strategies to ensure that violent crimes are investigated thoroughly and that those responsible are brought to justice as swiftly as possible. At the same time, we will prioritize keeping our officers safe by equipping them with the tools and training to handle these situations with the utmost professionalism and care.” Interim Mayor, Emma Nilsen finished the announcement with; “We can—and will—make Los Santos a city where everyone feels safe. This is a city for families, for workers, for business owners, and for those who are just starting out. By strengthening the LSPD, ensuring the enforcement of vehicle mandates, and addressing violent crime swiftly and safely, we will continue to build a city that stands as an example of safety, fairness, and opportunity for all. I look forward to working alongside our law enforcement officers, community leaders, and residents to make these goals a reality. Together, we will keep Los Santos safe for generations to come. Thank you for your trust and your commitment to making this city a better place for everyone.” Positive Changes, But At What Cost? It seems Interim Mayor, Emma Nilsen is taking many steps in the right direction. However, the public are concerned. As with any mayor, some negative steps are due to come in the following days. People are worried about the next few announcements as the city continues to decline with crime, drugs and firearms. Hopefully Emma Nilsen can clear this up. 0 0

While the city is improving with taxes, the quality of driving is still on a decline. At 21:25, on the 15th November 2024, two vehicles had an accident on the corner of Alameda Street where it joins Idlewood Motel. The accident was between a Subaru Forester and a Volvo S60, with both vehicles being severely damaged as a result. The corner has been a common spot for accidents in the past, however nothing has been done to prevent further incidents. No slow down signs, no caution signs, nothing. While the corner remains blind by the wall and sharp turn, accidents will continue to occur. Who Was At Fault? While the person responsible wasn’t clear, it seems the somebody had cut the corner, causing the accident. With both parties being investigated by the LSPD, it appears a job for the insurance. Overall, both vehicles became severely damaged. Luckily both drivers remain uninjured and in a good position. With a vehicle the size of a Subaru Forester involved, they are lucky that it wasn’t much worse. Also, a stop sign is present on the rail crossing. It seems this sign wasn’t acknowledged as it should’ve been, which is designed to prevent such accidents and speed, especially in the corner. What Needs To Happen? Signs need to be installed on the corner as a priority. The corner along with the rail line crossing are a common spot for dangerous driving and accidents. This won’t change unless somebody makes a difference. However, Alameda Street as a whole is a common place for car accidents. With several accidents occurring near the Idlewood Gas Station. 0 0

Following the recent announcement of Vehicle Taxes, Interim Mayor Emma Nilsen has also confirmed a reduction in general taxes too. This comes after her recent appointment as Interim Mayor, following Victor Chase leaving his position without notice. Existing Taxes TAX_TOBACCO: 12%TAX: 15%TAX_WEAPONS: 14%TAX_PROPERTY: 10%INCOMETAX: 10%TAX_GENERAL: 10%TAX_INCOME: 4%TAX_FUEL: 10%TAX_ALCOHOL: 12% New Taxes TAX_TOBACCO: 10% (-2%)TAX: 10% (-5%)TAX_WEAPONS: 12% (-2%)TAX_PROPERTY: 7% (-3%)INCOMETAX: 10% (Same)TAX_GENERAL: 10% (Same)TAX_INCOME: 4% (Same)TAX_FUEL: 8% (-2%)TAX_ALCOHOL: 9% (-3%) Overall a positive change. With an overall tax reduction of 5%, this should positively impact the residents of Los Santos. Combatting inflation and keeping all round costs lower, providing more disposable income. Another great move from Interim Mayor Emma Nilsen, we look forward to seeing what happens next. 0 0

Another day, another announcement from our Interim Mayor, Emma Nilsen. On the 15th November 2024, Mayor Emma Nilsen announced her plans to make the economy stronger and more resilient. This announcement included Vehicle Import Taxes, Overall Vehicle Taxes and her focus on lowering Taxes as a whole. We have covered the announcement below. Lowering Vehicle Import Taxes The first part of the announcement is in relation to Vehicle Import Taxes. Interim Mayor Emma Nilsen said; “One of the key components of this plan is reducing the general tax on vehicle import fees from 20% to 15%. This will lower the cost of importing vehicles into our city, making them more affordable for local dealerships and, ultimately, for you—the consumer. Whether you are purchasing a new car, a used vehicle, or looking for a more environmentally friendly option, this reduction in import fees will help make transportation more accessible for all of us.” Substantial Reduction In Vehicle Taxes The second part included overall vehicle taxes. Interim Mayor Emma Nilsen said; “In addition, I am advocating for a significant reduction in vehicle taxes, which have become a heavy financial strain on many of our families. Lowering these taxes will make it easier for residents to afford their vehicles, reduce costs for businesses that rely on transportation, and provide a much-needed break for individuals and families who depend on their cars for work, school, or daily activities.” Broader Focus On Overall Tax Reductions Finally, Interim Mayor Nilsen said; “But I am not stopping here. I believe that, as a city, we need to embrace a broader approach to lowering taxes and making our community more affordable. My goal is to reduce taxes wherever possible—whether it’s on businesses, property, or the cost of government services. This will provide relief to local residents and foster a more business-friendly environment, allowing both individuals and companies to invest in their futures.” What Does This Mean For You? Lowering vehicle taxes across the board will result in more affordable vehicles available for purchase and also more affordable vehicle running costs too. Emma Nilsen mentioned that this was an attempt to empower people and to encourage more spending in the community. “By lowering taxes and fees, we empower people to spend more of their hard-earned money in the community, which in turn will help stimulate our economy and create new opportunities for growth. We can reduce financial stress on families, support small businesses, and attract new investments to our city. These proposals are a part of my vision for a more vibrant, sustainable, and affordable city. I am committed to working with the City Council to ensure that these tax reductions are implemented in a responsible and balanced way, maintaining the financial health of our city while making life easier for our residents. I encourage you to share your thoughts with me on these proposals and look forward to hearing your feedback. Together, we can build a stronger future for our city. Thank you for your continued trust and support.” Overall, this is a positive step from the new mayor. While this could be a way to win over the public for harsh changes in the future, this should put more money in the pockets of residents. Let’s hope this continues in the following days. 0 0