Itasca continues to talk about RV ordinance

Itasca officials on Tuesday moved to continue discussions on extending the period that allows residents to park recreational vehicles, boats and trailers in their driveways.

Currently, Itasca allows such vehicles to be parked in driveways from May 1 to Oct. 1. But last fall residents Jeff and Karen Helmig asked the village board to extend that period from April 1 to Nov. 1.

Karen Helming returned to the board meeting Tuesday with a handful of RV owners, who all reiterated concerns that the current ordinance isn't in touch with the travel seasons.

Helmig said they use RVs as vacation homes and lose out on their investment by storing the vehicles in faraway facilities, such as in Antioch or near Rockford, while the weather is still warm.

Trustees floated several ideas Tuesday, including allowing 30-day permits for RV owners who want to store their vehicles in their driveways during the months of April and October. In addition, they might also be allowed a seven-day or 14-day punch card for other days in the year they need to travel, such as holidays.

The dilemma, officials said, is whether to allow permits or amend the current ordinance. An amendment could cost several hundred dollars or even more than $1,000 for transcription services during a required public hearing before Itasca's plan commission, said Nicole Aranas, Itasca director of community development.

Under the current ordinance, owners can store RVs, boats and trailers in an enclosure on their property any time. But from Oct. 1 to May 1, owners are ticketed if the vehicles are in their driveways. Tickets start at $25 and increase with each violation.

Residents also can apply for two off-season permits that are valid for seven consecutive days.

Itasca officials released a survey to residents in 2007 when the issue came before the board. The survey garnered about 100 responses, with a majority of respondents against extending the parking season.

But the Helmigs also gathered a petition in 2007 with roughly 1,000 signatures in favor of altering the ordinance.

The board will continue discussions at 6 p.m. Jan. 19 at Itasca village hall, 550 E. Irving Park Road.