ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
MEETING DATE: March 26, 2025 AGENDA CATEGORY: REPORTS TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Darin Budak, Recreation and Parks Department
DATE: March 13, 2025
SUBJECT: Administrative Citations process update and automation proposal.
All Wards
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval and authorization to automate the Administrative Citation process.
BACKGROUND:
City staff from BPD, BFD, Code Enforcement and Parks Rangers are responsible for the inspection and enforcement of various codes and regulations. Staff takes an "educate -first" approach in most situations; however, issuing citations is sometimes necessary to encourage compliance.
The current paper -based citation system presents operational challenges. The significant time required for manual processing can le ad to delays in issuing citations and ultimately impact the timely resolution of code violations. Furthermore, the existing process can strain resources when appeals are filed, requiring coordination with the City Attorney’s Office and hearing officer scheduling. This resource -intensive nature can inadvertently limit the effective utilization of administrative citations. Consequently, the current system's effectiveness in achieving consistent compliance and collecting fines is less than optimal.
To improve the effectiveness of the administrative citation process, staff propose implementing a modern digital system in partnership with a third -party service provider, Data Ticket. Data Ticket is already a established and proven vendor with Bakersfield Police Department in handling all parking violations. BPD has had no issues with Data Ticket and speaks highly of their process The Data Ticket program will establish a system for multiple city departments to issue administrative and parking citations for minor vio lations of the municipal code and other regulations. This program aims to streamline the process resulting in several key benefits:
Improve efficiency and effectiveness of enforcement : Automation will significantly improve citation process, reducing paperwork and court time for minor offenses. Promote public awareness and compliance : Clearly communicate rules and regulations and deter violations through swift and consistent enforcement. Enhance visitor safety and resource protection : Address issues su ch as littering, unauthorized camping, pets off -leash, illegal dumping, graffiti, and illegal parking, all of which impacts city resources and visitor experiences.
Provide a fair and consistent enforcement process : Ensure all visitors are treated equitably and have a clear understanding of the consequences of their actions.
The program will include:
Clearly defined offenses : A comprehensive list of minor violations subject to administrative citations, aligned with applicable laws and regulations. Citation authority: Authorization for city departments to issue citations for designated offenses within defined parameters.
Administrative hearing process : A fair and impartial process for individuals to contest citations through a third-party service provider.
Record-keeping and reporting: A system for tracking issued citations, collected fines, and program outcomes, managed by the third-party vendor.
Ongoing evaluation and improvement : Regular reviews of program effectiveness, with necessary adjustments to ensure efficiency and fairness.
FISCAL IMPACT: Currently, there is no fiscal impact. If Council authorizes Staff to proceed, cost proposals will be presented to Council at a future meeting for approval.
COUNCIL GOAL:
Safety and Resilience
Community Character & Quality of Life
Innovative and Efficient City Government
ATTACHMENTS:
None