JERSEY CITY AND BEYOND – Jersey City Ward E Councilman Steve Fulop said Wednesday he will re-introduce an amendment to city parking rules that ensures prospective tenants and condo buyers, particularly those in high-rise apartments, are made aware of parking limitations in their new neighborhoods before they sign a lease or finalize their purchase.
The change would amend city parking rules to require that landlords and real estate agents inform new renters or buyers that on-street residential parking may not be available in their neighborhoods, and that alternative parking may require additional fees.
The city identifies certain residential neighborhoods where qualified residents can apply for parking permits through the Parking Authority. The permits cost $15 a year and allow parking for more than two hours in specific zones. Cars without permits can park on the streets in these neighborhoods for up to two hours.
However, in other areas of the city, including those with a number of high-rise apartments and condominium complexes, are not zoned for longer-term parking under any circumstances. Residents in those neighborhoods are often required to pay for parking in private facilities.
The City Council unanimously approved a measure in December 2009 that would have also required landlords to disclose to tenants parking conditions in their neighborhoods. The change was, however, vetoed by Mayor Jeremiah T. Healy.
“The mayor’s veto was clearly protecting developers at the expense of residents. Now I believe new members of the Council will [make sure] this fundamentally fair change stays passed,” Fulop said.
Fulop is likely referring to the recent addition of At-Large City Councilman Rolando Lavarro to the City Council, and could also be referring to Michele Massey, who could be appointed this week to the council’s vacant Ward F seat.
Fulop said he decided the amendments were needed after repeated calls to his office from unhappy renters.
Under the amendments, prospective tenants would be notified in writing of parking circumstances in their building and community, and sign a form in acknowledgement.