Brentwood to re-evaluate permit parking policy

The criteria for deciding who qualifies for on-street handicapped parking in Brentwood will be re-evaluated early next year.

The issue arose at a recent borough council meeting after two residents applied for permits in a month's time. The requests, both of which were granted, convinced borough Manager George Zboyovsky a standard policy is needed.

A letter will be sent to all 20 people who already have parking spots to explain what the borough is doing.

First, Zboyovsky, borough Building Inspector Ralph Costa and council will review the list of permit-holders to determine whether it needs updating, in case anyone has moved or died.

Second, they will develop criteria --- proof of need, whether the person has a nearby driveway, etc. -- that will be the primary basis for granting requests.

"If they don't meet the criteria, then pull it," Costa said.

Still, there is room for some subjectivity, Mayor Kenneth Lockhart said, explaining the layout of his own property as an example. His property has a driveway, which might immediately eliminate him from consideration for on-street parking. But the easiest access to his house is in the back, which requires climbing about 20 steps.

After some discussion, several members of council suggested that part of the evaluation process include interviewing applicants. Council President Jay Lieb worried about taking a permit away from someone who already has one.

"If you give someone something, it's very hard to take it back."